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Publicações

Publicações por Nuno Azevedo Silva

2023

Interactive three-dimensional chemical element maps with laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy and photogrammetry

Autores
Lopes, T; Rodrigues, P; Cavaco, R; Capela, D; Ferreira, MFS; Guimaraes, D; Jorge, PAS; Silva, NA;

Publicação
SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA PART B-ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPY

Abstract
Imaging the spatial distribution of chemical elements at a sample surface is a common application of laserinduced breakdown spectroscopy with vast scientific and technological applications. Yet, typical imaging solutions only explore the creation of two-dimensional maps, which can limit the interpretability of the results and further diagnostics in three-dimensional settings. Within this context, this work explores the combination of spectral imaging techniques and photogrammetry to deploy a versatile solution for the creation of threedimensional spectral imaging models. First, by making use of a numerical algorithm that is able to match features in the spectral image with those of the three-dimensional model, we show how to match the mesh from distinct sensor modalities. Then, we describe a possible visualization workflow, making use of dedicated photogrammetry and visualization software to easily deploy interactive models. Overall, the results demonstrate the versatility of our approach and pave for the development of novel spectral imaging diagnostic strategies that are able to deliver better qualitative analysis and insight in the three-dimensional space.

2023

Intelligent grids for faster elemental mapping with Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

Autores
Capela, D; Ferreira, M; Lima, A; Jorge, P; Guimarães, D; Silva, NA;

Publicação
Results in Optics

Abstract
Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy is a spectroscopic technique that allows for fast elemental mapping of heterogeneous samples. Yet, detailed maps need high-resolution sampling grids, which can turn the task into a time-consuming process and can increase sample damage. In this work, we present the implementation of an imaged-based intelligent mesh algorithm that makes use of superpixel segmentation to optimize elemental mapping processes. Our results show that the approach can increase the elemental mapping resolution and decrease acquisition times, fostering opportunities for applications that benefit from minimal sample damage such as heritage analysis, or timely analysis such as industrial applications. © 2022 The Author(s)

2026

Minimizing LIBS damage in the analysis of decorative tiles using RGB data clustering

Autores
Cavaco, R; Capela, D; Jorge, PAS; Silva, NA; Guimaraes, D;

Publicação
JOURNAL OF CULTURAL HERITAGE

Abstract
Spectral analysis of cultural heritage materials offers valuable insights into the restoration and preservation of historical artifacts, revealing details about the materials used and the manufacturing techniques employed. However, given their historical and artistic significance, the extraction of elemental information from these fragile samples poses a unique challenge, as these objects must be examined using minimally invasive methods to prevent irreversible damage. Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is one such technique, providing a rapid and detailed elemental characterization. Yet, extensive LIBS analysis can still compromise the integrity of these delicate objects. In this work, a novel approach that integrates spectral and RGB data clustering to significantly reduce the number of LIBS measurements required is introduced. By segmenting the material into visually and chemically distinct clusters, this method enables targeted LIBS analysis using only a few representative shots per cluster, thus preserving the integrity of cultural heritage artifacts while still delivering reliable compositional insights. (c) 2026 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

2026

Real-Time Probing of Molecular Affinity Using Optical Tweezers

Autores
Teixeira, J; Ribeiro, JA; Monteiro, M; Silva, NA; Jorge, PAS;

Publicação
SENSORS

Abstract
The ability to assess molecular binding kinetics in real time is critical for advancing our understanding of molecular interactions in biochemical and biotechnological systems. This work presents a novel optical tweezer (OT)-based method to monitor molecular affinity in real time, focusing on the high-affinity streptavidin-biotin system as a model. Transparent poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microparticles functionalized with streptavidin were trapped before, during, and after binding with biotinylated bovine serum albumin (biotin-BSA), enabling the analysis of forward-scattered signals to detect nanoscale changes in particle size. By applying the Power Spectral Density method, the friction coefficient of individual particles was calculated, allowing for real-time tracking of binding dynamics and the estimation of the association rate constant (kon approximate to 106M-1s-1). These results are consistent with literature values and demonstrate the potential of this OT-based approach for non-invasive, label-free detection of molecular interactions. Compared to existing techniques, such as atomic force microscopy and cantilever-based sensors, this method offers significant advantages, including real-time monitoring, adaptability to different bioaffinity systems, and compatibility with miniaturized setups. This work establishes a foundation for using OT-based tools to monitor high-affinity molecular interactions in real time. While demonstrated here using biotinylated BSA as a model ligand, future studies will explore the method's applicability to smaller ligands and more subtle surface modifications.

2026

Probing a theoretical framework for a photonic extreme learning machine

Autores
Rocha, V; Silva, D; Moreira, FC; Monteiro, CS; Ferreira, TD; Silva, NA;

Publicação
NEW JOURNAL OF PHYSICS

Abstract
The development of computing paradigms alternative to von Neumann architectures has recently fueled significant progress in novel all-optical processing solutions. In this work, we investigate how the coherence properties can be exploited for computing by expanding information onto a higher-dimensional space in the photonic extreme learning machine framework. A theoretical framework is provided based on the transmission matrix formalism, mapping the input plane onto the output camera plane, resulting in the establishment of the connection with complex extreme learning machines and derivation of upper bounds for the hidden space dimensionality as well as the form of the activation functions. Experiments using free-space propagation through a diffusive medium, performed in low-dimensional input space regimes, validate the model and the proposed estimator for the dimensionality. Overall, the framework presented and the findings enclosed have the potential to foster further research in a multitude of directions, from the development of robust general-purpose all-optical hardware to a full-stack integration with optical sensing devices toward edge computing solutions.

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