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The list of national projects SAS

Institute of Physics

On sensing mechanism of chemiresistive nanostrutured sensors based on metal oxides

Analýza mechanizmu detekcie chemoodporových nanoštruktúrovaných senzorov na báze oxidov kovov

Duration: 1.1.2023 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Ing. Ivančo Ján DrSc.
Annotation:Boom in chemiresistive (ChR) sensors of gas/vapors in large extent relies on screening of various available, especially nanostructured (NS) active layers based on metal oxides and their modifications, namely material, structural or morphological ones. Their sensing properties have been studied in numerous exp. studies; bulk of studies has essentially descriptive character only. The proposed project aims to verification of an alternative model of the sensing mechanism of ChR films, thus the mechanism governing the conductivity change of NS layer upon adsorption of detected gaseous analytes. We assume that the primary mechanism of conductivity change of adsorbents is not the formation of a subsurface area of spatial charge, as it has been commonly presumed, but the work function change of the adsorbent surface. The proposed concept, if confirmed, would allow to predict or to optimize the ChR behavior of the pair active-layer/analyte, thereby increasing the efficiency and selectivity of the ChR gas sensors.

Analysis of microstructure formation and its influence on selected properties of lead-free solders

Analýza tvorby mikroštruktúry a jej vplyv na vybrané vlastnosti bezolovnatých spájok

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Ing. Švec Peter DrSc.

Carbon-silicon based composite anodes for Li-ion batteries

Anódy pre Li-iónové batérie na báze uhlík-kremíkových kompozitov

Duration: 1.7.2020 - 30.6.2024
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Dr. Rer. Nat. Šiffalovič Peter DrSc.

Zero-excess solid-state lithium batteries

Bezanódové tuholátkové lítiové batérie

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 31.12.2026
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Ing. Nádaždy Vojtech CSc.
Annotation:The zero-excess solid-state battery (SSB) concept, also known as an anode-free battery, where the anode is formed in-situ at the interface between solid-state electrolyte (SSE) and current collector (CC), is preferred due to additional energy density gain, reduction in material and cell production costs, and simplification of recycling. In addition, the lower amount of Li required reduces Li supply problems and the likelihood of undesirable reactions. This concept has already been demonstrated for liquid cells, and recently the first zero-excess SSBs (ZESSBs) have been demonstrated. Nevertheless, ZESSB technology is still in its infancy due to the inherent challenges related to the in-situ formation of Li anode, which limits battery performance. To infer knowledge-based optimization strategies, a deeper understanding of the fundamental processes involved during anode formation at the interface between SSE and CC is required. The central hypothesis of ZERO project is that by real-time monitoring of Li deposition rate, wetting and/or alloying, and mechanical stress at the SSE/CC interface, we can optimize and tailor SSBs providing higher capacity and cycling lifetime. This can be achieved by controlling charge/discharge currents, appropriate alloy-forming interlayers, and managing internal stresses by external loads. The main aim of ZERO project is to develop optimal alloy-forming interlayers and charging strategies to achieve the high capacity and cycling lifetime of ZESSBs. This will be enabled and connected with the developing and/or updating methodologies that will facilitate experimental monitoring and a better conceptual understanding of the growth phenomena involved in the formation of the Li anode in ZESSBs. To this end, we will develop novel laboratory and synchrotron techniques to explore ZESSB-related phenomena under in operando conditions.

Biological fate and therapeutic applicability of iron oxide-molybdenum oxide nanocomplexes

Biologický osud nanokomplexov oxidu železa a molybdén oxidu a ich využiteľnosť v terapii

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Mgr. Annušová Adriana PhD.

Carbon-based particulate micro- and mesoporous materials from natural precursors

Časticové mikro- a mezopórovité materiály na báze uhlíka z prírodných prekurzorov

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Maťko Igor CSc.
Annotation:The presented project includes basic research in the field of particulate micro- and mesoporous carbon-based materials (PCM) with significant application impacts. It represents an original approach to the development of a method for the preparation of several types of PCM with significant sorption properties and a wide application potential. To optimize their use it is necessary to know in detail their physical properties (microstructure and porosity) and find a connection between the conditions during the formation of PCM (carbonization) and resulting microstructure, which is the first intention of the project. The originality lies in the combination of different physical methods of studying PCM, using standard sophisticated techniques (electron microscopy) as well as non-standard methods such as positron annihilation spectroscopy, thermoporosimetry and gamma spectrometry. Another purpose is to find procedures for the appropriate modification of PCM and elaboration of composites for several applications.

Design of complex quantum measurements (DESCOM)

Dizajn zložitých kvantových meraní (DESCOM)

Duration: 1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Doc. Mgr. Ziman Mário PhD.
Annotation:Many aspects of quantum measurements are conceptually puzzling. However, their practical implementation is of interest for current development of quantum technologies. Interestingly, it is also a theoretical challenge to develop novel tools and efficiently design desired quantum measurements. The canonical implementations are often very complex and possible only in theory. The goal of this project is to investigate and design measurements in three different conceptual frameworks - system of cloud universal quantum computers, thermodynamic machines, and superconducting qubits. We will develop novel simulations of existing physical systems to learn about their ability to accomplish the considered quantum measurements. As a result, we expect realistic proposals for new quantum measuring apparatuses, tools for implementing complex quantum observables efficiently also on existing quantum infrastructures, and specification of certifiable requirements that such infrastructure should meet.

Resource Efficient Algorithms for Quantum Computers in NISQ Era

Efektívne algoritmy pre kvantové počítanie v ére NISQ

Duration: 1.1.2023 - 31.12.2026
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Doc. RNDr. Plesch Martin PhD.
Annotation:Conventional supercomputers seem to be outpaced by increasing demand for computational power when developing new drugs, modeling nanoparticles or assessing problems in materials science and nuclear physics. Quantum computers are expected to provide exponentially growing power thanks to their use of quantum effects and indications of so-called quantum advantage have been demonstrated. Unfortunately, the current capabilities of quantum computers are rather limited by numerous issues. Because of them, the quantum computing performed nowadays is described as the Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) era. Currently the most promising algorithms for practical purposes are hybrid algorithms, where only part of calculation is performed by a quantum computer. An example of such an algorithm, is the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE), which calculates the smallest eigen-value of an input matrix. Within this project we aim to develop resource efficient methods of VQE that would work on existing quantum computers.

Superconducting spintronics and emergent phenomena in low/dimensional superconductors

Emergentné javy a spintronika supravodičov v systémoch s redukovanou dimenziou

Duration: 1.5.2022 - 30.4.2027
Program: IMPULZ
Project leader: Doc. Mgr. Kochan Denis PhD.
Annotation:From a broader perspective the Superconducting spintronics is vastly expanding field that strives to utilize spintronics phenomena and transfer its applications into the realm of superconductivity. While the latter can support dissipation-less charge transport, and also topologically protected (e.g. Majorana) modes, the former can make use of electron spin for encoding and processing information. For these reasons, one may hope to launch a spin-driven superconducting device that would be, on one hand, very efficient in terms of energy demands, and on the other hand, would offer computational functionalities operating on quantum principles. The beauty of the above idea rests in its simplicity, but as always, devil is hidden in details. To bring such spintronics vision into an operating platform one would need superconducting materials that promote unconventional pairing of electrons into Cooper pairs. Unfortunately, Nature does not give us “free of charge” unconventional superconductors with all those wonderful properties. However, it offers us, instead, “smaller pieces of material-lego” that when being proximitized along each other engender the “scaffolded synthetic hybrid systems” owning effective unconventional pairing (and even much more). Such proximity effects, which are central to my proposal, represent a versatile platform to 1) control and functionalize spin, orbital, topological and magnetic properties of the constituting subsystems by external means – gating, temperature gradients, chemical composition, band structure engineering etc.; and 2) synthetize quasi-2D interfaces promoting an unconventional superconducting pairing and them associated topological bound states (Majoranas, Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states, Caroli-de Gennes-Matricon vortex states, etc.). From the specific point of views, my research ambitions within this programme count particularly two scientific projects: (A) Spin relaxation phenomena in low-dimensional (un)conventional superconductors, and (B) Topological states engineered through proximity effect – superconductivity on the edge.

Experimental investigation of deformation and electromagnetic properties of atomic nuclei

Experimentálne štúdium deformácie a elektromagnetických vlastností atómových jadier

Duration: 1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Mgr. Venhart Martin PhD.
Annotation:Nuclear deformation may occur in a any atomic nucleus and it appears that it is the single most-important feature of nuclear structure. The most spectacular example of such organization in nuclei is the highly deformed Hoyle state in 12C through which carbon is produced in the Universe. The proposed project aims to elucidate the underlying nuclear structure that is responsible for appearance of such deformed configurations. The goal of the present project is to provide key new experimental data for various isotopes. Experiments will be performed at the University of Jyvaskyla (Finland) and at newly established Tandetron Laboratory in Piestany. In Jyvaskyla, isotopes 179,191,192Bi will be studied by means of isomer and in-beam gamma-ray spectroscopy. For the isomer spectroscopy, significantly modified setup will be employed at the focal plane of the recoil separator. In comparison with conventional methods, it will allow to increase the beam current by a factor of at least 10. Therefore, it has potential to establish new research areas, that might be interesting also for different groups. A multiwired proportional chamber will be developed and delivered to Jyvaskyla for this purpose. New spectrometer, based on liquid nitrogen cooled Si(Li) detector, will be constructed for the laboratory in Piestany. It will be used for the conversion-electron spectroscopy. This technique is very difficult and therefore is pursued by only very few groups in the world. It will be used for measurement of electromagnetic properties of ground-state and first-excited state of 59,61Cu isotopes.

Physical properties of confined water in the environment of lipid bilayers and the influence of cryoprotectants

Fyzikálne vlastnosti uväznenej vody v prostredí lipidových dvojvrstiev a vplyv kryoprotektív

Duration: 1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Šauša Ondrej CSc.
Annotation:The project will deal with the study of the physical properties of water in the environment of lipid bilayers. The phase behavior of water and the lipid bilayer in lipid dispersions formed by dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine, which serve as a model of the cell membrane, will be investigated. The solidification and melting of water will be investigated in various spatial constraints and with the addition of cryoprotectant, dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), with a concentration of up to 10% vol. It will be investigated at what concentration the lipid bilayer will be disintegrated and from which concentration the cryoprotective effect of DMSO will be significant, it means to suppress as much as possible the formation of large ice crystals, which have fatal consequences for the disruption of cell membranes. The originality of the project solution lies in the use of a free-volume view on processes at the molecular level and in the use of positronium as a subnanometer probe for the study of local free volumes.

Search for optimal structural and electronic properties of organic semiconductor thin films

Hľadanie optimálnych štruktúrnych a elektronických vlastností organických polovodičových vrstiev

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Ing. Nádaždy Vojtech CSc.
Annotation:The project proposal is focused on the studies of the electronic structure of newly emerging organic semiconductors for organic electronics. Since the DOS determines the optoelectronic properties, its understanding and design are essential for all applications. The electronic structure will be investigated using the electrochemical methods developed by our research team. Changes in the microstructure will be controlled by the choice of a solvent and annealing conditions. Susceptibility to degradation in the air will be investigated as well. Our planned research will be based on the combined use of experimental, theoretical, and computational approaches. We will use the density-functional theory (DFT), the related DF tight-binding (DFTB) method and the time-dependent DFT as theoretical bases for our calculations of the electronic structure. Geometry relaxation techniques and molecular dynamics will be used to predict and simulate molecular structure and microstructure of organic semiconductor films.

Multi Laser Configuration to Complement Emission Spectroscopy for Plasma Wall Interaction Studies; MW Enhancement, Fluorescence and Raman

Konfigurácia viacerých laserov na doplnenie emisnej spektroskopie pre štúdie interakcií plazmy so stenou MW zosilnenie, fluorescencia a Raman

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 30.6.2027
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Dr. Rer. Nat. Šiffalovič Peter DrSc.

Quantum Simulations and Modelling of Interaction Networks

Kvantové simulácie a modelovanie interakčých sietí

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Mgr. Gendiar Andrej PhD.
Annotation:The project aims to simulate quantum systems to understand the mechanisms of quantum entanglement concerning the interactions among particles (electrons/spins and photons) that are exposed to various external fields, typically magnetic ones. In specific cases, quantum correlations may suddenly amplify, which is reflected in macroscopic quantities. In theory, they behave non-analytically, while in the experiment, maxima (minima) or sudden jump changes are observed. Our task is to numerically simulate these processes and classify them by entanglement entropy. Simulations combine theory with experimental measurements. While in theory, we can solve only a small number of problems exactly, numerical simulations can cover a relatively large area of non-trivial problems. In this project, we will explore new quantum systems using state-of-the-art numerical methods, which we will formulate and implement. We will design conditions for devices under which it will be possible to perform experimental measurements.

Alginate-based microcapsules with enhanced stability and biocompatibility for encapsulation of pancreatic islets in diabetes treatment

Mikrokapsuly na báze alginátu so zvýšenou stabilitou a biokompatibilitou pre enkapsuláciu pankreatických ostrovčekov v liečbe cukrovky

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 30.6.2027
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Dr. Rer. Nat. Šiffalovič Peter DrSc.

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Návrh a optimalizácia biokonjugačných stratégii inovatívnych 2D fototermálnych nanomateriálov s tumor-navádzajúcimi peptidmi

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2024
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Mgr. Annušová Adriana PhD.

Designing quantum higher order structures

Navrhovanie kvantových štruktúr vyššieho rádu

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 30.6.2026
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Doc. Mgr. Ziman Mário PhD.
Annotation:The basis of today’s quantum technologies originates in quantum foundations research performed in the last century, which redefined the concept of information and set new theoretical limitations on information processing. This new information-theoretic perspective resulted in development of resource theories, general probabilistic theories and higher order quantum structures - the frameworks not only extending the quantum theory, but also enabling technologies beyond the quantum ones. DeQHOST will contribute to development of higher order concepts and methods, investigation of their mathematical frameworks, and optimizat ion of newly designed information processing protocols. The activities of the project are organized in three workpackages focused on higher order structures, resources and tasks, respectively. In particular, we plan to explore extensions and modification of the existing frameworks of higher order maps, in quantum theory and in the more general setting of operational theories, with the aim to unite their desirable features and maximize the scope of describable types of phenomena such as causal non-separability. Our goal is to understand how these frameworks can be utilized for optimization of tasks in future networks of quantum devices. One of the objectives will be the development of a higher order calculus for unitary channels. In our study of resources, we will concentrate on incompatibility of quantum instruments, channels and possible extensions to higher order maps. We will study memory effects as a resource for information processing and generalize a resource theoretic approach to quantum thermodynamics. Our findings will be applied to specific tasks as designing programmable quantum processors, discrimination of memory channels, comparison and convertibility of higher order maps and a study of complexity questions in the higher order setting.

Neutron Radiography for Advanced Heat Exchangers

Neutrónová defektoskopia perspektívnych tepelných výmenníkov

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 31.12.2026
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Mgr. Herzáň Andrej PhD.

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Nízko-dimenzionálne materiály- manipulácia, funkcionalizácia a bioaplikácie: LOW-D-MATTER

Duration: 1.1.2021 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: prof. Ing. Štich Ivan DrSc.

Novel nano / micro-structured metallic materials prepared by unconventional processing routes

Nové nano / mikroštruktúrované kovové materiály pripravené nekonvenčnými spôsobmi spracovania

Duration: 1.7.2020 - 30.6.2024
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Ing. Švec Peter DrSc.

Novel multi-principal element alloys – design, characterization and properties

Nové zliatiny s viacerými základnými prvkami – dizajn, charakterizácia a vlastnosti

Duration: 1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Ing. Švec Peter DrSc.

Optimal transport distance for quantum measurements

Optimálna transportná vzdialenosť pre kvantové merania

Duration: 1.7.2023 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Mgr. Leppäjärvi Leevi Ilmari PhD.

Perspective electronic spin systems for future quantum technologies

Perspektívne elektrónové spinové systémy pre budúce kvantové technológie

Duration: 1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Mgr. Gendiar Andrej PhD.

Towards lithium based batteries with improved lifetime

Pokročilé lítiové batérie s dlhou životnosťou

Duration: 1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Dr. Rer. Nat. Šiffalovič Peter DrSc.
Annotation:With the steadily increasing energy requirements of portable electronics and electromobility, conventional lithiumion batteries are facing new challenges. In the proposed project, we aim to stabilize the capacity and lifetime of lithium-ion batteries employing ultra-thin interfacial layers prepared by means of atomic layer deposition (ALD). The primary functions of interfacial layers are: i) preventing the dissolution of the cathode materials into electrolyte and ii) stabilizing the cathode morphology during lithiation and de-lithiation. Although the positive effect of ALD fabricated interfacial layers has already been demonstrated, systematic studies are still missing. The main bottleneck of such studies is the identification of appropriate feedback analytical techniques that enable real-time and in-operando insights into the charging/discharging mechanisms on the nanoscale. The conventional electrochemical characterization methods can only provide hints on the ongoing mechanism during degradation processes. Here we propose to utilize in-operando small-angle and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS, WAXS) to track the morphology and phase changes that occur during the charging/discharging of lithium-ion batteries in realtime. The main focus of this project is on the application of real-time SAXS/WAXS studies under laboratory conditions. In these circumstances, extensive, systematic studies of various ALD interfacial layers can be performed.

Towards Superior Perovskite-based Solar Cells via Optimized Passivation and Structure

Pokročilé perovskitové solárne články s optimalizovanou pasiváciou a štruktúrou

Duration: 1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026
Program: SRDA
Project leader: RNDr. Mrkývková Naďa PhD.
Annotation:Solar cells (SCs) are one of the highly promising options for environmentally clean electricity production. Their role in our future energy mix depends on further reduction in system costs, and device efficiency is of key importance. Hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites seem to be suitable candidates for next-generation photovoltaics, either in tandem with crystalline silicon solar cells or as a cheap/flexible thin-film alternative. Over the last few years, the power conversion efficiency of perovskite SCs has surpassed 25 %. However, its further increase is conditioned by the effective passivation of the detrimental defects at the perovskite interface and grain boundaries. This project is dedicated to understanding the role of defects in limiting photovoltaic performance and developing effective passivation routes to achieve further performance advances. Its innovation potential lies in increasing the efficiency of future SCs via targeting the defect-related nonradiative traps at the surfaces and interfaces and their efficient passivation. The project combines the different expertise and various experimental techniques of three partners intending to translate the acquired new scientific knowledge of defect passivation in hybrid perovskites into technological advances.

Growth and optical characterization of 2D materials: MoTe2, WTe2, PtTe2

Rast a optická charakterizácia 2D materiálov: MoTe2, WTe2, PtTe2

Duration: 1.1.2023 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Mgr. Végsö Karol PhD.

Property control of metallic systems by tailoring of structures on atomic scales by internal and external factors

Riadenie vlastností kovových systémov modifikáciou štruktúry na atomárnej škále pomocou vnútorných a vonkajších faktorov

Duration: 1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Ing. Švec Peter DrSc.
Annotation:We will investigate phenomena and processes acting at atomic level and leading to modification of structure and properties of metallic systems due to the action of internal and external factors. Objects of study are mainly systems out of thermodynamic equilibrium, especially systems prepared by rapid quenching of the melt, multicomponent complex metallic and quasicrystalline systems and nanostructured metal surfaces with catalytic potential. Emphasis is on determination, understanding and generalization of phenomena inducing changes in dimensions or even type of crystal lattice by proper selection of chem. composition, precursor prepar. techniques and thermodyn. processing - conventional equilibrium and nonequilibrium, e.g. in regions well above the onset of equilibr. transformation and annealing under influence of fields and their gradients. Studied phenomena and structure modifications will be jointly analyzed and interpreted by the most modern computational and experimental approaches down to atomic level.

Sequential decomposition and implementation of complex quantum measurements

Sequential decomposition and implementation of complex quantum measurements

Duration: 1.1.2024 - 31.12.2024
Program:
Project leader: Mgr. Sau Soham

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Štipendiá pre excelentných výskumníkov ohrozených vojnovým konfliktom na Ukrajine č. 1025/2022

Duration: 1.1.2023 - 31.12.2025
Program:
Project leader: Prof. Plevachuk Yuriy DrSc.

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Štipendiá pre excelentných výskumníkov ohrozených vojnovým konfliktom na Ukrajine č. 1026/2022

Duration: 1.11.2022 - 31.10.2025
Program:
Project leader: Mgr. Timchenko Prihodko Iryna PhD.

Shape coexistence in odd-Au isotopes

Tvarová koexistencia v izotopoch zlata

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2026
Program:
Project leader: Mgr. Venhart Martin PhD.
Annotation:Goal of the project is further development of the the TATRA spectrometer. It will be used for studies of shape coexistence in odd-mass Au isotopes. Method of simultaneous gamma-ray and conversion-electron spectroscopy. Namely, the 185Au isotope will be studied. Experiment has already been approved by CERN Council.

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Vplyv povrchových modifikácii na vlastnosti a bunkové interakcie fototermálnych nanočastíc MoOx

Duration: 1.1.2024 - 31.12.2024
Program:
Project leader: Mgr. Truchan Daniel

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Výskum a optimalizácia vlastností štruktúr na báze čierneho c-Si a čierneho poly-Si pre výrobu veľkoplošných vysokoúčinných slnečných článkov

Duration: 1.1.2023 - 31.12.2025
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Pinčík Emil CSc.

Application of biocompatible 2D nanomaterials and nanoparticles as a protection against biodeterioration of various types of surfaces.

Využitie biokompatibilných 2D nanomateriálov a nanočastíc ako ochrana pred biodeterioráciou rôznych druhov povrchov.

Duration: 1.1.2022 - 31.12.2024
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Hofbauerová Monika PhD.
Annotation:The aim of the research is to gain new knowledges of 2D nanomaterials as antifungal tools from the perspective of advanced application for protection against biodeterioration of various surfaces and materials. We focus on monitoring antifungal activity of modern 2D nanomaterials and nanoparticles, which are MXenes (Ti3C2) and MoOx plasmonic nanoparticles (stoichiometric/non-stoichiometric molybdenum oxide) in combination with monoterpenoid phenolic compounds (thymol, carvacrol) and terpene alcohol (linalool), all from the Lamiaceae family, occurring naturally in nature. With combination of these biocompatible nanomaterials and terpenoid compounds we would like to achieve partial or complete suppression of microbiological damage to natural and modern building materials, such as wood, stone, ceramics with respect to ecology.

Nanomedical approach to fight pancreatic cancer via targeting tumor- associated carbonic anhydrase IX

Využitie nanomedicíny v boji proti rakovine pankreasu prostredníctvom zacielenia nádorovo-asociovanej karbonickej anhydrázy IX.

Duration: 1.7.2021 - 30.6.2025
Program: SRDA
Project leader: Mgr. Annušová Adriana PhD.
Annotation:Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease with a rising incidence and mortality and it is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Europe. The median survival time of pancreatic cancer is 4-6 months after diagnosis, the lowest survival rate of all cancers. Only 20% of diagnosed cases are operable. Photothermal therapy (PTT) has the potential to become a new frontrunner in the fight against pancreatic cancer. This cutting-edge biomedical application relies on the rapid heating of the plasmonic nanoparticles induced by laser light absorption, followed by an increase in the ambient temperature around the nanoparticles. The effect of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) can be observed only in a special class of nanoparticles. Photothermal therapy results in selective hyperthermia and irreversible damage of the tumor while avoiding damage to healthy tissue. However, the delivery efficiency of plasmonic nanoparticles is often insufficient. It can be increased by a dedicated functionalization of the plasmonic nanoparticles with ligands (antibodies) that selectively recognize the cancer cells. One of the main aims of the proposed project is to increase the delivery efficiency of the plasmonic nanoparticles for PTT by functionalization with antibodies that selectively recognize the tumor in the body. A promising target for functionalized nanoparticles is carbonic anhydrase IX, a hypoxia biomarker associated with an aggressive phenotype. CA IX is expressed in many types of tumors, while being absent from adjacent healthy tissue, making it an ideal highly specific candidate for anti-cancer therapy target. CAIX is abundantly expressed on the surface of pancreatic cancer cells where it correlates with a poor patient outcome. Targeting pancreatic cancer via nanomaterials-based approach combined with anti-CAIX antibody ensures highly selective application of PTT with potential benefits in the clinical environment.

An utilization of the SU(3) symmetry and the analyticity for a new theoretical evaluation of the g-2 anomaly, the prediction of the behavior of hyperon electromagnetic form factors and the evaluation of selected hadronic decays

Využitie SU(3) symetrie a analytičnosti na nové teoretické vyhodnotenie g-2 anomálie, predpovedanie správania sa hyperónových elektromagnetických formfaktorov a vyhodnotenie vybraných rozpadov hadrónov

Duration: 1.1.2021 - 31.12.2024
Program: VEGA
Project leader: Mgr. Bartoš Erik PhD.
Annotation:The project aims to achieve a better evaluation overall the muon g-2 anomaly within the Standard Model compared to recent results of other authors obtained by the classical approach, by using a new approach to evaluate leading-order hadronic contribution to the muon anomaly via the five-flavor hadronic contribution \Delta\alpha_{had}^{(5)} (t) to the running coupling constant QED \alpha(t) in the spacelike region. In connection with the planned experimental measurements of the electromagnetic Sigma-Lambda hyperon transition form factors in the unphysical region in Darmstadt to predict its behavior using the analyticity and the SU(3) symmetry. We want to extend the developed methodology for the prediction of EM form factors of the Lambda hyperon. The next issue is to investigate the consequences of the analyticity of the running coupling constant QED \alpha(s) on its behavior in the timelike region. Verify the possibilities of the covariant quark model for the description of selected hadron decays.

Changes of microstructure and physical properties of crosslinked polymers in bulk and under confined conditions of macro- and mesopores

Zmeny mikroštruktúry a fyzikálnych vlastností zosieťovaných polymérov v objeme a v uväznených podmienkach makro- a mezopórov

Duration: 1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026
Program: SRDA
Project leader: RNDr. Šauša Ondrej CSc.
Annotation:The presented project will deal with the free-volume properties of polymer networks cured by new processes and their consequences on some physical properties, especially thermal properties around the glass transition and material properties. Polymers that are used in many applications based on dimethacrylates and epoxides will be investigated. They will be cured by a common and controlled polymerization as well as by the frontal polymerization. From the lifetime of the external positronium probe, the sizes of the inter-molecular free volumes will be determined and the changes in local free volumes during the curing processes as well as their dependences on the external parameters (temperature) will be examinated. Differences in the microstructure of polymers prepared in different ways will be determined, both in bulk and in the confined conditions of macro- and mesopores. Processes leading to different microstructural inhomogeneities of polymers will be investigated as a consequence of both the different crosslinking mechanisms of materials studied and the external conditions. The obtained free-volume characteristics will be compared with the results of other characterization techniques (FTIR, NIR, DSC, SEM, photo-rheometry, dielectric spectroscopy). The physical bonds will be studied which influence the properties of the polymer network in both bulk and confined states.

The total number of projects: 37