Article
Chemistry, Physical
Rosanna Pagano, Michela Ottolini, Ludovico Valli, Simona Bettini, Gabriele Giancane
Summary: A simple and cheap filter paper-based SERS substrate was developed for the sensing of tetracycline traces. The synthesized Ag nanodisks were used to decorate the filter paper surface for fast and easy analysis of aqueous solutions containing methylene blue and tetracycline. The results showed that the SERS substrate obtained with the proposed fabrication process can be implemented for low concentration tetracycline samples.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Huimin Lu, Miaosi Li, Azadeh Nilghaz, Lizi Li, Guangxue Chen, Yanbin Jiang, Junfei Tian
Summary: A low-cost and portable paper-based analytical device has been developed for high throughput and on-site monitoring tetracycline residue in milk through visualized colorimetric reaction. The device showed good recovery rates when tested on 18 different types of real milk samples, demonstrating its potential for future application in food and environmental safety. This simple, fast, cost-effective, and equipment-free platform provides a promising tool for monitoring tetracycline in milk.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Natercia C. T. Martins, Sara Fateixa, Tiago Fernandes, Helena I. S. Nogueira, Tito Trindade
Summary: This study introduces a general method to fabricate hydrophobic paper-based SERS substrates and optimizes their performance by controlling factors such as the ratio of nanoparticles and the number of printing layers. The selected substrates showed good SERS performance for various analytes, with specific analysis conducted on the pesticide thiram. The one-step fabrication method is suggested to enhance the SERS performance of the paper substrates through nanoscale features of the hydrophobic coating.
ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Shuting Xu, Mingxia Liu, Jie Feng, Guangtao Yan, Yu Bai, Huwei Liu
Summary: A simple paper-based hexaplex immunoassay with an on-line MS readout was developed, utilizing functionalized paper and gold nanoparticles assembled with rhodamine-based mass tags for efficient and high-throughput quantification of multiple cancer protein markers. The platform demonstrated satisfactory sensitivity, accuracy, and specificity for detecting early cancers in patient serum samples, showing potential for sensitive and specific early cancer diagnosis.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Aixia Chen, Ning Wang, Zheng Tian, Xiao Wei, Chanjuan Lei
Summary: A new and simple method of simultaneous activation, magnetization, and carbonization was used to convert poplar sawdust and tetracycline-contaminated waste into a magnetic porous carbon adsorbent (MPC). The MPC, with its magnetic properties and well-developed pore structures, showed excellent adsorption capacity for tetracycline. The adsorption process was driven by pi-pi-EDA interactions and van der Waals forces.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Enrique Azuaje-Hualde, Marian M. de Pancorbo, Fernando Benito-Lopez, Lourdes Basabe-Desmonts
Summary: This study proposes a low-cost and user-friendly paper microfluidic device for the detection of cell secreted VEGF. The device integrates a fluorescent VEGF biosensor into cellulose paper, enabling the detection of VEGF at low concentrations. It has the potential to be used in cell biology research, specifically for the detection of VEGF in the supernatant of mesenchymal stem cells culture plates.
ANALYTICA CHIMICA ACTA
(2022)
Article
Spectroscopy
Abid Hussain, Hongbin Pu, Bingxue Hu, Da-Wen Sun
Summary: A surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy method using silver-coated gold nanoparticles was developed for the screening of chemicals in liquid milk, achieving good detection results. This simple method could be used for detecting other unsafe chemicals in the future.
SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA PART A-MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Yuri Kang, Hyeok Jung Kim, Sung Hoon Lee, Hyeran Noh
Summary: Paper is a popular platform material in sensor research, with porosity, large surface area, and biodegradability. A silver-chitosan nanocomposite layer was successfully fabricated on paper celluloses using a layer-by-layer method and pH-triggered chitosan assembly, achieving evenly anchored silver nanoparticles and a detection limit of 5.13 ppb for 4-aminothiophenol in SERS measurement. The material shows potential for further biosensing applications.
Article
Instruments & Instrumentation
Zichen Yang, Chaoqun Ma, Jiao Gu, Yamin Wu, Chun Zhu, Lei Li, Hui Gao, Ye Zhang, Yunpeng Shang, Chengwei Wang, Guoqing Chen
Summary: The article discusses the harmful effects of tetracycline residue in milk on human health, as well as the concerns about antibiotic abuse and the measures taken by the dairy industry. The authors used the SERS method and PDMS substrate to detect tetracycline in milk quickly, improving detection sensitivity and providing a possible method for on-site detection of tetracycline.
APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Wei Yin Lim, Choon-Hian Goh, Keenan Zhihong Yap, Narayanan Ramakrishnan
Summary: Irregularities in breathing patterns can be predicted with the help of breath monitor sensors that detect variations in humidity during inhalation and exhalation. Graphene-based RH sensors show excellent sensitivity, stability, and repeatability. By embedding the sensor into a face mask and interfacing it with a microcontroller, different breathing situations can be measured, making it a promising wearable and disposable healthcare technology.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Jaruwan Mettakoonpitak, Preeyanuch Junkong, Aphiwan Saenonphut, Tanagorn Kwamman, Atitaya Siripinyanond, Charles S. Henry
Summary: In this study, an electrochemical paper-based analytical device (ePAD) was developed for one-step analysis of natural rubber latex (NRL) protein. The ePAD combines sample preparation and electrochemical detection within a single device, offering low-cost, portable, simple, and sensitive measurements. The device showed improved Cu signal and achieved a limit of detection of 3.0 mg dL(-1) with a linear range of 10.0-200.0 mg dL(-1). The results obtained using the ePAD were comparable to the traditional Lowry method, indicating its potential as a rapid and accurate tool for allergenic risk assessments.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xueqi Chen, Xian Liu, Lei Zhu, Xiumei Tao, Xun Wang
Summary: Bimetallic MOFs (MIL-53 (Fe, Al)) were fabricated via a one-step solvothermal method and showed excellent performance in the removal of tetracycline from aqueous solutions. The optimum molar ratio of the bimetallic synthetic was found to be 3:2 (40%MIL-53(Fe, Al)). The 40%MIL-53(Fe, Al) catalyst exhibited high adsorption capacity and photocatalytic synergy, and maintained good stability after multiple cycles.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Chaniphon Sunkhunthod, Arreerat Jiamprasertboon, Anurak Waehayee, Panupol Untarabut, Praphaiphon Phonsuksawang, Teera Butburee, Suwit Suthirakun, Theeranun Siritanon
Summary: Photocatalysis is an effective method to reduce antibiotic contamination in water. In this study, a FeOx/Fe-Bi2O2CO3 system was prepared and used for tetracycline photodegradation. The incorporation of Fe in the Bi2O2CO3 lattice and the deposition of FeOx nanoparticles resulted in the preferential growth of active facets for photocatalytic reactions and increased visible light absorption. The combination of Fe doping and FeOx deposition significantly enhanced the tetracycline photodegradation performance compared to pristine Bi2O2CO3.
JOURNAL OF ALLOYS AND COMPOUNDS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Yu-Ling Chang, Chiao-Jung Su, Li-Chia Lu, Dehui Wan
Summary: This paper introduces an inexpensive aluminum nanoparticle-decorated paper as a facile SERS-based detection platform, which provides high sensitivity and excellent reproducibility for detecting various analytes. The platform is applicable for on-site detection in food inspection and environmental monitoring.
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Lingmao Xu, Huagang Liu, Hui Zhou, Minghui Hong
Summary: Flexible transparent SERS substrates were developed using a one-step, environmentally friendly method involving femtosecond laser induced plasma assisted ablation. The substrates demonstrated good uniformity of Raman signals and a linear relationship with solution concentration, indicating potential applications for detecting pesticides and other chemicals in food products.
Review
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Beatriz B. Oliveira, Daniela Ferreira, Alexandra R. Fernandes, Pedro Viana Baptista
Summary: Advances in nanotechnology and medical science have led to the development and application of nanomaterials and nanoparticles in biomedicine. Gold nanoparticles have attracted significant interest due to their unique properties, and they hold great value for use in biodetection and diagnostics.
WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Diana Gaspar, Jorge Martins, Jose Tiago Carvalho, Paul Grey, Rogerio Simoes, Elvira Fortunato, Rodrigo Martins, Luis Pereira
Summary: The market for flexible, hybrid, and printed electronic systems is uncertain, but these systems are emerging daily, allowing for devices and systems that can be folded and stored in pockets. Cellulose-based modified nanopapers were developed as a physical support and gate dielectric layer for recyclable field-effect transistors (FETs). Impregnation of the nanopapers with sodium ions enabled low voltage FETs (<3 V), with high mobility (>10 cm2 V-1 s-1), current modulation (>105), and improved dynamic response. These transistors were successfully implemented into simple circuits such as inverters, showing clear discrimination between logic states. Besides improved electrical performance, these devices are a promising alternative for reliable, sustainable, and flexible electronics, even under stress conditions.
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Paulo Joaquim Nunes, Rui Francisco Pinto Pereira, Sonia Pereira, Maria Manuela Silva, Elvira Fortunato, Veronica de Zea Bermudez, Mariana Fernandes
Summary: Two di-ureasils with oxyethylene segments were prepared by the sol-gel method, doped with ionic liquid and lithium salt. The resulting films were translucent, flexible, hydrophobic, and had low surface roughness. The optimized sample exhibited good ionic conductivity and was used in prototype electrochromic devices with promising performance.
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Maria Joao Meneses, Rita Susana Patarrao, Tomas Pinheiro, Ines Coelho, Nuno Carrico, Ana Carolina Marques, Artur Romao, Joao Nabais, Elvira Fortunato, Joao Filipe Raposo, Maria Paula Macedo
Summary: Diabetes is a heterogeneous and multifactorial disease, and besides glycemia and glycated hemoglobin, the evaluation of other biochemical parameters is necessary for better diagnosis and management. Indexes of insulin secretion, sensitivity/resistance, and metabolism have been developed to provide a more comprehensive view of individual metabolic states. New technologies, such as sensors and software applications, have the potential to improve diabetes diagnosis and management, empowering patients and simplifying disease management.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Ana Pinheiro, Andreia Ruivo, Joao Rocha, Marta Ferro, Joana Vaz Pinto, Jonas Deuermeier, Tiago Mateus, Ana Santa, Manuel J. J. Mendes, Rodrigo Martins, Sandra Gago, Cesar A. T. Laia, Hugo Aguas
Summary: The present study aims to enhance the performance of solar cells by developing advanced luminescent down-shifting using encapsulated nanostructured perovskite materials. Thin films of CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystal luminophores were synthesized and encapsulated with parylene type C to protect and stabilize the films. The results showed that this encapsulation technique significantly improved the current generation and spectral response of the photovoltaic cells.
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Bo He, Gang He, Shanshan Jiang, Jiangwei Liu, Elvira Fortunato, Rodrigo Martins
Summary: Thin-film transistors based on metal oxide semiconductors are widely used in driving low-cost backplanes of active matrix liquid crystal displays. Solution-based 1D nanofiber networks have been proven to be a simpler and higher-throughput approach for transistor fabrication. Double channel heterojunction transistors composed of In2O3 and ZnO layers show high electron mobility and operational stability, which can be optimized by adjusting the stacking order and density of the layers.
ADVANCED ELECTRONIC MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Beatriz B. Oliveira, Beatriz Costa, Barbara Morao, Sandra Faias, Bruno Veigas, Lucilia Pebre Pereira, Cristina Albuquerque, Rui Maio, Marilia Cravo, Alexandra R. Fernandes, Pedro Viana Baptista
Summary: The success of personalized medicine relies on biomarker discovery for identifying patients who will benefit from specific targeted drugs. Liquid biopsies, particularly the analysis of circulating tumor DNA, are emerging as a useful tool for diagnosis, prognosis, and biomarker discovery. In this study, an ARMS-HRMA method was developed for detecting KRAS mutations, showing simplicity, shorter time to result, high sensitivity, and specificity compared to traditional sequencing and digital PCR methods. The proposed ARMS-HRMA method has the potential to improve liquid biopsy-based diagnosis and prognosis schemes.
ANALYTICAL AND BIOANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ana F. Amendoeira, Andre Luz, Ruben Valente, Catarina Roma-Rodrigues, Hasrat Ali, Johan E. van Lier, Fernanda Marques, Pedro V. Baptista, Alexandra R. Fernandes
Summary: This study evaluated the cell uptake of Estradiol-BODIPY, 19-nortestosterone-BODIPY, and testosterone-BODIPY in breast cancer and prostate cancer cells, as well as in normal dermal fibroblasts. The results showed that the highest internalization occurred in cells expressing specific receptors for the compounds. Blocking experiments also revealed differences in non-specific cell uptake between cancer and normal cells, possibly due to differences in lipophilicity. The internalization process was energy-dependent and mediated by clathrin- and caveolae-endocytosis. Co-culture studies demonstrated that the compounds exhibited selectivity towards cancer cells. Furthermore, the compounds showed non-toxicity towards cancer and/or normal cells, and visible light irradiation induced cell death, indicating their potential use as PDT agents.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Medicinal
Katarzyna Choroba, Beatriz Filipe, Anna Switlicka, Mateusz Penkala, Barbara Machura, Alina Bienko, Sandra Cordeiro, Pedro V. Baptista, Alexandra R. Fernandes
Summary: The study focused on the anticancer properties of dipicolinate-basedvanadium(IV) complexes with different diimines. These complexes showed high cytotoxic effect against HCT116-DoxR cells and induced cell death through apoptosis and autophagy pathways. They also interacted with BSA protein and did not promote tumor cell migration or angiogenesis.
JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Beatriz J. Coelho, Joana P. Neto, Barbara Sieira, Andre T. Moura, Elvira Fortunato, Rodrigo Martins, Pedro V. Baptista, Rui Igreja, Hugo Aguas
Summary: Microfluidic-based platforms are powerful tools for chemical and biological assays. The fusion of different microfluidic technologies has the potential to overcome limitations and enhance their strengths.
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
J. Figueira, R. M. Bonito, J. T. Carvalho, E. M. F. Vieira, C. Gaspar, Joana Loureiro, J. H. Correia, E. Fortunato, R. Martins, L. Pereira
Summary: Flexible thermal touch sensors were produced by optimizing ethyl cellulose and graphite flakes inks for screen-printing. The best electrical-TE output combination was achieved by printing two layers of the ink with 20 wt% of graphite on an office paper substrate. The results showed that the screen-printed graphite-based inks are highly suitable for flexible TE sensing applications.
FLEXIBLE AND PRINTED ELECTRONICS
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Oscar A. Lenis Rojas, Sandra Cordeiro, Pedro V. Baptista, Alexandra R. Fernandes
Summary: The ruthenium arene fragment is a valuable source for designing anticancer drugs, and the co-ligand plays a crucial role in obtaining effective anticancer complexes. N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs), despite their versatility and ability to stabilize metal ions, have not been extensively explored. However, recent advancements have been made in the development of NHC ruthenium arene complexes as potent anticancer agents.
JOURNAL OF INORGANIC BIOCHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
G. Ribeiro, G. Ferreira, U. D. Menda, M. Alexandre, M. J. Brites, M. A. Barreiros, S. Jana, H. Aguas, R. Martins, P. A. Fernandes, P. Salome, M. J. Mendes
Summary: By incorporating PbS quantum dots (QDs) with strong near-infrared absorption and electronic confinement into a MAPbI3 perovskite matrix, this study demonstrates the generation of sub-bandgap photocurrent, leading to solar cell efficiencies beyond classical limits. The introduction of QDs in different sizes and concentrations enhances the spectral window of photon absorption of the perovskite host film, resulting in pronounced sub-bandgap absorption and photocurrent generation below the bandgap. Despite the reduced crystallinity of the perovskite matrix, the nanostructured films exhibit significant enhancement in NIR absorption and photocurrent generation.
Review
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Maria Elias Pereira, Rodrigo Martins, Elvira Fortunato, Pedro Barquinha, Asal Kiazadeh
Summary: Neuromorphic computing is gaining popularity as a replacement for outdated technology in conventional computing systems. Artificial neural networks composed of memristor crossbars in hardware offer power, cost, and area-efficient in-memory computing and storage. Optoelectronic memristors (OEMs) can control resistive switching (RS) through both optical and electronic signals, solving crosstalk issues and providing a high-speed non-destructive method. This review summarizes recent advances in inorganic OEMs, analyzing the device structure and assessing their potential applications in logic gates, artificial neural networks, and artificial visual systems with consideration for their performance.
NEUROMORPHIC COMPUTING AND ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Maria Joao Oliveira, Soraia Caetano, Ana Dalot, Filipe Sabino, Tomas R. Calmeiro, Elvira Fortunato, Rodrigo Martins, Eulalia Pereira, Miguel Prudencio, Hugh J. Byrne, Ricardo Franco, Hugo Aguas
Summary: Early and accurate detection of pathogenic microorganisms is crucial for diagnosis and patient outcomes. The combination of a polystyrene-based microfluidic device and Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy shows excellent sensitivity and specificity in detecting malaria. The system can be easily adapted for other pathogens and has the potential for early diagnosis of infectious diseases.
