BrainMap

Mr. Lucian Barbu

Senior Researcher II, Associate Professor, PhD

Associate Professor - UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Other affiliations

Senior Researcher II, EM Lab. Manager - INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (Romania)

Researcher | Teaching staff | Manager

Web of Science ResearcherID: B-7352-2011

Curriculum Vitae (08/01/2019)

Expertise & keywords

Detection of water pollutants by fluorescent sensors based on Calcogenide Quantum Dots Composites with Smartphone Interface Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-2421 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICA DIN CLUJ - NAPOCA (RO); TEDELCO S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: http://depoflu.granturi.ubbcluj.ro

Abstract:

The main objective of the project is to develop a portable fluorescent

device used in the detection and analysis of water contaminants, more

specifically for detection of heavy metal ions. The sensing active

material is based on zinc calcogenide QDs with a fluorescence response

in the visible spectral range. The project’s end-product is an

experimental demonstrator with two modules used for analysis of the

target ions: one for the fluorescence intensity and the other one for

spectral analysis. The demonstrator comprises the following key

components: *the nanostructured fluorescent material (which contains

the sensing area, as the core of the device); *the sampling holder

(which represents a host for the fluorescent chip, forming the sensing

module); *the package (which contain sensing module with appropriate

light sources, detectors, control electronics and software); *the PC and

Smartphone interfaces (for data collection) both wired and Bluetooth

(for data transmission). The fluorescence device presents advantages

compared to the currently existing water systems analysis namely:

*portable, *low-cost, *versatile, *fluorescence excitation mode;

*Bluetooth fast data transmission; * incorporated calcogenide QDs as

sensing area,* enhanced functionality. The project’s activities span

over a broad range of methods and approaches, beginning with specific

techniques in nanotechnology for QDs preparation (colloids, films) and

continuing with electronics, mechanics, automation and embedded

software. Algorithms for signal processing employed for the simulation

of the fluorescent response is also present. The extremely complex

project is realized in a well structured partnership, two academic and

one private: Babes-Bolyai University, Technical University and SC

Tedelco SRL, all in Cluj-Napoca. The results of the project’s topic is of

practical relevance for a variety of analytical applications in field of

environment, medicine, food/water safety, pharmaceutics.

Decontamination of heavy metal polluted soils by exploiting plant rhizosphere interactions Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-5254 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: https://biiophyt.wordpress.com

Abstract:

Mercury (Hg) pollution, sometimes associated with other metal contaminants such as zinc, lead, manganese, and nickel is a global threat to human and environmental health because of its toxicity, mobility and long residence time in the atmosphere. Although Hg production has dropped, former mines and chloralkali plants represent constant sources of mercury pollution. Engineering based remediation technologies imply high costs, intensive labour, and nevertheless irreversible changes in soil quality, structure and native microbiota. Combined phyto- and bioremediation is an emerging strategy to address decontamination of heavy metal polluted soils because plants handle contaminants without affecting topsoil, therefore conserving its fertility or even improving it through root exudation. Moreover, phytoremediation require low cost and maintenance. Within the current project we aim to develop a Hg polymetallic soil decontamination environmental-friendly technology based on cooperation between a facultative metallophyte species and its rhizosphere associated microorganisms. The use of a facultative metallophyte, able to grow on the former chloralkaline plant that is able to sustain growth at concentrations of Hg above the alert threshold, stands as the base concept of the planned approach. The removal efficiency of Hg from soil of the selected facultative metallophyte on its own and in combination with Hg resistant fungal and bacteria isolates will be tested in controlled laboratory conditions in soil artificially contaminated solely with Hg or in Hg polymetallic soil from a former chloralkali plant. The test will provide information about the most appropriate microorganism to be used in combination with the plant species, in order to propose an eco-friendly, non-destructive, low cost and efficient technology for decontamination of Hg polluted soils.

From Nanobiosensing to Blue Bioeconomy:Translational Science as Innovation Speeder of Blue Growth Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-4777 2020 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://bluebiosustain.granturi.ubbcluj.ro

Abstract:

Rezultatele recente ale cercetărilor prin metode bazate pe nanotehnologie și spectroscopie laser dezvăluie fațete și proprietăți uimitoare ale biomaterialelor rezultate ca deșeuri din sectorul acvaculturii și al industriei alimentare axate pe produse acvatice, in particular, fructe de mare (crustacee, moluste) și potențialul lor pentru bioeconomia albastră. Transformarea unei amenințări într-o nouă oportunitate este demonstrată luând în considerare o specie de crab invazivă, care altfel generează un impact negativ semnificativ asupra acvaculturii și a sustenabilității ecosistemelor invadate. Pentru un cercetator din domeniul materialelor avansate, o carapace de crab este o nano-arhitectură naturală tridimensională, foarte ordonată, care este încă dificilă pentru replicare în orice protocol de fabricație bazat pe nanotehnologie. Astfel de nano-arhitecturi sunt din ce în ce mai necesare în domenii de cercetare inovatoare precum nanobiofotonica, nanomedicina, medicina regenerativă, nanotehnologii biosenzoriale și altele. In acest proiect demonstrăm modul în care cercetarea translațională poate transforma materiale biogenice irosite în produse secundare cu valoare adăugată, cum ar fi materiale inteligente pentru încărcarea medicamentelor și livrarea lor lentă, adsorbanți selectivi, bio-fertilizanți inteligenți sau materiale fotonice. In proiect se porneste de la materiale reziduale de origine acvatica (carapace de crab albastru (Callinectes sapidus) si macroalge) si se demonstreaza ca ele pot deveni noi materiale cu valoare adaugata cu proprietati demonstrate si potentiale utilizări conform conceptelor economiei circulare. În concluzie, rolul esențial al cercetării științifice finalizate prin diseminare, educație și comunicare, împreună cu sinergiile construite între sectoare, este demonstrat ca un accelerator de inovare si crestere sustenabilă.

New Targeted Optical Imaging NanoProbes for Near-Infrared (NIR) Real-Time (RT)Image-Guided Surgery of Ovarian Cancer Call name: P 4 - Proiecte Complexe de Cercetare de Frontieră
PN-III-P4-ID-PCCF-2016-0142 2018 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); INSTITUTUL ONCOLOGIC PROF.DR.I.CHIRICUTA CLUJ-NAPOCA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: https://sites.google.com/view/nanonirsurgery/home

Abstract:

Currently, a hot research topic is developing at the interface between physics, chemistry and materials science from one side and biology and medicine from other side, aiming to provide novel nano-tools for cancer treatment. However, despite advances in pre-operative imaging techniques, there is not a suitable intra-operative technique to provide real-time feedback to surgical oncologist to distinguish healthy tissue from malignant lesions and visualize submilimetrical tumor deposits. It is through a collaborative consortium gathering physicists, chemists, biochemists, biologists, oncologists, surgeons, histopathologists that this project addresses a challenging subject aiming to validate new targeted optical imaging nanoprobes for near-infrared (NIR) real-time image-guided surgery of ovarian cancer. Actually, we will develop targeted contrast agents to bind specifically to the FRα of ovarian cancer cells for enabling “visualization” of ovarian tumors by distinct optical signature in NIR. At the end of project, after their careful evaluation on ovarian cell lines /ovarian tumors xenografts / carcinomatose models, will be in position to proceed in the future as viable contrast agent in real-time image-guided ovarian cancer surgery. We focus our research effort to implement NIR optical nanoprobes containing Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved compounds as well to promote new related nano-compounds produced in our laboratories. Actually, the development of targeted contrast agent in the NIR wavelengths range is highly relevant and beneficial to cancer surgery as their signal does not compete with background signal of tissue emitted in visible light spectrum and, therefore, a clear and deep difference between healthy tissue and tumoral lesions can be delineated.

Characterization of the sub-cellular effects of functionalised magnetic nanoparticles in targeted anti-tumor therapy Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - RUTE -2014 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2014-4-0608 2015 - 2017

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://poravpaul.wix.com/cellspion

Abstract:

Having unique magnetic properties, super-paramagnetic nanoparticles (SPIONs) are an efficient vector for anti-tumor targeted therapy, non-viral gene therapy, magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent, and thus personalized medicine. SPIONs are cheap and easy to synthesize, have determined dimensions, can be functionalized and loaded with various substances, and they can transport a certain drug to a certain area of the body in a targeted way, being conducted by magnet. They can be, this way, monitored in real time and at the area of interest SPIONs combine the chemical effect of the drug with the physical effect of the magnetic fluids induced hyperthermia, which generates selectively local overheating through an external magnetic field. In spite of all this promising features, there is still a certain holdback for using SPIONs as a nanotherapy method. This happens mostly because of the fact that nanomedicine is a new domain and because of the lack of coherence in all studies involving NPs in medical applications. Through our project we intend to integrate all aspects regarding cell-NPs interactions and to eliminate all dissonances that shows when passing from a certain study system to another (in vitro-2D-3D-in vivo), finally leading us to obtain coherent data. This is why this study is needed, a complete, integrating and complex study, which starts from NPs synthesis, bioavailability, cytostatic loading, fluorescent loading, in vitro and then in vivo, up to clearance.

PERSONALIZED CRANIOFACIAL IMPLANTS PRODUCED BY INNOVATIVE 3D PROTOTYPING OF FIBRE-REINFORCED COMPOSITE MATERIALS Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-0917 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE (U.M.F) Cluj-Napoca

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE (U.M.F) Cluj-Napoca (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA TEHNICA DIN CLUJ - NAPOCA (RO); REMED PRODIMPEX SRL (RO); AVENA MEDICA SRL (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://www.granturi.umfcluj.ro/pecifco

Abstract:

Craniofacial bone defects produce morphological and functional deficits, which significantly alter the life quality of the afflicted persons. Thus, the reconstruction of the bone defects is an issue of primary importance.

In spite of all the improvements brought to the techniques of bone reconstruction, present day biomaterials still have some shortcomings that limit their application and sometimes cause clinical problems.

This project proposes the elaboration of new advanced biomaterials based on fibre-reinforced composite (FRC) that will serve cranial bone reconstruction, in case of large bicortical calvarial defects. The customized implant will be obtained by the injection of FRC and photo polymerization into a 3D model master obtained by means of rapid tooling.

The main innovative element of this project is represented by the development of an original fibre-reinforced composite (FRC), as there are no preoccupations so far, in our country, concerning research in the field of composite-type materials, with a role in the reconstruction of craniofacial bone defects. As far as we know there are no patents focused on using glass FRC for reconstructing bone defects in the craniofacial area and currently there are no exploited commercially products of glass fibre reinforced composite-type used in the reconstruction of the craniofacial bone defects on the national and international market.

Another innovative element is represented by the three-dimensional processing of the material in order to obtain the custom-made implants. The proposed method to produce the custom-made FRC implants is original and new, as compared to the latest advances in additive manufacturing of the personalized implants, which are printed out from expensive materials, such as Ti alloys. These new custom-made FRC implants are providing a perfect shape, as they are copying the Rapid Prototyping master model. Their costs are affordable for the health care system, so a larger number of patients could benefit from the new technology developed within this project.

Thus, the custom-made implants will be available before surgery, which leads to predictable final results, a series of variables (surgical, anatomical and physiological), which could have compromised the evolution of the case, being eliminated.

The material that is to be developed and processed could constitute a safer and simplified method for the reconstruction of craniofacial bone defects.

Owing to multiple aspects intended to be dealt with by the proposed research, the thematic area has a multidisciplinary character. The involvement of specialists from multiple research fields like chemistry, physics, biology, medicine, materials science is mandatory for the achievement of proposed objectives.

The fulfilling of the submitted project will create opportunities to obtain highly competitive scientific and technological results, in order to raise the Romanian research visibility, but especially to transfer these results afterwards into the socio-economical practice. The scientific and technological solution submitted by the consortium in order to solve the bone reconstruction issue, promotes the improvement of life-quality for the patients suffering from complex cranio-facial pathology, meeting the requirements and the evolution of this matter both from a medical and a socio-economic point of view.

The scientific and technological impact brought by this complex and novel research project will be increased by the publication of 3 ISI-quoted articles, 1 invention patent and by participation to conferences.

Thus, the submitted project is relevant due to the novelty of the scientific methods to be used, but also due to the efficiency of the involved technologies, whose costs are affordable in order to be implemented by the Romanian heath care system.

The behavior of oral mesenchymal cells in relationship with a new resin composite material in modern regenerative periodontal therapy Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1474 2014 - 2017

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE (U.M.F) Cluj-Napoca

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE (U.M.F) Cluj-Napoca (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CERCETARI PRODUSE AUXILIARE ORGANICE S.A. (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE " VICTOR BABEŞ " TIMISOARA (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://bc.umfcluj.ro/stemdent/

Abstract:

Gingival recession is a common problem affecting a large number of individuals and the treatment is based on the use of periodontal plastic surgery procedures usually using palatal grafts and advanced flaps, which aim to cover the exposed roots. The clinical situation is furthermore complicated by the concomitant presence of non-carious cervical lesions (cervical abrasions), which demands parallel restorative/ periodontal surgical approaches. Periodontal tissue has a reduced intrinsic regenerative potential, mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells MSC(s) contained in the palatal grafts used in coverage surgeries could augment the local pool of MSCs. The use of autogenic MSCs may be an opportunity to increase periodontal regeneration since there are no safety standardized protocols for the use of the ex vivo manipulated MSCs. Resin composite materials used to restore cervical abrasions during root coverage treatment could have hazardous effects on local MSCs due to eluted components. The local microbial fingerprint, a particular genetic or inflammatory trait of the host could influence local MSCs' fate.

STEMDENT aims to develop a new application of modern regenerative periodontal therapies through investigation of the insights on oral MSC behaviour in relationship with environmental factors (new resin composite material), and some biologic characteristics of the host.

The objectives of STEMDENT are: ►to develop investigation sets for evaluating the oral MSCs' behaviour in relationship with some individual characteristics of the host; ►to develop/ characterize a new nanohybrid composite material; ►to develop standardised combined muco-gingival surgical/ restorative therapies for gingival recessions/cervical abrasions based on experimental evaluation of the behaviour of the oral MSCs in relationship with the new and other nanohybrid composites and the host individual characteristics; ►to upgrade the understanding and use of the research results; ► to develop an informational space in the domain of periodontics/ chemistry; ►to disseminate the results of the standardized treatment at European standards.

STEMDENT is conceived as a complex interdisciplinary / multidisciplinary project, with four partners with specific competencies in fields such as: periodontology, cytology and stem cell culture, histopathology, immunology, regeneration (neuronal tissue), veterinary medicine, chemical bio-components development and production, organic chemistry, marketing and project management. The innovative character of the project is given by the improvement of the biosafety of the new materias based on thoroughly evaluation of the biological responses including stem cells’ behaviour. The standardization of the clinical and laboratory research after the establishment of some associative arguments between the periodontal and restorative treatments and the evidence of some negative risk indicators on MSCs behaviour (local regeneration) has been demonstrated to be the new approach, in order to improve the therapy by increasing its predictability and the oral-quality-of-life.

STEMDENT major results will be: standardized clinical treatments for the patients with combined gingival recessions and cervical abrasions that will eliminate the aesthetic and functional deficits and a new direct radiopaque nanohybrid resin composite material for dental therapy, biologically and clinically tested. The results of the project will impact on the training of students and researchers from the partners’ institutions and on the market position of the firm.

Novel advanced smart biomaterials of giomer type with applications in dentistry Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 2
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.2-1419 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE CHIMIE MACROMOLECULARA "PETRU PONI" (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE (U.M.F) Cluj-Napoca (RO); REMED PRODIMPEX SRL (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://granturi.ubbcluj.ro/giodent

Abstract:

The present research project proposed the elaboration, achievement and experimentation of novel, advanced, smart biomaterial formulations belonging to the giomers class with low polymerization shrinkage, continuous release of fluoride in time, improved adhesion to tooth tissues, high mechanical properties and good biocompatibility to be used in different applications in dentistry.

Given the ample and varied activities to be undertaken, the project requires a consortium to be constituted from five partners, two Universities, one National Research Institute, one Institute of the Romanian Academy and one commercial entity, forming an interdisciplinary team of specialists with experience in chemistry, engineering, physics, materials science, biology and medicine .

The planed results of the research activities are the following: 3 products of giomer type for the restoration of the anterior and posterior teeth, for the prophylaxis of caries with children and as liner/base material; 1 dentin adhesive with improved adhesion to tooth structure, 4 laboratory technologies, 3 Feasibility studies, 3 marketing studies, 4 technical specifications, 6 ISI articles and 2 registered patents.

By achieving the proposed project, contribution is brought to the sustaining of the national policy in the field, by creating the transfer and capitalization opportunities which will lead to the development of a Romanian industry of performing dental products, at

European standards level, having in view the specialized human potential with experience in the field.

Genetic Evolution: New Evidences for the Study of Interconnected Structures. A Biomolecular Journey around the Carpathians from Ancient to Medieval Times Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 1
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.1-1153b 2013 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE BIOLOGIE

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE BIOLOGIE (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA "ALEXANDRU IOAN CUZA" IASI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://www.ibiol.ro/proiecte/PNII/GENESIS/index.htm

Abstract:

With the advent of molecular techniques, no biological discipline could remain the same. Today, classic theories and approaches are verified using methodologies involving molecular analyses. Often, the image presented by molecular techniques completely challenges past suppositions. Archaeology and history, two research areas apparently meant to remain in their “pure”, classic form, tend now towards interdisciplinarity. Being concerned with recounting and reconstructing past lives, they involve, at some point, the study of plant, animal and human remains, and thus, are also affected by the molecular revolution that sweeps other biological domains.

The extended team of this project reunites historians, archaeologists, biologists, MD’s and physicists who approach in a interdisciplinary manner the study of past human populations who occupied at diverse intervals and in diverse locations around the Carpathian mountains the territory of today’s Romania.

The objective of our project is to establish an autochthonous young interdisciplinary team to function beyond the end of the project in the field of bioarchaeology, with both scientific (academic research), commercial (expertise and analysis of samples for third parties) and formative (passing on information to the next generation of “bioarchaeologists” via courses, workshops, etc.) responsibilities.

Modeling and simulation of the dynamics of thymocyte populations and cells of the thymus medulla under normal and pathological situations Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2011-3-0571 2012 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: Universitatea de Medicina si Farmacie "Victor Babes" Timisoara

Project partners: Universitatea de Medicina si Farmacie "Victor Babes" Timisoara (RO)

Affiliation: Universitatea de Medicina si Farmacie "Victor Babes" Timisoara (RO)

Project website: http://simtim.umft.ro

Abstract:

Thymus is the organ in which the positive and negative selection of thymocytes occurs, resulting in the production of mature T-cells that populate the peripheral tissues. In mouse thymocytes can be divided into four populations, based on the expression of CD and CD8 (developing in this sequence): CD4-CD8- double-negative, immature double-positive CD4+CD8+ and mature single-positive CD4+ and CD8+. From a mathematical standpoint these four thymocyte populations could be considered as four separate compartments connected with a one way flow of cells, with thymocytes from each compartment undergoing proliferation, cell death and inter-compartment transfer. We aim at developing a full mathematical model of the mouse thymus, based on a system of differential equations that would include all thymocyte populations, the medulla and the stromal component of the thymus with the purpose of describing the dynamics of thymocyte populations and the thymocyte-medulla interactions in normal and pathological situations. By investigating the the proliferation and death of each thymocyte population we aim at obtaining a precise expression of the proliferation, death and transfer rates during the investigation in order to optimize the mathematical model. Pathological conditions influence thymocyte dynamics by altering their death and proliferation. In a disease like diabetes that influences the proliferation and death of thymocytes we would like to be able to predict the evolution of the organ.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL NANOSTRUCTURES FORMED OF GOLD OR SILVER NANOPARTICLES AND DIFFERENT BIOMOLECULES WITH MEDICAL APPLICATIONS Acronym: NANOMED Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2011-3-0853 2011 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Universitatea Babes-Bolyai

Project partners: Universitatea Babes-Bolyai (RO)

Affiliation: Universitatea Babes-Bolyai (RO)

Project website: http://www.chem.ubbcluj.ro/romana/ANEX/cf/pcas/proiect%20idei%20files/index%20idei.htm

Abstract:

The fundamental goal of NANOMED project is the research and development of polyfunctional nanostructures, composed from bioactive compounds, like proteins, chitosan or anti-cancer, anti-oxidant or anesthetic compounds, in absence or in presence of gold or silver nanoparticles. Results have applications in nanotechnology and nanomedicine, for analytical detection of diverse organic molecules in pharmaceutical and industrial environment as well as for drug delivery systems. General and specific objectives are physical and chemical characterization of polyfunctional nanostructures by thermodynamic methods, mainly calorimetry (DSC-TA), advanced spectrometry (UV-VIS, FT-IR, Raman, NMR) and microscopy methods (AFM, STM, SEM, TEM); study of molecular and colloidal self-association processes in aqueous solutions by zeta sizer and at air/water and aqueous solution/solid interfaces by Langmuir-Blodgett technique coupled with AFM; characterization of interactions between protein molecules (protein from barley aleurone cells or collagen type I), chitosan, and anti-cancer (fluorouracyl and doxorubicin), anti-oxidant (lipoic acid, quercetin or deferoxamine) or anesthetic (procaine, tetracaine or dibucaine) compounds and gold or silver nanoparticles. By this multi-disciplinary research, the project will bring an important contribution to the understanding of the processes on the base of molecular recognition in biological systems with applications in the diagnostic and treatment of cancer

Dendrimer-carbon nanostructure conjugates as drug delivery support Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2011 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2011-3-0346 2011 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Universitatea Babes-Bolyai

Project partners: Universitatea Babes-Bolyai (RO)

Affiliation: Universitatea Babes-Bolyai (RO)

Project website: http://chem.ubbcluj.ro/~diudea/proiecte/idei346/

Abstract:

The aim of the project is to model, synthesize, characterize and exploit the potential of nanostructure complexes in active transport of the chemical and biological compounds at cell living tissue.

In this respect, the first part will be a comprehensive study, including molecular modeling and drug design, on the nanostructure-dendrimer complexes in order to obtain stable nanostructure, used as drug carriers. The second part of the project refers to the synthesis and physico-chemical characterization of the most appropriate nanostructures as well as toxicity testing and their ability to penetrate the cell wall.

The study tries to find the best dimensions of dendrimers and the coupling methods between dendrimers and nanostructures in view to obtain stable and low toxicity nanostructures.

Results of the project will include design, synthesis methods and physico-chemical and biological characteristics of novel nanostructure-dendrimer complexes.

The major benefit will be the finding of new nanostructures useful in drug delivery ti the biological target.

NANOPHOSPHORS BASED ON YTTRIUM SILICATE FOR OPTOELECTRONICS Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - TE-2012 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2012-3-0360 2013 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: http://nanoluminofori.granturi.ubbcluj.ro

Abstract:

The project theme is in the domain of the nanomaterials and aims to synthesis and characterizes rare earth doped yttrium silicate based phosphors with predetermined properties with applications in optoelectronics. By its scientific objectives the project contribute to: the formation of young researchers in luminescent materials field; *develop the specific knowledge in domain; *open new research direction, *increase the national /international visibility. The specific objectives are related to: ● preparation of rare earth doped yttrium silicate based micro and nano-phosphors ● optimisation of the synthesis methods in order to improve performances of phosphors and to control the morphology, structure and luminescence characteristics. ●Resolving some aspects concerning the energy transfer between rare earth in silicates.

The methodology is specific for materials science and implies: sample design; synthesis of phosphors; characterization of materials; interpretation of the original results and dissemination of the original results. The preparation of phosphor powders is made by wet chemical methods by simultaneous adition of reagents and combustion method. The characterization will be performed by: chemical analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, XRD, SEM/TEM, photo-luminescent spectroscopy and surface area investigations. The original results will be patented and disseminated by publication in journals and communication at scientific events.

Roman versus barbarian identity – the phenomenology of acculturation. The case of Roman Dacia and the adjacent barbarian world Call name: Exploratory Research Projects - PCE-2012 call
PN-II-ID-PCE-2012-4-0210 2013 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: ACADEMIA ROMANA FILIALA CLUJ

Project partners: ACADEMIA ROMANA FILIALA CLUJ (RO)

Affiliation: ACADEMIA ROMANA FILIALA CLUJ (RO)

Project website: http://www.romanversusbarbarianidentity.ro

Abstract:

The present research project is focused on the phenomenology of acculturation on two main entities that at the first sight may look in a complete opposition to each other: The Roman Empire and the barbarians beyond the Roman borders.

In the light of new technologies in the field or archaeology and informational devices and programs nowadays the acculturation phenomenology is one of the most requested disciplines in order to understand what actually has happened with the transformation of various historical and ethnical entities from Prehistory to present times.

If for the other areas of the former Roman Europe such a topic is under full research approaches (Germany, Great Britain, France) in Romania this project will be a premiere as nobody else has tried, so far to look deeper at the details revealed by archaeological evidence and different categories of artefacts coming from sites placed on the both sides of the Roman frontier of Dacia (2nd -3rd centuries AD).

The fortunate situation of Romania, to have a part of its territory in the Roman Empire and the other part left to be inhabited by various ethnical groups is an extreme advantage for this project to establish general and specific patterns of acculturation phenomenology not only in regards for the border of Roman Dacia but also to compare with other similar situations in Roman Europe.

Effects of microwave fields on essential oils and secondary metabolites of some indigene plants Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - TE-2011 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2011-3-0283 2011 - 2014

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare - Dezvoltare pentru Tehnologii Izotopice si Moleculare, Cluj-Napoca

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare - Dezvoltare pentru Tehnologii Izotopice si Moleculare, Cluj-Napoca (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare - Dezvoltare pentru Tehnologii Izotopice si Moleculare, Cluj-Napoca (RO)

Project website: http://www.itim-cj.ro/PNCDI/ru76/index.html

Abstract:

The seasoning plants (spices) are ingredients that, added to food and drinks give the flavor, taste and color, without having nutritional value. Due to their uses in medicine and cosmetics, it is important to know their composition and how it is affected by external factors (electromagnetic radiation, drought, and other types of stress). Among these plants, we selected three for our study: Anethum graveolens, Petroselinum crispum and Apium graveolens, rich in volatile oils and antioxidants (especially vitamin C).

The general objective of the project is the effects determination of microwave fields on volatile oils, vitamin C and secondary metabolites of some indigene plants. Within this objective will consider the following specific objectives: 1. Preparation of system for microwave irradiation of the plants considered for the study; 2. Selection of extraction methods for bioactive compounds analyzed from the seasoning plants considered for the study; 3. Monitoring changes of vitamin C amount from the irradiated plants compared to the reference plants; 4. Monitoring of the essential oils composition changes, from the irradiated plants compared to the reference plants; 5. Tracking BVOC variation in microwave stressed plants with different frequencies and powers; 6. Monitoring changes occurred in BVOC from the irradiated plants compared to the reference plants; 7. Concluding of the chemical and structural changes from irradiated plants.

BIOFUNCTIONAL NANOPARTICLES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF NEW METHODS OF IMAGING, SENSING, DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPY IN BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT (NANOBIOFUN) Call name: Complex Exploratory Research Projects - PCCE-2008 call
PN-II-ID-PCCE-2008-0129 2010 - 2013

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, CENTRUL DE NANOSTIINTE SI NANOTEHNOLOGII

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, CENTRUL DE NANOSTIINTE SI NANOTEHNOLOGII (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, CENTRUL DE BIOLOGIE MOLECULARA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, CENTRUL DE MATERIALE AVANSATE SI TEHNOLOGII (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, LABORATOR DE STRUCTURI MOLECULARE SI MODELLING (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, CENTRUL DE BIONANOSTRUCTURI SI SISTEME MOLECULARE COMPLEXE (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, LABORATOR DE MODELARE COMPUTATIONALA A SISTEMELOR NANOSTRUCTURATE (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, LABORATOR DE NANO-ALOTROPI AI CARBONULUI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, LABORATOR DE ELECTROCHIMIE SI CHIMIE SUPRAMOLECULARA (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES-BOLYAI DIN CLUJ-NAPOCA, CENTRUL DE BIOLOGIE MOLECULARA (RO)

Project website: http://www.phys.ubbcluj.ro/~dana.maniu/Web_ID_PCCE/

Abstract:

THE NANOBIOFUN PROJECT BRINGS TOGETHER EXPERTISES FROM 8 RESEARCH CENTERS IN PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY TO ADDRESS THE DEVELOPMENT OF INNOVATIVE METHODS OF MOLECULAR SENSING, IMAGING, DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPY IN BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS BY COMBINING THE UNIQUE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF NOBLE-METAL NANOPARTICLES (NPS) WITH THEIR CHEMICAL SPECIFICITY AND EASY WAY OF BIOFUNCTIONALIZATION. KEY SCIENTIFIC ELEMENTS OF THE PROJECT ARE (1) TO PROVIDE A BIOLOGICAL FUNCTION ( CELL TARGETING) TO AN ARTIFICIAL NANO-OBJECT IN ORDER TO TACKLE A SPECIFIC BIOLOGICAL ISSUE, AND (2) TO FABRICATE TAILORED NANO-OBJECTS ABLE TO TRANSFER / INDUCE A PHYSICAL SIGNAL ( LIGHT OR ELECTRIC CURRENT) TO A BIOLOGICAL ENTITY (BIOMOLECULE AND CELL) IN ORDER TO PROBE ITS STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES IN A CONTROLLED MANNER. SPECIFICALLY, THE PROJECT ADDRESSES THE DEVELOPMENT OF PLASMON-RESONANT NPS AS NEW OPTICAL LABELS FOR BIOLOGICAL MOLECULES, MEMBRANE AND CELLS AS WELL AS MULTIFUNCTIONAL AGENTS FOR CANCER DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPY. THE PROJECT WILL TARGET THE FABRICATION OF GOLD NPS AND HYBRID METAL/POLYMER/SILICA/ STRUCTURES OF SPECIFIC SHAPE, SIZE (2-200 NM) AND DESIRED OPTICAL PROPERTIES AND REALIZE THEIR CONJUGATION WITH RELEVANT (BIO)MOLECULES / PROTEINS / DNA / BIOPOLYMERS. AS A MAJOR RESULT OF THIS PROJECT WILL TO DEMONSTRATE AN ORIGINAL APPROACH IN CANCER THERAPY GIVEN BY THE ABILITY OF GOLD NANOPARTICLES TO MEDIATE HYPERTHERMIA INDUCTION TO KILL CANCER CELLS UPON LASER IRRADIATION, THEREBY FUNCTIONING AS SELECTIVE THERMAL NANO-SCALPELS. THE PROJECT WILL CONTRIBUTE ON THE INVESTIGATION OF BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF BIOCONJUGATED GOLD NANOPARTICLES ON VARIOUS NORMAL AND TUMOR CELLS CULTURES.AN IMPORTANT OUTCOME OF THIS PROJECT WILL BE THE PRODUCTION OF COST EFFECTIVE, ULTRA SENSITIVE, REPRODUCIBLE AND STABLE NANOSTRUCTURED SUBSTRATES FOR SURFACE-ENHANCED SPECTROSCOPY AND ELECTROCHEMICAL SENSORS. BESIDES THE SCIENTIFIC GOALS, TRAINING AND EDUCATION WILL BE ALSO KEY RESULTS OF THE PROJECT.

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: ACADEMIA ROMANA

Project partners: ACADEMIA ROMANA (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA "ALEXANDRU IOAN CUZA" IASI (RO)

Affiliation: UNIVERSITATEA BABES BOLYAI (RO)

Project website: http://in constructie, domeniu nealocat

Abstract:

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