Nanotechnology Commons^™

Explorations Of Dna-Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Interactions To Develop Multiplexed Molecularly Specific Biosensors For Inflammation, Amelia K. Ryan

Dissertations and Theses

Inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-12 (IL-12) are central regulators of immune signaling and key biomarkers of disease, yet existing assays for their detection remain slow, invasive, and lack multiplexing ability. This dissertation advances the development of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) optical nanosensors capable of real-time, multiplexed, and molecularly specific cytokine detection through innovative use of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) interfaces.

First, an IL-6-specific DNA aptamer was employed as both a dispersing agent and recognition probe for SWCNT fluorescence sensing. Sequence modifications, including anchor domains, truncations, and thermally induced refolding, were systematically tested to optimize sensitivity and selectivity. The …

Hafnium Oxide-Based Nanoheterostructures For Catalytic Radiosensitization And Enhanced X-Ray Radiotherapy, Marlen Dariela Calix Quezada

Theses and Dissertations

Orthovoltage X-ray beams are attractive for surface and intra-operative radiotherapy. Yet, their clinical utility is constrained by rapid attenuation and the limited dose that can be delivered without harming healthy tissue. High-Z hafnium oxide (HfO₂) nanoparticles can boost local energy deposition through the photoelectric effect, while catalytic surface defects accelerate water radiolysis. Harnessing both mechanisms in a single nano-heterostructure could enable potent radiosensitization at diagnostic-range energies.

This thesis develops and evaluates HfO₂-based nanoheterostructures, both bare and Au-decorated, as catalytic radiosensitizers.

Two types of HfO₂ were evaluated, one was synthesized following a specific route and the …

Monte Carlo Modeling Of Spin Polarized Photoemission From Gaas At Low Temperatures And Positive Electron Affinity Surfaces, John Rison Callahan

Graduate Research Theses & Dissertations

Research and development of new photocathode materials are essential to the continuing success and productivity of accelerator technology. High-quality photocathodes characterized by high quantum efficiencies, long lifetimes, low mean transverse energies, and robustness to vacuum environments and operation loads are becoming increasingly essential to the successful operation of the next generation of high brightness accelerator applications. For nuclear and high-energy physics experiments and other applications that rely on spin-polarized electron beams, photocathodes must also demonstrate high electron spin polarizations. The development of state of-the-art spin-polarized photocathodes will require both development of methods to improve the quality of already existing cathode …

Electrochemical Strategies For Microrna Quantification Leveraging Amplification And Nanomaterials: A Review, Alexander Hunt, Gymama Slaughter

Center for Bioelectronics Publications

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and have emerged as critical biomarkers in various diseases, including cancer. Their stability in bodily fluids and role as oncogenes or tumor suppressors make them attractive targets for non-invasive diagnostics. However, conventional detection methods, such as Northern blotting, RT-PCR, and microarrays, are limited by low sensitivity, lengthy protocols, and limited specificity. Electrochemical biosensors offer a promising alternative, providing high sensitivity, rapid response times, portability, and cost-effectiveness. These biosensors translate miRNA hybridization events into quantifiable electrochemical signals, often leveraging redox-active labels, mediators, or intercalators. Recent advancements in nanomaterials and signal amplification …

Targeting Bone In Cancer Therapy: Advances And Challenges Of Bisphosphonate-Based Drug Delivery Systems, Fariba Ganji, Mohammadmahdi Eshaghi, Hossein Shaki, Lobat Tayebi

Electrical & Computer Engineering Faculty Publications

Background and Purpose: Bisphosphonates (BPs) are well-known for their strong affinity toward bone mineral matrices and are widely used to inhibit excessive osteoclast activity associated with various bone disorders. Beyond their clinical use, their unique bone-targeting capability has positioned them as promising ligands for drug delivery systems aimed at treating bone-related cancers. Approach: The review analyses published studies on BP-functionalized drug delivery systems, including direct drug conjugates, calcium-based nanomaterials, carbon-based nanostructures, and self-assembling systems such as micelles and liposomes. In vitro assays (e.g. hydroxyapatite binding, cell viability) and in vivo biodistribution studies are discussed to evaluate targeting efficiency and …

Cellax Nanoparticles: Taxane Nanoformulations For Solid Tumor Targeting, Lobat Tayebi, Mehran Alavi

Electrical & Computer Engineering Faculty Publications

Nanoparticles (NPs), specifically polymer-modified NPs, have illustrated unique therapeutic advantages compared to bulk materials. Cellax NPs have provided a promising approach to cancer therapy by improving drug delivery, targeting the tumor microenvironment, and potentially overcoming drug resistance, all while reducing overall toxicity compared to traditional taxane treatment. By the flash nanoprecipitation (FNP) method, docetaxel and cabazitaxel have been formulated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified-acetylated carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) polymer to increase biocompatibility, bioavailability, specific targeting, and modulate the tumor microenvironment. However, there are some challenges and clinical limitations related to this formulation, encompassing optimum targeted delivery to tumors, overcoming biological barriers, such …

Development Of Novel Carbohydrate-Based Nanoparticles For Precision Drug Delivery, Krystal Ann Hughes

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

Nanoparticle-based drug delivery has made tremendous advancements in the last decade. However, several critical factors, including precision drug delivery at the site of interest, long-term storage stability, and controlling release profiles of drugs in the systemic circulation, need to be addressed for successful clinical translation of nanomedicine. This dissertation presents novel carbohydrate-based nanoparticles that achieve precise intracellular delivery and therapeutic release at the disease site. We present the formulation and optimization of polymeric and polymer-lipid hybrid nanoparticles that enable precision intracellular delivery and passive accumulation of therapeutics in the bone marrow. Intracellular delivery is highly impactful and sought after. One …

Targeting Myeloid Cell Iron Metabolism In Salmonella-Induced Colitis, Mariella Arcos Padilla

Biomedical Engineering ETDs

Salmonellosis is a severe infection caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, leading to significant global morbidity and mortality.

Previous studies have shown that mice lacking the iron storage protein ferritin heavy chain (FTH1) in myeloid cells exhibit worsened Salmonella infection. Nuclear receptor co-activator 4 (NCOA4) directs FTH1 autophagic degradation to release iron from storage during conditions of low iron. However, the role of myeloid NCOA4 in regulating bacterial infections remains unclear.

Here, we found that myeloid NCOA4 deficiency augments spleen iron levels and increases cellular iron accumulation, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) cells. This deficiency also …

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Trackable Pathology-Triggered Polymersomes Toward Enzyme Replacement Theranostics For Gm1 Gangliosidosis, Dorian Foster

All Dissertations

This dissertation investigates the development and optimization of pathology-responsive polymersomes for simultaneous enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in the treatment of GM1 gangliosidosis (GM1). While therapeutic strategies exist for similar, non-neuropathic lysosomal storage disorders, implementation towards GM1 faces significant challenges due to the blood-brain barrier.

Herein, we developed and characterized a range of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid-b-polylactic acid (HA-PLA) polymersomes (PSs) capable of encapsulating therapeutic enzymes in their hydrophilic core. These polymersomes exhibit pathophysiology-triggered responsiveness, degrading in the presence of acidic conditions, which is characteristic of lysosomes, and enzymes such as hexosaminidase A, which …

Synthesis Of Photocleavable Molecules For Neurological Applications, Nishal Madujith Egodawaththa Arachchilage Don

Theses and Dissertations

In recent biomedical research, the precise control of molecular dynamics through light activation has emerged as a powerful tool, particularly in the field of neurobiology. This approach involves the use of photocleavable cages or photoprotective groups (PPGs) that are chemically tethered to biologically active molecules such as neurotransmitters or calcium chelators. These cages remain inert until exposed to specific wavelengths of light, typically in the visible range, triggering the release of the active compound with high spatiotemporal precision.

For neurotransmitter systems, such as glutamate (Glu), which plays a critical role in synaptic transmission and memory formation, researchers have developed novel …

Nanobubble Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound Imaging: A Review, Pinunta Nittayacharn, Felipe M. Berg, Dorian Durig, Agata A. Exner

Faculty Scholarship

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is currently used worldwide with clinical indications in cardiology and radiology, and it continues to evolve and develop through innovative technological advancements. Clinically utilized contrast agents for ultrasound consist of hydrophobic gas microbubbles stabilized with a biocompatible shell. These agents are used commonly in echocardiography, with emerging applications in cancer diagnosis and therapy. Microbubbles are a blood pool agent with diameters between 1 and 10 μm, which precludes their use in other extravascular applications. To expand the potential use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound beyond intravascular applications, sub-micron agents, often called nanobubbles or ultra-fine bubbles, have recently emerged as a …

Mechanisms Of Extracellular Vesicle Uptake And Implications For The Design Of Cancer Therapeutics, Stephanie R Jackson Cullison, Joseph P Flemming, Kubra Karagoz, Peter J Wermuth, Mỹ G Mahoney

Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Departmental Research

The translation of pre-clinical anti-cancer therapies to regulatory approval has been promising, but slower than hoped. While innovative and effective treatments continue to achieve or seek approval, setbacks are often attributed to a lack of efficacy, failure to achieve clinical endpoints, and dose-limiting toxicities. Successful efforts have been characterized by the development of therapeutics designed to specifically deliver optimal and effective dosing to tumour cells while minimizing off-target toxicity. Much effort has been devoted to the rational design and application of synthetic nanoparticles to serve as targeted therapeutic delivery vehicles. Several challenges to the successful application of this modality as …

Fabrication And Optimization Of A Silodosin In Situ-Forming Plga Implants For The Treatment Of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: In Vitro And In Vivo Study, Eman Gomaa

Nanotechnology Research Centre

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are common in older men, and alpha-adrenoceptor blockers continue to be a key part of managing these symptoms. This study aimed to formulate injectable poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) in situ-forming implants (ISFIs) loaded with silodosin (SLD) to address symptoms associated with BPH. This method, which ensures prolonged therapeutic effects of SLD, is intended to decrease dosing frequency and improve treatment outcomes, leading to better patient adherence. Methods: An appropriate solvent with favorable PLGA solubility, viscosity, and in vitro release profile was selected. Additionally, an I-optimal design was employed as …

Evaluation Of Virtual Distance Learning And Teaching In The Architectural Design Studio Experience Of Professors And Students Of The College Of Architecture And Planning - Qassim University - Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia., Abdulaziz Ibrahim Alhrabi

Journal of Engineering Research

The paper deals with the evaluation of distance learning of the architectural design studio during the Corona pandemic, and the extent to which distance learning and teaching were achieved between the professor and the student. The paper aims to share and evaluate the experience of distance learning and teaching of the architectural design studio, in the College of Architecture and Planning at Qassim University. The research problem is that the Corona virus crisis generates many ideas for educational programs and media, but there is a deficiency in knowledge of many programs that achieve the continuity of the educational process remotely, …

Optimal Site Layout Planning For Construction Projects Over Waterways, Rana M. Azzam, Nashwa Mohamed Yossef Prof, Adel I. Eldosouky Prof

Journal of Engineering Research

Construction site layout planning is an important part of a project's success. An effective construction layout plan can enhance the performance of the construction process by improving productivity, ensuring safety, and reducing costs. Given the importance of bridges over a waterway and the lack of interest in previous research for planning a construction site over a waterway. This paper concentrates on the problems of site planning for such projects, including the problem of limited site space. The study indicated that constructing an offshore terminal is one of the primary requirements for projects with limited space being carried out on a …

Developing Paths In Areas Of Distinguished Value Between Preservation And Extinction (A Case Study Of The Railway Axis In The Maadi Area), Kamal Mahmoud Elgabalawy

Journal of Engineering Research

Abstract: proportion of the place, and thus the loss of the distinctive general character of the area, which leads to its extinction. These areas are of distinguished value, with all the thought and culture they carry of society over time. Among the areas classified as having distinguished value is the Maadi suburb, which is located in the south of Cairo Governorate, where boundaries and foundations for preserving them have been set through the Central Administration for Studies, Research, and Policies of the National Coordination Organization. The Ministry of Culture, approved by the Supreme Council for Planning and Urban Development by …

Review Of Wood Drying Technologies, Mohamed Salah Elmetwaly, Lotfy Hassan Rabie Saker, Mohamed Sameh Salem

Journal of Engineering Research

Abstract- This article provides a comprehensive review of drying optimization in data centers by examining the limitations of drying methods and discussing advances proposed by scientists through whom we can provide a comparison between different drying systems with an emphasis on improving energy efficiency and thermal performance. Wood drying under atmospheric pressure has many advantages, including the ability to dry at lower temperatures (by reducing the likelihood of some drying defects), significantly reduced drying times, color preservation, increased energy efficiency, better control of volatile organic compound emissions, and the ability to dry very large cross sections. Previous studies have achieved …

"Towards A Methodology For Studying The Impact Of Integrating Motion Systems In The External Envelope Of A Building On Natural Lighting Inside The Building– (An Applied Study On A Government School In Greater Cairo)", Nashwa Youssif

Journal of Engineering Research

يدرك المصمم ما للعناصر البيئية ولا سيما الإضاءة الطبيعية من دور فاعل في الوصول إلى تصميم ناجح يحقق أفضل أداء إستخدامي، فالإضاءة الطبيعية تذهب إلى صميم عمل المعماري فيستعين بها للإيحاء بشكل الفراغات ولونها وملمس سطوحها.

وهناك العديد من الأساليب الحديثة التي تساعد المعماري علي إتخاذ قراراته التصميمية الخاصة بتصميم المبنى وكيفية الإستفادة من الإضاءة الطبيعية داخل المباني، وهذه الأساليب تهدف إلى زيادة إحترام البيئة وتفترض تحسينات في النظم البيئية من العزل الحراري وإستغلال مصادر الطاقة الطبيعية والإهتمام بنظم الإضاءة الطبيعية والمواد البنائية.

وتعد تقنية دمج الأنظمة الحركية بالغلاف الخارجي للمبنى مع الإستفادة من الإضاءة الطبيعية داخل هذا …

Advances In Biomedical Research And Treatments: What Is Acceptable?, Michael L. Clancy, Khalid M. Iskandarani, Mitchell C. Mccrea

Journal of Health Ethics

This study investigated the technology acceptance (TA) of twenty-first century biomedical treatments by adults in the United States. A new TA instrument was created, using five distinct levels: (1) Healing and Prevention, (2) Replacement Organs, (3) Enhancements-Medical, (4) Enhancements-Discretionary, and (5) Transhumans. An on-line survey produced 353 usable responses, which showed distinct patterns for each of five biomedical treatment levels. There was clear support for Levels 1–3, but very strong opposition to Levels 4–5. The TA finding draws the line between which human interventions are acceptable versus others that should be prohibited through public policies and medical guidelines.

Single-Step Aerosol Methods For Lignin Valorization: From Fundamentals To Scale-Up, Sujit Sagar Modi

McKelvey School of Engineering Graduate Student Theses & Dissertations

Growing consumption of fossil resources for energy and materials production has significantly increased greenhouse gas emissions, which will have an increasingly negative, and potentially catastrophic, environmental impact in the future. Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the few sustainable carbon resources that has the abundance and geographical distribution to displace fossil-based fuels and materials. However, the under-utilization of by-products such as lignin fraction remains a key challenge in expanding the utilization of lignocellulosic materials, necessitating the development of technologies for valorization of lignin into high-value products. Lignin is a promising precursor for the synthesis of a diverse range of high-value nanomaterials. …