Chapters authored
A Novel Space Systems Management Methodology Based on Shortcomings and Strengths of Conventional System Engineering Tools Used in a Design Thinking Framework
In this chapter, several systems engineering tools are presented and analyzed to determine shortcomings of these tools to improve the efficiency and efficacy of them working together in a modified design thinking methodology framework for space systems management. The space systems projects impose a high risk in all its stages, so that it is very important to reduce errors as possible based on activities that ensure the adequate project performance. Finally, specific systems engineering tools are used in particular stages and sub-stages of the proposal design thinking framework depending on the shortcomings and strengths of each one. This proposal framework accelerates the conventional process for a space project that usually requires a lot of resources and it is not suitable for both emerging countries and space agencies.
Part of the book: Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma
Nanotoxicological Assessments of Upconversion Nanoparticles
Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) are highly efficient luminescent nanomaterials with emission in the visible spectra while being excited by near-infrared region light (NIR). With their unique properties such as high luminescence intensity, sharp emission peaks with narrow bandwidth, large anti-Stokes’ shift, and sizes smaller than 100 nm, UCNPs have emerged as promising candidates for diverse biomedical applications such as cancer detection and therapy, fluorescence imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and drug delivery. The UCNPs are composed of a crystalline matrix doped with lanthanide ions that can absorb NIR light (~980 nm) and upconvert it to visible light. However, to achieve successful biomedical applications, proper functionalization, target-specific cell interaction, and biocompatibility are critical factors that must be considered. Additionally, a comprehensive nanotoxicological assessment is necessary to ensure that UCNPs are not cytotoxic or genotoxic. This assessment is particularly important for long-term studies of nanoparticles’ tracking in vivo. Therefore, this chapter aims to provide an in-depth evaluation of the nanotoxicological issues related to nanoparticles (NPs) and UCNPs in biomedical applications, and ensure their safety and efficacy as bioimaging and chemotherapeutic delivery tools.
Part of the book: Toxicity of Nanoparticles