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U regionu produžene moždine čoveka nalazi se glavno maslinasto jedro koje pripada donjem maslinastom kompleksu..., Within the region of the human’s medulla oblongata, the main contributor can be found int he section of the principal olivary nucleus as the central part of the Inferior olivary complex...

Comparative analysis of erythrocyte deformability in individuals with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and healthy individuals (Control) was represented, focusing on the Elongation index (EI) calculation based on diffraction images. While no statistically significant differences in EI values were observed between the groups, we determined specific points along the deformability curve and revealed the first derivative of deformability curve (dEI / dSS) as a potential metric for quantifying erythrocyte response to deformation, where SS represents shear stress in Pa (Pascal). Statistically significant differences in dEI / dSS at the half maximum value of the deformability curve were identified, suggesting a slower erythrocyte response to shear stress in DM patients. Scatter plot analysis demonstrated a linear declining trend in dEI / dSS index with an increase in shear stress, indicating decaying erythrocyte responsiveness to higher shear stress values, particularly pronounced in DM patients. Although pilot, this study suggests that dEI / dSS can provide valuable insights into the hemorheological aspects of DM pathology and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of erythrocyte mechanobiological behavior in response to varying shear stress levels. Correlations between the proposed measure of RBC mechanical properties and established clinical markers of DM and its complications (serum cholesterol, creatinine, and urea level) are obtained to get preliminary insight into dEI / dSS application for better diagnosis and/or patient management.

Hemoglobin (Hb), a life-sustaining and highly abundant erythrocyte protein, is not readily fluorescent. A few studies have already reported Two-Photon Excited Fluorescence (TPEF) of Hb, however, the mechanisms through which Hb becomes fluorescent upon interaction with ultrashort laser pulses are not completely understood. Here, we characterized photophysically this interaction on Hb thin film and erythrocytes using fluorescence spectroscopy upon single-photon/two-photon absorption, and UV-VIS single-photon absorption spectroscopy. A gradual increase of the fluorescence intensity, ending up with saturation, is observed upon prolonged exposure of Hb thin layer and erythrocytes to ultrashort laser pulses at 730 nm. When compared to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) and oxidized Hb by H2O2, TPEF spectra from a thin Hb film and erythrocytes showed good mutual agreement, broad peaking at 550 nm, supporting hemoglobin undergoes degradation and that same fluorescent specie(s) originating from the heme moiety are generated. The uniform square shaped patterns of the fluorescent photoproduct exhibited the same level of the fluorescence intensity even after 12 weeks from the formation, indicating high photoproduct stability. We finally demonstrated the full potential of the formed Hb photoproduct with TPEF scanning microscopy towards spatiotemporally controlled micropatterning in HTF and single human erythrocyte labelling and tracking in the whole blood.

Hemoglobin (Hb), a life-sustaining and highly abundant erythrocyte protein, is not readily fluorescent. A few studies have already reported Two-Photon Excited Fluorescence (TPEF) of Hb, however, the mechanisms through which Hb becomes fluorescent upon interaction with ultrashort laser pulses are not completely understood. Here, we characterized photophysically this interaction on Hb thin film and erythrocytes using fluorescence spectroscopy upon single-photon/two-photon absorption, and UV-VIS single-photon absorption spectroscopy. A gradual increase of the fluorescence intensity, ending up with saturation, is observed upon prolonged exposure of Hb thin layer and erythrocytes to ultrashort laser pulses at 730 nm. When compared to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) and oxidized Hb by H2O2, TPEF spectra from a thin Hb film and erythrocytes showed good mutual agreement, broad peaking at 550 nm, supporting hemoglobin undergoes degradation and that same fluorescent specie(s) originating from the heme moiety are generated. The uniform square shaped patterns of the fluorescent photoproduct exhibited the same level of the fluorescence intensity even after 12 weeks from the formation, indicating high photoproduct stability. We finally demonstrated the full potential of the formed Hb photoproduct with TPEF scanning microscopy towards spatiotemporally controlled micropatterning in HTF and single human erythrocyte labelling and tracking in the whole blood.

The Nonlinear Laser Scanning Microscopy (NLSM) contributes to the cell labeling through addressing two main issues: photobleaching and phototoxicity. Moreover, an increase of the penetration depth and a reduction of background autofluorescence are achieved.We have used a multidisciplinary approach combining expertise in material science, nanoparticles synthesis and characterization, cancer cell and tissue labeling, and high resolution imaging, in order to accomplish in vitro imaging of the cancer cells. We have imaged the oral squamous carcinoma cells and human gingival cells. We have demonstrated that we are able to take high contrast images. We have shown position of the nanoparticles in cells, through colocalization of the cell auto-fluorescence and the nanoparticles up-conversion.We plan to improve our abilities through further optimization of the up-converting nanoparticles (smaller and brighter particles) and microscopy technique.

The Nonlinear Laser Scanning Microscopy (NLSM) contributes to the cell labeling through addressing two main issues: photobleaching and phototoxicity. Moreover, an increase of the penetration depth and a reduction of background autofluorescence are achieved.We have used a multidisciplinary approach combining expertise in material science, nanoparticles synthesis and characterization, cancer cell and tissue labeling, and high resolution imaging, in order to accomplish in vitro imaging of the cancer cells. We have imaged the oral squamous carcinoma cells and human gingival cells. We have demonstrated that we are able to take high contrast images. We have shown position of the nanoparticles in cells, through colocalization of the cell auto-fluorescence and the nanoparticles up-conversion.We plan to improve our abilities through further optimization of the up-converting nanoparticles (smaller and brighter particles) and microscopy technique.

The Nonlinear Laser Scanning Microscopy (NLSM) contributes to the cell labeling through addressing two main issues: photobleaching and phototoxicity. Moreover, an increase of the penetration depth and a reduction of background autofluorescence are achieved.We have used a multidisciplinary approach combining expertise in material science, nanoparticles synthesis and characterization, cancer cell and tissue labeling, and high resolution imaging, in order to accomplish in vitro imaging of the cancer cells. We have imaged the oral squamous carcinoma cells and human gingival cells. We have demonstrated that we are able to take high contrast images. We have shown position of the nanoparticles in cells, through colocalization of the cell auto-fluorescence and the nanoparticles up-conversion.We plan to improve our abilities through further optimization of the up-converting nanoparticles (smaller and brighter particles) and microscopy technique.

Remodelling of collagen fibers has been described during every phase of cancer genesis and progression. Changes in morphology and organization of collagen fibers contribute to the formation of microenvironment that favors cancer progression and development of metastasis. However, there are only few data about remodelling of collagen fibers in healthy looking mucosa distant from the cancer. Using SHG imaging, electron microscopy and specialized softwares (CT-FIRE, CurveAlign and FiberFit), we objectively visualized and quantified changes in morphology and organization of collagen fibers and investigated possible causes of collagen remodelling (change in syntheses, degradation and collagen cross-linking) in the colon mucosa 10 cm and 20 cm away from the cancer in comparison with healthy mucosa. We showed that in the lamina propria this far from the colon cancer, there were changes in collagen architecture (width, straightness, alignment of collagen fibers and collagen molecules inside fibers), increased representation of myofibroblasts and increase expression of collagen-remodelling enzymes (LOX and MMP2). Thus, the changes in organization of collagen fibers, which were already described in the cancer microenvironment, also exist in the mucosa far from the cancer, but smaller in magnitude.

The THz beamline at FLASH, DESY, provides both tunable (1–300 THz) narrow-bandwidth (∼10%) and broad-bandwidth intense (up to 150 uJ) THz pulses delivered in 1 MHz bursts and naturally synchronized with free-electron laser X-ray pulses. Combination of these pulses, along with the auxiliary NIR and VIS ultrashort lasers, supports a plethora of dynamic investigations in physics, material science and biology. The unique features of the FLASH THz pulses and the accelerator source, however, bring along a set of challenges in the diagnostics of their key parameters: pulse energy, spectral, temporal and spatial profiles. Here, these challenges are discussed and the pulse diagnostic tools developed at FLASH are presented. In particular, a radiometric power measurement is presented that enables the derivation of the average pulse energy within a pulse burst across the spectral range, jitter-corrected electro-optical sampling for the full spectro-temporal pulse characterization, spatial beam profiling along the beam transport line and at the sample, and a lamellar grating based Fourier transform infrared spectrometer for the on-line assessment of the average THz pulse spectra. Corresponding measurement results provide a comprehensive insight into the THz beamline capabilities.

The THz beamline at FLASH, DESY, provides both tunable (1–300 THz) narrow-bandwidth (∼10%) and broad-bandwidth intense (up to 150 uJ) THz pulses delivered in 1 MHz bursts and naturally synchronized with free-electron laser X-ray pulses. Combination of these pulses, along with the auxiliary NIR and VIS ultrashort lasers, supports a plethora of dynamic investigations in physics, material science and biology. The unique features of the FLASH THz pulses and the accelerator source, however, bring along a set of challenges in the diagnostics of their key parameters: pulse energy, spectral, temporal and spatial profiles. Here, these challenges are discussed and the pulse diagnostic tools developed at FLASH are presented. In particular, a radiometric power measurement is presented that enables the derivation of the average pulse energy within a pulse burst across the spectral range, jitter-corrected electro-optical sampling for the full spectro-temporal pulse characterization, spatial beam profiling along the beam transport line and at the sample, and a lamellar grating based Fourier transform infrared spectrometer for the on-line assessment of the average THz pulse spectra. Corresponding measurement results provide a comprehensive insight into the THz beamline capabilities.

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

Lanthanide-doped fluoride up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) represent the new class of imaging contrast agents which hold great potential for overcoming existing problems associated with traditionally used dyes, proteins and quantum dots. In this study, a new kind of hybrid NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA nanoparticles for efficient biolabeling were prepared through one-pot solvothermal synthesis route. Morphological and structural characteristics of the as-designed particles were obtained using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, while their cytotoxicity as well as up-conversion (UC) labeling capability were tested in vitro toward human gingival cells (HGC) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The results revealed coexistence of the cubic (Fm-3m) and hexagonal (P63/m) phase in spherical and irregularly shaped nanoparticles, respectively. PLGA [Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)] ligands attached at the surface of UCNPs particles provide their enhanced cellular uptake and enable high-quality cells imaging through a near-infrared (NIR) laser scanning microscopy (λex = 980 nm). Moreover, the fact that NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA UCNPs show low cytotoxicity against HGC over the whole concentration range (10–50 μg/mL) while a dose dependent viability of OSCC is obtained indicates that these might be a promising candidates for targeted cancer cell therapy. © 2018 Elsevier B.V.

The emerging up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) offer a wide range of biotechnology applications, from biomarkers and deep tissue imaging, to single molecule tracking and drug delivery. Their successful conjugation to biocompatible agents is crucial for specific molecules recognition and usually requires multiple steps which may lead to low reproducibility. Here, we report a simple and rapid one-step procedure for in situ synthesis of biocompatible amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs that could be used for NIR-driven fluorescence cell labeling. X-ray diffraction showed that UCNPs synthesized through chitosan-assisted solvothermal processing are monophasic and crystallize in a cubic α phase. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the obtained crystals are spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 120 nm. Photoluminescence spectra indicated weaker green (2H11/2, 4S3/2 → 4I15/2) and stronger red emission (4F9/2 → 4I15/2), as a result of enhanced non-radiative 4I11/2 → 4I13/2 Er3+ relaxation. The presence of chitosan groups at the surface of UCNPs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This provides their enhanced internalization in cells, at low concentration of 10 μg ml-1, without suppression of cell viability after 24 h of exposure. Furthermore, upon 980 nm laser irradiation, the amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs were successfully used in vitro for labeling of two human cell types, normal gingival and oral squamous cell carcinoma. © 2018 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

The emerging up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) offer a wide range of biotechnology applications, from biomarkers and deep tissue imaging, to single molecule tracking and drug delivery. Their successful conjugation to biocompatible agents is crucial for specific molecules recognition and usually requires multiple steps which may lead to low reproducibility. Here, we report a simple and rapid one-step procedure for in situ synthesis of biocompatible amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs that could be used for NIR-driven fluorescence cell labeling. X-ray diffraction showed that UCNPs synthesized through chitosan-assisted solvothermal processing are monophasic and crystallize in a cubic α phase. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the obtained crystals are spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 120 nm. Photoluminescence spectra indicated weaker green (2H11/2, 4S3/2 → 4I15/2) and stronger red emission (4F9/2 → 4I15/2), as a result of enhanced non-radiative 4I11/2 → 4I13/2 Er3+ relaxation. The presence of chitosan groups at the surface of UCNPs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This provides their enhanced internalization in cells, at low concentration of 10 μg ml-1, without suppression of cell viability after 24 h of exposure. Furthermore, upon 980 nm laser irradiation, the amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs were successfully used in vitro for labeling of two human cell types, normal gingival and oral squamous cell carcinoma. © 2018 The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Fig. S1. TEM (a) and HRTEM (b) images of amino modified NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs. Corresponding FFT/IFFT given as insets in b, confirms that much smaller crystallites notable at the particles surfaces (a) revealed periodic array of cubic alpha phase, (111) plane with d value of 3.140 Å; Fig. S2. XPS spectrum of amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs: survey spectrum and fine-scan spectra of Na 1s, Y 3d, Yb 4d, Er 4d, F 1s and decomposed ones of C 1s, O 1s and N 1s; Fig. S3. Photostability of amino-functionalized up-converting NaYF4:Yb,Er nanoparticles. The emission intensity was traced during 1h

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

The emerging up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) offer a wide range of biotechnology applications, from biomarkers and deep tissue imaging, to single molecule tracking and drug delivery. Their successful conjugation to biocompatible agents is crucial for specific molecules recognition and usually requires multiple steps which may lead to low reproducibility. Here, we report a simple and rapid one-step procedure for in situ synthesis of biocompatible amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs that could be used for NIR-driven fluorescence cell labeling. X-ray diffraction showed that UCNPs synthesized through chitosan-assisted solvothermal processing are monophasic and crystallize in a cubic alpha phase. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the obtained crystals are spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 120 nm. Photoluminescence spectra indicated weaker green (H-2(11/2), S-4(3/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)) and stronger red emission (F-4(9/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)), as a result of enhanced non-radiative (4)/(11/2) - gt (4)/(13/2) Er3+ relaxation. The presence of chitosan groups at the surface of UCNPs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This provides their enhanced internalization in cells, at low concentration of 10 mu g ml(-1), without suppression of cell viability after 24 h of exposure. Furthermore, upon 980 nm laser irradiation, the amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs were successfully used in vitro for labeling of two human cell types, normal gingival and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Lanthanide-doped fluoride up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) represent the new class of imaging contrast agents which hold great potential for overcoming existing problems associated with traditionally used dyes, proteins and quantum dots. In this study, a new kind of hybrid NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA nanoparticles for efficient biolabeling were prepared through one-pot solvothermal synthesis route. Morphological and structural characteristics of the as-designed particles were obtained using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, while their cytotoxicity as well as up-conversion (UC) labeling capability were tested in vitro toward human gingival cells (HGC) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The results revealed coexistence of the cubic (Fm-3m) and hexagonal (P6(3)/m) phase in spherical and irregularly shaped nanoparticles, respectively. PLGA [Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)] ligands attached at the surface of UCNPs particles provide their enhanced cellular uptake and enable high-quality cells imaging through a near-infrared (NIR) laser scanning microscopy (lambda(ex) = 980 nm). Moreover, the fact that NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA UCNPs show low cytotoxicity against HGC over the whole concentration range (10-50 mu g/mL) while a dose dependent viability of OSCC is obtained indicates that these might be a promising candidates for targeted cancer cell therapy.

The aim of the current work was to assess obtain a single crystal of calcium tungstate doped with neodymium - (CaWO4:Nd3+), and after that, the crystal was characterized with various spectroscopic methods. The single crystal was grown from the melt using the Czochralski method in air. By optimizing growth conditions, lt 001 gt -oriented CaWO4:Nd3+ crystalc up to 10 mm in diameter were grown. Number of dislocations in obtained crystal was 10(2) per cm(2). Micro hardness was measured with the Vickers pyramid. Anisotropy in lt 001 gt direction was not observed. Selected CaWO4:Nd3+ single crystal was cut into several tiles with the diamond saw. The plates were polished with a diamond paste. The crystal structure is confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The obtained crystal was studied by Raman and infrared spectroscopy. Seven Raman and six IR optical active modes predicted by group theory are observed. FTIR confirmed the occurrence of all the functional groups and bonds in this material. From the FTIR spectrum, a strong peak of 862 cm(-1) has been obtained due to the stretching vibration of WO42- in scheelite structure, and a weak but sharp band at 433 cm(-1) has been noticed due to the metal-oxygen (Ca-O) band. Estimated luminescence lifetime of F-4(5/2) - the I-4(9/2) transition is about 120 mu s; estimated luminescence lifetime of F-4(3/2) - the I-4(9/2) transition is about 140 mu s. All performed investigations show that the obtained CaWO4:Nd3+ single crystal has good optical quality, which was the goal of this work.

Fig. S1. TEM (a) and HRTEM (b) images of amino modified NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs. Corresponding FFT/IFFT given as insets in b, confirms that much smaller crystallites notable at the particles surfaces (a) revealed periodic array of cubic alpha phase, (111) plane with d value of 3.140 Å; Fig. S2. XPS spectrum of amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs: survey spectrum and fine-scan spectra of Na 1s, Y 3d, Yb 4d, Er 4d, F 1s and decomposed ones of C 1s, O 1s and N 1s; Fig. S3. Photostability of amino-functionalized up-converting NaYF4:Yb,Er nanoparticles. The emission intensity was traced during 1h

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

Lanthanide-doped fluoride up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) represent the new class of imaging contrast agents which hold great potential for overcoming existing problems associated with traditionally used dyes, proteins and quantum dots. In this study, a new kind of hybrid NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA nanoparticles for efficient biolabeling were prepared through one-pot solvothermal synthesis route. Morphological and structural characteristics of the as-designed particles were obtained using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, while their cytotoxicity as well as up-conversion (UC) labeling capability were tested in vitro toward human gingival cells (HGC) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The results revealed coexistence of the cubic (Fm-3m) and hexagonal (P6(3)/m) phase in spherical and irregularly shaped nanoparticles, respectively. PLGA [Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)] ligands attached at the surface of UCNPs particles provide their enhanced cellular uptake and enable high-quality cells imaging through a near-infrared (NIR) laser scanning microscopy (lambda(ex) = 980 nm). Moreover, the fact that NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA UCNPs show low cytotoxicity against HGC over the whole concentration range (10-50 mu g/mL) while a dose dependent viability of OSCC is obtained indicates that these might be a promising candidates for targeted cancer cell therapy.

The emerging up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) offer a wide range of biotechnology applications, from biomarkers and deep tissue imaging, to single molecule tracking and drug delivery. Their successful conjugation to biocompatible agents is crucial for specific molecules recognition and usually requires multiple steps which may lead to low reproducibility. Here, we report a simple and rapid one-step procedure for in situ synthesis of biocompatible amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs that could be used for NIR-driven fluorescence cell labeling. X-ray diffraction showed that UCNPs synthesized through chitosan-assisted solvothermal processing are monophasic and crystallize in a cubic alpha phase. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the obtained crystals are spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 120 nm. Photoluminescence spectra indicated weaker green (H-2(11/2), S-4(3/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)) and stronger red emission (F-4(9/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)), as a result of enhanced non-radiative (4)/(11/2) - gt (4)/(13/2) Er3+ relaxation. The presence of chitosan groups at the surface of UCNPs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This provides their enhanced internalization in cells, at low concentration of 10 mu g ml(-1), without suppression of cell viability after 24 h of exposure. Furthermore, upon 980 nm laser irradiation, the amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs were successfully used in vitro for labeling of two human cell types, normal gingival and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

In this work, thermal diffusivity of crystalline high-density polyethylene samples of various thickness, and prepared using different procedures, was evaluated by transmission gas-microphone frequency photoacoustics. The samples composition analysis and their degree of crystallinity were determined from the wide-angle X-ray diffraction, which confirmed that high-density polyethylene samples, obtained by slow and fast cooling, were equivalent in composition but with different degrees of crystallinity. Structural analysis, performed by differential scanning calorimetry, demonstrated that all of the used samples had different levels of crystallinity, depending not only on the preparing procedure, but also on sample thickness. Therefore, in order to evaluate the samples thermal diffusivity, it was necessary to modify standard photoacoustic fitting procedures (based on the normalization of photoacoustic amplitude and phase characteristics on two thickness levels) for the interpretation of photoacoustic measurements. The calculated values of thermal diffusivity were in the range of the expected literature values. Besides that, the obtained results indicate the unexpected correlation between the values of thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity with the degree of crystallinity of the investigated geometrically thin samples. The results indicate the necessity of additional investigation of energy transport in macromolecular systems, as well as the possible employment of the photoacoustic techniques in order to clarify its mechanism.

In this paper we describe the synthesis and characterization of the Sr2CeO4:Eu3+ nanopowder and possibilities of its application for temperature and high pressure sensing. The material was prepared using simple solution combustion synthesis. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL) techniques have been used to confirm and characterize the prepared material. Time resolved analysis of emission spectra was achieved by using the streak camera system. Measured lifetime values of luminescence emission and the intensity ratios of spectral lines were used for determining the calibration curves for remote temperature sensing. We have analyzed sensitivity improvement of the intensity ratio method by using a temporal evolution of emission lines and simulation of delayed gating of one of them. Pressure effects on optical properties of Sr2CeO4: Eu3+ nanophosphor are also investigated.

The gadolinium vanadate doped with samarium (GdVO 4 :Sm 3+ ) nanopowder was prepared by the solution combustion synthesis (SCS) method. After synthesis, in order to achieve the full crystallinity, the material was annealed in air atmosphere at 900°C. Phase identification in the postannealed powder samples was performed by X-ray diffraction, and morphology was investigated by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photoluminescence characterization of the emission spectrum and time-resolved analysis have been performed using the tunable laser optical parametric oscillator excitation and the streak camera. Several strong emission bands in the Sm 3+ emission spectrum were observed, located at 567 nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 5/2 ), 604 nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 7/2 ), and 646 (654) nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 9/2 ), respectively. The weak emission bands at 533 nm ( 4 F 3/2 – 6 H 5/2 ) and 706 nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 11/2 ) and a weak broad luminescence emission band of VO 4 3− were also observed by the detection system. We analyzed the possibility of using the host luminescence for two-color temperature sensing. The proposed method is improved by introducing the temporal dependence in the line intensity ratio measurements.

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

Fig. S1. TEM (a) and HRTEM (b) images of amino modified NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs. Corresponding FFT/IFFT given as insets in b, confirms that much smaller crystallites notable at the particles surfaces (a) revealed periodic array of cubic alpha phase, (111) plane with d value of 3.140 Å; Fig. S2. XPS spectrum of amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs: survey spectrum and fine-scan spectra of Na 1s, Y 3d, Yb 4d, Er 4d, F 1s and decomposed ones of C 1s, O 1s and N 1s; Fig. S3. Photostability of amino-functionalized up-converting NaYF4:Yb,Er nanoparticles. The emission intensity was traced during 1h

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

In this paper we describe the synthesis and characterization of the Sr2CeO4:Eu3+ nanopowder and possibilities of its application for temperature and high pressure sensing. The material was prepared using simple solution combustion synthesis. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL) techniques have been used to confirm and characterize the prepared material. Time resolved analysis of emission spectra was achieved by using the streak camera system. Measured lifetime values of luminescence emission and the intensity ratios of spectral lines were used for determining the calibration curves for remote temperature sensing. We have analyzed sensitivity improvement of the intensity ratio method by using a temporal evolution of emission lines and simulation of delayed gating of one of them. Pressure effects on optical properties of Sr2CeO4: Eu3+ nanophosphor are also investigated.

The gadolinium vanadate doped with samarium (GdVO 4 :Sm 3+ ) nanopowder was prepared by the solution combustion synthesis (SCS) method. After synthesis, in order to achieve the full crystallinity, the material was annealed in air atmosphere at 900°C. Phase identification in the postannealed powder samples was performed by X-ray diffraction, and morphology was investigated by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Photoluminescence characterization of the emission spectrum and time-resolved analysis have been performed using the tunable laser optical parametric oscillator excitation and the streak camera. Several strong emission bands in the Sm 3+ emission spectrum were observed, located at 567 nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 5/2 ), 604 nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 7/2 ), and 646 (654) nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 9/2 ), respectively. The weak emission bands at 533 nm ( 4 F 3/2 – 6 H 5/2 ) and 706 nm ( 4 G 5/2 – 6 H 11/2 ) and a weak broad luminescence emission band of VO 4 3− were also observed by the detection system. We analyzed the possibility of using the host luminescence for two-color temperature sensing. The proposed method is improved by introducing the temporal dependence in the line intensity ratio measurements.

In this work, thermal diffusivity of crystalline high-density polyethylene samples of various thickness, and prepared using different procedures, was evaluated by transmission gas-microphone frequency photoacoustics. The samples composition analysis and their degree of crystallinity were determined from the wide-angle X-ray diffraction, which confirmed that high-density polyethylene samples, obtained by slow and fast cooling, were equivalent in composition but with different degrees of crystallinity. Structural analysis, performed by differential scanning calorimetry, demonstrated that all of the used samples had different levels of crystallinity, depending not only on the preparing procedure, but also on sample thickness. Therefore, in order to evaluate the samples thermal diffusivity, it was necessary to modify standard photoacoustic fitting procedures (based on the normalization of photoacoustic amplitude and phase characteristics on two thickness levels) for the interpretation of photoacoustic measurements. The calculated values of thermal diffusivity were in the range of the expected literature values. Besides that, the obtained results indicate the unexpected correlation between the values of thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity with the degree of crystallinity of the investigated geometrically thin samples. The results indicate the necessity of additional investigation of energy transport in macromolecular systems, as well as the possible employment of the photoacoustic techniques in order to clarify its mechanism.

There is a growing interest for development of a facile and reproducible approach for the synthesis of biocompatible lanthanide doped up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) for deep tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery. Synthesis of such particles is usually performed through the decomposition of organometallic compounds, followed either with a ligands exchange or with a biocompatible layer coating. In this work, biocompatible NaYF4:Yb,Er (17 mol% Yb; 3 mol% Er) nanoparticles were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal processing with an assistance of chitosan (Ch) or polyacrylic acid (PAA). Obtained powders were analyzed by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD, Bruker D8 Discovery), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM, Zeiss, DSM 960), transmission electron microscopy (TEM, JEOL JEM 2010), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR, Thermo Scientific Nicolet 6700) and photoluminescence (PL, Spex Fluorolog with C31034 cooled photomultiplier) spectroscopy. The results showed that although both powders crystallize in the same crystal arrangement (cubic, Fm-3m), particles size, shape and optical properties are dependent on the polymer used.

Lanthanide-doped fluoride up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) represent the new class of imaging contrast agents which hold great potential for overcoming existing problems associated with traditionally used dyes, proteins and quantum dots. In this study, a new kind of hybrid NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA nanoparticles for efficient biolabeling were prepared through one-pot solvothermal synthesis route. Morphological and structural characteristics of the as-designed particles were obtained using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, while their cytotoxicity as well as up-conversion (UC) labeling capability were tested in vitro toward human gingival cells (HGC) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The results revealed coexistence of the cubic (Fm-3m) and hexagonal (P6(3)/m) phase in spherical and irregularly shaped nanoparticles, respectively. PLGA [Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)] ligands attached at the surface of UCNPs particles provide their enhanced cellular uptake and enable high-quality cells imaging through a near-infrared (NIR) laser scanning microscopy (lambda(ex) = 980 nm). Moreover, the fact that NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA UCNPs show low cytotoxicity against HGC over the whole concentration range (10-50 mu g/mL) while a dose dependent viability of OSCC is obtained indicates that these might be a promising candidates for targeted cancer cell therapy.

The emerging up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) offer a wide range of biotechnology applications, from biomarkers and deep tissue imaging, to single molecule tracking and drug delivery. Their successful conjugation to biocompatible agents is crucial for specific molecules recognition and usually requires multiple steps which may lead to low reproducibility. Here, we report a simple and rapid one-step procedure for in situ synthesis of biocompatible amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs that could be used for NIR-driven fluorescence cell labeling. X-ray diffraction showed that UCNPs synthesized through chitosan-assisted solvothermal processing are monophasic and crystallize in a cubic alpha phase. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the obtained crystals are spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 120 nm. Photoluminescence spectra indicated weaker green (H-2(11/2), S-4(3/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)) and stronger red emission (F-4(9/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)), as a result of enhanced non-radiative (4)/(11/2) - gt (4)/(13/2) Er3+ relaxation. The presence of chitosan groups at the surface of UCNPs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This provides their enhanced internalization in cells, at low concentration of 10 mu g ml(-1), without suppression of cell viability after 24 h of exposure. Furthermore, upon 980 nm laser irradiation, the amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs were successfully used in vitro for labeling of two human cell types, normal gingival and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Fig. S1. TEM (a) and HRTEM (b) images of amino modified NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs. Corresponding FFT/IFFT given as insets in b, confirms that much smaller crystallites notable at the particles surfaces (a) revealed periodic array of cubic alpha phase, (111) plane with d value of 3.140 Å; Fig. S2. XPS spectrum of amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs: survey spectrum and fine-scan spectra of Na 1s, Y 3d, Yb 4d, Er 4d, F 1s and decomposed ones of C 1s, O 1s and N 1s; Fig. S3. Photostability of amino-functionalized up-converting NaYF4:Yb,Er nanoparticles. The emission intensity was traced during 1h

The aim of the current work was to assess obtain a single crystal of calcium tungstate doped with neodymium - (CaWO4:Nd3+), and after that, the crystal was characterized with various spectroscopic methods. The single crystal was grown from the melt using the Czochralski method in air. By optimizing growth conditions, lt 001 gt -oriented CaWO4:Nd3+ crystalc up to 10 mm in diameter were grown. Number of dislocations in obtained crystal was 10(2) per cm(2). Micro hardness was measured with the Vickers pyramid. Anisotropy in lt 001 gt direction was not observed. Selected CaWO4:Nd3+ single crystal was cut into several tiles with the diamond saw. The plates were polished with a diamond paste. The crystal structure is confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The obtained crystal was studied by Raman and infrared spectroscopy. Seven Raman and six IR optical active modes predicted by group theory are observed. FTIR confirmed the occurrence of all the functional groups and bonds in this material. From the FTIR spectrum, a strong peak of 862 cm(-1) has been obtained due to the stretching vibration of WO42- in scheelite structure, and a weak but sharp band at 433 cm(-1) has been noticed due to the metal-oxygen (Ca-O) band. Estimated luminescence lifetime of F-4(5/2) - the I-4(9/2) transition is about 120 mu s; estimated luminescence lifetime of F-4(3/2) - the I-4(9/2) transition is about 140 mu s. All performed investigations show that the obtained CaWO4:Nd3+ single crystal has good optical quality, which was the goal of this work.

The emerging up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) offer a wide range of biotechnology applications, from biomarkers and deep tissue imaging, to single molecule tracking and drug delivery. Their successful conjugation to biocompatible agents is crucial for specific molecules recognition and usually requires multiple steps which may lead to low reproducibility. Here, we report a simple and rapid one-step procedure for in situ synthesis of biocompatible amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs that could be used for NIR-driven fluorescence cell labeling. X-ray diffraction showed that UCNPs synthesized through chitosan-assisted solvothermal processing are monophasic and crystallize in a cubic alpha phase. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the obtained crystals are spherical in shape with a mean diameter of 120 nm. Photoluminescence spectra indicated weaker green (H-2(11/2), S-4(3/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)) and stronger red emission (F-4(9/2) - gt (4)/(15/2)), as a result of enhanced non-radiative (4)/(11/2) - gt (4)/(13/2) Er3+ relaxation. The presence of chitosan groups at the surface of UCNPs was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This provides their enhanced internalization in cells, at low concentration of 10 mu g ml(-1), without suppression of cell viability after 24 h of exposure. Furthermore, upon 980 nm laser irradiation, the amino-functionalized NaYF4:Yb,Er UCNPs were successfully used in vitro for labeling of two human cell types, normal gingival and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Lanthanide-doped fluoride up-converting nanoparticles (UCNPs) represent the new class of imaging contrast agents which hold great potential for overcoming existing problems associated with traditionally used dyes, proteins and quantum dots. In this study, a new kind of hybrid NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA nanoparticles for efficient biolabeling were prepared through one-pot solvothermal synthesis route. Morphological and structural characteristics of the as-designed particles were obtained using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, while their cytotoxicity as well as up-conversion (UC) labeling capability were tested in vitro toward human gingival cells (HGC) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The results revealed coexistence of the cubic (Fm-3m) and hexagonal (P6(3)/m) phase in spherical and irregularly shaped nanoparticles, respectively. PLGA [Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)] ligands attached at the surface of UCNPs particles provide their enhanced cellular uptake and enable high-quality cells imaging through a near-infrared (NIR) laser scanning microscopy (lambda(ex) = 980 nm). Moreover, the fact that NaYF4:Yb,Er/PLGA UCNPs show low cytotoxicity against HGC over the whole concentration range (10-50 mu g/mL) while a dose dependent viability of OSCC is obtained indicates that these might be a promising candidates for targeted cancer cell therapy.