Nicolas Voelcker

Silicon Nanowire Photocathodes for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 05-08-2016

DOI: 10.3390/NANO6080144

Early Results from GLASS–JWST. XXI. Rapid Asembly of a Galaxy at z = 6.23 Revealed by Its C/O Abundance

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 07-2023

DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/ACD938

Abstract: The abundance of carbon relative to oxygen (C/O) is a promising probe of star formation history in the early universe, as the ratio changes with time due to production of these elements by different nucleosynthesis pathways. We present a measurement of log ( C / O ) = − 1.01 ± 0.12 (stat) ±0.15 (sys) in a z = 6.23 galaxy observed as part of the GLASS–JWST Early Release Science Program. Notably, we achieve good precision thanks to the detection of the rest-frame ultraviolet O iii ], C iii ], and C iv emission lines delivered by JWST/NIRSpec. The C/O abundance is ∼0.8 dex lower than the solar value and is consistent with the expected yield from core-collapse supernovae, indicating that longer-lived intermediate-mass stars have not fully contributed to carbon enrichment. This in turn implies rapid buildup of a young stellar population with age ≲100 Myr in a galaxy seen ∼900 Myr after the big bang. Our chemical abundance analysis is consistent with spectral energy distribution modeling of JWST/NIRCam photometric data, which indicates a current stellar mass log M * / M ☉ = 8.4 − 0.2 + 0.4 and specific star formation rate ≃20 Gyr −1 . These results showcase the value of chemical abundances and C/O in particular to study the earliest stages of galaxy assembly.

Gold microneedles fabricated by casting of gold ink used for urea sensing

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.MATLET.2019.02.014

Delivery of siRNA in vitro and in vivo using PEI-capped porous silicon nanoparticles to silence MRP1 and inhibit proliferation in glioblastoma

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-04-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S12951-018-0365-Y

MALDI-MS-Imaging of Whole Human Lens Capsule

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 29-06-2011

DOI: 10.1021/PR200148K

Abstract: The ocular lens capsule is a smooth, transparent basement membrane that encapsulates the lens and is composed of a rigid network of interacting structural proteins and glycosaminoglycans. During cataract surgery, the anterior lens capsule is routinely removed in the form of a circular disk. We considered that the excised capsule could be easily prepared for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) analysis. MALDI-MSI is a powerful tool to elucidate the spatial distribution of small molecules, peptides, and proteins within tissues. Here, we apply this molecular imaging technique to analyze the freshly excised human lens capsule en face. We demonstrate that novel information about the distribution of proteins by MALDI-MSI can be obtained from this highly compact connective tissue, having no evident histo-morphological characteristics. Trypsin digestion carried out on-tissue is shown to improve MALDI-MSI analysis of human lens capsules and affords high repeatability. Most importantly, MALDI-MSI analysis reveals a concentric distribution pattern of proteins such as apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and collagen IV alpha-1 on the anterior surface of surgically removed lens capsule, which may indicate direct or indirect effects of environmental and mechanical stresses on the human ocular lens.

Diffuse Galactic gamma-ray emission with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: American Physical Society (APS)

Date: 30-12-2014

DOI: 10.1103/PHYSREVD.90.122007

Design concepts for the Cherenkov Telescope Array CTA: an advanced facility for ground-based high-energy gamma-ray astronomy

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 23-11-2011

DOI: 10.1007/S10686-011-9247-0

Silver-assisted development and imaging of fingermarks on non-porous and porous surfaces

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJMS.2017.08.001

Investigation of porous silicon photocathodes for photoelectrochemical hydrogen production

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHYDENE.2016.09.048

Bacteriophage uptake by Eukaryotic cell layers represents a major sink for phages during therapy

Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Date: 08-09-2020

DOI: 10.1101/2020.09.07.286716

Abstract: For over 100 years, bacteriophages have been known as viruses that infect bacteria. Yet it is becoming increasingly apparent that bacteriophages, or phages for short, have tropisms outside their bacterial hosts. During phage therapy, high doses of phages are directly administered and disseminated throughout the body, facilitating broad interactions with eukaryotic cells. Using live cell imaging across a range of cell lines we demonstrate that cell type plays a major role in phage internalisation and that smaller phages ( 100 nm) are internalised at higher rates. Uptake rates were validated under physiological shear stress conditions using a microfluidic device that mimics the shear stress to which endothelial cells are exposed to in the human body. Phages were found to rapidly adhere to eukaryotic cell layers, with adherent phages being subsequently internalised by macropinocytosis and functional phages accumulating and stably persisting intracellularly. Finally, we incorporate these results into an established pharmacokinetic model demonstrating the potential impact of phage accumulation by these cell layers, which represents a major sink for circulating phages in the body. Understanding these interactions will have important implications on innate immune responses, phage pharmacokinetics, and the efficacy of phage therapy.

Applications of zero-valent silicon nanostructures in biomedicine

Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd

Date: 08-2015

DOI: 10.2217/NNM.15.91

Abstract: Zero-valent, or elemental, silicon nanostructures exhibit a number of properties that render them attractive for applications in nanomedicine. These materials hold significant promise for improving existing diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. This review summarizes some of the essential aspects of the fabrication techniques used to generate these fascinating nanostructures, comparing their material properties and suitability for biomedical applications. We examine the literature in regards to toxicity, biocompatibility and biodistribution of silicon nanoparticles, nanowires and nanotubes, with an emphasis on surface modification and its influence on cell adhesion and endocytosis. In the final part of this review, our attention is focused on current applications of the fabricated silicon nanostructures in nanomedicine, specifically examining drug and gene delivery, bioimaging and biosensing.

Mass spectrometry imaging reveals new biological roles for choline esters and Tyrian purple precursors in muricid molluscs

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-2015

DOI: 10.1038/SREP13408

Abstract: Despite significant advances in chemical ecology, the biodistribution, temporal changes and ecological function of most marine secondary metabolites remain unknown. One such ex le is the association between choline esters and Tyrian purple precursors in muricid molluscs. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) on nano-structured surfaces has emerged as a sophisticated platform for spatial analysis of low molecular mass metabolites in heterogeneous tissues, ideal for low abundant secondary metabolites. Here we applied desorption-ionisation on porous silicon (DIOS) to examine in situ changes in biodistribution over the reproductive cycle. DIOS-MSI showed muscle-relaxing choline ester murexine to co-localise with tyrindoxyl sulfate in the biosynthetic hypobranchial glands. But during egg-laying, murexine was transferred to the capsule gland and then to the egg capsules, where chemical ripening resulted in Tyrian purple formation. Murexine was found to tranquilise the larvae and may relax the reproductive tract. This study shows that DIOS-MSI is a powerful tool that can provide new insights into marine chemo-ecology.

Photo-crosslinked coatings based on 2-hydroxypropyl acrylamide for the prevention of biofouling

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1039/C9TB00044E

Abstract: We have developed a simple and versatile polymer coating method that provides excellent non-biofouling properties.

HESS J1818–154, a new composite supernova remnant discovered in TeV gamma rays and X-rays

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 02-2014

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201322914

Validation of self-reported figural drawing scales against anthropometric measurements in adults

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 16-02-2016

DOI: 10.1017/S136898001600015X

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to validate figural drawing scales depicting extremely lean to extremely obese subjects to obtain proxies for BMI and waist circumference in postal surveys. Reported figural scales and anthropometric data from a large population-based postal survey were validated with measured anthropometric data from the same in iduals by means of receiver-operating characteristic curves and a BMI prediction model. Adult participants in a Scandinavian cohort study first recruited in 1990 and followed up twice since. In iduals aged 38–66 years with complete data for BMI ( n 1580) and waist circumference ( n 1017). Median BMI and waist circumference increased exponentially with increasing figural scales. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analyses showed a high predictive ability to identify in iduals with BMI 25·0 kg/m 2 in both sexes. The optimal figural scales for identifying overweight or obese in iduals with a correct detection rate were 4 and 5 in women, and 5 and 6 in men, respectively. The prediction model explained 74 % of the variance among women and 62 % among men. Predicted BMI differed only marginally from objectively measured BMI. Figural drawing scales explained a large part of the anthropometric variance in this population and showed a high predictive ability for identifying overweight/obese subjects. These figural scales can be used with confidence as proxies of BMI and waist circumference in settings where objective measures are not feasible.

Periodic Emission from the Gamma-Ray Binary 1FGL J1018.6–5856

Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

Date: 13-01-2012

DOI: 10.1126/SCIENCE.1213974

Abstract: Binary star systems that contain a neutron star or a black hole are expected to emit gamma rays. These gamma-ray binaries are a rare class of objects, which are also expected to emit x-rays. Indeed, several such systems were initially detected through their x-ray emission. The Fermi LAT Collaboration (p. 189 see the Perspective by Mirabel ) reports the detection of a gamma-ray binary that was previously unknown as an x-ray source. Follow-up observations reveal that the system is also a source of x-rays and that the companion star is a class O star, a type that is very hot and very luminous.

New biodegradable materials produced by ring opening polymerisation of poly(l-lactide) on porous silicon substrates

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.JCIS.2008.12.073

Abstract: In this paper, we describe for the first time the preparation of biodegradable inorganic/organic hybrid materials by grafting poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) from porous silicon (pSi) films and microparticles. To graft a PLLA layer from pSi, tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate catalysed ring opening polymerisation was performed using pSi surface-bound hydroxyl groups as initiators. Chemical surface characterisation by means of diffuse reflectance infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and water contact angle measurements confirmed the presence of the PLLA film. Furthermore, atomic force microscopy demonstrated the formation of PLLA nanobrushes on the pSi surface. We also ascertained by interferometric reflectance spectroscopy that the PLLA layer successfully slowed down the corrosion of the porous silicon layer in aqueous medium. Finally, thermal gravimetric analysis showed weight loss transitions that closely resemble the expected decomposition peak for low molecular weight PLLA. We believe that biodegradable hybrid materials like the ones presented here will find uses in tissue engineering and drug delivery, for ex le in applications where complex degradation profiles are required that cannot be achieved with one type of material alone.

Carbon nanotubes initiate the explosion of porous silicon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.MATLET.2010.08.021

Development of L-lactate dehydrogenase biosensor based on porous silicon resonant microcavities as fluorescence enhancers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2015.07.025

Control over wettability via surface modification of porous gradients

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 21-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.759377

Vertically configured nanostructure-mediated electroporation: a promising route for intracellular regulations and interrogations

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1039/D0MH01016B

Abstract: Nanostructure-mediated EP platforms based on vertically aligned nanowires (NWs), nanostraws (NSs), and nanotubes (NTs). Left: Intracellular delivery. Middle: Intracellular extraction of biomolecules. Right: Intracellular probing of action potential.

HESS and Fermi-LAT discovery of γ-rays from the blazar 1ES 1312−423

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 08-2013

DOI: 10.1093/MNRAS/STT1081

Chemically Grafted Carbon Nanotube Surface Coverage Gradients

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 26-10-2010

DOI: 10.1021/LA103497F

Abstract: Two approaches to producing gradients of vertically aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on silicon surfaces by chemical grafting are presented here. The first approach involves the use of a porous silicon (pSi) substrate featuring a pore size gradient, which is functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES). Carboxylated SWCNTs are then immobilized on the topography gradient via carbodiimide coupling. Our results show that as the pSi pore size and porosity increase across the substrate the SWCNT coverage decreases concurrently. In contrast, the second gradient is an amine-functionality gradient produced by means of vapor-phase diffusion of APTES from a reservoir onto a silicon wafer where APTES attachment changes as a function of distance from the APTES reservoir. Carboxylated SWCNTs are then immobilized via carbodiimide coupling to the amine-terminated silicon gradient. Our observations confirm that with decreasing APTES density on the surface the coverage of the attached SWCNTs also decreases. These gradient platforms pave the way for the time-efficient optimization of SWCNT coverage for applications ranging from field emission to water filtration to drug delivery.

Human bone material characterization

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-06-2012

DOI: 10.1007/S00198-011-1688-9

Abstract: The interrelation of calcium and phosphorus was evaluated as a function of bone material quality in femoral heads from male fragility fracture patients via surface analytical imaging as well as scanning microscopy techniques. A link between fragility fractures and increased calcium to phosphorus ratio was observed despite normal mineralization density distribution. Bone fragility in men has been recently recognized as a public health issue, but little attention has been devoted to bone material quality and the possible efficacy in fracture risk prevention. Clinical routine fracture risk estimations do not consider the quality of the mineralized matrix and the critical role played by the different chemical components that are present. This study uses a combination of different imaging and analytical techniques to gain insights into both the spatial distribution and the relationship of phosphorus and calcium in bone. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry imaging techniques were used to investigate the relationship between calcium and phosphorus in un-embedded human femoral head specimens from fragility fracture patients and non-fracture age-matched controls. The inclusion of the bone mineral density distribution via backscattered scanning electron microscopy provides information about the mineralization status between the groups. A link between fragility fracture and increased calcium and decreased phosphorus in the femoral head was observed despite normal mineralization density distribution. Results exhibited significantly increased calcium to phosphorus ratio in the fragility fracture group, whereas the non-fracture control group ratio was in agreement with the literature value of 1.66 M ratio in mature bone. Our results highlight the potential importance of the relationship between calcium and phosphorus, especially in areas of new bone formation, when estimating fracture risk of the femoral head. The determination of calcium and phosphorus fractions in bone mineral density measurements may hold the key to better fracture risk assessment as well as more targeted therapies.

Nanoporous anodic aluminium oxide: Advances in surface engineering and emerging applications

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.PMATSCI.2013.01.002

Stable White Light-Emitting Biocomposite Films

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-01-2018

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201706967

Screening the attachment and spreading of bone marrow-derived and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells on porous silicon gradients

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C2RA21557H

Evaluation of mammalian cell adhesion on surface-modified porous silicon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2006

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2006.04.015

Abstract: Porous silicon is a promising biomaterial that is non-toxic and biodegradable. Surface modification can offer control over the degradation rate and can also impart properties that promote cell adhesion. In this study, we modified the surface of porous silicon surface by ozone oxidation, silanisation or coating with collagen or serum. For each surface, topography was characterised using atomic force microscopy, wettability by water contact angle measurements, degradation in aqueous buffer by interferometric reflectance spectroscopy and surface chemistry by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The adhesion of rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) and human lens epithelial cells to these surfaces was investigated. Cells were incubated on the surfaces for 4 and 24 h, and adhesion characteristics were determined by using a fluorescent vital stain and cell counts. Collagen coated and amino silanised porous silicon promoted cell attachment for both cell lines whereas cells attached poorly to ozone oxidised and polyethylene glycol silanised surfaces. We showed that the two cell lines had different adhesion characteristics on the various surfaces at different time points. The use of the vitality assays Alamar Blue (redox based assay) and neutral red (active cellular uptake assay) with porous silicon was also investigated. We reveal incompatibilities between certain resazurin (Alamar Blue), lysosomal incorporation assays (neutral red) and porous silicon.

Recent Fundamental and Technological Progress in Micro‐nanotechnologies

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202112100

Colorimetric Detection of Extracellular Hydrogen Peroxide Using an Integrated Microfluidic Device

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 11-01-2022

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.1C04312

Abstract: It is well known that hydrogen peroxide (H

Fabrication of stimulus-responsive diatom biosilica microcapsules for antibiotic drug delivery

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5TB00648A

Abstract: Thermo-responsive drug release from diatom biosilica microcapsules is demonstrated for the first time using microcapsules modified with copolymers of oligoethylene glycol methacrylates.

Bright Future of Gold Nanoclusters in Theranostics

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-10-2021

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.1C14275

Abstract: Quantum-sized gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) are emerging as theranostic agents-those that combine diagnostics and therapeutic properties-given their ultrasmall size <3 nm, which makes them behave more like a molecule rather than a nanoparticle. This molecule-like behavior endows AuNCs with interesting properties including photoluminescence, catalytic activity, and paramagnetism-all without the presence of any toxic heavy metal. But despite these fundamental advances, scalable synthetic approaches to produce high-quality AuNCs with well-controlled and programmable properties for biological applications as well as methods to determine their structure-property relationships are not widely available. In this Perspective, we will discuss what is known so far about AuNCs as well as how to move forward to propel AuNCs as a theranostic agent of choice for many biomedical applications.

Bacteriophage uptake by mammalian cell layers represents a potential sink that may impact phage therapy

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.ISCI.2021.102287

Biological effect of LOXL1 coding variants associated with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.EXER.2016.03.013

Abstract: Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome is a systemic disease involving the extracellular matrix. It increases the risk of glaucoma, an irreversible cause of blindness, and susceptibility to heart disease, stroke and hearing loss. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the LOXL1 (Lysyl oxidase-like 1) gene are the major known genetic risk factor for PEX syndrome. Two coding SNPs, rs1048861 (G > T Arg141Leu) and rs3825942 (G > A Gly153Asp), in the LOXL1 gene are strongly associated with the disease risk in multiple populations worldwide. In the present study, we investigated functional effects of these SNPs on the LOXL1 protein. We show through molecular modelling that positions 141 and 153 are likely surface residues and hence possible recognition sites for protein-protein interactions the Arg141Leu and Gly153Asp substitutions cause charge changes that would lead to local differences in protein electrostatic potential and in turn the potential to modify protein-protein interactions. In RFL-6 rat fetal lung fibroblast cells ectopically expressing the LOXL1 protein variants related to PEX (Arg141_Gly153, Arg141_Asp153 or Leu141_Gly153), immunoprecipitation of the secreted variants showed differences in their processing by endogenous proteins, possibly Bone morphogenetic protein-1 (BMP-1) that cleaves and leads to enzymatic activation of LOXL1. Immunofluorescence labelling of the ectopically expressed protein variants in RFL-6 cells showed no significant difference in their extracellular accumulation tendency. In conclusion, this is the first report of a biological effect of the coding SNPs in the LOXL1 gene associated with PEX syndrome, on the LOXL1 protein. The findings indicate that the disease associated coding variants themselves may be involved in the manifestation of PEX syndrome.

Patterned and switchable surfaces for biomolecular manipulation

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2009.03.040

Abstract: The interactions of biomolecules and cells with solid interfaces play a pivotal role in a range of biomedical applications and have therefore been studied in great detail. An improved understanding of these interactions results in the ability to manipulate DNA, proteins and other biomolecules, as well as cells, spatially and temporally at surfaces with high precision. This in turn engenders the development of advanced devices, such as biosensors, bioelectronic components, smart biomaterials and microarrays. Spatial control can be achieved by the production of patterned surface chemistries using modern high-resolution patterning technologies based on lithography, microprinting or microfluidics, whilst temporal control is accessible through the application of switchable surface architectures. The combination of these two surface properties offers unprecedented control over the behaviour of biomolecules and cells at the solid-liquid interface. This review discusses the behaviour of biomolecules and cells at solid interfaces and highlights fundamental and applied research exploring patterned and switchable surfaces.

Fabrication and Operation of a Microcavity Plasma Array Device for Microscale Surface Modification

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 05-03-2012

DOI: 10.1002/PPAP.201100166

Electrochemistry-enabled fabrication of orthogonal nanotopography and surface chemistry gradients for high-throughput screening

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C2LC20732J

Abstract: Gradient surfaces are emerging tools for investigating mammalian cell-surface interactions in high throughput. We demonstrate the electrochemical fabrication of an orthogonal gradient platform combining a porous silicon (pSi) pore size gradient with an orthogonal gradient of peptide ligand density. pSi gradients were fabricated via the anodic etching of a silicon wafer with pore sizes ranging from hundreds to tens of nanometers. A chemical gradient of ethyl-6-bromohexanoate was generated orthogonally to the pSi gradient via electrochemical attachment. Subsequent hydrolysis and activation of the chemical gradient allowed for the generation of a cyclic RGD gradient. Whilst mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were shown to respond to both the topographical and chemical cues arising from the orthogonal gradient, the MSC's responded more strongly to changes in RGD density than to changes in pore size during short-term culture.

Preparation and characterization of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/polymer nanostructured materials

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.810958

Beta-cyclodextrin decorated nanostructured SERS substrates facilitate selective detection of endocrine disruptorchemicals

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2012.10.075

Abstract: We demonstrate the selective detection of endocrine disruptor chemicals (EDCs) from river water using surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). By means of nanosphere lithography, the SERS substrate was prepared via the initial deposition of a monolayer of silica nanospheres (with diameter of ∼330 nm) on a silicon substrate as the template. Subsequently, a 180 nm thick layer of silver followed by a 20 nm layer of gold was deposited. This surface was modified with mono-6-deoxy-6-((2-mercaptoethyl)amino)-beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) in order to produce a selective capture surface suitable for EDC capture and their detection by means of SERS. We show that EDC model compounds, including 3-amino-2-naphthoic acid (NAPH), potassium hydrogen phthalate (PHTH) and the EDC β-estradiol (ESTR), were captured by the β-CD decorated surface. This surface facilitated SERS detection with limits of detection of 3.0 μM (NAPH), 10 μM (PHTH) and 300 nM (ESTR), all 10-100 times lower than that without the surface modification with β-CD. In idual and simultaneous detection of NAPH and PHTH from their mixture was achieved as evidenced using the bianalyte Raman technique.

Discovery of VHEγ-ray emission and multi-wavelength observations of the BL Lacertae object 1RXS J101015.9 − 311909

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 06-2012

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201218910

Electromagnetic Performance Analysis of a Bearingless Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor by Model Order Reduction

Publisher: IEEE

Date: 05-2023

DOI: 10.1109/INTERMAGSHORTPAPERS58606.2023.10228746

Measurement of the EBL spectral energy distribution using the VHE γ-ray spectra of H.E.S.S. blazars

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 10-2017

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201731200

Abstract: Very high-energy γ rays (VHE, E ≳ 100 GeV) propagating over cosmological distances can interact with the low-energy photons of the extragalactic background light (EBL) and produce electron-positron pairs. The transparency of the Universe to VHE γ rays is then directly related to the spectral energy distribution (SED) of the EBL. The observation of features in the VHE energy spectra of extragalactic sources allows the EBL to be measured, which otherwise is very difficult. An EBL model-independent measurement of the EBL SED with the H.E.S.S. array of Cherenkov telescopes is presented. It was obtained by extracting the EBL absorption signal from the reanalysis of high-quality spectra of blazars. From H.E.S.S. data alone the EBL signature is detected at a significance of 9.5 σ , and the intensity of the EBL obtained in different spectral bands is presented together with the associated γ -ray horizon.

H.E.S.S. reveals a lack of TeV emission from the supernova remnant Puppis A

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 27-02-2015

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201424805

Direct detection of illicit drugs from biological fluids by desorption/ionization mass spectrometry with nanoporous silicon microparticles

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5AN01754H

Abstract: Surface assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) with porous silicon microparticles was used for the all-in-one extraction and detection of illicit drugs from saliva, urine and plasma.

Oxygen-permeable microwell device maintains islet mass and integrity during shipping

Publisher: Bioscientifica

Date: 03-2018

DOI: 10.1530/EC-17-0349

Abstract: Islet transplantation is currently the only minimally invasive therapy available for patients with type 1 diabetes that can lead to insulin independence however, it is limited to only a small number of patients. Although clinical procedures have improved in the isolation and culture of islets, a large number of islets are still lost in the pre-transplant period, limiting the success of this treatment. Moreover, current practice includes islets being prepared at specialized centers, which are sometimes remote to the transplant location. Thus, a critical point of intervention to maintain the quality and quantity of isolated islets is during transportation between isolation centers and the transplanting hospitals, during which 20–40% of functional islets can be lost. The current study investigated the use of an oxygen-permeable PDMS microwell device for long-distance transportation of isolated islets. We demonstrate that the microwell device protected islets from aggregation during transport, maintaining viability and average islet size during shipping.

Domestic use of hypochlorite bleach, atopic sensitization, and respiratory symptoms in adults

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.JACI.2009.06.007

Abstract: Professional use of hypochlorite (bleach) has been associated with respiratory symptoms. Bleach is capable of inactivating allergens, and there are indications that its domestic use may reduce the risk of allergies in children. To study the associations between household use of bleach and atopic sensitization, allergic diseases, and respiratory health status in adults. We identified 3626 participants of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II in 10 countries who did the cleaning in their homes and for whom data on specific serum IgE to 4 environmental allergens were available. Frequency of bleach use and information on respiratory symptoms were obtained in face-to-face interviews. House dust mite and cat allergens in mattress dust were measured in a subs le. Associations between the frequency of bleach use and health outcomes were evaluated by using multivariable mixed logistic regression analyses. The use of bleach was associated with less atopic sensitization (odds ratio [OR], 0.75 95% CI, 0.63-0.89). This association was apparent for specific IgE to both indoor (cat) and outdoor (grass) allergens, and was consistent in various subgroups, including those without any history of respiratory problems (OR, 0.85). Dose-response relationships (P < .05) were apparent for the frequency of bleach use and sensitization rates. Lower respiratory tract symptoms, but not allergic symptoms, were more prevalent among those using bleach 4 or more days per week (OR, 1.24-1.49). The use of bleach was not associated with indoor allergen concentrations. People who clean their homes with hypochlorite bleach are less likely to be atopic but more likely to have respiratory symptoms.

Porous silicon membrane-modified electrodes for label-free voltammetric detection of MS2 bacteriophage

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2016.01.038

Thin calcium phosphate coatings on titanium by electrochemical deposition in modified simulated body fluid

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-11-2005

DOI: 10.1002/JBM.A.30514

Abstract: Adherent and optically semitransparent thin calcium phosphate (CaP) films were electrochemically deposited on titanium substrates in a modified simulated body fluid at 37 degrees C. Coatings deposited by using periodic pulsed potentials showed better adhesion and better mechanical properties than coatings deposited with use of a constant potential. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the morphology of the coatings. The coatings displayed a polydispersed porous structure with pores in the range of a few nanometers to 1 mum. Furthermore, X-ray diffractometry and the O(1s) satellite peaks in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicated that the coatings possessed a similar surface chemistry to that of natural bone minerals. These results were confirmed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, which yielded a Ca:P ratio of 1.65, close to that of hydroxyapatite. Contact mode atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed the average thickness of the coatings was in the order of 200 nm. Root-mean-square (RMS) roughness values, also derived by AFM, were shown to be much higher on the titanium-CaP surfaces in comparison with untreated titanium substrates, with RMS values of about 300 and 110 nm, respectively. Cell culture experiments showed that the CaP surfaces are nontoxic to MG63 osteoblastic cells in vitro and were able to support cell growth for up to 4 days, outperforming the untreated titanium surface in a direct comparison. These easily prepared coatings show promise for hard-tissue biomaterials.

Targeted drug delivery using genetically engineered diatom biosilica

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-11-2015

DOI: 10.1038/NCOMMS9791

Abstract: The ability to selectively kill cancerous cell populations while leaving healthy cells unaffected is a key goal in anticancer therapeutics. The use of nanoporous silica-based materials as drug-delivery vehicles has recently proven successful, yet production of these materials requires costly and toxic chemicals. Here we use diatom microalgae-derived nanoporous biosilica to deliver chemotherapeutic drugs to cancer cells. The diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana is genetically engineered to display an IgG-binding domain of protein G on the biosilica surface, enabling attachment of cell-targeting antibodies. Neuroblastoma and B-lymphoma cells are selectively targeted and killed by biosilica displaying specific antibodies sorbed with drug-loaded nanoparticles. Treatment with the same biosilica leads to tumour growth regression in a subcutaneous mouse xenograft model of neuroblastoma. These data indicate that genetically engineered biosilica frustules may be used as versatile 'backpacks' for the targeted delivery of poorly water-soluble anticancer drugs to tumour sites.

Sensors and imaging for wound healing: A review

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2012.09.029

Abstract: Wound healing involves a complex series of biochemical events and has traditionally been managed with 'low tech' dressings and bandages. The concept that diagnostic and theranostic sensors can complement wound management is rapidly growing in popularity as there is tremendous potential to apply this technology to both acute and chronic wounds. Benefits in sensing the wound environment include reduction of hospitalization time, prevention of utations and better understanding of the processes which impair healing. This review discusses the state-of-the-art in detection of markers associated with wound healing and infection, utilizing devices imbedded within dressings or as point-of-care techniques to allow for continual or rapid wound assessment and monitoring. Approaches include using biological or chemical sensors of wound exudates and volatiles to directly or indirectly detect bacteria, monitor pH, temperature, oxygen and enzymes. Spectroscopic and imaging techniques are also reviewed as advanced wound monitoring techniques. The review concludes with a discussion of the limitations of and future directions for this field.

Delivering the Promise of Gene Therapy with Nanomedicines in Treating Central Nervous System Diseases

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 18-07-0011

DOI: 10.1002/ADVS.202201740

Abstract: Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases, such as Alzheimer's diseases (AD), Parkinson's Diseases (PD), brain tumors, Huntington's disease (HD), and stroke, still remain difficult to treat by the conventional molecular drugs. In recent years, various gene therapies have come into the spotlight as versatile therapeutics providing the potential to prevent and treat these diseases. Despite the significant progress that has undoubtedly been achieved in terms of the design and modification of genetic modulators with desired potency and minimized unwanted immune responses, the efficient and safe in vivo delivery of gene therapies still poses major translational challenges. Various non‐viral nanomedicines have been recently explored to circumvent this limitation. In this review, an overview of gene therapies for CNS diseases is provided and describes recent advances in the development of nanomedicines, including their unique characteristics, chemical modifications, bioconjugations, and the specific applications that those nanomedicines are harnessed to deliver gene therapies.

Application of nanostructured biochips for efficient cell transfection microarrays

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 27-12-2007

DOI: 10.1117/12.695954

Lab‐on‐a‐Chip‐Based High‐Throughput Screening of the Genotoxicity of Engineered Nanomaterials

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 07-03-2014

DOI: 10.1002/SMLL.201303359

Abstract: The continuous increasing of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) in our environment, their combinatorial ersity, and the associated genotoxic risks, highlight the urgent need to better define the possible toxicological effects of ENMs. In this context, we present a new high-throughput screening (HTS) platform based on the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay, lab-on-chip cell sorting, and automated image analysis. This HTS platform has been successfully applied to the evaluation of the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and silica nanoparticles (SiO2NPs). In particular, our results demonstrate the high cyto- and genotoxicity induced by AgNPs and the biocompatibility of SiO2NPs, in primary human lymphocytes. Moreover, our data reveal that the toxic effects are also dependent on size, surface coating, and surface charge. Most importantly, our HTS platform shows that AgNP-induced genotoxicity is lymphocyte sub-type dependent and is particularly pronounced in CD2+ and CD4+ cells.

Integrated microfluidic device to monitor unseen Escherichia coli contamination in mammalian cell culture

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2022.131522

A label-free optical biosensor based on nanoporous anodic alumina for tumour necrosis factor-alpha detection in chronic wounds

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2017.10.156

Electrochemical fingerprints of brominated trihaloacetic acids (HAA3) mixtures in water

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2017.02.179

Solvent separating secondary metabolites directly from biosynthetic tissue for surface-assisted laser desorption ionisation mass spectrometry

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 16-03-2015

DOI: 10.3390/MD13031410

Preparation of two-directional gradient surfaces for the analysis of cell-surface interactions

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 21-12-2007

DOI: 10.1117/12.759351

Manipulating human dendritic cell phenotype and function with targeted porous silicon nanoparticles

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2017.11.017

Abstract: Dendritic cells (DC) are the most potent antigen-presenting cells and are fundamental for the establishment of transplant tolerance. The Dendritic Cell-Specific Intracellular adhesion molecule-3-Grabbing Non-integrin (DC-SIGN CD209) receptor provides a target for dendritic cell therapy. Biodegradable and high-surface area porous silicon (pSi) nanoparticles displaying anti-DC-SIGN antibodies and loaded with the immunosuppressant rapamycin (Sirolimus) serve as a fit-for-purpose platform to target and modify DC. Here, we describe the fabrication of rapamycin-loaded DC-SIGN displaying pSi nanoparticles, the uptake efficiency into DC and the extent of nanoparticle-induced modulation of phenotype and function. DC-SIGN antibody displaying pSi nanoparticles favourably targeted and were phagocytosed by monocyte-derived and myeloid DC in whole human blood in a time- and dose-dependent manner. DC preconditioning with rapamycin-loaded nanoparticles, resulted in a maturation resistant phenotype and significantly suppressed allogeneic T-cell proliferation.

H.E.S.S. OBSERVATIONS OF THE GLOBULAR CLUSTERS NGC 6388 AND M15 AND SEARCH FOR A DARK MATTER SIGNAL

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 08-06-2011

DOI: 10.1088/0004-637X/735/1/12

Electrochemical fabrication of nanoporous gold

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C2JM14889G

Common values in assessing health outcomes from disease and injury: disability weights measurement study for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2010

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2012

DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(12)61680-8

Replication of a Tissue Microenvironment by Thermal Scanning Probe Lithography.

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 03-05-2019

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.9B05553

Abstract: Thermal scanning probe lithography (t-SPL) is a nanofabrication technique in which an immobilized thermolabile resist, such as polyphthalaldehyde (PPA), is locally vaporized by a heated atomic force microscope tip. Compared with other nanofabrication techniques, such as soft lithography and nanoimprinting lithography, t-SPL is more efficient and convenient as it does not involve time-consuming mask productions or complicated etching procedures, making it a promising candidate technique for the fast prototyping of nanoscale topographies for biological studies. Here, we established the direct use of PPA-coated surfaces as a cell culture substrate. We showed that PPA is biocompatible and that the deposition of allylamine by plasma polymerization on a silicon wafer before PPA coating can stabilize the immobilization of PPA in aqueous solutions. When seeded on PPA-coated surfaces, human mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) adhered, spread, and proliferated in a manner indistinguishable from cells cultured on glass surfaces. This allowed us to subsequently use t-SPL to generate nanotopographies for cell culture experiments. As a proof of concept, we analyzed the surface topography of bovine tendon sections, previously shown to induce morphogenesis and differentiation of MSC, by means of atomic force microscopy, and then "wrote" topographical data on PPA by means of t-SPL. The resulting substrate, matching the native tissue topography on the nanoscale, was directly used for MSC culture. The t-SPL substrate induced similar changes in cell morphology and focal adhesion formation in the MSC compared to native tendon sections, suggesting that t-SPL can rapidly generate cell culture substrates with complex and spatially accurate topographical signals. This technique may greatly accelerate the prototyping of models for the study of cell-matrix interactions.

Cell Microarrays for the Screening of Factors That Allow the Enrichment of Bovine Testicular Cells

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 23-08-2010

DOI: 10.1002/CYTO.A.20913

Abstract: Cell microarrays can serve as high-throughput platforms for the screening of a erse range of biologically active factors and biomaterials that can induce desired cellular responses such as attachment, proliferation, or differentiation. Here, we demonstrate that surface-engineered microarrays can be used for the screening and identification of factors that allow the enrichment and isolation of rare cells from tissue-derived heterogeneous cell populations. In particular, we have focused on the enrichment of bovine testicular cells including type A spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. Microarray slides were coated with a copolymer synthesized from poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate and glycidyl methacrylate to enable both the prevention of cell attachment between printed spots and the covalent anchoring of various factors such as antibodies, lectins, growth factors, extracellular matrix proteins, and synthetic macromolecules on printed spots. Microarrays were incubated with mixed cell populations from freshly isolated bovine testicular tissue. Overall, cell attachment was evaluated using CellTracker staining, whereas differential attachment of testicular cells was determined by immunohistochemistry staining with Plzf and vimentin antibodies as markers for type A spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, respectively. The results indicate that various surface immobilized factors, but in particular Dolichos biflorus lectin, allowed the enrichment of Plzf positive cells. Furthermore, Pisum sativum lectin, concanavalin A, collagen type IV, and vitronectin were identified as suitable negative selection factors. To our best knowledge, this work is the first to demonstrate the utility of surface engineered cell-based microarrays for the identification of factors that allow the selective capture of rare cells from tissue isolated heterogeneous mixtures.

Antibacterial properties of silver dendrite decorated silicon nanowires

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1039/C6RA13734B

Abstract: Silicon nanowires fabricated through Ag-assisted chemical etching were found to be effective bacterial-traps with strong antibacterial properties resulting from Ag-nanoclusters.

A new approach to the immobilisation of poly(ethylene oxide) for the reduction of non-specific protein adsorption on conductive substrates

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.SUSC.2007.01.053

Long-term exposure to ambient ozone and mortality: a quantitative systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence from cohort studies

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 02-2016

DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2015-009493

Generation of a stable surface concentration of amino groups on silica coated onto titanium substrates by the plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition method

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2009.02.092

Toward multiplexing detection of wound healing biomarkers on porous silicon resonant microcavities

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 04-02-2015

DOI: 10.1002/ADVS.201500383

A synthetic lipopeptide targeting top-priority multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-03-2022

DOI: 10.1038/S41467-022-29234-3

Abstract: The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative pathogens is an urgent global medical challenge. The old polymyxin lipopeptide antibiotics (polymyxin B and colistin) are often the only therapeutic option due to resistance to all other classes of antibiotics and the lean antibiotic drug development pipeline. However, polymyxin B and colistin suffer from major issues in safety (dose-limiting nephrotoxicity, acute toxicity), pharmacokinetics (poor exposure in the lungs) and efficacy (negligible activity against pulmonary infections) that have severely limited their clinical utility. Here we employ chemical biology to systematically optimize multiple non-conserved positions in the polymyxin scaffold, and successfully disconnect the therapeutic efficacy from the toxicity to develop a new synthetic lipopeptide, structurally and pharmacologically distinct from polymyxin B and colistin. This resulted in the clinical candidate F365 ( QPX9003 ) with superior safety and efficacy against lung infections caused by top-priority MDR pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae .

Electrochemical detection of N‐nitrosodimethylamine using a molecular imprinted polymer

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2016.06.136

The starburst galaxy NGC 253 revisited by H.E.S.S. and Fermi-LAT

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 09-2018

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201833202

Abstract: Context. NGC 253 is one of only two starburst galaxies found to emit γ -rays from hundreds of MeV to multi-TeV energies. Accurate measurements of the very-high-energy (VHE E 100 GeV) and high-energy (HE E 60 MeV) spectra are crucial to study the underlying particle accelerators, probe the dominant emission mechanism(s) and to study cosmic-ray interaction and transport. Aims. The measurement of the VHE γ -ray emission of NGC 253 published in 2012 by H.E.S.S. was limited by large systematic uncertainties. Here, the most up to date measurement of the γ -ray spectrum of NGC 253 is investigated in both HE and VHE γ -rays. Assuming a hadronic origin of the γ -ray emission, the measurement uncertainties are propagated into the interpretation of the accelerated particle population. Methods. The data of H.E.S.S. observations are reanalysed using an updated calibration and analysis chain. The improved Fermi –LAT analysis employs more than 8 yr of data processed using pass 8. The cosmic-ray particle population is evaluated from the combined HE–VHE γ -ray spectrum using NAIMA in the optically thin case. Results. The VHE γ -ray energy spectrum is best fit by a power-law distribution with a flux normalisation of (1.34 ± 0.14 stat ± 0.27 sys ) × 10 −13 cm −2 s −1 TeV 1 at 1 TeV – about 40% above, but compatible with the value obtained in Abramowski et al. (2012). The spectral index Γ = 2.39 ± 0.14 stat ± 0.25 sys is slightly softer than but consistent with the previous measurement within systematic errors. In the Fermi energy range an integral flux of F ( E 60 MeV) = (1.56 ± 0.28 stat ± 0.15 sys ) × 10 −8 cm −2 s −1 is obtained. At energies above ∼3 GeV the HE spectrum is consistent with a power-law ranging into the VHE part of the spectrum measured by H.E.S.S. with an overall spectral index Γ = 2.22 ± 0.06 stat . Conclusions. Two scenarios for the starburst nucleus are tested, in which the gas in the starburst nucleus acts as either a thin or a thick target for hadronic cosmic rays accelerated by the in idual sources in the nucleus. In these two models, the level to which NGC 253 acts as a calorimeter is estimated to a range of f cal = 0.1 to 1 while accounting for the measurement uncertainties. The presented spectrum is likely to remain the most accurate measurements until the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) has collected a substantial set of data towards NGC 253.

Multifunctional Polymer Coatings for Cell Microarray Applications

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 30-03-2009

DOI: 10.1021/BM801417S

Abstract: Biocompatible coatings with suitable chemistries for the immobilization of biomolecules are increasingly in demand, as they can be applied in a wide range of biomedical applications. In particular, multifunctional polymer coatings displaying reactive functional groups for the immobilization of specific biological factors that can influence the cellular response while at the same time exhibiting low nonspecific protein adsorption and cell attachment properties have the potential to significantly advance the fields of biomaterials and regenerative medicine. In this study, multifunctional polymer surface chemistries were developed for a cell microarray application with the aim of screening cellular interactions with surface immobilized factors. Coatings were prepared by the deposition of an allylamine plasma polymer pinning layer followed by the deposition of random copolymers of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) and poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA). Coatings were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), infrared spectroscopy, ellipsometry, and contact angle measurements. A variety of proteins as well as synthetic polymers were printed onto copolymer-coated slides using a high-precision contact microarrayer. Printing conditions were optimized for a fluorescently labeled model protein in regard to the temperature, humidity, pin geometry, concentration, and pH of the printing solution. Finally, the suitability of the surface chemistry for the evaluation of cellular responses to surface immobilized factors in a microarray format was demonstrated using HeLa cells.

The supernova remnant W49B as seen with H.E.S.S. and Fermi-LAT

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 04-2018

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201527843

Abstract: The supernova remnant (SNR) W49B originated from a core-collapse supernova that occurred between one and four thousand years ago, and subsequently evolved into a mixed-morphology remnant, which is interacting with molecular clouds (MC). Gamma-ray observations of SNR-MC associations are a powerful tool to constrain the origin of Galactic cosmic rays, as they can probe the acceleration of hadrons through their interaction with the surrounding medium and subsequent emission of non-thermal photons. We report the detection of a γ -ray source coincident with W49B at very high energies (VHE E 100 GeV) with the H.E.S.S. Cherenkov telescopes together with a study of the source with five years of Fermi -LAT high-energy γ -ray (0.06–300 GeV) data. The smoothly connected, combined source spectrum, measured from 60 MeV to multi-TeV energies, shows two significant spectral breaks at 304 ± 20 MeV and 8.4 −2.5 +2.2 GeV the latter is constrained by the joint fit from the two instruments. The detected spectral features are similar to those observed in several other SNR-MC associations and are found to be indicative of γ -ray emission produced through neutral-pion decay.

DNA-Based Photonic Logic Gates:  AND, NAND, and INHIBIT

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 17-12-2002

DOI: 10.1021/JA029009M

Abstract: Conventional microprocessors use elementary logic gates to perform complex computational tasks. Mimicking such computational processes using purely molecular systems has been limited in most cases by the lack of design generality or potential addressability of existing molecular logic gates. Herein we report that by employing the universal recognition properties of DNA simple photonic logic gates can be created that are capable of AND, NAND, and INHIBIT logic operations.

Compartmentalized microfluidic chambers enable long-term maintenance and communication between human pluripotent stem cell-derived forebrain and midbrain neurons

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1039/D1LC00505G

Abstract: Open coculture microfluidic chambers embedding Matrigel for 3D culture of hPSCderived forebrain and midbrain neurons over 5 months with functional neural activity.

Serum Total Immunoglobulin E Is a Surrogate of Atopy in Adult-Onset Asthma: A Longitudinal Study

Publisher: S. Karger AG

Date: 23-11-2013

DOI: 10.1159/000342464

Abstract: b i Background: /i /b Studies have shown that serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels are higher in asthmatics. However, the role of the serum total IgE level, independently from atopy, in adult asthma is not understood. We studied the associations between serum total IgE, the number of sensitizations and the sum of specific IgEs and new-onset asthma using longitudinal data from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey. b i Methods: /i /b Serum total and specific IgE to 4 common inhalant allergens were measured at baseline in 9,175 participants, with a follow-up of 9 years. In iduals with asthma history and/or asthma symptoms were excluded. Atopy was defined as the presence of at least one specific IgE ≥0.35 kU/l. Total and specific IgEs were regressed against new-onset asthma using multivariate logistic regression with a random intercept for the study centre. b i Results: /i /b Two hundred and ninety-seven participants had developed asthma during follow-up (incidence rate 5.7 per 1,000 person-years). A 10% higher level of total IgE was associated with a 12% increased risk of new-onset asthma (p = 0.005). However, after adjustment for the number of positive specific IgEs [odds ratio (OR) for multiple sensitization 1.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–2.88] and the sum of allergen-specific IgEs (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.00–1.40), the association between total IgE and asthma disappeared (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.91–1.10). Seventeen percent of new-onset asthma cases could be attributed to atopy, and this estimate was not largely modified when the total IgE level was simultaneously taken into account. b i Conclusions: /i /b After taking into account the number and intensity of 4 specific IgEs, the serum total IgE level was not associated with new-onset asthma in adults.

A pooling-based genome-wide analysis identifies new potential candidate genes for atopy in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-2009

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2350-10-128

Abstract: Asthma and atopy are complex phenotypes with shared genetic component. In this study we attempt to identify genes related to these traits performing a two-stage DNA pooling genome-wide analysis in order to reduce costs. First, we assessed all markers in a subset of subjects using DNA pooling, and in a second stage we evaluated the most promising markers at an in idual level. For the genome-wide analysis, we constructed DNA pools from 75 subjects with atopy and asthma, 75 subjects with atopy and without asthma and 75 control subjects without atopy or asthma. In a second stage, the most promising regions surrounding significant markers after correction for false discovery rate were replicated with in idual genotyping of s les included in the pools and an additional set of 429 atopic subjects and 222 controls from the same study centres. Homo sapiens protein kinase-like protein SgK493 ( SGK493 ) was found to be associated with atopy. To lesser extent mitogen-activated protein kinase 5 ( MAP3K5 ), collagen type XVIII alpha 1 ( COL18A1 ) and collagen type XXIX alpha 1 ( COL29A1 ) were also found to be associated with atopy. Functional evidences points out a role for MAP3K5 , COL18A1 and COL29A1 but the function of SGK493 is unknown. In this analysis we have identified new candidate regions related to atopy and suggest SGK493 as an atopy locus, although these results need further replication.

Microfluidic Cell Microarray Platform for High Throughput Analysis of Particle–Cell Interactions

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 02-03-2018

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.7B03079

The Essential Elements of a Risk Governance Framework for Current and Future Nanotechnologies

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 14-12-2017

DOI: 10.1111/RISA.12954

Abstract: Societies worldwide are investing considerable resources into the safe development and use of nanomaterials. Although each of these protective efforts is crucial for governing the risks of nanomaterials, they are insufficient in isolation. What is missing is a more integrative governance approach that goes beyond legislation. Development of this approach must be evidence based and involve key stakeholders to ensure acceptance by end users. The challenge is to develop a framework that coordinates the variety of actors involved in nanotechnology and civil society to facilitate consideration of the complex issues that occur in this rapidly evolving research and development area. Here, we propose three sets of essential elements required to generate an effective risk governance framework for nanomaterials. (1) Advanced tools to facilitate risk-based decision making, including an assessment of the needs of users regarding risk assessment, mitigation, and transfer. (2) An integrated model of predicted human behavior and decision making concerning nanomaterial risks. (3) Legal and other (nano-specific and general) regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and to stimulate proactive approaches to safety. The implementation of such an approach should facilitate and motivate good practice for the various stakeholders to allow the safe and sustainable future development of nanotechnology.

Surface-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry techniques for application in forensics

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-06-2015

DOI: 10.1002/MAS.21431

Abstract: Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) is an excellent analytical technique for the rapid and sensitive analysis of macromolecules (>700 Da), such as peptides, proteins, nucleic acids, and synthetic polymers. However, the detection of smaller organic molecules with masses below 700 Da using MALDI-MS is challenging due to the appearance of matrix adducts and matrix fragment peaks in the same spectral range. Recently, nanostructured substrates have been developed that facilitate matrix-free laser desorption ionization (LDI), contributing to an emerging analytical paradigm referred to as surface-assisted laser desorption ionization (SALDI) MS. Since SALDI enables the detection of small organic molecules, it is rapidly growing in popularity, including in the field of forensics. At the same time, SALDI also holds significant potential as a high throughput analytical tool in roadside, work place and athlete drug testing. In this review, we discuss recent advances in SALDI techniques such as desorption ionization on porous silicon (DIOS), nano-initiator mass spectrometry (NIMS) and nano assisted laser desorption ionization (NALDI™) and compare their strengths and weaknesses with particular focus on forensic applications. These include the detection of illicit drug molecules and their metabolites in biological matrices and small molecule detection from forensic s les including banknotes and fingerprints. Finally, the review highlights recent advances in mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) using SALDI techniques.

Detecting Protein Aggregates on Untreated Human Tissue Samples by Atomic Force Microscopy Recognition Imaging

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.BPJ.2010.06.044

Facile preparation of tissue engineering scaffolds with pore size gradients using the muesli effect and their application to cell spheroid encapsulation

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-02-2020

DOI: 10.1002/JBM.B.34581

H.E.S.S. constraints on dark matter annihilations towards the sculptor and carina dwarf galaxies

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.ASTROPARTPHYS.2010.12.006

Physical activity and bronchial hyperresponsiveness: European Community Respiratory Health Survey II

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 05-2007

DOI: 10.1136/THX.2006.068205

Advances in Nanoporous Anodic Alumina‐Based Biosensors to Detect Biomarkers of Clinical Significance: A Review

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 05-12-2017

DOI: 10.1002/ADHM.201700904

Abstract: There is a strong and growing demand for compact, portable, rapid, and low-cost devices to detect biomarkers of interest in clinical and point-of-care diagnostics. Such devices aid in early diagnosis of diseases without the need to rely on expensive and time-consuming large instruments in dedicated laboratories. Over the last decade, numerous biosensors have been developed for detection of a wide range of clinical biomarkers including proteins, nucleic acids, growth factors, and bacterial enzymes. Various transduction techniques have been reported based on biosensor technology that deliver substantial advances in analytical performance, including sensitivity, reproducibility, selectivity, and speed for monitoring a wide range of human health conditions. Nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) has been used extensively for biosensing applications due to its inherent optical and electrochemical properties, ease of fabrication, large surface area, tunable properties, and high stability in aqueous environment. This review focuses on NAA-based biosensing systems for detection of clinically significant biomarkers using various detection techniques with the main focus being on electrochemical and optical transduction methods. The review covers an overview of the importance of biosensors for biomarkers detection, general (surface and structural) properties and fabrication of NAA, and NAA-based biomarker sensing systems.

Recent Advances on Luminescent Enhancement-Based Porous Silicon Biosensors

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 25-02-2016

DOI: 10.1007/S11095-016-1889-1

Abstract: Luminescence-based detection paradigms have key advantages over other optical platforms such as absorbance, reflectance or interferometric based detection. However, autofluorescence, low quantum yield and lack of photostability of the fluorophore or emitting molecule are still performance-limiting factors. Recent research has shown the need for enhanced luminescence-based detection to overcome these drawbacks while at the same time improving the sensitivity, selectivity and reducing the detection limits of optical sensors and biosensors. Nanostructures have been reported to significantly improve the spectral properties of the emitting molecules. These structures offer unique electrical, optic and magnetic properties which may be used to tailor the surrounding electrical field of the emitter. Here, the main principles behind luminescence and luminescence enhancement-based detections are reviewed, with an emphasis on europium complexes as the emitting molecule. An overview of the optical porous silicon microcavity (pSiMC) as a biosensing platform and recent proof-of-concept ex les on enhanced luminescence-based detection using pSiMCs are provided and discussed.

Dual silane surface functionalization for the selective attachment of human neuronal cells to porous silicon

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 07-2011

DOI: 10.1021/LA201760W

Annular alpha-synuclein oligomers are potentially toxic agents in alpha-synucleinopathy. Hypothesis

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2005

DOI: 10.1007/BF03033776

Genome-wide association analysis identifies six new loci associated with forced vital capacity

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-06-2014

DOI: 10.1038/NG.3011

Sequence‐Addressable DNA Logic

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 04-2008

DOI: 10.1002/SMLL.200700113

Parameter-free prediction of DNA dynamics in planar extensional flow of semidilute solutions

Publisher: Society of Rheology

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1122/1.4972237

Skin in the diagnostics game: Wearable biosensor nano- and microsystems for medical diagnostics

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.NANTOD.2019.100828

Direct observation of DNA dynamics in semidilute solutions in extensional flow

Publisher: Society of Rheology

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1122/1.4972236

Geometrical Constraints of Poly(diethylene glycol methyl ether methacrylate) Brushes on Spherical Nanoparticles and Cylindrical Nanowires: Implications for Thermoresponsive Brushes on Nanoobjects

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 27-03-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACSANM.0C00401

Real-time detection of per-fluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) self-assembled monolayers in nanoporous interferometers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2021.131340

Discovery of variable VHEγ-ray emission from the binary system 1FGL J1018.6–5856

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 05-2015

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201525699

Fabrication and characterization of porous silicon nanoparticles for siRNA delivery

Publisher: IEEE

Date: 08-2011

DOI: 10.1109/NANO.2011.6144461

Label-Free <inline-formula> <tex-math notation=TeX>$\hbox{Si}_{3}\hbox{N}_{4}$</tex-math></inline-formula> Photonic Crystal Based Immunosensors for Diagnostic Applications

Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

Date: 12-2014

DOI: 10.1109/JPHOT.2014.2352625

Enhanced electrochemical sensing performance by in situ electrocopolymerization of pyrrole and thiophene-grafted chitosan

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJBIOMAC.2019.12.013

Abstract: Nowadays, there is increasing number of electrochemical biosensors which utilize chitosan (Ch) as an enzyme immobilization matrix, and conductive nanomaterials as electron carriers improving sensitivity of the biosensor. However, the challenge these sensors face is the lack of uniform dispersion of nanomaterials throughout the Ch film, which can negatively affect analytical performance of the biosensor. In this study, we report the development of an enzyme immobilization matrix that displays enhanced electrochemical performance thanks to a novel conductive thin film prepared via in situ electrocopolymerization of pyrrole (Py) and thiophene-grafted chitosan (Th-Ch). This is a simple thin film preparation method that can help overcome aforementioned challenges by providing a uniformly distributed conductive layer on the electrode. We are also for the first time reporting the synthesis and characterization of Th-Ch, where grafted Th plays an essential role as a linking group between Ch and Py. The resulting conductive Ch-based thin film was modified with glucose oxidase (GOx) which served as a model enzyme. In situ electrocopolymerization of Py with Th-Ch resulted in a highly conductive thin film enabling approximately 40% higher sensitivity when compared to a Py-Ch composite. This new type of composite thin film is promising in biosensor technology due to its biocompatibility, the chemically and physically modifiable structure, as well as its electrical conductivity.

Asthma characteristics in cleaning workers, workers in other risk jobs and office workers

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 09-2002

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.02.00279702

Abstract: Several studies have demonstrated an excess risk for asthma among cleaning workers. The aim of this analysis was to compare clinical, immunological and functional characteristics associated with asthma in cleaners and other occupational groups. Cleaners, workers exposed to high molecular weight (MW) agents, workers exposed to low MW agents, and office workers were identified from an international community-based epidemiological study. Influence of sex, smoking, age and atopy on the relationships with asthma was investigated. Rates of respiratory symptoms, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, atopic sensitisation and lung function were compared between asthmatics from the four groups (case-case analysis). The risk for asthma in workers exposed to low MW agents was higher among nonatopics than among atopics. Case-case analysis showed no major differences in asthma characteristics between cleaners and workers exposed to high or low MW agents. Asthmatic cleaners had less atopy, more chronic bronchitis and a lower lung function as compared to office workers. Asthma in cleaning workers showed many similarities with that in workers known to be at risk for occupational asthma. Atopic sensitisation did not seem to play an important role in cleaning-related asthma.

Joint effect of obesity and TNFA variability on asthma: two international cohort studies

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 05-02-2009

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00140608

Abstract: Obesity is a risk factor for asthma. Adipose tissue expresses pro-inflammatory molecules including tumour necrosis factor (TNF), and levels of TNF are also related to polymorphisms in the TNF-alpha (TNFA) gene. The current authors examined the joint effect of obesity and TNFA variability on asthma in adults by combining two population-based studies. The European Community Respiratory Health Survey and the Swiss Cohort Study on Air Pollution and Lung and Heart Disease in Adults used comparable protocols, questionnaires and measures of lung function and atopy. DNA s les from 9,167 participants were genotyped for TNFA -308 and lymphotoxin-alpha (LTA) +252 gene variants. Obesity and TNFA were associated with asthma when mutually adjusting for their independent effects (odds ratio (OR) for obesity 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.7-3.2 OR for TNFA -308 polymorphism 1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.6). The association of obesity with asthma was stronger for subjects carrying the G/A and A/A TNFA -308 genotypes compared with the more common G/G genotype, particularly among nonatopics (OR for G/A and A/A genotypes 6.1, 95% CI 2.5-14.4 OR for G/G genotype 1.7, 95% CI 0.8-3.3). The present findings provide, for the first time, evidence for a complex pattern of interaction between obesity, a pro-inflammatory genetic factor and asthma.

Interfacing porous silicon with biomolecules

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 21-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.759211

Hyperbranched polyglycerols at the biointerface

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.PROGSURF.2013.03.003

Synergistic influence of collagen I and BMP 2 drives osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells: A cell microarray analysis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2015.07.027

Abstract: Cell microarrays are a novel platform for the high throughput discovery of new biomaterials. By re-creating a multitude of cell microenvironments on a single slide, this approach can identify the optimal surface composition to drive a desired cell response. To systematically study the effects of molecular microenvironments on stem cell fate, we designed a cell microarray based on parallel exposure of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to surface-immobilised collagen I (Coll I) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP 2). This was achieved by means of a reactive coating on a slide surface, enabling the covalent anchoring of Coll I and BMP 2 as microscale spots printed by a robotic contact printer. The surface between the printed protein spots was passivated using poly (ethylene glycol) bisamine 10,000Da (A-PEG). MSCs were then captured and cultured on array spots composed of binary mixtures of Coll I and BMP 2, followed by automated image acquisition and quantitative, multi-parameter analysis of cellular responses. Surface compositions that gave the highest osteogenic differentiation were determined using Runx2 expression and calcium deposition. Quantitative single cell analysis revealed subtle concentration-dependent effects of surface-immobilised proteins on the extent of osteogenic differentiation obscured using conventional analysis. In particular, the synergistic interaction of Coll I and BMP 2 in supporting osteogenic differentiation was confirmed. Our studies demonstrate the value of cell microarray platforms to decipher the combinatorial interactions at play in stem cell niche microenvironments.

Back-contact perovskite solar cell fabrication via microsphere lithography

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.NANOEN.2022.107695

Stimulus-Responsiveness and Drug Release from Porous Silicon Films ATRP-Grafted with Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 23-05-2011

DOI: 10.1021/LA200551G

Abstract: In this report, we employ surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) to graft a thermoresponsive polymer, poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), of controlled thickness from porous silicon (pSi) films to produce a stimulus-responsive inorganic-organic composite material. The optical properties of this material are studied using interferometric reflectance spectroscopy (IRS) above and below the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of the PNIPAM graft polymer with regard to variation of pore sizes and thickness of the pSi layer (using discrete s les and pSi gradients) and also the thickness of the PNIPAM coatings. Our investigations of the composite's thermal switching properties show that pore size, pSi layer thickness, and PNIPAM coating thickness critically influence the material's thermoresponsiveness. This composite material has considerable potential for a range of applications including temperature sensors and feedback controlled drug release. Indeed, we demonstrate that modulation of the temperature around the LCST significantly alters the rate of release of the fluorescent anticancer drug c tothecin from the pSi-PNIPAM composite films.

The European Community Respiratory Health Survey: what are the main results so far?

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 09-2001

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.01.00205801

Abstract: The European Community Respiratory Heath Survey (ECRHS) was the first study to assess the geographical variation in asthma and allergy in adults using the same instruments and definitions. The database of the ECRHS includes information from ∼140,000 in iduals from 22 countries. The aim of this review is to summarize the results of the ECRHS to date. The ECRHS has shown that there are large geographical differences in the prevalence of asthma, atopy and bronchial responsiveness, with high prevalence rates in English speaking countries and low prevalence rates in the Mediterranean region and Eastern Europe. Analyses of risk factors have highlighted the importance of occupational exposure for asthma in adulthood. The association between sensitization to in idual allergens and bronchial responsiveness was strongest for indoor allergens (mite and cat). Analysis of treatment practices has confirmed that the treatment of asthma varies widely between countries and that asthma is often undertreated. In conclusion, the European Community Respiratory Health Survey has shown that the prevalence of asthma varies widely. The fact that the geographical pattern is consistent with the distribution of atopy and bronchial responsiveness supports the conclusion that the geographical variations in the prevalence of asthma are true and most likely due to environmental factors.

Spatially controlled electro-stimulated DNA adsorption and desorption for biochip applications

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2006

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2005.10.008

Abstract: The manipulation of biomolecules at solid/liquid interfaces is important for the enhanced performance of a number of biomedical devices, including biochips. This study focuses on the spatial control of surface interactions of DNA as well as the electro-stimulated adsorption and desorption of DNA by appropriate surface modification of highly doped p-type silicon. Surface modification by plasma polymerisation of allylamine resulted in a surface that supported DNA adsorption and sustained cell attachment. Subsequent high-density grafting of poly(ethylene oxide) formed a low fouling layer resistant to biomolecule adsorption and cell attachment. Spatially controlled excimer laser ablation of the surface produced patterns of re-exposed plasma polymer with high-resolution. On patterned surfaces, preferential electro-stimulated adsorption of DNA to the allylamine plasma polymer surface and subsequent desorption by the application of a negative bias was observed. Furthermore, the concept presented here was investigated for use in transfection chips. Cell culture experiments with human embryonic kidney cells, using the expression of green fluorescent protein as a reporter, demonstrated efficient and controlled transfection of cells. Electro-stimulated desorption of DNA was shown to yield significantly enhanced solid phase transfection efficiencies to values of up to 30%. The ability to spatially control DNA adsorption combined with the ability to control the binding and release of DNA by application of a controlled voltage enables an advanced level of control over DNA bioactivity on solid substrates and lends itself to biochip applications.

Changing Fate: Reprogramming Cells via Engineered Nanoscale Delivery Materials

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 14-07-2022

DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.202108757

Abstract: The incorporation of nanotechnology in regenerative medicine is at the nexus of fundamental innovations and early‐stage breakthroughs, enabling exciting biomedical advances. One of the most exciting recent developments is the use of nanoscale constructs to influence the fate of cells, which are the basic building blocks of healthy function. Appropriate cell types can be effectively manipulated by direct cell reprogramming a robust technique to manipulate cellular function and fate, underpinning burgeoning advances in drug delivery systems, regenerative medicine, and disease remodeling. In idual transcription factors, or combinations thereof, can be introduced into cells using both viral and nonviral delivery systems. Existing approaches have inherent limitations. Viral‐based tools include issues of viral integration into the genome of the cells, the propensity for uncontrollable silencing, reduced copy potential and cell specificity, and neutralization via the immune response. Current nonviral cell reprogramming tools generally suffer from inferior expression efficiency. Nanomaterials are increasingly being explored to address these challenges and improve the efficacy of both viral and nonviral delivery because of their unique properties such as small size and high surface area. This review presents the state‐of‐the‐art research in cell reprogramming, focused on recent breakthroughs in the deployment of nanomaterials as cell reprogramming delivery tools.

Rational Management of Photons for Enhanced Photocatalysis in Structurally-Colored Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Photonic Crystals

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 08-01-2019

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAEM.8B01721

Advanced Substrate Fabrication for Cell Microarrays

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-03-2009

DOI: 10.1021/BM801217N

Abstract: The fabrication and characterization of chemical patterns using a technique that can be readily integrated with methods currently used for the formation of microarrays is presented. A high density poly(ethylene glycol) coating was deposited on glass slides as a background exhibiting low cell attachment properties. Phenylazide modified polymers were then printed on this background. UV irradiation of these polymer arrays resulted in the cross-linking of the polymer spots and their covalent attachment to the surface. Cell attachment was shown to follow the resultant surface chemistry pattern. Furthermore, the use of a robotic contact printer enabled the facile deposition of DNA microarrays on top of and aligned with the polymer microarrays. A transfected cell microarray was generated in this way, demonstrating not only the ability of this platform to limit cell attachment to specific regions, but the suitability for chip-based functional genomics, in particular, and high density cell assays in general.

Discovery and follow-up studies of the extended, off-plane, VHE gamma-ray source HESS J1507-622

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 30-11-2010

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201015187

TeV Gamma-Ray Observations of the Binary Neutron Star Merger GW170817 with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 22-11-2017

DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/AA97D2

Fluoropolymer Functionalization of Organ-on-Chip Platform Increases Detection Sensitivity for Cannabinoids

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 08-2023

DOI: 10.3390/BIOS13080779

Abstract: Microfluidic technology is applied across various research areas including organ-on-chip (OOC) systems. The main material used for microfluidics is polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a silicone elastomer material that is biocompatible, transparent, and easy to use for OOC systems with well-defined microstructures. However, PDMS-based OOC systems can absorb hydrophobic and small molecules, making it difficult and erroneous to make quantitative analytical assessments for such compounds. In this paper, we explore the use of a synthetic fluoropolymer, poly(4,5-difluoro-2,2-bis(trifluoromethyl)-1,3-dioxole-co-tetrafluoroethylene) (Teflon™ AF 2400), with excellent “non-stick” properties to functionalize OOC systems. Cannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD), are classes of hydrophobic compounds with a great potential for the treatment of anxiety, depression, pain, and cancer. By using CBD as a testing compound, we examined and systematically quantified CBD absorption into PDMS by means of an LC-MS/MS analysis. In comparison to the unmodified PDMS microchannels, an increase of approximately 30× in the CBD signal was detected with the fluoropolymer surface modification after 3 h of static incubation. Under perfusion conditions, we observed an increase of nearly 15× in the CBD signals from the surface-modified microchannels than from the unmodified microchannels. Furthermore, we also demonstrated that fluoropolymer-modified microchannels are compatible for culturing hCMEC/D3 endothelial cells and for CBD perfusion experiments.

The Use of Microfluidics in Cytotoxicity and Nanotoxicity Experiments

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 12-04-2017

DOI: 10.3390/MI8040124

Laser-based patterning for transfected cell microarrays

Publisher: IOP Publishing

Date: 30-10-2009

DOI: 10.1088/1758-5082/1/4/045003

Abstract: The spatial control over biomolecule- and cell-surface interactions is of great interest to a broad range of biomedical applications, including sensors, implantable devices and cell microarrays. Microarrays in particular require precise spatial control and the formation of patterns with microscale features. Here, we have developed an approach specifically designed for transfected cell microarray (TCM) applications that allows microscale spatial control over the location of both DNA and cells on highly doped p-type silicon substrates. This was achieved by surface modification, involving plasma polymerization of allylamine, grafting of poly(ethylene glycol) and subsequent excimer laser ablation. DNA could be delivered in a spatially defined manner using ink-jet printing. In addition, electroporation was investigated as an approach to transfect attached cells with adsorbed DNA and good transfection efficiencies of approximately 20% were observed. The ability of the microstructured surfaces to spatially direct both DNA adsorption and cell attachment was demonstrated in a functional TCM, making this system an exciting platform for chip-based functional genomics.

Pore spanning lipid bilayers on silanised nanoporous alumina membranes

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.808769

Silicon Nanoneedle-Induced Nuclear Deformation: Implications for Human Somatic and Stem Cell Nuclear Mechanics

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 29-09-2022

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.2C10583

Abstract: Cell nuclear size and shape are strictly regulated, with aberrations often leading to or being indicative of disease. Nuclear mechanics are critically responsible for intracellular responses to extracellular cues, such as the nanotopography of the external environment. Silicon nanoneedle (SiNN) arrays are tunable, engineered cell culture substrates that permit precise, nanoscale modifications to a cell's external environment to probe mechanotransduction and intracellular signaling. We use a library of four different SiNN arrays to investigate the immediate and downstream effects of controlled geometries of nanotopographical cues on the nuclear integrity/dynamics of human immortalized somatic and renewing stem cell types. We quantify the significant, albeit different, nuclear shape changes that both cell types undergo, which suggest that cellular responses to SiNN arrays are more comparable to three-dimensional (3D) environments than traditional flat cultureware. We show that nanotopography-induced effects on nuclear envelope integrity, protein localization, and focal adhesion complex formation are cell-dependent. Migration is shown to be dramatically impeded for human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) on nanotopographies compared to flat substrates but not for somatic cells. Our results indicate an additional layer of complexity in cellular mechanotransduction, which warrants closer attention in the context of engineered substrates and scaffolds for clinical applications.

Smoking cessation, lung function, and weight gain: a follow-up study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2005

DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(05)66511-7

Biocompatibility of Porous Silicon

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-71381-6_38

Screening Mesenchymal Stem Cell Attachment and Differentiation on Porous Silicon Gradients

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-05-2012

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201200447

Fabrication of Nanostructured Mesoporous Germanium for Application in Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry.

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 06-02-2017

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.6B14362

Abstract: Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) is a high-throughput analytical technique ideally suited for small-molecule detection from different bodily fluids (e.g., saliva, urine, and blood plasma). Many SALDI-MS substrates require complex fabrication processes and further surface modifications. Furthermore, some substrates show instability upon exposure to ambient conditions and need to be kept under special inert conditions. We have successfully optimized mesoporous germanium (meso-pGe) using bipolar electrochemical etching and efficiently applied meso-pGe as a SALDI-MS substrate for the detection of illicit drugs such as in the context of workplace, roadside, and antiaddictive drug compliance. Argon plasma treatment improved the meso-pGe efficiency as a SALDI-MS substrate and eliminated the need for surface functionalization. The resulting substrate showed a precise surface geometry tuning by altering the etching parameters, and an outstanding performance for illicit drug detection with a limit of detection in Milli-Q water of 1.7 ng/mL and in spiked saliva as low as 5.3 ng/mL for cocaine. The meso-pGe substrate had a demonstrated stability over 56 days stored in ambient conditions. This proof-of-principle study demonstrates that meso-pGe can be reproducibly fabricated and applied as an analytical SALDI-MS substrate which opens the door for further analytical and forensic high-throughput applications.

Non-viral gene therapy that targets motor neurons in vivo

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 14-10-2014

DOI: 10.3389/FNMOL.2014.00080

Adsorption of bisphosphonate onto hydroxyapatite using a novel co‐precipitation technique for bone growth enhancement

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-06-2006

DOI: 10.1002/JBM.A.30792

Abstract: Premature bone resorption and remodeling by osteoclasts can limit the longevity of implant fixation and recovery time. Orally administered bisphosphonates (BPs) have been used to inhibit osteoclast action at the implant/bone interface. Ideally, these should be delivered at the interface with the osteoblast-active hydroxyapatite (HA) for maximum effect. This investigation introduces a novel BP loading technique to achieve improved BP release from a simulated body fluid-grown HA (SBF-HA) with the aim of improving implant fixation. A solution co-precipitation technique incorporates the BP (pamidronate) into a thin SBF-HA coating. Surface analysis, using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), of the resultant coating was employed to confirm the presence of the adsorbed BP on the surface of SBF-HA. XPS analysis was also used to determine the optimal adsorption process. Osteoclast cell culture experiments confirmed the biological effectiveness of BP adsorption and proved that the pamidronate was biologically active, causing both decreased osteoclast numbers and decreased resorption.

Change in prevalence of IgE sensitization and mean total IgE with age and cohort

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.JACI.2005.05.009

Abstract: Cross-sectional studies show that the prevalence of IgE sensitization is lower in older age groups than younger age groups. This could reflect either a decrease in sensitization with aging or a higher prevalence of sensitization in more recent birth cohorts. To assess change in IgE sensitization and mean total IgE in young adults as they age. Serum specific IgE to common allergens and total IgE were measured on 2 occasions about 9 years apart in 6371 young adults living in 28 centers, mainly in Western Europe, who took part in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II. Outcomes were analyzed by using generalized estimating equations, and adjustments were made for differences between laboratory measures on the 2 occasions. Overall, there was no net change in the prevalence of sensitization to at least 1 of house dust mite, grass, or cat (net change per 10 years of follow-up, -0.1% 95% CI, -1.7% to 1.5%), although there was a fall in mean total IgE (ratio of geometric mean total IgE, 0.86 95% CI, 0.79 to 0.93). There was evidence that sensitization to at least 1 allergen was higher in more recent cohorts, and this was largely explained by a higher prevalence of sensitization to grass. The disease burden associated with IgE sensitization in adults, and particularly with IgE sensitization to grass, is likely to continue to increase for some time despite current evidence that the increase in allergy seen in children may have ceased.

Surface-Initiated Hyperbranched Polyglycerol as an Ultralow-Fouling Coating on Glass, Silicon, and Porous Silicon Substrates

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 25-08-2014

DOI: 10.1021/AM503570V

Abstract: Anionic ring-opening polymerization of glycidol was initiated from activated glass, silicon, and porous silicon substrates to yield thin, ultralow-fouling hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) graft polymer coatings. Substrates were activated by deprotonation of surface-bound silanol functionalities. HPG polymerization was initiated upon the addition of freshly distilled glycidol to yield films in the nanometer thickness range. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, contact angle measurements, and ellipsometry were used to characterize the resulting coatings. The antifouling properties of HPG-coated surfaces were evaluated in terms of protein adsorption and the attachment of mammalian cells. The adsorption of bovine serum albumin and collagen type I was found to be reduced by as much as 97 and 91%, respectively, in comparison to untreated surfaces. Human glioblastoma and mouse fibroblast attachment was reduced by 99 and 98%, respectively. HPG-grafted substrates outperformed polyethylene glycol (PEG) grafted substrates of comparable thickness under the same incubation conditions. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of antifouling HPG graft polymer coatings on a selected range of substrate materials and open the door for their use in biomedical applications.

Fluorocarbon Plasma Gas Passivation Enhances Performance of Porous Silicon for Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 17-09-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACSSENSORS.0C01532

The biocompatibility of porous silicon in tissues of the eye

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2009.02.008

Abstract: In this report, we explore the biocompatibility of thermally-oxidised, aminosilanised porous silicon membranes and their potential to support human ocular cells in vitro and in vivo, in the rat eye. A colorimetric assay for silicic acid showed that membranes with pore sizes of 40-60nm slowly dissolved, but the material could be maintained in tissue culture medium in vitro for at least two weeks without visible degradation. When implanted under the rat conjunctiva, the material did not erode the underlying or overlying tissue. The implant underwent slow dissolution, but remained visible at the operating microscope for over 8 weeks. End-stage histology indicated the presence of a thin fibrous capsule surrounding the implant, but little evidence of any local accumulation of acute inflammatory cells or vascularization. Human lens epithelial cells and primary human corneal explants adhered to the porous silicon membranes, where they remained viable and underwent ision. Primary corneal epithelial cells supported on membranes were labelled with a cell tracker dye and implanted under the rat conjunctiva. Seven days later, labelled cells had moved from the membrane into the ocular tissue spaces. A porous silicon membrane may have value as a biomaterial that can support the delivery of cells to the ocular surface and improve existing therapeutic options in patients with corneal epithelial stem cell dysfunction and ocular surface disease.

Enhanced Structural Control of Soft-Templated Mesoporous Inorganic Thin Films by Inert Processing Conditions

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-12-2022

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.2C18090

Testing a global standard for quantifying species recovery and assessing conservation impact.

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-07-2021

DOI: 10.1111/COBI.13756

Abstract: Recognizing the imperative to evaluate species recovery and conservation impact, in 2012 the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) called for development of a "Green List of Species" (now the IUCN Green Status of Species). A draft Green Status framework for assessing species' progress toward recovery, published in 2018, proposed 2 separate but interlinked components: a standardized method (i.e., measurement against benchmarks of species' viability, functionality, and preimpact distribution) to determine current species recovery status (herein species recovery score) and application of that method to estimate past and potential future impacts of conservation based on 4 metrics (conservation legacy, conservation dependence, conservation gain, and recovery potential). We tested the framework with 181 species representing erse taxa, life histories, biomes, and IUCN Red List categories (extinction risk). Based on the observed distribution of species' recovery scores, we propose the following species recovery categories: fully recovered, slightly depleted, moderately depleted, largely depleted, critically depleted, extinct in the wild, and indeterminate. Fifty-nine percent of tested species were considered largely or critically depleted. Although there was a negative relationship between extinction risk and species recovery score, variation was considerable. Some species in lower risk categories were assessed as farther from recovery than those at higher risk. This emphasizes that species recovery is conceptually different from extinction risk and reinforces the utility of the IUCN Green Status of Species to more fully understand species conservation status. Although extinction risk did not predict conservation legacy, conservation dependence, or conservation gain, it was positively correlated with recovery potential. Only 1.7% of tested species were categorized as zero across all 4 of these conservation impact metrics, indicating that conservation has, or will, play a role in improving or maintaining species status for the vast majority of these species. Based on our results, we devised an updated assessment framework that introduces the option of using a dynamic baseline to assess future impacts of conservation over the short term to avoid misleading results which were generated in a small number of cases, and redefines short term as 10 years to better align with conservation planning. These changes are reflected in the IUCN Green Status of Species Standard.

Generation of reactive oxygen species from porous silicon microparticles in cell culture medium

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 18-09-2009

DOI: 10.1002/JBM.A.32610

Abstract: Nanostructured (porous) silicon is a promising biodegradable biomaterial, which is being intensively researched as a tissue engineering scaffold and drug-delivery vehicle. Here, we tested the biocompatibility of non-treated and thermally-oxidized porous silicon particles using an indirect cell viability assay. Initial direct cell culture on porous silicon determined that human lens epithelial cells only poorly adhered to non-treated porous silicon. Using an indirect cell culture assay, we found that non-treated microparticles caused complete cell death, indicating that these particles generated a toxic product in cell culture medium. In contrast, thermally-oxidized microparticles did not reduce cell viability significantly. We found evidence for the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by means of the fluorescent probe 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin. Our results suggest that non-treated porous silicon microparticles produced ROS, which interacted with the components of the cell culture medium, leading to the formation of cytotoxic species. Oxidation of porous silicon microparticles not only mitigated, but also abolished the toxic effects.

Lateral heterogeneities in supported bilayers from pure and mixed phosphatidylethanolamine demonstrating hydrogen bonding capacity

Publisher: American Vacuum Society

Date: 12-2008

DOI: 10.1116/1.3040158

Abstract: The phase behavior and lateral organization of saturated phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylcholine (PC) bilayers were investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and force-volume (FV) imaging for both pure and two component mixed layers. The results demonstrated the existence of unexpected segregated domains in pure PE membranes at temperatures well below the transition temperature (Tm) of the component phospholipid. These domains were of low mechanical stability and lacked the capacity for hydrogen bonding between lipid headgroups. Temperature dependent studies for different PC/PE ratios using AFM also demonstrated the mixing of these phospholipid bilayers to exhibit only a single gel to liquid transition temperature. Further work performed using FV imaging and chemically modified probes established that no lipid segregation exists at the PC/PE ratios investigated.

Antibody‐Functionalized Porous Silicon Nanoparticles for Vectorization of Hydrophobic Drugs

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-11-2012

DOI: 10.1002/ADHM.201200335

Abstract: We describe the preparation of biodegradable porous silicon nanoparticles (pSiNP) functionalized with cancer cell targeting antibodies and loaded with the hydrophobic anti-cancer drug c tothecin. Orientated immobilization of the antibody on the pSiNP is achieved using novel semicarbazide based bioconjugate chemistry. To demonstrate the generality of this targeting approach, the three antibodies MLR2, mAb528 and Rituximab are used, which target neuroblastoma, glioblastoma and B lymphoma cells, respectively. Successful targeting is demonstrated by means of flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry both with cell lines and primary cells. Cell viability assays after incubation with pSiNPs show selective killing of cells expressing the receptor corresponding to the antibody attached on the pSiNP.

The influence of dysfunctional actin on polystyrene-nanotube-mediated mRNA nanoinjection into mammalian cells

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2023

DOI: 10.1039/D3NR01111A

Abstract: PSNT replicated from SiNT were used as a nanoinjection platform for mRNA delivery into mammalian cells. The study showed that functional actin plays an important role in PSNT-mediated delivery especially during the initial cell interfacing period.

Fabrication of gold nanorod arrays by templating from porous alumina

Publisher: IOP Publishing

Date: 26-08-2005

DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/16/10/049

Abstract: A simple procedure for fabrication of gold films with nanorod arrays is described. The method is based on thermal evaporation of gold onto a porous alumina (PA) membrane used as a template. The gold films were obtained after removing the template and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry. The prepared gold films are composed of arrays of sharp (<20 nm at apex) rod-shaped gold nanostructures. These structures closely follow the organization and distribution of pores of the PA template. The length of the gold nanostructures is estimated to range from 300 nm to more than 1000 nm. It was found that their length is influenced by the size of the pores in the PA and the temperature of the PA during gold evaporation. Spectrophotometric characterization shows that the prepared gold films exhibit a surface plasmon resonance absorption peak located between 525 and 540 nm.

Is There a Threshold Concentration of Cat Allergen Exposure on Respiratory Symptoms in Adults?

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 02-06-2015

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0127457

Radiofrequency-triggered release for on-demand delivery of therapeutics from titania nanotube drug-eluting implants

Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd

Date: 06-2014

DOI: 10.2217/NNM.13.93

Abstract: Aim: This study aimed to demonstrate radiofrequency (RF)-triggered release of drugs and drug carriers from drug-eluting implants using gold nanoparticles as energy transducers. Materials & methods: Titanium wire with a titania nanotube layer was used as an implant loaded with indomethacin and micelles (tocopheryl PEG succinate) as a drug and drug carrier model. RF signals were generated from a customized RF generator to trigger in vitro release. Results & discussion: Within 2.5 h, 18 mg (92%) of loaded drug and 14 mg (68%) of loaded drug carriers were released using short RF exposure (5 min), compared with 5 mg (31%) of drug and 2 mg (11%) of drug carriers without a RF trigger. Gold nanoparticles can effectively function as RF energy transducers inside titania nanotubes for rapid release of therapeutics at arbitrary times. Conclusion: The results of this study show that RF is a promising strategy for triggered release from implantable drug delivery systems where on-demand delivery of therapeutics is required. Original submitted 19 November 2012 Revised submitted 1 April 2013

Atomic force microscopy-based antibody recognition imaging of proteins in the pathological deposits in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.ULTRAMIC.2011.03.008

Abstract: The phenomenon of protein aggregation is of considerable interest to various disciplines, including the field of medicine. A range of disease pathologies are associated with this phenomenon. One of the ocular diseases hallmarked by protein aggregation is the Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) Syndrome. This condition is characterized by the deposition of insoluble proteinaceous material on the anterior human lens capsule. Genomic and proteomic analyses have revealed an association of specific genetic markers and various proteins, respectively, with PEX syndrome. However, the ultrastructure of the protein aggregates is poorly characterized. This study seeks to build capacity to determine the molecular nature of PEX aggregates on human lens capsules in their native state by AFM-based antibody recognition imaging. Lysyl oxidase-Like 1 (LOXL1), a protein identified as a component of PEX aggregates, is detected by an antibody-modified AFM probe. Topographical AFM images and antibody recognition images are obtained using three AFM-based techniques: TREC, phase and force-volume imaging. LOXL1 is found to be present on the lens capsule surface, and is localized around fibrous protein aggregates. Our evaluation shows that TREC imaging is best suited for human tissue imaging and holds significant potential for imaging of human disease tissues in their native state.

Prospects for Cherenkov Telescope Array Observations of the Young Supernova Remnant RX J1713.7-3946

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 09-05-2017

DOI: 10.3847/1538-4357/AA6D67

Transdermal Electrochemical Monitoring of Glucose via High‐Density Silicon Microneedle Array Patch

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 04-03-2021

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202009850

Abstract: Current technology for blood glucose level monitoring is mainly based on the invasive finger‐prick extraction of a small drop of blood using a lancet and measured via a handheld glucometer, which is not conducive to continuous measurements. Interstitial fluid (ISF) is gaining attention as an alternative biofluid. Its biochemical composition is very similar to that of blood and it can be monitored in a continuous manner via minimally invasive methods that cause no pain and minimize any risk of infection. Herein, a microneedle array (MNA) based transdermal sensing system for the pain free monitoring of ISF glucose is presented. High‐density silicon microneedles ( ≈ 9500 microneedles cm −2 ) are used to prepare a three‐electrode patch for the electrochemical monitoring of glucose. The MNA glucose patch shows very good selectivity when tested in artificial ISF, with a sensitivity of 0.1622 µ A m m −1 cm −2 and a detection limit of 0.66 m m . In vivo application of the microneedle array in mice shows that the ISF glucose concentrations obtained with the MNA sensor gave very good correlation with the blood glucose levels determined with a commercial glucometer. This microneedle‐based sensing system hence provides an alternative transdermal diagnostic tool to the invasive existing techniques.

Mitochondrial imaging in live or fixed tissues using a luminescent iridium complex

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-05-2018

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-018-24672-W

Abstract: Mitochondrial morphology is important for the function of this critical organelle and, accordingly, altered mitochondrial structure is exhibited in many pathologies. Imaging of mitochondria can therefore provide important information about disease presence and progression. However, mitochondrial imaging is currently limited by the availability of agents that have the capacity to image mitochondrial morphology in both live and fixed s les. This can be particularly problematic in clinical studies or large, multi-centre cohort studies, where tissue archiving by fixation is often more practical. We previously reported the synthesis of an iridium coordination complex [Ir( ppy ) 2 ( MeTzPyPhCN )] + where ppy is a cyclometalated 2-phenylpyridine and TzPyPhCN is the 5-(5-(4-cyanophen-1-yl)pyrid-2-yl)tetrazolate ligand and showed that this complex (herein referred to as IraZolve-Mito) has a high specificity for mitochondria in live cells. Here we demonstrate that IraZolve-Mito can also effectively stain mitochondria in both live and fixed tissue s les. The staining protocol proposed is versatile, providing a universal procedure for cell biologists and pathologists to visualise mitochondria.

Comparison of the binding mode of plasmid DNA to allylamine plasma polymer and poly(ethylene glycol) surfaces

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.SUSC.2008.03.029

A Barley Efflux Transporter Operates in a Na⁺-Dependent Manner, as Revealed by a Multidisciplinary Platform

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 15-12-2015

DOI: 10.1105/TPC.15.00625

An international prospective general population-based study of respiratory work disability

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 08-01-2009

DOI: 10.1136/THX.2008.105007

Abstract: Previous cross-sectional studies have shown that job change due to breathing problems at the workplace (respiratory work disability) is common among adults of working age. That research indicated that occupational exposure to gases, dust and fumes was associated with job change due to breathing problems, although causal inferences have been tempered by the cross-sectional nature of previously available data. There is a need for general population-based prospective studies to assess the incidence of respiratory work disability and to delineate better the roles of potential predictors of respiratory work disability. A prospective general population cohort study was performed in 25 centres in 11 European countries and one centre in the USA. A longitudinal analysis was undertaken of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey including all participants employed at any point since the baseline survey, 6659 subjects randomly s led and 779 subjects comprising all subjects reporting physician-diagnosed asthma. The main outcome measure was new-onset respiratory work disability, defined as a reported job change during follow-up attributed to breathing problems. Exposure to dusts (biological or mineral), gases or fumes during follow-up was recorded using a job-exposure matrix. Cox proportional hazard regression modelling was used to analyse such exposure as a predictor of time until job change due to breathing problems. The incidence rate of respiratory work disability was 1.2/1000 person-years of observation in the random s le (95% CI 1.0 to 1.5) and 5.7/1000 person-years in the asthma cohort (95% CI 4.1 to 7.8). In the random population s le, as well as in the asthma cohort, high occupational exposure to biological dust, mineral dust or gases or fumes predicted increased risk of respiratory work disability. In the random s le, sex was not associated with increased risk of work disability while, in the asthma cohort, female sex was associated with an increased disability risk (hazard ratio 2.8, 95% CI 1.3 to 5.9). Respiratory work disability is common overall. It is associated with workplace exposures that could be controlled through preventive measures.

Screening of rat mesenchymal stem cell behaviour on polydimethylsiloxane stiffness gradients

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2011.09.030

Abstract: Substrate stiffness is emerging as an effective tool for the regulation of cell behaviours such as locomotion, proliferation and differentiation. In order to explore the potential application of this biophysical tool, material platforms displaying lateral and continuously graded stiffness are advantageous since they allow the systematic exploration of adherent cell response to substrate stiffness and the tuning of the material to elicit the desired cell behaviour. Here, we demonstrate a simple approach towards the fabrication of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) stiffness gradients (with an indentation modulus of 190 kPa-3.1 MPa across a 12 mm distance) by means of a temperature gradient during curing. We then apply these stiffness gradients to the screening of osteogenic differentiation in rat mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs). Our proof-of-principle results show that mineralization of rMSCs is strongly dependent on the PDMS substrate stiffness, but is also influenced by the display of extracellular matrix proteins preadsorbed on the gradients. This screening capability holds tremendous potential for the design of improved implant materials and tissue engineering scaffolds.

Unidirectional rotation of micromotors on water powered by pH-controlled disassembly of chiral molecular crystals

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-05-2023

DOI: 10.1038/S41467-023-38308-9

Abstract: Biological and synthetic molecular motors, fueled by various physical and chemical means, can perform asymmetric linear and rotary motions that are inherently related to their asymmetric shapes. Here, we describe silver-organic micro-complexes of random shapes that exhibit macroscopic unidirectional rotation on water surface through the asymmetric release of cinchonine or cinchonidine chiral molecules from their crystallites asymmetrically adsorbed on the complex surfaces. Computational modeling indicates that the motor rotation is driven by a pH-controlled asymmetric jet-like Coulombic ejection of chiral molecules upon their protonation in water. The motor is capable of towing very large cargo, and its rotation can be accelerated by adding reducing agents to the water.

Multidirectional lateral gradient films with position-dependent photonic signatures made from porous silicon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.OPTMAT.2009.07.015

A complementary forensic ‘proteo-genomic’ approach for the direct identification of biological fluid traces under fingernails

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-07-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S00216-018-1223-3

Abstract: Violent contact between in iduals during a crime can result in body fluids becoming trapped under the fingernails of the in iduals involved. The traces under fingernails represent valuable forensic evidence because DNA profiling can indicate from whom the trace originated and proteomic methods can be used to determine the type of fluid in the trace, thus providing evidence as to the circumstances surrounding the crime. Here, we present an initial study of an analytical strategy that involves two complementary techniques, direct PCR DNA profiling and direct mass spectrometry-based protein biomarker detection, for the comprehensive examination of traces of biological fluids gathered from underneath fingernails. With regard to protein biomarker detection, direct MALDI-ToF MS/MS is very sensitive, allowing results to be obtained from biological material present on only a few fibres plucked from a microswab used to collect the traces. Human cornulin, a protein biomarker for vaginal fluid, could be detected up to 5 h after it had been deposited under fingernails whereas haemoglobin, a biomarker for blood, is somewhat more persistent under fingernails and could be detected up to 18 h post-deposition. Bottom-up tandem mass spectrometry techniques were used to provide a high level of confidence in assigning the identity of protein biomarkers. nLC-ESI-qToF MS/MS offered higher levels of confidence and the ability to detect traces that had been present under fingernails for longer periods of time, but this performance came with the cost of longer analysis time and a more laborious s ling approach. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

Gold-Decorated Porous Silicon Nanopillars for Targeted Hyperthermal Treatment of Bacterial Infections

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 25-09-2017

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.7B13278

Abstract: In order to address the issue of pathogenic bacterial colonization of diabetic wounds, a more direct and robust approach is required, which relies on a physical form of bacterial destruction in addition to the conventional biochemical approach (i.e., antibiotics). Targeted bacterial destruction through the use of photothermally active nanomaterials has recently come into the spotlight as a viable approach to solving the rising problem of antibiotic resistant microorganisms. Materials with high absorption coefficients in the near-infrared (NIR) region of the electromagnetic spectrum show promise as alternative antibacterial therapeutic agents, since they preclude the development of bacterial resistance and can be activated on demand. Here were report on a novel approach for the fabrication of gold nanoparticle decorated porous silicon nanopillars with tunable geometry that demonstrate excellent photothermal conversion properties when irradiated with a 808 nm laser. These photothermal antibacterial properties are demonstrated in vitro against the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli). Results show a reduction in bacterial viability of up to 99% after 10 min of laser irradiation. We also show an increase in antibacterial performance after modifying the nanopillars with S. aureus targeting antibodies causing up to a 10-fold increase in bactericidal efficiency compared to E. coli. In contrast, the nanomaterial resulted in minimal disruption of metabolic processes in human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) after an equivalent period of irradiation.

Changing Beliefs About Female Leader Advancement Following the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Date: 13-06-2018

DOI: 10.1177/1948550618766399

Abstract: Scholars have discussed the implications of positive leadership role models, including the impact of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton’s political rise for aspiring leaders of underrepresented groups. However, there are also potential ramifications when those role models fail, shaping broader beliefs about the permeability of the glass ceiling. The current research tests this idea by evaluating the perceived promotability of male and female business leaders before ( n = 165) and following ( n = 159) the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Results indicated that the election result negatively affected the perceived promotability of women relative to men. A conceptual replication study ( N = 997) manipulating election reminders yielded a similar pattern. Notably, respondents’ own beliefs about the glass ceiling and willingness to work with the targets did not change, suggesting that Clinton’s failed leadership bid informed predictions about the behavior of others, but it did not shift personal attitudes toward female leaders.

Photonic nanostructures for potential applications in cell biology

Publisher: IEEE

Date: 06-2010

DOI: 10.1109/ICTON.2010.5548992

Variation in bronchial responsiveness in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS)

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 11-1997

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.97.10112495

Abstract: Attempts to compare bronchial responsiveness between populations have been h ered by between-study differences in the pharmacological agent of provocation, the method of administration and the summary statistic employed. The European Community Respiratory Health Survey used methacholine challenge delivered by Mefar dosimeter according to a standardized protocol used in 35 centres in 16 countries. Data were obtained from 13,161 men and women, aged 20-44 yrs at the start of the study. The dose of methacholine producing a 20% fall in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (PD20) and the regression coefficient of percentage decline in FEV1 with log dose, were calculated ("slope", after transformation), with and without calibration of nebulizers by weight and adjustment for nonresponse bias. Standardization for baseline lung function and variation in smoking prevalence was applied to slope. Results were robust to whichever summary measure was used, and to the various adjustments. Responsiveness was low in Iceland and Switzerland, and in most centres in Sweden, Italy and Spain, and high in New Zealand, Australia, the USA, Britain, France, Denmark and Germany. Bronchial responsiveness varies considerably in Europe, and high levels are not confined to the English-speaking world.

Influencing others: gender matters to third-parties who observe your interactions at work

Publisher: University of Queensland Library

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.14264/83AB388

Biosensors and Point‐of‐Care Devices for Bacterial Detection: Rapid Diagnostics Informing Antibiotic Therapy

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-12-2021

DOI: 10.1002/ADHM.202101546

Abstract: With an exponential rise in antimicrobial resistance and stagnant antibiotic development pipeline, there is, more than ever, a crucial need to optimize current infection therapy approaches. One of the most important stages in this process requires rapid and effective identification of pathogenic bacteria responsible for diseases. Current gold standard techniques of bacterial detection include culture methods, polymerase chain reactions, and immunoassays. However, their use is fraught with downsides with high turnaround time and low accuracy being the most prominent. This imposes great limitations on their eventual application as point‐of‐care devices. Over time, innovative detection techniques have been proposed and developed to curb these drawbacks. In this review, a systematic summary of a range of biosensing platforms is provided with a strong focus on technologies conferring high detection sensitivity and specificity. A thorough analysis is performed and the benefits and drawbacks of each type of biosensor are highlighted, the factors influencing their potential as point‐of‐care devices are discussed, and the authors' insights for their translation from proof‐of‐concept systems into commercial medical devices are provided.

Cell Culture on Porous Silicon

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-71381-6_50

A mass spectrometry-based forensic toolbox for imaging and detecting biological fluid evidence in finger marks and fingernail scrapings

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-04-2017

DOI: 10.1007/S00414-017-1587-5

Abstract: During a crime, biological material such as blood or vaginal fluid may become smeared on the fingers of the victim or suspect or trapped under their fingernails. The type of trapped fluid is extremely valuable forensic information. Furthermore, if either person touches an object at the crime scene with their 'contaminated' finger then a 'contaminated' finger mark may be deposited. Such marks have great value as they could identify not only who deposited the mark but also who they touched and which part of the body they touched. Here, we describe preliminary work towards a 'toolbox' of techniques based on mass spectrometry (MS) for the identification of biological fluid traces under fingernails or the imaging of them in finger marks. Liquid chromatography-multidimensional MS was effective for the detection of protein biomarkers characteristic of vaginal fluid and blood trapped under fingernails, even after hands had been washed. In regard to examination of finger marks for the presence of biological fluids, the most practical implementation of any technique is to integrate it with, but after, routine crime scene finger mark enhancement has been applied. Here, we demonstrate the usage of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight-MS for the detection and mapping of proteins and peptides from body fluids in finger marks, including marks enhanced using aluminium-containing magnetic powder and then 'lifted' with adhesive tape. Hitherto, only small molecules have been detected in enhanced, lifted marks. In a novel development, aluminium in the enhancement powder assisted ionization of small molecules in finger marks to the extent that conventional matrix was not required for MS.

Impact of resveratrol‐mediated increase in uterine artery blood flow on fetal haemodynamics, blood pressure and oxygenation in sheep

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-03-2021

DOI: 10.1113/EP089237

Polymeric nanoneedle arrays mediate stiffness-independent intracellular delivery

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 09-2022

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202104828

Abstract: Tunable vertically aligned nanostructures, usually fabricated using inorganic materials, are powerful nanoscale tools for advanced cellular manipulation. However, nanoscale precision typically requires advanced nanofabrication machinery and involves high manufacturing costs. By contrast, polymeric nanoneedles (NNs) of precise geometry can be produced by replica molding or nanoimprint lithography—rapid, simple, and cost‐effective. Here, cytocompatible polymeric arrays of NNs are engineered with identical topographies but differing stiffness, using polystyrene (PS), SU8, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). By interfacing the polymeric NN arrays with adherent and suspension mammalian cells, and comparing the cellular responses of each of the three polymeric substrates, the influence of substrate stiffness from topography on cell behavior is decoupled. Notably, the ability of PS, SU8, and PDMS NNs is demonstrated to facilitate mRNA delivery to GPE86 cells with 26.8% ± 3.5%, 33.2% ± 7.4%, and 30.1% ± 4.1% average transfection efficiencies, respectively. Electron microscopy reveals the intricacy of the cell–NN interactions and immunofluorescence imaging demonstrates that enhanced endocytosis is one of the mechanisms of PS NN‐mediated intracellular delivery, involving the endocytic proteins caveolin‐1 and clathrin heavy chain. The results provide insights into the interfacial interactions between cells and polymeric NNs, and their related intracellular delivery mechanisms.

Nanostructured Electrochemical Biosensors for Label-Free Detection of Water- and Food-Borne Pathogens

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-02-2018

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.7B13943

Abstract: The emergence of nanostructured materials has opened new horizons in the development of next generation biosensors. Being able to control the design of the electrode interface at the nanoscale combined with the intrinsic characteristics of the nanomaterials engenders novel biosensing platforms with improved capabilities. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive and critical overview of the latest trends in emerging nanostructured electrochemical biosensors. A detailed description and discussion of recent approaches to construct label-free electrochemical nanostructured electrodes is given with special focus on pathogen detection for environmental monitoring and food safety. This includes the use of nanoscale materials such as nanotubes, nanowires, nanoparticles, and nanosheets as well as porous nanostructured materials including nanoporous anodic alumina, mesoporous silica, porous silicon, and polystyrene nanochannels. These platforms may pave the way toward the development of point-of-care portable electronic devices for applications ranging from environmental analysis to biomedical diagnostics.

Risk assessment on-a-chip: a cell-based microfluidic device for immunotoxicity screening

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1039/D0NA00857E

Abstract: This study presents the development of a microfluidic device to assess the cytotoxicity of nanoparticles on human immune cells.

Material properties of lipid microdomains

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.BPJ.2010.04.072

ERRATUM: “SEARCH FOR DARK MATTER ANNIHILATION SIGNALS FROM THE FORNAX GALAXY CLUSTER WITH H.E.S.S.” (2012, ApJ, 750, 123)

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 13-02-2014

DOI: 10.1088/0004-637X/783/1/63

Concurrent elution of calcium phosphate and macromolecules from alginate/chitosan hydrogel coatings

Publisher: American Vacuum Society

Date: 12-2008

DOI: 10.1116/1.3046123

Abstract: The concurrent release of calcium phosphate and biomacromolecules may improve wound healing responses at the interface with ceramic materials of orthopaedic and dental implants. Hydrogel coatings consisting of a mixture of alginate and chitosan were doped and applied onto solid carriers with the aim of investigating their use as local delivery vehicles. Coatings containing both the model macromolecule FITC-dextran 70 kDa (FD 70) and dispersed calcium phosphate carbonate (CPC) nanoparticles were coated onto a solid, nonporous model substrate to study the concurrent release of FD 70 and calcium and phosphate ions from within the hydrogel. Hydrogel coatings containing only FD 70 were cast onto porous calcium phosphate coatings, similar to hydroxyapatite, to study the release of FD 70 from, and calcium and phosphate ions through, the hydrogel coating. Transmission electron microscopy showed good dispersion of the CPC nanoparticles, and scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy showed that increased CPC loading resulted in an increase in surface roughness but to extents well below those affecting cell responses. The release of FD 70 from CPC-loaded coatings was similar to release from the hydrogel alone, although higher CPC loadings resulted in small changes. The release of FD 70 was better described by double or triple phase zero order release kinetics this complex time dependence indicates that in addition to outdiffusion, other, time-dependent factors apply, such as swelling of the gel, as expected from the known effects of calcium ions on alginate. Calcium and phosphate ions were also released, with similar release kinetics, through the hydrogel layer from the underlying CaP layer. In either case, release decreased to negligible levels after 3 days, suggesting that the systems of this study are suitable for short-term concurrent release of water-soluble biomacromolecules and calcium and phosphate ions.

The γ-ray spectrum of the core of Centaurus A as observed with H.E.S.S. and Fermi-LAT

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 11-2018

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201832640

Abstract: Centaurus A (Cen A) is the nearest radio galaxy discovered as a very-high-energy (VHE 100 GeV–100 TeV) γ -ray source by the High Energy Stereoscopic System (H.E.S.S.). It is a faint VHE γ -ray emitter, though its VHE flux exceeds both the extrapolation from early Fermi -LAT observations as well as expectations from a (misaligned) single-zone synchrotron-self Compton (SSC) description. The latter satisfactorily reproduces the emission from Cen A at lower energies up to a few GeV. New observations with H.E.S.S., comparable in exposure time to those previously reported, were performed and eight years of Fermi -LAT data were accumulated to clarify the spectral characteristics of the γ -ray emission from the core of Cen A. The results allow us for the first time to achieve the goal of constructing a representative, contemporaneous γ -ray core spectrum of Cen A over almost five orders of magnitude in energy. Advanced analysis methods, including the template fitting method, allow detection in the VHE range of the core with a statistical significance of 12 σ on the basis of 213 hours of total exposure time. The spectrum in the energy range of 250 GeV–6 TeV is compatible with a power-law function with a photon index Γ = 2.52 ± 0.13 stat ± 0.20 sys . An updated Fermi -LAT analysis provides evidence for spectral hardening by Δ Γ ≃ 0.4 ± 0.1 at γ -ray energies above 2.8 +1.0 −0.6 GeV at a level of 4.0 σ . The fact that the spectrum hardens at GeV energies and extends into the VHE regime disfavour a single-zone SSC interpretation for the overall spectral energy distribution (SED) of the core and is suggestive of a new γ -ray emitting component connecting the high-energy emission above the break energy to the one observed at VHE energies. The absence of significant variability at both GeV and TeV energies does not yet allow disentanglement of the physical nature of this component, though a jet-related origin is possible and a simple two-zone SED model fit is provided to this end.

The Use of Household Cleaning Sprays and Adult Asthma

Publisher: American Thoracic Society

Date: 15-10-2007

DOI: 10.1164/RCCM.200612-1793OC

Identification and In Vitro Expansion of Buccal Epithelial Cells

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Date: 06-2018

DOI: 10.1177/0963689718773330

Abstract: Ex vivo-expanded buccal mucosal epithelial (BME) cell transplantation has been used to reconstruct the ocular surface. Methods for enrichment and maintenance of BME progenitor cells in ex vivo cultures may improve the outcome of BME cell transplantation. However, the parameter of cell seeding density in this context has largely been neglected. This study investigates how varying cell seeding density influences BME cell proliferation and differentiation on tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS). The highest cell proliferation activity was seen when cells were seeded at 5×10 4 cells/cm 2 . Both below and above this density, the cell proliferation rate decreased sharply. Differential immunofluorescence analysis of surface markers associated with the BME progenitor cell population (p63, CK19, and ABCG2), the differentiated cell marker CK10 and connexin 50 (Cx50) revealed that the initial cell seeding density also significantly affected the progenitor cell marker expression profile. Hence, this study demonstrates that seeding density has a profound effect on the proliferation and differentiation of BME stem cells in vitro, and this is relevant to downstream cell therapy applications.

Search for extendedγ-ray emission around AGN with H.E.S.S. andFermi-LAT

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 02-2014

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201322510

Biointerface design for vertical nanoprobes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-08-2022

DOI: 10.1038/S41578-022-00464-7

An Increase in Bronchial Responsiveness Is Associated with Continuing or Restarting Smoking

Publisher: American Thoracic Society

Date: 15-10-2005

DOI: 10.1164/RCCM.200503-323OC

Laser-induced micro- and nanostructures at polymer surfaces for applications in cell biology

Publisher: IEEE

Date: 06-2011

DOI: 10.1109/ICTON.2011.5970989

Nanostructured Silicon‐Based Fingerprint Dusting Powders for Enhanced Visualization and Detection by Mass Spectrometry

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-01-2016

DOI: 10.1002/CPLU.201500546

Abstract: Porous silicon microparticles (pSi MPs) functionalized with fluorescent dyes (lissamine and carboxy-5-fluorescein) and intrinsically luminescent pSi MPs were explored as novel fingerprint dusting powders. The versatility of luminescent pSi MPs is demonstrated through time-gated imaging of their long-lived (lifetime>28 μs) near-IR emission, and mass spectrometry analysis of fingerprints dusted with luminescent pSi MPs to provide further information on exogenous small molecules present in latent fingerprints.

Single Cell Level Quantification of Nanoparticle–Cell Interactions Using Mass Cytometry

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 24-07-2017

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.7B01006

Abstract: Quantification of cell-associated nanoparticles (NPs) is a paramount question in both nanomedicine and nanotoxicology. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is a well-established method to resolve cell-associated (metal) NPs in bulk cell populations, however, such analysis at single cell level remains a challenge. Here we used mass cytometry, a technique that combines single cell analysis and time-of-flight mass spectrometry, to quantitatively analyze extra- and intracellular silver (Ag) in in idual Ag NP exposed human T-lymphocytes. The results revealed significant population heterogeneity: for ex le, in lymphocytes exposed to 3 μg of 30 nm branched polyethylene imine coated Ag NPs/mL the extracellularly bound Ag varied from 79 to 560 fg and cellular uptake from 17 to 121 fg. Similar litude of heterogeneity was observed in cells exposed to various doses of Ag NPs with other sizes and surface coatings, demonstrating the importance of single cell analysis when studying NP-cell interactions. Although mass cytometry has some shortcomings such as inability to analyze potential transformation or dissolution of NPs in cells, we consider this method as the most promising for quantitative assessment of cell-NP interaction at single cell level.

3D printed lattices as an activation and expansion platform for T cell therapy

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2017.05.009

Abstract: One of the most significant hurdles to the affordable, accessible delivery of cell therapy is the cost and difficulty of expanding cells to clinically relevant numbers. Immunotherapy to prevent autoimmune disease, tolerate organ transplants or target cancer critically relies on the expansion of specialized T cell populations. We have designed 3D-printed cell culture lattices with highly organized micron-scale architectures, functionalized via plasma polymerization to bind monoclonal antibodies that trigger cell proliferation. This 3D technology platform facilitate the expansion of therapeutic human T cell subsets, including regulatory, effector, and cytotoxic T cells while maintaining the correct phenotype. Lentiviral gene delivery to T cells is enhanced in the presence of the lattices. Incorporation of the lattice format into existing cell culture vessels such as the G-Rex system is feasible. This cell expansion platform is user-friendly and expedites cell recovery and scale-up, making it ideal for translating T cell therapies from bench to bedside.

Matrix metalloproteinase biosensor based on a porous silicon reflector

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1071/CH13352

Abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are proteolytic enzymes important to wound healing. In non-healing wounds, it has been suggested that MMP levels become dysfunctional, hence it is of great interest to develop sensors to detect MMP biomarkers. This study presents the development of a label-free optical MMP biosensor based on a functionalised porous silicon (pSi) thin film. The biosensor is fabricated by immobilising a peptidomimetic MMP inhibitor in the porous layer using hydrosilylation followed by amide coupling. The binding of MMP to the immobilised inhibitor translates into a change of effective optical thickness over time. We investigated the effect of surface functionalisation on the stability of the pSi surface and evaluated sensing performance. We successfully demonstrated MMP detection in buffer solution and human wound fluid at physiologically relevant concentrations. This biosensor may find application as a point-of-care device that is prognostic of the healing trajectory of chronic wounds.

ELOVL5 Is a Critical and Targetable Fatty Acid Elongase in Prostate Cancer

Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)

Date: 05-02-2021

DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-20-2511

Abstract: This study identifies phospholipid elongation as a new metabolic target of androgen action that is critical for prostate tumor metastasis.

Capturing instructive cues of tissue microenvironment by silica bioreplication

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTBIO.2019.11.033

Abstract: Cells in tissues are enveloped by an instructive niche made of the extracellular matrix. These instructive niches contain three general types of information: topographical, biochemical and mechanical. While the combined effects of these three factors are widely studied, the functions of each in idual one has not been systematically characterised, because it is impossible to alter a single factor in a tissue microenvironment without simultaneously affecting the other two. Silica BioReplication (SBR) is a process that converts biological s les into silica, faithfully preserving the original topography at the nano-scale. We explored the use of this technique to generate inorganic replicas of intact mammalian tissues, including tendon, cartilage, skeletal muscle and spinal cord. Scanning electron and atomic force microscopy showed that the resulting replicas accurately preserved the three-dimensional ultrastructure of each tissue, while all biochemical components were eradicated by calcination. Such properties allowed the uncoupling the topographical information of a tissue microenvironment from its biochemical and mechanical components. Here, we showed that human mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) cultured on the replicas of different tissues displayed vastly different morphology and focal adhesions, suggesting that the topography of the tissue microenvironment captured by SBR could profoundly affect MSC biology. MSC cultured on tendon replica elongated and expressed tenocytes marker, while MSC on the spinal cord replica developed into spheroids that resembled neurospheres, in morphology and in the expression of neurosphere markers, and could be further differentiated into neuron-like cells. This study reveals the significance of topographical cues in a cell niche, as tissue-specific topography was sufficient in initiating and directing differentiation of MSC, despite the absence of any biochemical signals. SBR is a convenient and versatile method for capturing this topographical information, facilitating the functional characterisation of cell niches. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Various studies have shown that three major factors, topographical, biochemical and mechanical, in a tissue microenvironment (TME) are essential for cellular homeostasis and functions. Current experimental models are too simplistic to represent the complexity of the TME, hindering the detailed understanding of its functions. In particular, the importance each factor in a tissue microenvironment have not been in idually characterised, because it is challenging to alter one of these factors without simultaneously affecting the other two. Silica bioreplication (SBR) is a process that converts biological s les into silica replicas with high structural fidelity. SBR is a convenient and versatile method for capturing this topographical information on to a biologically inert material, allowing the functional characterisation of the architecture of a TME.

Temperature‐Controlled Antimicrobial Release from Poly(diethylene glycol methylether methacrylate)‐Functionalized Bottleneck‐Structured Porous Silicon for the Inhibition of Bacterial Growth

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 17-05-2016

DOI: 10.1002/MACP.201600099

The Role of Diatom Nanostructures in Biasing Diffusion to Improve Uptake in a Patchy Nutrient Environment

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 07-05-2013

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0059548

Development of a wireless intra-ocular pressure monitoring system for incorporation into a therapeutic glaucoma drainage implant

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.810647

Precision Surface Microtopography Regulates Cell Fate via Changes to Actomyosin Contractility and Nuclear Architecture

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 29-01-2021

DOI: 10.1002/ADVS.202003186

Abstract: Cells are able to perceive complex mechanical cues from their microenvironment, which in turn influences their development. Although the understanding of these intricate mechanotransductive signals is evolving, the precise roles of substrate microtopography in directing cell fate is still poorly understood. Here, UV nanoimprint lithography is used to generate micropillar arrays ranging from 1 to 10 µm in height, width, and spacing to investigate the impact of microtopography on mechanotransduction. Using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a model, stark pattern‐specific changes in nuclear architecture, lamin A/C accumulation, chromatin positioning, and DNA methyltransferase expression, are demonstrated. MSC osteogenesis is also enhanced specifically on micropillars with 5 µm width/spacing and 5 µm height. Intriguingly, the highest degree of osteogenesis correlates with patterns that stimulated maximal nuclear deformation which is shown to be dependent on myosin‐II‐generated tension. The outcomes determine new insights into nuclear mechanotransduction by demonstrating that force transmission across the nuclear envelope can be modulated by substrate topography, and that this can alter chromatin organisation and impact upon cell fate. These findings have potential to inform the development of microstructured cell culture substrates that can direct cell mechanotransduction and fate for therapeutic applications in both research and clinical sectors.

Next Generation Cell Culture Tools Featuring Micro- and Nanotopographies for Biological Screening

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-04-2022

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202100881

Abstract: Cells can perceive complex mechanical cues across both the micro‐ and nanoscale which can influence their development. While causative effects between surface topography and cellular function can be demonstrated, the variability in materials used in this screening process makes it difficult to discern whether the observed phenotypic changes are indeed a result of topographical cues alone or the inherent difference in material properties. A novel approach to directly imprint micro‐ and nanoscaled topographical features into the base of conventional cell cultureware is thus developed, facilitating its compatibility with standard biological techniques and methods of analysis. The utility of this technology is demonstrated by performing high‐throughput screening across five distinct cell types to interrogate the effects of 12 surface topographies, exemplifying unique cell‐specific responses to both behavior and cell morphological characteristics. The ability of this technology to underpin new insights into how surface topographies can regulate key image descriptors to drive cell fate determination is further demonstrated. These findings will inform the future development of advanced micro‐ and nanostructured cell culture substrates that can regulate cell behavior and fate determination across the life sciences, including fundamental cell biology, drug screening, and cell therapy.

Occupation and adult onset of rhinitis in the general population

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 2008

DOI: 10.1136/OEM.2006.031542

Abstract: Occupational exposures have been associated with an increased risk of new-onset rhinitis in apprentices. However, population-based prospective data are scarce and do not cover new onset of rhinitis later in life. The authors studied the association between occupational exposure and adult onset of rhinitis prospectively. The data of 4994 participants (age at follow-up 28-57 years) from 27 centres of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II who were symptom-free at baseline were analysed. As outcome at follow-up self-reported (a) nasal allergies ("allergic rhinitis") and (b) runny, blocked nose for 12 months a year ("perennial rhinitis") were used. Occupational exposures at any time during follow-up were defined by job title. The cumulative incidence of allergic rhinitis, perennial rhinitis and both conditions was 12%, 11% and 3%, respectively. Compared to office workers, male medical professionals were at increased risk of new onset of allergic rhinitis (OR 3.0 95% CI 1.4 to 6.4). Odds ratios were reduced in metal workers not involved in metal making or treating (0.3 95% CI 0.1 to 0.7). For perennial rhinitis ORs were significantly increased in cleaners (1.4 95% CI 1.0 to 2.1). Cleaners and medical professionals may be at increased risk for adult-onset rhinitis.

Non-invasive, in vitro analysis of islet insulin production enabled by an optical porous silicon biosensor

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2017.01.004

Abstract: A label-free porous silicon (pSi) based, optical biosensor, using both an antibody and aptamer bioreceptor motif has been developed for the detection of insulin. Two parallel biosensors were designed and optimised independently, based on each bioreceptor. Both bioreceptors were covalently attached to a thermally hydrosilylated pSi surface though amide coupling, with unreacted surface area rendered stable and low fouling by incorporation of PEG moieties. The insulin detection ability of each biosensor was determined using interferometric reflectance spectroscopy, using a range of different media both with and without serum. Sensing performance was compared in terms of response value, response time and limit of detection (LOD) for each platform. In order to demonstrate the capability of the best performing biosensor to detect insulin from real s les, an in vitro investigation with the aptamer-modified surface was performed. This biosensor was exposed to buffer conditioned by glucose-stimulated human islets, with the result showing a positive response and a high degree of selectivity towards insulin capture. The obtained results correlated well with the ELISA used in the clinic for assaying glucose-stimulated insulin release from donor islets. We anticipate that this type of sensor can be applied as a rapid point-of-use biosensor to assess the quality of donor islets in terms of their insulin production efficiency, prior to transplantation.

Search for very-high-energyγ-ray emission from Galactic globular clusters with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 13-02-2013

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201220719

Porous Silicon Nanodiscs for Targeted Drug Delivery

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 15-12-2014

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201403414

Oxygen-Releasing Coatings for Improved Tissue Preservation

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 30-08-2017

DOI: 10.1021/ACSBIOMATERIALS.7B00297

Towards implantable porous silicon biosensors

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1039/C4RA04184D

Abstract: Porous silicon (pSi) is a nanomaterial with salient properties for optical biosensor applications.

Detection of very-high-energyγ-ray emission from the vicinity of PSR B1706–44 and G 343.1–2.3 with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 17-03-2011

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201015381

Targeted camptothecin delivery via silicon nanoparticles reduces breast cancer metastasis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2020.119791

Enhanced adsorption of mercury ions on thiol derivatized single wall carbon nanotubes

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2013.07.076

Abstract: Thiol-derivatized single walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT-SH) powders were synthesized by reacting acid-cut SWCNTs with cysteamine hydrochloride using carbodiimide coupling. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the successful functionalization of the SWCNTs. SWCNT-SH powders exhibited a threefold higher adsorption capacity for Hg(II) ions compared to pristine SWCNTs, and a fourfold higher adsorption capacity compared to activated carbon. The influence of adsorption time, pH, initial metal concentration and adsorbent dose on Hg(II) ion removal was investigated. The maximum adsorption capacity of the SWCNT-SH powders was estimated by using equilibrium isotherms, such as Freundlich and Langmuir, and the maximum adsorption capacity of the SWCNT-SH powder was found to be 131 mg/g. A first-order rate model was employed to describe the kinetic adsorption process of Hg(II) ions onto the SWCNT-SH powders. Desorption studies revealed that Hg(II) ions could be easily removed from the SWCNT-SH powders by altering the pH. Further, the adsorption efficiency of recovered SWCNT-SH powders was retained up to 91%, even after 5 adsorption/desorption cycles.

Real Time Monitoring of Layer-by-Layer Polyelectrolyte Deposition and Bacterial Enzyme Detection in Nanoporous Anodized Aluminum Oxide

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-03-2015

DOI: 10.1021/AC504626M

Abstract: Porous anodized aluminum oxide (pAAO) is a nanostructured material, which due to its optical properties lends itself to the design of optical biosensors where interactions in the pores of this material are transduced into interferometric reflectance shifts. In this study, a pAAO-based biosensor was developed as a biosensing platform to detect proteinase K, an enzyme which is a readily available model system for the proteinase produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The pAAO pore walls are decorated by means of the layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition technique using poly(sodium-4-styrenesulfonate) and poly-l-lysine as negatively and positively charged polyelectrolytes, respectively. Interferometric reflectance spectroscopy utilized to observe the optical properties of pAAO during LbL deposition shows that the deposition of the polyelectrolyte onto the pore walls increases the net refractive index, thus red-shifting the effective optical thickness (EOT). Upon incubation with proteinase K, a conspicuous blue shift of the EOT is observed, which is attributed to the destabilization of the LbL film upon enzymatic degradation of the poly-l-lysine components. This result is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy results. Finally, as a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate the ability of the label-free pAAO-based biosensing platform to detect the presence of the proteinase K in human wound fluid, highlighting the potential for detection of bacterial infections in chronic wounds.

Asthma, COPD and overlap syndrome: a longitudinal study in young European adults

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 25-06-2015

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00008615

Abstract: We compared risk factors and clinical characteristics, 9-year lung function change and hospitalisation risk across subjects with the asthma–chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) overlap syndrome (ACOS), asthma or COPD alone, or none of these diseases. Participants in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey in 1991–1993 (aged 20–44 years) and 1999–2001 were included. Chronic airflow obstruction was defined as pre-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 )/forced vital capacity lower limit of normal on both occasions. Based on their history of respiratory symptoms, spirometry and risk factors, subjects were classified as having asthma alone (n=941), COPD alone (n=166), ACOS (n=218) and none of these (n=5659). Subjects with ACOS shared risk factors and clinical characteristics with subjects with asthma alone, but they had an earlier age of asthma onset. FEV 1 change in the ACOS group (−25.9 mL·year −1 ) was similar to that in the asthma group (−25.3 mL·year −1 ), and lower (p .001) than in the COPD group (−37.3 mL·year −1 ). ACOS was associated with the highest hospitalisation rate. Among young adults aged 20–44 years, ACOS seems to represent a form of severe asthma, characterised by more frequent hospitalisations, and to be the result of early-onset asthma that has progressed to fixed airflow obstruction.

Search for TeV Gamma-ray Emission from GRB 100621A, an extremely bright GRB in X-rays, with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 23-04-2014

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201322984

Mass Spectrometry Imaging on Porous Silicon: Investigating the Distribution of Bioactives in Marine Mollusc Tissues

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 08-10-2012

DOI: 10.1021/AC3027433

Abstract: Desorption/ionization on porous silicon-mass spectrometry (DIOS-MS) is an attractive alternative to conventional matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) for the analysis of low molecular weight compounds. Porous silicon (pSi) chips are also suitable as support for mass spectrometry imaging (MSI). Here, we report an implementation of DIOS-MSI using the biosynthetic organs of a marine mollusc for proof of principle. The tissue section is st ed onto a fluorocarbon-functionalized pSi chip, which extracts and traps small hydrophobic molecules from the tissue under retention of their relative spatial distribution. The section is subsequently removed and the chip is imaged without any remaining tissue. We apply this novel tissue contact printing approach to investigate the distribution of biologically active brominated precursors to Tyrian purple in the hypobranchial gland of the marine mollusc, Dicathais orbita, using DIOS-MSI. The tissue contact printing is also compatible with other types of desorption/ionization surfaces, such as nanoassisted laser desorption/ionization (NALDI) targets.

A Regenerable Biosensing Platform for Bacterial Toxins

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 15-12-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.BIOMAC.0C01318

Nanostructured polystyrene well plates allow unbiased high-throughput characterization of circulating tumor cells

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 18-11-2014

DOI: 10.1021/AM505201S

Abstract: Rapid, reliable and unbiased circulating tumor cell (CTC) isolation and molecular characterization methods are urgently required for implementation in routine clinical diagnostic and prognostic procedures. We report on the development of a novel unbiased CTC detection approach that combines high-throughput automated microscopy with a simple yet efficient approach for achieving a high level of tumor cell binding in standard tissue culture polystyrene (PS) well plates. A single 5 min high-power oxygen plasma treatment was used to create homogeneous nanoscale roughness on standard PS tissue culture plates and, in turn, drastically enhance the binding of a range of tumor cells. After physical adsorption of an adlayer of poly-l-lysine, binding yields above 97% were obtained at 2 h for all tumor cell lines used in the study. Morphological analysis of the cells confirmed strong adherence to the nanorough PS substrates. Clinically relevant concentrations of a highly metastatic breast cancer cell line, used as model for CTCs, could be reliably detected among blood cells on the nanorough polystyrene plates using an automated microscopy system. The approach was then successfully used to detect CTCs in the blood of a stage IIIc colorectal cancer patient. By combining the high binding abilities of nanorough PS well plates with the high-throughput nature of high-content analysis systems, this methodology has great potential toward enabling unbiased routine clinical analysis of CTCs. It could be applied, once clinically validated, in any clinical center equipped with an automated microscopy facility at a fraction of the cost of current CTC isolation technologies.

Nanoporous alumina-based interferometric transducers ennobled

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1039/C0NR00897D

Abstract: A high fidelity interferometric transducer is designed based on platinum-coated nanoporous alumina films. The ultrathin metal coating significantly improves fidelity of the interferometric fringe patterns in aqueous solution and increases the signal-to-noise ratio. The performance of this transducer is tested with respect to refractive index unit (RIU) sensitivity measured as a change in effective optical thickness (EOT) in response to a solvent change and compared to porous silicon based transducers. RIU sensitivity in the order of 55% is attainable for porous alumina providing excellent signal-to-noise ratio, which exceeds the sensitivity of current interferometric transducers. Finally, as a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate biosensing with two distinct immunoglobulin antibodies.

Determinants of cough in young adults participating in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 10-2001

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.01.00098701

Abstract: Cough is a common symptom that affects a large proportion of the general population. The aim of this investigation was to identify determinants of nocturnal, nonproductive and productive cough in population s les from different countries. In a cross-sectional international population survey, 18,277 subjects (20–48 yrs) from 16 countries answered an interview-led questionnaire. Total and specific immunoglobulin- E was measured and spirometry was performed. Three types of cough were defined: nocturnal, nonproductive and productive cough. The relation of the independent variables to cough was estimated by means of logistic regression for each centre or country and combined across centre or country by random-effects meta-analysis. The median prevalence of nocturnal, nonproductive and productive cough in the different centres was 30.7%, 10.2% and 10.2%, respectively. Nocturnal and nonproductive cough were related to female sex (adjusted odds ratio (OR)=2.08 and 1.27, respectively), while nocturnal and productive cough were related to rhinitis (OR=1.46 and 1.61, respectively). All three types of cough were related to asthma, tobacco smoking, environmental tobacco smoke and obesity. Females are more likely to report nocturnal and nonproductive cough than males. Cough was related to treatable disorders, like asthma and rhinitis, as well as avoidable factors, such as tobacco smoking and environmental tobacco smoke.

Aptamer sensor for cocaine using minor groove binder based energy transfer

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACA.2012.01.011

Abstract: We report on an optical aptamer sensor for cocaine detection. The cocaine sensitive fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled aptamer underwent a conformational change from a partial single-stranded DNA with a short hairpin to a double-stranded T-junction in the presence of the target. The DNA minor groove binder Hoechst 33342 selectively bound to the double-stranded T-junction, bringing the dye within the Förster radius of FITC, and therefore initiating minor groove binder based energy transfer (MBET), and reporting on the presence of cocaine. The sensor showed a detection limit of 0.2 μM. The sensor was also implemented on a carboxy-functionalized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surface by covalently immobilizing DNA aptamers. The ability of surface-bound cocaine detection is crucial for the development of microfluidic sensors.

Inducing immune tolerance with dendritic cell-targeting nanomedicines

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-12-2021

DOI: 10.1038/S41565-020-00810-2

Attachment of endothelial colony-forming cells onto a surface bearing immobilized anti-CD34 antibodies: Specific CD34 binding versus nonspecific binding

Publisher: American Vacuum Society

Date: 05-2022

DOI: 10.1116/6.0001746

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide however, despite substantial advances in medical device surface modifications, no synthetic coatings have so far matched the native endothelium as the optimal hemocompatible surface for blood-contacting implants. A promising strategy for rapid restoration of the endothelium on blood-contacting biomedical devices entails attracting circulating endothelial cells or their progenitors, via immobilized cell-capture molecules for ex le, anti-CD34 antibody to attract CD34+ endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs). Inherent is the assumption that the cells attracted to the biomaterial surface are bound exclusively via a specific CD34 binding. However, serum proteins might adsorb in-between or on the top of antibody molecules and attract ECFCs via other binding mechanisms. Here, we studied whether a surface with immobilized anti-CD34 antibodies attracts ECFCs via a specific CD34 binding or a nonspecific (non-CD34) binding. To minimize serum protein adsorption, a fouling-resistant layer of hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) was used as a “blank slate,” onto which anti-CD34 antibodies were immobilized via aldehyde-amine coupling reaction after oxidation of terminal diols to aldehydes. An isotype antibody, mIgG1, was surface-immobilized analogously and was used as the control for antigen-binding specificity. Cell binding was also measured on the HPG hydrogel layer before and after oxidation. The surface analysis methods, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, were used to verify the intended surface chemistries and revealed that the surface coverage of antibodies was sparse, yet the anti-CD34 antibody grafted surface-bound ECFCs very effectively. Moreover, it still captured the ECFCs after BSA passivation. However, cells also attached to oxidized HPG and immobilized mIgG1, though in much lower amounts. While our results confirm the effectiveness of attracting ECFCs via surface-bound anti-CD34 antibodies, our observation of a nonspecific binding component highlights the importance of considering its consequences in future studies.

Laser shock ignition of porous silicon based nano-energetic films

Publisher: AIP Publishing

Date: 07-08-2014

DOI: 10.1063/1.4892444

Abstract: Nanoporous silicon films on a silicon wafer were loaded with sodium perchlorate and initiated using illumination with infrared laser pulses to cause laser thermal ignition and laser-generated shock waves. Using Photon Doppler Velocimetry, it was determined that these waves are weak stress waves with a threshold intensity of 131 MPa in the silicon substrate. Shock generation was achieved through confinement of a plasma, generated upon irradiation of an absorptive paint layer held against the substrate side of the wafer. These stress waves were below the threshold required for s le fracturing. Exploiting either the laser thermal or laser-generated shock mechanisms of ignition may permit use of pSi energetic materials in applications otherwise precluded due to their environmental sensitivity.

Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry using ordered silicon nanopillar arrays

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 22-09-2014

DOI: 10.1039/C4AN01391C

Abstract: Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) is ideally suited for the high-throughput analysis of small molecules in bodily fluids (e.g. saliva, urine, and blood plasma). A key application for this technique is the testing of drug consumption in the context of workplace, roadside, athlete sports and anti-addictive drug compliance. Here, we show that vertically-aligned ordered silicon nanopillar (SiNP) arrays fabricated using nanosphere lithography followed by metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) are suitable substrates for the SALDI-MS detection of methadone and small peptides. Porosity, length and diameter are fabrication parameters that we have explored here in order to optimize analytical performance. We demonstrate the quantitative analysis of methadone in MilliQ water down to 32 ng mL(-1). Finally, the capability of SiNP arrays to facilitate the detection of methadone in clinical s les is also demonstrated.

Antibacterial properties of nitric oxide-releasing porous silicon nanoparticles

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1039/C5TB02551F

Abstract: In this study, the antibacterial efficacy of NO-releasing porous silicon nanoparticles (pSiNPs) is reported. NO-releasing pSiNPs were produced via the conjugation of S -nitrosothiol (SNO) and S -nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) donors to the nanoparticle surfaces.

Design of a Wireless Intraocular Pressure Monitoring System for a Glaucoma Drainage Implant

Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-92841-6_48

A biochip platform for cell transfection assays

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2003.12.019

Surface modification for PDMS‐based microfluidic devices

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-11-2011

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.201100482

Abstract: This review focuses on advances reported from April 2009 to May 2011 in PDMS surface modifications for the application in microfluidic devices. PDMS surface modification techniques presented here include improved plasma and graft polymer coating, dynamic surfactant treatment, hydrosilylation-based surface modification and surface modification with nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes and metal nanoparticles. Recent efforts to generate topographical and chemical patterns on PDMS are also discussed. The described surface modifications not only increase PDMS wettability, inhibit or reduce non-specific adsorption of hydrophobic species onto the surfaces in the act, but also result in the display of desired functional groups useful for molecular separations, biomolecular detection via immunoassays, cell culture and emulsion formation.

Changes in active and passive smoking in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 03-2006

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.06.00106605

Abstract: The aim of the present investigation was to study changes and determinants for changes in active and passive smoking. The present study included 9,053 adults from 14 countries that participated in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II. The mean follow-up period was 8.8 yrs. Change in the prevalence of active and passive smoking was expressed as absolute net change (95% confidence interval) standardised to a 10-yr period. Determinants of change were analysed and the results expressed as adjusted hazard risk ratio (HRR) or odds ratio (OR). The prevalence of active smoking declined by 5.9% (5.1-6.8) and exposure to passive smoking in nonsmokers declined by 18.4% (16.8-20.0). Subjects with a lower educational level (HRR: 0.73 (0.54-0.98) and subjects living with a smoker (HRR: 0.45 (0.34-0.59)) or with workplace smoking (HRR: 0.69 (0.50-0.95)) were less likely to quit. Low socio-economic groups were more likely to become exposed (OR: 2.21 (1.61-3.03)) and less likely to cease being exposed to passive smoking (OR: 0.48 (0.37-0.61)). In conclusion, the quitting rate was lower and the risk of exposure to passive smoking higher among subjects with lower socio-economic status. Exposure to other peoples smoking decreased quitting rates and increased the risk of starting to smoke.

Versatile Particle-Based Route to Engineer Vertically Aligned Silicon Nanowire Arrays and Nanoscale Pores

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 13-10-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.5B07777

Abstract: Control over particle self-assembly is a prerequisite for the colloidal templating of lithographical etching masks to define nanostructures. This work integrates and combines for the first time bottom-up and top-down approaches, namely, particle self-assembly at liquid-liquid interfaces and metal-assisted chemical etching, to generate vertically aligned silicon nanowire (VA-SiNW) arrays and, alternatively, arrays of nanoscale pores in a silicon wafer. Of particular importance, and in contrast to current techniques, including conventional colloidal lithography, this approach provides excellent control over the nanowire or pore etching site locations and decouples nanowire or pore diameter and spacing. The spacing between pores or nanowires is tuned by adjusting the specific area of the particles at the liquid-liquid interface before deposition. Hence, the process enables fast and low-cost fabrication of ordered nanostructures in silicon and can be easily scaled up. We demonstrate that the fabricated VA-SiNW arrays can be used as in vitro transfection platforms for transfecting human primary cells.

Complex gold nanostructures derived by templating from diatom frustules

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2005

DOI: 10.1039/B508733C

Abstract: Diatom frustules have been used for the first time as templates for the fabrication of gold nanostructures high-precision replicas featuring complex three-dimensional gold nanostructures from the nano- to the microscale were achieved.

Lung function decline in relation to mould and dampness in the home: the longitudinal European Community Respiratory Health Survey ECRHS II

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 16-02-2011

DOI: 10.1136/THX.2010.146613

Abstract: There are few longitudinal studies that have examined the association of lung function decline with indoor mould and d ness. Lung function decline in relation to d ness and mould in the home has studied in adults over a 9 year period. Spirometry was performed twice in participants in the European Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS I and II) who were initially examined aged 20-45 years, in 1990-1995 and 9 years later (n=6443). Information on their current home was collected twice by interview. D ness (water damage or d spots) and indoor mould, ever and in the last 12 months, were assessed. A d ness score and a mould score were calculated. In addition, 3118 homes at 22 centres were inspected directly at follow-up for the presence of d ness and mould. D ness and mould were common. Overall, 50.1% reported any d ness and 41.3% any indoor mould in either ECRHS I or ECRHS II. Women with d ness at home had an additional decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1)) of -2.25 ml/year (95% CI -4.25 to -0.25), with a significant trend in increased lung function decline in relation to the d ness score (p=0.03). The association in women was significant when excluding those with asthma at baseline. Observed d spots in the bedroom was associated with a significant additional decline in FEV(1) of -7.43 ml/year (95% CI -13.11 to 1.74) in women. D ness and indoor mould growth is common in dwellings, and the presence of d is a risk factor for lung function decline, especially in women.

Flux upper limits for 47 AGN observed with H.E.S.S. in 2004−2011

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 28-03-2014

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201322897

Rapid detection of illicit drugs in neat saliva using desorption/ionization on porous silicon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2012.07.029

Abstract: The ability to detect illicit drugs directly in oral fluids is of major interest for roadside, workplace and athlete drug testing. For ex le, roadside testing for popular drugs of abuse is being rolled out by law enforcement agencies following the introduction of legislation in several countries all over the world. This paper reports on the direct analysis of meth hetamine, cocaine and 3,4-methylenedioxymeth hetamine in oral fluids using a hydrophobic porous silicon array as a combined drug extraction and concentration medium. Analysis by laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MS) identified these drugs with a sensitivity in line with the suggested confirmatory cut-off concentrations, and 300 times faster. In addition, MS imaging demonstrated good spot-to-spot reproducibility of the signal. Our analytical approach is compatible with multiplexing and is therefore suitable for high-throughput analysis of s les obtained from drug testing in the field. Furthermore, the application of this analytical technology is not limited to illicit drugs or oral fluids. Indeed, we believe that this platform technology could be applied to the high-throughput analysis of erse metabolites in body fluids.

Nanostructured Silicon Enabled HR-MS for the Label-Free Detection of Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer Plasma Small Extracellular Vesicles

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 04-10-2022

DOI: 10.3390/JNT3040013

Abstract: Despite improvements in treatment options for advanced colorectal cancer (CRC), survival outcomes are still best for patients with non-metastasised disease. Diagnostic tools to identify blood-based biomarkers and assist in CRC subtype classification could afford a means to track CRC progression and treatment response. Cancer cell-derived small extracellular vesicles (EVs) circulating in blood carry an elevated cargo of lipids and proteins that could be used as a signature of tumour suppressor romoting events or stages leading up to and including metastasis. Here, we used pre-characterised biobanked plasma s les from surgical units, typically with a low volume (~100 µL), to generate and discover signatures of CRC-derived EVs. We employed nanostructured porous silicon (pSi) surface assisted-laser desorption/ionisation (SALDI) coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS), to allow sensitive detection of low abundant analytes in plasma EVs. When applied to CRC s les, SALDI-HR-MS enabled the detection of the peptide mass fingerprint of cancer suppressor proteins, including serine/threonine phosphatases and activating-transcription factor 3. SALDI-HR-MS also allowed the detection of a spectrum of glycerophospholipids and sphingolipid signatures in metastatic CRC. We observed that lithium chloride enhanced detection sensitivity to elucidate the structure of low abundant lipids in plasma EVs. pSi SALDI can be used as an effective system for label-free and high throughput analysis of low-volume patient s les, allowing rapid and sensitive analysis for CRC classification.

Multi-Feature Face Recognition Based on 2D-PCA and SVM

Publisher: Springer New York

Date: 03-08-2012

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-3501-3_6

New Insights into the Structure of PAMAM Dendrimer/Gold Nanoparticle Nanocomposites

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 03-05-2011

DOI: 10.1021/LA1050964

Abstract: In this work, we have employed a suite of complementary analytical techniques to shed light on the nanocomposite structures formed during gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) synthesis in the presence of poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers. Nanocomposites of AuNPs and either fourth or eighth generation amine-terminated PAMAM dendrimers (G4 or G8) were prepared. The size distributions of AuNPs and the nanocomposites were determined by transmission electron microscopy. Atomic force microscopy phase imaging and neutral impact collision ion scattering spectroscopy (NICISS) were utilized for the first time to investigate and compare nanocomposite structures formed from G4 and G8. Our results suggest that G4 stabilized the AuNP by capping the AuNP particle surface but that a certain fraction of the gold surface was still barely covered. In contrast, the metal nanoparticle surface was completely covered by G8. In addition, NICISS results provided evidence that nanocomposites deformed when being deposited directly onto a substrate.

Silicon Micropillar Array-Based Wearable Sweat Glucose Sensor

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 30-12-2022

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.1C22383

Abstract: Wearable technologies have great potential in health monitoring and disease diagnostics. As a consequence, interest in the study of wearable sensors has dramatically increased over recent years. Successful translation of this technology from research prototypes to commercial products requires addressing some of the major challenges faced by wearable sensors such as loss of, and damage in, the biological recognition layer of the skin-interfaced sensors. In this work, we propose a solution to this challenge by integrating micropillar array (MPA) surfaces as part of the sensing layer with the aim to protect and prevent the loss of the enzyme layer from mechanical stress while the sensor is worn. The proposed wearable sensing patch is composed of reference, counter, and working electrodes, all made of MPAs and is designed for measuring glucose in sweat. MPA sensing patch has a wide linear range of 50 μM to 1.4 mM, a sensitivity of 4.7 ± 0.8 μA mM

Biocompatibility of Porous Silicon

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-05744-6_38

Controlled Delivery of Levothyroxine Using Porous Silicon as a Drug Nanocontainer

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/CH15315

Abstract: Porous silicon (pSi) materials are regarded as promising drug delivery vehicles due to their biocompatibility, in vivo degradation, and resorption. We examine pSi films as a platform for the controlled delivery of levothyroxine, as a means to overcome problems with consistent dosage of this drug by oral administration. Oxidized pSi films were modified with 3-(aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES), creating a surface chemistry that increased levothyroxine drug loading capacity by 50 % and sustained drug release under physiological conditions for 14 days. Release kinetics from APTES-functionalized films initially followed a zero-order release profile, which is highly desirable for drug delivery. The loading and release profiles of levothyroxine suggest that the film size required to deliver a therapeutic dose is feasible for further consideration as an implantable delivery system.

CHAPTER 7. The Potential of Modified Diatom Frustules for Solar Energy Conversion

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1039/9781788010160-00150

Nanotopography mediated osteogenic differentiation of human dental pulp derived stem cells

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1039/C7NR03131A

Abstract: Via controlled surface nanoengineering we demonstrate that surface nanotopography induces osteogenic differentiation of dental pulp derived stem cells.

Cell Culture on Porous Silicon

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-05744-6_50

Graphene masks as passivation layers in the electrochemical etching of silicon

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-08-2014

DOI: 10.1007/S10853-014-8492-9

Porous silicon mass spectrometry as an alternative confirmatory assay for compliance testing of methadone

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 08-2016

DOI: 10.1002/DTA.2033

Abstract: Porous silicon based surface-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (pSi SALDI-MS) is an analytical technique well suited for high throughput analysis of low molecular weight compounds from biological s les. A potential application of this technology is the compliance monitoring of opioid addiction programmes, where methadone is used as a pharmacological treatment for drugs such as heroin. Here, we present the detection and quantification of methadone and 2-ethylidene-1,5-dimethyl-3,3-diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP) from water and clinical s les (saliva, urine, and plasma) from opioid dependent participants using pSi SALDI-MS. A one-step solvent phase extraction using chloroform was developed for the detection of methadone from clinical s les for analysis by pSi SALDI-MS. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was used as a comparative technique for the quantification of methadone from clinical saliva and plasma s les. In all cases, we obtained a good correlation of pSi SALDI-MS and LC-MS results, suggesting that pSi SALDI-MS may be an alternative procedure for high-throughput screening and quantification for application in opioid compliance testing. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

SARS‐CoV‐2 Virus Detection Via a Polymeric Nanochannel‐Based Electrochemical Biosensor

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-12-2022

DOI: 10.1002/SMLL.202205281

Abstract: The development of simple, cost‐effective, rapid, and quantitative diagnostic tools remains critical to monitor infectious COVID‐19 disease. Although numerous diagnostic platforms, including rapid antigen tests, are developed and used, they suffer from limited accuracy, especially when tested with asymptomatic patients. Here, a unique approach to fabricate a nanochannel‐based electrochemical biosensor that can detect the entire virion instead of virus fragments, is demonstrated. The sensing platform has uniform nanoscale channels created by the convective assembly of polystyrene (PS) beads on gold electrodes. The PS beads are then functionalized with bioreceptors while the gold surface is endowed with anti‐fouling properties. When added to the biosensor, SARS‐CoV‐2 virus particles block the nanochannels by specific binding to the bioreceptors. The nanochannel blockage hinders the diffusion of a redox probe and thus, allows quantification of the viral load by measuring the changes in the oxidation current before and after virus incubation. The biosensor shows a low limit of detection of ≈1.0 viral particle mL −1 with a wide detection range up to 10 8 particles mL −1 in cell culture media. Moreover, the biosensor is able to differentiate saliva s les with SARS‐CoV‐2 from those without, demonstrating the potential of this technology for translation into a point‐of‐care biosensor product.

2D photonic crystal membranes for optical biosensors

Publisher: IEEE

Date: 05-2014

DOI: 10.1109/FOTONICA.2014.6843901

Porous silicon–polymer composites for cell culture and tissue engineering applications

Publisher: Elsevier

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1533/9780857097156.3.420

Towards a subcutaneous optical biosensor based on thermally hydrocarbonised porous silicon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2015.09.045

Abstract: Advanced biosensors in future medicine hinge on the evolvement of biomaterials. Porous silicon (pSi), a generally biodegradable and biocompatible material that can be fabricated to include environment-responsive optical characteristics, is an excellent candidate for in vivo biosensors. However, the feasibility of using this material as a subcutaneously implanted optical biosensor has never been demonstrated. Here, we investigated the stability and biocompatibility of a thermally-hydrocarbonised (THC) pSi optical rugate filter, and demonstrated its optical functionality in vitro and in vivo. We first compared pSi films with different surface chemistries and observed that the material was cytotoxic despite the outstanding stability of the THC pSi films. We then showed that the cytotoxicity correlates with reactive oxygen species levels, which could be mitigated by pre-incubation of THC pSi (PITHC pSi). PITHC pSi facilitates normal cellular phenotypes and is biocompatible in vivo. Importantly, the material also possesses optical properties capable of responding to microenvironmental changes that are readable non-invasively in cell culture and subcutaneous settings. Collectively, we demonstrate, for the first time, that PITHC pSi rugate filters are both biocompatible and optically functional for lab-on-a-chip and subcutaneous biosensing scenarios. We believe that this study will deepen our understanding of cell-pSi interactions and foster the development of implantable biosensors.

Rapid Fabrication of Micro‐ and Nanoscale Patterns by Replica Molding from Diatom Biosilica

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 07-08-2007

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.200600872

A novel surface modification approach for protein and cell microarrays

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 27-12-2006

DOI: 10.1117/12.715172

Evaluation of α-d-mannopyranoside glycolipid micelles–lectin interactions by surface plasmon resonance method

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 16-06-2006

DOI: 10.1093/GLYCOB/CWL014

Abstract: It is established that achieving higher binding affinities in carbohydrate-protein interactions requires multivalent presentations of the sugar ligands at the receptor binding site. Several inhibition, calorimetric, mass balance, and other studies have reiterated the beneficial effects of molecular level clustering of the sugar ligands for tight binding to the receptors. We have undertaken an effort to study the multivalent effects involving larger assemblies, represented by micelles, and their lectin interactions. The micelles were constituted with monomer bearing one- or two-sugar moieties at the monomolecular level and with varying the distances between the sugar moieties. Micellar aggregation studies and dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies afforded details of the aggregation numbers and the hydrodynamic diameters of various glycolipid (GL) micelles. The GL micelles were used as analytes of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments on a lectin concanavalin A (Con A)-immobilized surface. SPR studies of the micelle-lectin interactions demonstrate that the ligand-receptor binding can be fit into the bivalent analyte model of interaction. Furthermore, micelles formed from two-sugar containing GLs are able to elicit favorable kinetic association rate constants in comparison to the micelles constituted with one-sugar containing GLs. The kinetic rate constants across the micelles and the effect of the sugar valencies in the GLs are discussed.

Photonic porous silicon as a pH sensor

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-08-2014

DOI: 10.1186/1556-276X-9-420

Biomolecule detection in porous silicon based microcavitiesviaeuropium luminescence enhancement

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1039/C4TB01409J

Abstract: The ability of a porous silicon microcavity (pSiMC) to act as a luminescence enhancing sensor was confirmed using Eu( iii ) complex labelled streptavidin as a model analyte on a biotin-modified pSiMC.

Rapid, metal-free hydrosilanisation chemistry for porous silicon surface modification

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5CC02689J

Abstract: Here, we report a novel surface modification for porous silicon (pSi).

Recent Advances in Chemical Biology of Mitochondria Targeting

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 03-05-2021

DOI: 10.3389/FCHEM.2021.683220

Abstract: Mitochondria are vital subcellular organelles that generate most cellular chemical energy, regulate cell metabolism and maintain cell function. Mitochondrial dysfunction is directly linked to numerous diseases including neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, thyroid squamous disease, cancer and septicemia. Thus, the design of specific mitochondria-targeting molecules and the realization of real-time acquisition of mitochondrial activity are powerful tools in the study and treatment of mitochondria dysfunction in related diseases. Recent advances in mitochondria-targeting agents have led to several important mitochondria chemical probes that offer the opportunity for selective targeting molecules, novel biological applications and therapeutic strategies. This review details the structural and physiological functional characteristics of mitochondria, and comprehensively summarizes and classifies mitochondria-targeting agents. In addition, their pros and cons and their related chemical biological applications are discussed. Finally, the potential biomedical applications of these agents are briefly prospected.

Deposition of Aminomalononitrile-Based Films: Kinetics, Chemistry, and Morphology

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-07-2019

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.LANGMUIR.9B01497

Abstract: In the last few years, the development of versatile coating chemistries has become a hot topic in surface science after the discovery that catecholamines can lead to conformal coatings upon oxidation from aqueous solutions. Recently, it was found that aminomalononitrile (AMN), a molecule implicated in the appearance of life on earth, is an excellent prototype of novel material-independent surface functionalizing agents leading to conformal and biocompatible coatings in a simple and direct chemical process from aqueous solutions. So far, very little insight has been gained regarding the mechanisms underlying coating deposition. In this paper, we show that the chemical evolution of AMN film deposition under slightly basic conditions is different in solution and on silica. Thereon, the coating proceeds via a nucleation process followed by further deposition of islands which evolve to produce nitrogen-rich superhydrophilic fibrillar structures. Additionally, we show that AMN-based material can form films at the air-solution interface from unshaken solutions. These results open new vistas into the chemistry of HCN-derived species of potential relevance in materials science.

The high-energyγ-ray emission of AP Librae

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 10-12-2014

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201321436

Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Photonic Crystals for Optical Chemo- and Biosensing: Fundamentals, Advances, and Perspectives

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 04-10-2018

DOI: 10.3390/NANO8100788

Abstract: Optical sensors are a class of devices that enable the identification and/or quantification of analyte molecules across multiple fields and disciplines such as environmental protection, medical diagnosis, security, food technology, biotechnology, and animal welfare. Nanoporous photonic crystal (PC) structures provide excellent platforms to develop such systems for a plethora of applications since these engineered materials enable precise and versatile control of light–matter interactions at the nanoscale. Nanoporous PCs provide both high sensitivity to monitor in real-time molecular binding events and a nanoporous matrix for selective immobilization of molecules of interest over increased surface areas. Nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA), a nanomaterial long envisaged as a PC, is an outstanding platform material to develop optical sensing systems in combination with multiple photonic technologies. Nanoporous anodic alumina photonic crystals (NAA-PCs) provide a versatile nanoporous structure that can be engineered in a multidimensional fashion to create unique PC sensing platforms such as Fabry–Pérot interferometers, distributed Bragg reflectors, gradient-index filters, optical microcavities, and others. The effective medium of NAA-PCs undergoes changes upon interactions with analyte molecules. These changes modify the NAA-PCs’ spectral fingerprints, which can be readily quantified to develop different sensing systems. This review introduces the fundamental development of NAA-PCs, compiling the most significant advances in the use of these optical materials for chemo- and biosensing applications, with a final prospective outlook about this exciting and dynamic field.

The start-ups taking nanoneedles into the clinic

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-06-2022

DOI: 10.1038/S41565-022-01158-5

Developmental network structure and support: gendered consequences for work–family strain and work–parenting strain in the Australian mining industry

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 07-03-2017

DOI: 10.1080/09585192.2017.1299195

Calcium(II) selectively induces α‐synuclein annular oligomers via interaction with the C‐terminal domain

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-2004

DOI: 10.1110/PS.04879704

Tutorial: using nanoneedles for intracellular delivery.

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 23-08-2021

DOI: 10.1038/S41596-021-00600-7

Abstract: Intracellular delivery of advanced therapeutics, including biologicals and supramolecular agents, is complex because of the natural biological barriers that have evolved to protect the cell. Efficient delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids, proteins, peptides and nanoparticles is crucial for clinical adoption of emerging technologies that can benefit disease treatment through gene and cell therapy. Nanoneedles are arrays of vertical high-aspect-ratio nanostructures that can precisely manipulate complex processes at the cell interface, enabling effective intracellular delivery. This emerging technology has already enabled the development of efficient and non-destructive routes for direct access to intracellular environments and delivery of cell-impermeant payloads. However, successful implementation of this technology requires knowledge of several scientific fields, making it complex to access and adopt by researchers who are not directly involved in developing nanoneedle platforms. This presents an obstacle to the widespread adoption of nanoneedle technologies for drug delivery. This tutorial aims to equip researchers with the knowledge required to develop a nanoinjection workflow. It discusses the selection of nanoneedle devices, approaches for cargo loading and strategies for interfacing to biological systems and summarises an array of bioassays that can be used to evaluate the efficacy of intracellular delivery.

Electrochemical deposition of aminomalonitrile based films

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.COLSURFA.2018.05.028

Creating gradients of two proteins by differential passive adsorption onto a PEG-density gradient

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2009.09.056

Abstract: Many fundamental biological processes, including early embryo development, immune responses and the progression of pathogens, are mediated by gradients of biological molecules. Understanding these vital physiological processes requires the development of biomaterial platforms that can mimic them in-vitro. Such platforms include laboratory generated surface gradients of biological molecules. In this work, we report a method for the generation of surface gradients of two proteins. We used a surface grafting density gradient of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to control protein adsorption. In addition, we used protein size as a tool to control the position and the adsorbed amount of both proteins. To demonstrate our concept, we used fibrinogen as an ex le of a large protein and lysozyme as an ex le of a small protein. However, we speculate that the same strategy could be extended to any other pair of large and small proteins. We used X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and sessile drop contact angle measurements to determine the chemical composition and wettability of the gradients. Protein adsorption was studied by surface plasmon resonance imaging.

Development of surface modification techniques for the covalent attachment of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on PECVD silica-coated titanium

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.SURFCOAT.2010.05.049

SEARCH FOR DARK MATTER ANNIHILATION SIGNALS FROM THE FORNAX GALAXY CLUSTER WITH H.E.S.S.

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 24-04-2012

DOI: 10.1088/0004-637X/750/2/123

Ultrathin polytyramine films by electropolymerisation on highly doped p-type silicon electrodes

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.SUSC.2005.04.001

Microwave Heating of Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles for Temperature-Controlled Display of Concanavalin A

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 14-12-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.5B08765

Identification of HESS J1303−631 as a pulsar wind nebula throughγ-ray, X-ray, and radio observations

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 19-11-2012

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201219814

Lanthanide Luminescence Enhancements in Porous Silicon Resonant Microcavities

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 28-07-2014

DOI: 10.1021/AM500983R

Abstract: In this paper, the covalent immobilization and luminescence enhancement of a europium (Eu(III)) complex in a porous silicon (pSi) layer with a microcavity (pSiMC) structure are demonstrated. The alkyne-pendant arm of the Eu(III) complex was covalently immobilized on the azide-modified surface via ligand-assisted "click" chemistry. The design parameters of the microcavity were optimized to obtain an efficient luminescence-enhancing device. Luminescence enhancements by a factor of 9.5 and 3.0 were observed for Eu(III) complex bound inside the pSiMC as compared to a single layer and Bragg reflector of identical thickness, respectively, confirming the increased interaction between the immobilized molecules and the electric field in the spacer of the microcavity. When comparing pSiMCs with different resonance wavelength position, luminescence was enhanced when the resonance wavelength overlapped with the maximum emission wavelength of the Eu(III) complex at 614 nm, allowing for effective coupling between the confined light and the emitting molecules. The pSiMC also improved the spectral color purity of the Eu(III) complex luminescence. The ability of a pSiMC to act as an efficient Eu(III) luminescence enhancer, combined with the resulting sharp linelike emission, can be exploited for the development of ultrasensitive optical biosensors.

The influence of pore size and oxidising agent on the energetic properties of porous silicon

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.810453

Can an airway challenge test predict respiratory diseases? A population-based international study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.JACI.2013.03.040

Abstract: Evidence on the longitudinal association of airway responsiveness with respiratory diseases is scarce. The best indicator of responsiveness is still undetermined. We investigated the association of airway responsiveness with the incidence of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and allergic rhinitis. We studied 3851 subjects who underwent spirometry and methacholine challenge tests both at baseline (1991-1993), when they were 20 to 44 years old, and at follow-up (1999-2002) in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey. Airway responsiveness was defined based on the methacholine dose-response slope on both occasions. Incidence rate ratios for the association of airway responsiveness with disease occurrence were computed by using Poisson regression. With respect to reference (slope of the fourth quintile or greater), subjects with the greatest degree of airway responsiveness (slope less than the first quintile) showed the greatest risk of developing asthma, COPD, and allergic rhinitis (incidence rate ratios of 10.82, 5.53, and 4.84, respectively all P 1 mg). A decrease in slope over time was an independent predictor of disease risk. Airway responsiveness predicted new-onset asthma, COPD, and allergic rhinitis. Our study supports the use of a continuous noncensored indicator of airway responsiveness, such as the slope of the methacholine dose-response curve, in clinical practice and research because it showed clear advantages over PD20.

Ag2SO4 decorated with fluorescent Agn nanoclusters

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2012.12.097

Tailored carbon nanotube immunosensors for the detection of microbial contamination

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2014.09.089

Abstract: The use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as building blocks in the design of electrochemical biosensors has been attracting attention over the last few years, mainly due to their high electrical conductivity and large surface area. Here, we present two approaches based on tailored single-walled CNTs (SWCNTs) architectures to develop immunosensors for the bacteriophage MS2, a virus often detected in sewage-impacted water supplies. In the first approach, SWCNTs were used in the bottom-up design of sensors as antibody immobilization support. Carboxy-functionalised SWCNTs were covalently tethered onto gold electrodes via carbodiimide coupling to cysteamine-modified gold electrodes. These SWCNTs were hydrazide functionalized by electrochemical grafting of diazonium salts. Site-oriented immobilization of antibodies was then carried out through hydrazone bond formation. Results showed microarray electrode behavior, greatly improving the signal-to-noise ratio. Excellent sensitivity and limit of detection (9.3 pfu/mL and 9.8 pfu/mL in buffer and in river water, respectively) were achieved, due to the combination of the SWCNTs' ability to promote electron transfer reactions with electroactive species at low overpotentials and their high surface-to-volume ratio providing a favorable environment to immobilize biomolecules. In the second approach, SWCNTs were decorated with iron oxide nanoparticles. Diazonium salts were electrochemically grafted on iron-oxide-nanoparticle-decorated SWCNTs to functionalize them with hydrazide groups that facilitate site-directed immobilization of antibodies via hydrazone coupling. These magnetic immunocarriers facilitated MS2 separation and concentration on an electrode surface. This approach minimized non-specific adsorptions and matrix effects and allowed low limits of detection (12 pfu/mL and 39 pfu/mL in buffer and in river water, respectively) that could be further decreased by incubating the magnetic immunocarriers with larger volumes of s le. Significantly, both approaches permitted the detection of MS2 to levels regularly encountered in sewage-impacted environments.

Murine and Non-Human Primate Dendritic Cell Targeting Nanoparticles for in Vivo Generation of Regulatory T-Cells

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 06-07-2018

DOI: 10.1021/ACSNANO.8B01625

Abstract: Porous silicon nanoparticles (pSiNP), modified to target dendritic cells (DC), provide an alternate strategy for the delivery of immunosuppressive drugs. Here, we aimed to develop a DC-targeting pSiNP displaying c-type lectin, dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN), and CD11c monoclonal antibodies. The in vivo tracking of these fluorescent DC-targeting nanoparticles was assessed in both C57BL/6 mice and common marmosets ( Callithrix jacchus) by intravenous injection (20 mg/kg). Rapamycin and ovalbumin (OVA)

Interaction of Antibiotics with Lipid Vesicles on Thin Film Porous Silicon Using Reflectance Interferometric Fourier Transform Spectroscopy

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 31-07-2013

DOI: 10.1021/LA401804E

Abstract: The ability to observe interactions of drugs with cell membranes is an important area in pharmaceutical research. However, these processes are often difficult to understand due to the dynamic nature of cell membranes. Therefore, artificial systems composed of lipids have been used to study membrane properties and their interaction with drugs. Here, lipid vesicle adsorption, rupture, and formation of planar lipid bilayers induced by various antibiotics (surfactin, azithromycin, gramicidin, melittin and ciprofloxacin) and the detergent dodecyl-b-D-thiomaltoside (DOTM) was studied using reflective interferometric Fourier transform spectroscopy (RIFTS) on an oxidized porous silicon (pSi) surface as a transducer. The pSi transducer surfaces are prepared as thin films of 3 μm thickness with pore dimensions of a few nanometers in diameter by electrochemical etching of crystalline silicon followed by passivation with a thermal oxide layer. Furthermore, the sensitivity of RIFTS was investigated using three different concentrations of surfactin. Complementary techniques including atomic force microscopy, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, and fluorescence microscopy were used to validate the RIFTS-based method and confirm adsorption and consequent rupture of vesicles to form a phospholipid bilayer upon the addition of antibiotics. The method provides a sensitive and real-time approach to monitor the antibiotic-induced transition of lipid vesicles to phospholipid bilayers.

Cancer-targeting siRNA delivery from porous silicon nanoparticles

Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd

Date: 10-2014

DOI: 10.2217/NNM.14.12

Abstract: Aims: Porous silicon nanoparticles (pSiNPs) with tunable pore size are biocompatible and biodegradable, suggesting that they are suitable biomaterials as vehicles for drug delivery. Loading of small interfering RNA (siRNA) into the pores of pSiNPs can protect siRNA from degradation as well as improve the cellular uptake. We aimed to deliver MRP1 siRNA loaded into pSiNPs to glioblastoma cells, and to demonstrate downregulation of MRP1 at the mRNA and protein levels. Methods: 50–220 nm pSiNPs with an average pore size of 26 nm were prepared, followed by electrostatic adsorption of siRNA into pores. Oligonucleotide loading and release profiles were investigated MRP1 mRNA and protein expression, cell viability and cell apoptosis were studied. Results: Approximately 7.7 µg of siRNA was loaded per mg of pSiNPs. Cells readily took up nanoparticles after 30 min incubation. siRNA-loaded pSiNPs were able to effectively downregulate target mRNA (~40%) and protein expression (31%), and induced cell apoptosis and necrosis (33%). Conclusion: siRNA loaded pSiNPs downregulated mRNA and protein expression and induced cell death. This novel siRNA delivery system may pave the way towards developing more effective tumor therapies. Original submitted 14 August 2013 Revised submitted 4 December 2013

Advances in Porous Silicon–Based Nanomaterials for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-10-2019

DOI: 10.1002/ADTP.201800095

Sub-bandage sensing system for remote monitoring of chronic wounds in healthcare

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 22-12-2015

DOI: 10.1117/12.2221917

Porous silicon biosensors on the advance

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.TIBTECH.2008.12.004

Abstract: Biosensor research is a rapidly expanding field with an immense market potential spanning a broad spectrum of applications including biomedical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, veterinary and food quality control. Porous silicon (pSi) is a nanostructured material poised to take centre stage in the biosensor development effort. This can be ascribed to the ease and speed of fabrication, remarkable optical and morphological properties of the material (including tuneable pore size and porosity), large internal surface area and the versatile surface chemistry. The past decade has, therefore, seen erse proof-of-principle studies involving pSi-based optical and electrochemical transducers, which are highlighted here. We also provide comparative analysis of transducer sensitivity, robustness and susceptibility to interferences and cover strategies for sensitivity enhancement by means of signal lification.

Solvent dependent selective alkylation of a bis(sulfonamide) for the synthesis of a DNA-binding chiral polyamine

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.TETLET.2005.02.141

Electrochemical Biosensors Based on Convectively Assembled Colloidal Crystals

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 30-06-2022

DOI: 10.3390/BIOS12070480

Abstract: Rapid, sensitive, selective and portable virus detection is in high demand globally. However, differentiating non-infectious viral particles from intact/infectious viruses is still a rarely satisfied sensing requirement. Using the negative space within monolayers of polystyrene (PS) spheres deposited directly on gold electrodes, we fabricated tuneable nanochannels decorated with target-selective bioreceptors that facilitate the size-selective detection of intact viruses. Detection occurred through selective nanochannel blockage of diffusion of a redox probe, [Fe(CN)6]3/4−, allowing a quantifiable change in the oxidation current before and after analyte binding to the bioreceptor immobilised on the spheres. Our model system involved partial surface passivation of the mono-assembled PS spheres, by silica glancing angle deposition, to confine bioreceptor immobilisation specifically to the channels and improve particle detection sensitivity. Virus detection was first optimised and modelled with biotinylated gold nanoparticles, recognised by streptavidin immobilised on the PS layer, reaching a low limit of detection of 37 particles/mL. Intact, label-free virus detection was demonstrated using MS2 bacteriophage (~23–28 nm), a marker of microbiological contamination, showing an excellent limit of detection of ~1.0 pfu/mL. Tuneable nanochannel geometries constructed directly on sensing electrodes offer label-free, sensitive, and cost-efficient point-of-care biosensing platforms that could be applied for a wide range of viruses.

MALDI−TOF MS and DIOS−MS Investigation of the Degradation and Discoloration of Poly(ethylene terephthalate)

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 20-10-2006

DOI: 10.1021/MA060757W

A new SNR with TeV shell-type morphology: HESS J1731-347

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 16-06-2011

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201016425

Surface engineering of porous silicon to optimise therapeutic antibody loading and release

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5TB00397K

Abstract: Infliximab antibodies released from porous silicon microparticles can sequester the proinflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which is elevated in uveitis and non-healing chronic wounds.

A novel pressed porous silicon-polycaprolactone composite as a dual-purpose implant for the delivery of cells and drugs to the eye

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.EXER.2015.08.007

Abstract: Dysfunction of corneal epithelial stem cells can result in painful and blinding disease of the ocular surface. In such cases, treatment may involve transfer of growth factor and normal adult stem cells to the ocular surface. Our purpose was to develop an implantable scaffold for the delivery of drugs and cells to the ocular surface. We examined the potential of novel composite biomaterials fabricated from electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) fibres into which nanostructured porous silicon (pSi) microparticles of varying sizes (150-250 μm or <40 μm) had been pressed. The PCL fabric provided a flexible support for mammalian cells, whereas the embedded pSi provided a substantial surface area for efficient delivery of adsorbed drugs and growth factors. Measurements of tensile strength of these composites revealed that the pSi did not strongly influence the mechanical properties of the polymer microfiber component for the Si loadings evaluated. Human lens epithelial cells (SRA01/04) attached to the composite materials, and exhibited enhanced attachment and growth when the materials were coated with foetal bovine serum. To examine the ability of the materials to deliver a small-drug payload, pSi microparticles were loaded with fluorescein diacetate prior to cell attachment. After 6 hours (h), cells exhibited intracellular fluorescence, indicative of transfer of the fluorescein diacetate into viable cells and its subsequent enzymatic conversion to fluorescein. To investigate loading of large-molecule biologics, murine BALB/c 3T3 cells, responsive to epidermal growth factor, insulin and transferrin, were seeded on composite materials. The cells showed significantly more proliferation at 48 h when seeded on composites loaded with these biologics, than on unloaded composites. No cell proliferation was observed on PCL alone, indicating the biologics had loaded into the pSi microparticles. Drug release, measured by ELISA for insulin, indicated a burst followed by a slower, continuous release over six days. When implanted under the rat conjunctiva, the most promising composite material did not cause significant neovascularization but did elicit a macrophage and mild foreign body response. These novel pressed pSi-PCL materials have potential for delivery of both small and large drugs that can be released in active form, and can support the growth of mammalian cells.

Discovery of VHE emission towards the Carina arm region with the H.E.S.S. telescope array: HESS J1018–589

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 18-04-2012

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201218843

Increase in diagnosed asthma but not in symptoms in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 08-2004

DOI: 10.1136/THX.2004.021642

Capturing Instructive Cues of Tissue Microenvironment by Silica Bioreplication

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.2139/SSRN.3454940

Maximizing RNA Loading for Gene Silencing Using Porous Silicon Nanoparticles

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 05-06-2019

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.9B05577

Abstract: Gene silencing by RNA interference is a powerful technology with broad applications. However, this technology has been h ered by the instability of small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules in physiological conditions and their inefficient delivery into the cytoplasm of target cells. Porous silicon nanoparticles have emerged as a potential delivery vehicle to overcome these limitations-being able to encapsulate RNA molecules within the porous matrix and protect them from degradation. Here, key variables were investigated that influence siRNA loading into porous silicon nanoparticles. The effect of modifying the surface of porous silicon nanoparticles with various amino-functional molecules as well as the effects of salt and chaotropic agents in facilitating siRNA loading was examined. Maximum siRNA loading of 413 μg/(mg of porous silicon nanoparticles) was found when the nanoparticles were modified by a fourth generation polyamidoamine dendrimer. Low concentrations of urea or salt increased loading capacity: an increase in RNA loading by 19% at a concentration of 0.05 M NaCl or 21% at a concentration of 0.25 M urea was observed when compared to loading in water. Lastly, it was demonstrated that dendrimer-functionalized nanocarriers are able to deliver siRNA against ELOVL5, a target for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer.

Erratum: HESS J1640-465 - an exceptionally luminous TeV  -ray supernova remnant

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 03-06-2014

DOI: 10.1093/MNRAS/STU826

Near-Field Mapping of Localized Plasmon Resonances in Metal-Free, Nanomembrane Graphene for Mid-Infrared Sensing Applications

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-10-2018

DOI: 10.1021/ACSANM.8B01631

Combined thermal and FTIR analysis of porous silicon based nano-energetic films

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1039/C6RA27028J

Abstract: Combinations of analytical techniques lead to new insights for the early stages of explosive reactions.

Is cat-keeping the main determinant of new-onset adulthood cat sensitization? Reply

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.JACI.2012.02.053

Silica nanostructure formation from synthetic R5 peptide

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 27-12-2006

DOI: 10.1117/12.695946

Enzyme-like electrocatalysis from 2D gold nanograss-nanocube assemblies

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.JCIS.2020.04.081

Electrochemical immunosensor for breast cancer biomarker detection using high-density silicon microneedle array

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOS.2021.113496

Characterisation of porous silicon/poly( L -lactide) composites prepared using surface initiated ring opening polymerisation

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 28-12-2005

DOI: 10.1117/12.659973

Fabrication and Characterization of a Porous Silicon Drug Delivery System with an Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposition Temperature-Responsive Coating

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 21-12-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.LANGMUIR.5B03794

Abstract: This paper reports on the fabrication of a pSi-based drug delivery system, functionalized with an initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) polymer film, for the sustainable and temperature-dependent delivery of drugs. The devices were prepared by loading biodegradable porous silicon (pSi) with a fluorescent anticancer drug c tothecin (CPT) and coating the surface with temperature-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-diethylene glycol inyl ether) (pNIPAM-co-DEGDVE) or non-stimulus-responsive poly(aminostyrene) (pAS) via iCVD. CPT released from the uncoated oxidized pSi control with a burst release fashion (∼21 nmol/(cm(2) h)), and this was almost identical at temperatures both above (37 °C) and below (25 °C) the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of the switchable polymer used, pNIPAM-co-DEGDVE (28.5 °C). In comparison, the burst release rate from the pSi-pNIPAM-co-DEGDVE s le was substantially slower at 6.12 and 9.19 nmol/(cm(2) h) at 25 and 37 °C, respectively. The final amount of CPT released over 16 h was 10% higher at 37 °C compared to 25 °C for pSi coated with pNIPAM-co-DEGDVE (46.29% vs 35.67%), indicating that this material can be used to deliver drugs on-demand at elevated temperatures. pSi coated with pAS also displayed sustainable drug delivery profiles, but these were independent of the release temperature. These data show that sustainable and temperature-responsive delivery systems can be produced by functionalization of pSi with iCVD polymer films. Benefits of the iCVD approach include the application of the iCVD coating after drug loading without causing degradation of the drug commonly caused by exposure to factors such as solvents or high temperatures. Importantly, the iCVD process is applicable to a wide array of surfaces as the process is independent of the surface chemistry and pore size of the nanoporous matrix being coated.

Porous silicon microparticles as an alternative support for solid phase DNA synthesis

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 28-12-2006

DOI: 10.1117/12.659972

Enhancement of reverse transfection efficiency by combining stimulated DNA surface desorption and electroporation

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 21-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.759382

Cellular nanotechnologies: Orchestrating cellular processes by engineering silicon nanowires architectures

Publisher: Elsevier

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-12-821351-3.00013-6

Tailor-engineered plasmonic single-lattices: harnessing localized surface plasmon resonances for visible-NIR light-enhanced photocatalysis

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1039/C9CY02561H

Abstract: A platform material composed of 2D gold (Au) nanodot plasmonic single-lattices (Au-nD-PSLs) featuring tailor-engineered geometric features for visible-NIR light-driven enhanced photocatalysis is presented.

Porous silicon biosensor for the detection of autoimmune diseases

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 21-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.759260

HESS observations of the Carina nebula and its enigmatic colliding wind binary Eta Carinae

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 12-06-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2966.2012.21180.X

Porous Silicon Resonant Microcavity Biosensor for Matrix Metalloproteinase Detection

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-03-2014

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201304053

Diatom culture media contain extracellular silica nanoparticles which form opalescent films

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.811321

Electrochemical synthesis of silver oxide nanowires, microplatelets and application as SERS substrate precursors

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.ELECTACTA.2011.10.068

Probing the extent of the non-thermal emission from the Vela X region at TeV energies with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 16-11-2012

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201219919

Rapid fabrication of functionalised poly(dimethylsiloxane) microwells for cell aggregate formation

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1039/C6BM00916F

Abstract: Cell aggregates reproduce many features of the natural architecture of functional tissues, and have therefore become an important in vitro model of tissue function.

Latitude, Birth Date, and Allergy

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 04-10-2005

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PMED.0020294

Optimization of binding B-lymphocytes in a microfluidic channel: surface modification, stasis time and shear response

Publisher: IOP Publishing

Date: 30-11-2017

DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/AA9554

Tunable Thermoresponsiveness of Resilin via Coassembly with Rigid Biopolymers

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 03-08-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.LANGMUIR.5B01014

Abstract: The ability to tune the thermoresponsiveness of recombinant resilin protein, Rec1-resilin, through a facile coassembly system was investigated in this study. The effects of change in conformation and morphology with time and the responsive behavior of Rec1-resilin in solution were studied in response to the addition of a rigid model polypeptide (poly-l-proline) or a hydrophobic rigid protein (Bombyx mori silk fibroin). It was observed that by inducing more ordered conformations and increasing the hydrophobicity the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of the system was tuned to lower values. Time and temperature were found to be critical parameters in controlling the coassembly behavior of Rec1-resilin in both the model polypeptide and more complex protein systems. Such unique properties are useful for a wide range of applications, including drug delivery and soft tissue engineering applications.

Calibration of sensors for reliable radio telemetry in a prototype flexible wound monitoring device

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.SBSR.2014.10.005

Interaction between asthma and smoking increases the risk of adult airway obstruction

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 27-11-2015

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00055514

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to analyse the interaction between asthma and smoking in the risk of adult airway obstruction, accounting for atopy. In the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, 15 668 persons aged 20–56 years underwent spirometry in 1991–1993 and 9 years later (n=8916). Risk of airway obstruction and lung function decline associated with smoking and early-onset ( years of age) and late-onset ( years of age) asthma were analysed with generalised estimating equation models and random-effect linear models, adjusting for covariates. Interaction of asthma with smoking was expressed as relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI). A 20-fold increase in adult airway obstruction was found among those with early-onset asthma independently of smoking status (never-smokers: OR 21.0, 95% CI 12.7–35 current smokers: OR 23.7, 95% CI 13.9–40.6). Late-onset asthma was associated with airway obstruction, with a stronger association among current smokers (OR 25.6, 95% CI 15.6–41.9) than among never-smokers (OR 11.2, 95% CI 6.8–18.6) (RERI 12.02, 95% CI 1.96–22.07). Stratifying by atopy, the association between smoking and asthma was most pronounced among nonatopics. Early- and late-onset asthma were associated with 10–20-fold increased risk of adult airway obstruction. Smoking increased the risk of adult airway obstruction in subjects with asthma onset after age 10 years. Investigation of measures potentially preventive of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease development following asthma is urgently needed.

Surface plasmon resonance imaging of polymer microarrays to study protein-Polymer interactions in high throughput

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 05-2009

DOI: 10.1021/LA900735N

Abstract: Polymer microarrays provide a high-throughput format in which to assess biointerfacial interactions. This endeavor greatly assists with the development of advanced biomaterials. In order to increase the scope of this platform technology, the development of analytical tools that are compatible with the microarray format and are capable of analyzing biomolecular interactions in high throughput is needed. Here, we show that surface plasmon resonance imaging (SPRi) is such a tool. SPRi enables spatially resolved, surface sensitive, label free, real-time analysis of multiple surface-biomolecular interactions in parallel. In order to demonstrate this, we first printed phenylazide-modified polymers onto a slide coated with a low fouling base polymer. UV irradiation of the slide resulted in the cross-linking of the printed polymer spots to the surface. SPRi was then employed to study the adsorption and desorption of bovine serum albumin, collagen, and fibronectin to these adhesive microarray spots. The spots were also incubated with an adherent cell line, enabling insight into the underlying mechanisms of cell attachment to the polymers studied. For the system analyzed here, electrostatic interactions were shown to dominate cell attachment.

A Multifunctional Porous Silicon Nanocarrier for Glioblastoma Treatment

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-12-2023

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.MOLPHARMACEUT.2C00763

Transient receptor potential genes, smoking, occupational exposures and cough in adults

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1186/1465-9921-13-26

Microengineered bioartificial liver chip for drug toxicity screening

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-05-2018

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201801825

Porous polymeric membranes: fabrication techniques and biomedical applications

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1039/D0TB01727B

Abstract: Porous polymeric membranes have shown great potential in biological and biomedical applications such as tissue engineering, bioseparation, and biosensing, due to their structural flexibility, versatile surface chemistry, and biocompatibility.

Blood–brain barrier (BBB)-on-a-chip: a promising breakthrough in brain disease research

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1039/D2LC00305H

Abstract: This review summarizes recent advances of the integration between BBB-on-a-chip (μBBB) technology and brain disease modeling. It provides a guideline to extend their applications in pathological research, drug development, and personalized medicine.

Discovery of gamma-ray emission from the extragalactic pulsar wind nebula N 157B with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 29-08-2012

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201219906

Number of allergens to be tested to assess allergenic sensitization in epidemiologic studies: results of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey I

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 20-04-2007

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2222.2007.02714.X

Abstract: Many clinical and epidemiological studies have measured the prevalence of IgE sensitization using skin tests and/or serum-specific IgE. Most of them have been done in only one country using a battery of selected allergens relevant to that country. In multi-centre studies, the number of tested allergens is often limited by the cost. It is therefore difficult to compare prevalence of sensitized subjects between studies. To define the number and the type of allergen that should be tested in order to characterize a person as sensitized. Subjects were selected from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey I. All subjects underwent skin prick tests to nine of the most common allergens. In addition, two local allergens were tested in some centres. Using nine allergens, 35.6% of the 11 355 subjects were sensitized. The prevalence of sensitization increased with the number of tested allergens. Seven allergens enabled the identification of almost all sensitized subjects, adding another one inducing, in most countries, an increase of prevalence under 0.5%. Adding one local allergen to the battery of tests increased the overall estimated prevalence by only 1%. This increase was not seen in Ireland and was less marked in the United Kingdom (0.3%) but was greater in France (2.6%), Australia (2.5%) and Belgium (1.9%). Seven selected allergens (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, cat, grass, birch, olive pollen, Alternaria and Cladosporium) allow the identification of almost all sensitized subjects in epidemiologic studies. Inclusion of local allergen should be considered in a standard panel for international studies.

Nanoporous anodic aluminium oxide membranes with layered surface chemistry

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1039/B901745C

Abstract: A new and facile method is described to prepare Janus-like nanoporous anodic aluminium oxide (AAO) membranes with distinctly different internal and external surface chemistry.

Time-of-Flight-Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Study of the Temperature Dependence of Protein Adsorption onto Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) Graft Coatings

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-09-2009

DOI: 10.1021/AC901882Z

One-step surface modification of poly(dimethylsiloxane) by undecylenic acid

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.810101

Elemental composition and reflectance of ambient fine particles at 21 European locations

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.ATMOSENV.2005.06.049

Discovery of very high energyγ-ray emission from the BL Lacertae object PKS 0301−243 with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 11-2013

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201321639

The Requirement of Genetic Diagnostic Technologies for Environmental Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 05-10-2021

DOI: 10.3390/S21196625

Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is threatening modern medicine. While the primary cost of AMR is paid in the healthcare domain, the agricultural and environmental domains are also reservoirs of resistant microorganisms and hence perpetual sources of AMR infections in humans. Consequently, the World Health Organisation and other international agencies are calling for surveillance of AMR in all three domains to guide intervention and risk reduction strategies. Technologies for detecting AMR that have been developed for healthcare settings are not immediately transferable to environmental and agricultural settings, and limited dialogue between the domains has h ered opportunities for cross-fertilisation to develop modified or new technologies. In this feature, we discuss the limitations of currently available AMR sensing technologies used in the clinic for sensing in other environments, and what is required to overcome these limitations.

Discovery of hard-spectrumγ-ray emission from the BL Lacertae object 1ES 0414+009

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 02-2012

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201118406

Asthma Severity According to Global Initiative for Asthma and Its Determinants: An International Study

Publisher: S. Karger AG

Date: 07-08-2009

DOI: 10.1159/000232572

Abstract: i Background: /i The identification of the factors associated with severe asthma may shed some light on its etiology and on the mechanisms of its development. We aimed to describe asthma severity using the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) classification and to investigate its determinants in a cross-sectional, population-based s le in Europe. i Methods: /i In the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II (1999–2002), 1,241 adults with asthma were identified. Severity was assessed using the 2002 GINA classification (intermittent, mild persistent, moderate persistent, severe persistent) and it was related to potential determinants by a multinomial logistic model, using the intermittent group as the reference category for relative risk ratios. i Results: /i About 30% of asthmatic subjects were affected by moderate-to-severe asthma. Sensitization to i Cladosporium /i was associated with a more than 5-fold greater risk of having (mild, moderate or severe) persistent asthma than intermittent asthma. Persistent asthma was positively associated with sensitization to house dust mite, nonseasonal asthma, an older age at asthma onset, and chronic cough and phlegm. Sensitization to cat increased the risk of severe asthma only. Smoking was more strongly associated with asthma severity in men, while rhinitis was more strongly associated with asthma severity in women. i Conclusions: /i One third of the asthmatic population have moderate-to-severe asthma. Sensitization to perennial indoor allergens, particularly i Cladosporium /i , is strongly associated with asthma severity. The role of smoking and rhinitis in determining asthma severity may differ between the sexes, and it should be further investigated.

Systematic review of lung function and COPD with peripheral blood DNA methylation in population based studies

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 20-03-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12890-017-0397-3

Stimulus-cleavable chemistry in the field of controlled drug delivery

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1039/D0CS01061H

Abstract: This review comprehensively summarises stimulus-cleavable linkers from various research areas and their cleavage mechanisms, thus provides an insightful guideline to extend their potential applications to controlled drug release from nanomaterials.

The Brain

Publisher: Elsevier

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1016/C2009-0-01579-7

Development of an electro-responsive platform for the controlled transfection of mammalian cells

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 16-02-2005

DOI: 10.1117/12.606789

Silver Coating for High-Mass-Accuracy Imaging Mass Spectrometry of Fingerprints on Nanostructured Silicon

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 28-10-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.5B02567

Abstract: Nanostructure imaging mass spectrometry (NIMS) using porous silicon (pSi) is a key technique for molecular imaging of exogenous and endogenous low molecular weight compounds from fingerprints. However, high-mass-accuracy NIMS can be difficult to achieve as time-of-flight (ToF) mass analyzers, which dominate the field, cannot sufficiently compensate for shifts in measured m/z values. Here, we show internal recalibration using a thin layer of silver (Ag) sputter-coated onto functionalized pSi substrates. NIMS peaks for several previously reported fingerprint components were selected and mass accuracy was compared to theoretical values. Mass accuracy was improved by more than an order of magnitude in several cases. This straightforward method should form part of the standard guidelines for NIMS studies for spatial characterization of small molecules.

Electroless Gold-Modified Diatoms as Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Supports

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-06-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S11671-016-1539-X

Boron-Doped Silicon Diatom Frustules as a Photocathode for Water Splitting

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 30-07-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.5B04640

Abstract: An effective solar-powered silicon device for hydrogen production from water splitting is a priority in light of diminishing fossil fuel vectors. There is increasing demand for nanostructuring in silicon to improve its antireflective properties for efficient solar energy conversion. Diatom frustules are naturally occurring biosilica nanostructures formed by biomineralizing microalgae. Here, we demonstrate magnesiothermic conversion of boron-doped silica diatom frustules from Aulacoseira sp. into nanostructured silicon with retention of the original shape. Hydrogen production was achieved for boron-doped silicon diatom frustules coated with indium phosphide nanocrystal layers and an iron sulfur carbonyl electrocatalyst.

Designing Electrochemical Biosensing Platforms Using Layered Carbon-Stabilized Porous Silicon Nanostructures

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 14-03-2022

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.2C02113

Microneedles with Recessed Microcavities for Electrochemical Sensing in Dermal Interstitial Fluid

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 31-05-2023

DOI: 10.1021/ACSMATERIALSLETT.3C00441

Exposure to substances in the workplace and new-onset asthma: an international prospective population-based study (ECRHS-II)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2007

DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(07)61164-7

Colloid probe AFM study of thermal collapse and protein interactions of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) coatings

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1039/B926441H

DISCOVERY OF THE HARD SPECTRUM VHE γ-RAY SOURCE HESS J1641–463

Publisher: American Astronomical Society

Date: 22-09-2014

DOI: 10.1088/2041-8205/794/1/L1

Microfluidic Electrochemical Sensor for Cerebrospinal Fluid and Blood Dopamine Detection in a Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-08-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.0C02032

TeV  -ray observations of the young synchrotron-dominated SNRs G1.9+0.3 and G330.2+1.0 with H.E.S.S.

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 02-05-2014

DOI: 10.1093/MNRAS/STU459

Surface-Grafted Hyperbranched Polyglycerol Coating: Varying Extents of Fouling Resistance across a Range of Proteins and Cells

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-05-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACSABM.0C00336

Abstract: Hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) was previously investigated as a nonfouling hydrophilic grafted layer on biomaterial surfaces, analogous to the well-known poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), but the range of adsorbing cells and proteins tested was limited and at times the assays used were not the most sensitive. Thus, the questions arise whether HPG-grafted layers can indeed efficiently resist adsorption of a wider range of adsorbing biological entities, and how would different biological entities interact with such a coating. An HPG coating of 25 nm thickness was grafted onto a spin-coated and plasma-treated polystyrene (PS) layer on a silicon wafer substrate this provided a well-suited system for surface analyses by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM), which verified the presence of a uniform, smooth grafted HPG layer. Adsorption of bovine serum albumin, lysozyme, fibrinogen, and endothelial cell growth medium 2 (EGM2) was reduced by >90%, with the adsorbed amounts close to the detection limit of XPS but still detectable by ToF-SIMS using principal component analysis. With human serum, however, the reduction in adsorption was slightly less pronounced. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and fibroblasts were virtually unable to attach onto the grafted HPG layer, with >99% reductions at 6 h compared with plasma-treated PS the few attached cells remaining rounded and unable to spread. Their attachment might have resulted from coating defects. Testing with full blood showed that unlike for the control surface (plasma-treated PS), platelets did not adhere to the HPG surface, but there was attachment of some cells that stained CD11b positive and likely are neutrophils. Cells of the fungal organism

Performance optimisation of porous silicon rugate filter biosensor for the detection of insulin

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.SNB.2018.07.021

Stimuli-responsive interfaces and systems for the control of protein–surface and cell–surface interactions

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOMATERIALS.2008.12.026

Abstract: Real-time control over and reversibility of biomolecule-surface interactions at interfaces is an increasingly important goal for a range of scientific fields and applications. The field of stimuli-responsive, smart or switchable systems has generated much research interest due to its potential to attain unprecedented levels of control over biomolecule adsorption processes and interactions at engineered interfaces, including the control over reversibility of adsorption. Advances in this field are particularly relevant to applications in the areas of biosensing, chromatography, drug delivery and regenerative medicine. The control over biomolecule adsorption and desorption processes at interfaces is often used to control subsequent events such as cell-surface interactions. Considerable research interest has been directed at systems that can be reversibly switched between interacting and non-interacting states and used thus for switching, on and off, bio-interfacial interactions such as protein adsorption. Such switchable coatings often incorporate features such as temporal resolution, spatial resolution and reversibility. Here we review recent literature on switchable coatings that employ stimuli such as light, temperature, electric potential, pH and ionic strength to control protein adsorption/desorption and cell attachment/detachment en route to the development of next-generation smart bio-interfaces.

Delivery of Flightless I Neutralizing Antibody from Porous Silicon Nanoparticles Improves Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-11-2017

DOI: 10.1002/ADHM.201600707

Abstract: Flightless I (Flii) is elevated in human chronic wounds and is a negative regulator of wound repair. Decreasing its activity improves healing responses. Flii neutralizing antibodies (FnAbs) decrease Flii activity in vivo and hold significant promise as healing agents. However, to avoid the need for repeated application in a clinical setting and to protect the therapeutic antibody from the hostile environment of the wound, suitable delivery vehicles are required. In this study, the use of porous silicon nanoparticles (pSi NPs) is demonstrated for the controlled release of FnAb to diabetic wounds. We achieve FnAb loading regimens exceeding 250 µg antibody per mg of vehicle. FnAb-loaded pSi NPs increase keratinocyte proliferation and enhance migration in scratch wound assays. Release studies confirm the functionality of the FnAb in terms of Flii binding. Using a streptozotocin-induced model of diabetic wound healing, a significant improvement in healing is observed for mice treated with FnAb-loaded pSi NPs compared to controls, including FnAb alone. FnAb-loaded pSi NPs treated with proteases show intact and functional antibody for up to 7 d post-treatment, suggesting protection of the antibodies from proteolytic degradation in wound fluid. pSi NPs may therefore enable new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of diabetic ulcers.

High-throughput characterisation of osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells using pore size gradients on porous alumina

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1039/C3BM60026B

DNA hybridization-enhanced porous silicon corrosion: mechanistic investigations and prospect for optical interferometric biosensing

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.TET.2004.06.130

Gelation and topochemical polymerization of peptide dendrimers

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1039/C0NJ00544D

Formation and biofunctionalisation of polymer photonic crystals by replica moulding from porous silicon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.MATLET.2020.128907

Silicon diatom frustules as nanostructured photoelectrodes

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 22-07-2014

DOI: 10.1039/C4CC04470C

Abstract: In the quest for solutions to meeting future energy demands, solar fuels play an important role. A particularly promising ex le is photocatalysis since even incremental improvements in performance in this process are bound to translate into significant cost benefits. Here, we report that semiconducting and high surface area 3D silicon replicas prepared from abundantly available diatom fossils sustain photocurrents and enable solar energy conversion.

The influence of sensitisation to pollens and moulds on seasonal variations in asthma attacks

Publisher: European Respiratory Society (ERS)

Date: 07-03-2013

DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00097412

Investigation of self-assembling proline- and glycine-rich recombinant proteins and peptides inspired by proteins from a symbiotic fungus using atomic force microscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.BBAPAP.2012.02.009

Abstract: Fiber-forming proteins and peptides are being scrutinized as a promising source of building blocks for new nanomaterials. Arabinogalactan-like (AGL) proteins expressed at the symbiotic interface between plant roots and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi have novel sequences, hypothesized to form polyproline II (PPII) helix structures. The functional nature of these proteins is unknown but they may form structures for the establishment and maintenance of fungal hyphae. Here we show that recombinant AGL1 (rAGL1) and recombinant AGL3 (rAGL3) are extended proteins based upon secondary structural characteristics determined by electronic circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and can self-assemble into fibers and microtubes as observed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). CD spectroscopy results of synthetic peptides based on repeat regions in AGL1, AGL2 and AGL3 suggest that the synthetic peptides contain significant amounts of extended PPII helices and that these structures are influenced by ionic strength and, at least in one case, by concentration. Point mutations of a single residue of the repeat region of AGL3 resulted in altered secondary structures. Self-assembly of these repeats was observed by means of AFM and optical microscopy. Peptide (APADGK)(6) forms structures with similar morphology to rAGL1 suggesting that these repeats are crucial for the morphology of rAGL1 fibers. These novel self-assembling sequences may find applications as precursors for bioinspired nanomaterials.

Microarrays for the evaluation of cell-biomaterial surface interactions

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 27-12-2006

DOI: 10.1117/12.696030

Benzene carboxylic acid derivatized graphene oxide nanosheets on natural zeolites as effective adsorbents for cationic dye removal

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.JHAZMAT.2013.05.041

Abstract: Graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were grafted to acid-treated natural clinoptilolite-rich zeolite powders followed by a coupling reaction with a diazonium salt (4-carboxybenzenediazoniumtetrafluoroborate) to the GO surface. Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed successful grafting of GO nanosheets onto the zeolite surface. The application of the adsorbents for the adsorption of rhodamine B from aqueous solutions was then demonstrated. After reaching adsorption equilibrium the maximum adsorption capacities were shown to be 50.25, 55.56 and 67.56 mg g(-1) for pristine natural zeolite, GO grafted zeolite (GO-zeolite) and benzene carboxylic acid derivatized GO-zeolite powders, respectively. The adsorption behavior was fitted to a Langmuir isotherm and shown to follow a pseudo-second-order reaction model. Further, a relationship between surface functional groups, pH and adsorption efficiency was established. Results indicate that benzene carboxylic acid derivatized GO-zeolite powders are environmentally favorable adsorbents for the removal of cationic dyes from aqueous solutions.

Nanostructured silicon photoelectrodes for solar water electrolysis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.NANOEN.2015.08.022

Synthesis and Conjugation of Alkyne-Functional Hyperbranched Polyglycerols

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 07-03-2016

DOI: 10.1002/MACP.201500507

Cellular binding, uptake and biotransformation of silver nanoparticles in human T lymphocytes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-05-2021

DOI: 10.1038/S41565-021-00914-3

Abstract: Our knowledge of uptake, toxicity and detoxification mechanisms as related to nanoparticles' (NPs') characteristics remains incomplete. Here we combine the analytical power of three advanced techniques to study the cellular binding and uptake and the intracellular transformation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs): single-particle inductively coupled mass spectrometry, mass cytometry and synchrotron X-ray absorption spectrometry. Our results show that although intracellular and extracellularly bound AgNPs undergo major transformation depending on their primary size and surface coating, intracellular Ag in 24 h AgNP-exposed human lymphocytes exists in nanoparticulate form. Biotransformation of AgNPs is dominated by sulfidation, which can be viewed as one of the cellular detoxification pathways for Ag. These results also show that the toxicity of AgNPs is primarily driven by internalized Ag. In fact, when toxicity thresholds are expressed as the intracellular mass of Ag per cell, differences in toxicity between NPs of different coatings and sizes are minimized. The analytical approach developed here has broad applicability in different systems where the aim is to understand and quantify cell-NP interactions and biotransformation.

Stimulus-Responsive Antibiotic Releasing Systems for the Treatment of Wound Infections

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 07-01-2019

DOI: 10.1021/ACSABM.8B00577

Long-term monitoring of PKS 2155−304 with ATOM and H.E.S.S.: investigation of optical/γ-ray correlations in different spectral states

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 11-2014

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201424142

Vertically Aligned Nanostructured Topographies for Human Neural Stem Cell Differentiation and Neuronal Cell Interrogation

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 23-06-2021

DOI: 10.1002/ADTP.202100061

Abstract: Neurodegenerative disorders are a widespread global health concern caused by aging, disease, and trauma, for which there are limited treatment options. Stem cell therapies, tissue engineering, and nanobiotechnologies offer hope for improved therapeutic delivery approaches, as well as tissue repair and regenerative medicine interventions. The complexity of the human brain, coupled with its limited availability for research, makes human neural lineage cells and their precursor stem cells integral to the further understanding of brain functions in health, development, and disease. Engineered nanomaterials provide highly specialized microenvironments, enabling precise interrogation of the impact of external and spatial stimuli on human neural cells in vitro, greatly advancing the knowledge of human neural function. Interacting with neural cells at the nanoscale, vertically aligned nanostructured (VA‐NS) arrays can influence cell fate and aid in more efficient cell reprogramming, and lend themselves to the development of highly targeted, sensitive signal transducer platforms suitable for in vivo monitoring of neural cell health and activity. This perspective highlights the current state of stem cell nanoneurobiology, specifically focusing on interdisciplinary advances made by VA‐NS arrays to manipulate human neural stem cells in translatable research applications. Current challenges and identify are discussed underexplored and emerging future research areas.

H.E.S.S. discovery of VHEγ-rays from the quasar PKS 1510−089

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 06-2013

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201321135

High-Aspect-Ratio SU-8-Based Optofluidic Device for Ammonia Detection in Cell Culture Media

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 15-07-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACSSENSORS.0C00821

The locus C11orf30 increases susceptibility to poly‐sensitization

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 24-12-2014

DOI: 10.1111/ALL.12557

Abstract: A number of genetic variants have been associated with allergic sensitization, but whether these are allergen specific or increase susceptibility to poly-sensitization is unknown. Using data from the large multicentre population-based European Community Respiratory Health Survey, we assessed the association between 10 loci and specific IgE and skin prick tests to in idual allergens and poly-sensitization. We found that the 10 loci associate with sensitization to different allergens in a nonspecific manner and that one in particular, C11orf30-rs2155219, doubles the risk of poly-sensitization (specific IgE/4 allergens: OR = 1.81, 95% CI 0.80-4.24 skin prick test/4+ allergens: OR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.34-3.95). The association of rs2155219 with higher levels of expression of C11orf30, which may be involved in transcription repression of interferon-stimulated genes, and its association with sensitization to multiple allergens suggest that this locus is highly relevant for atopy.

Patterning and Biofunctionalization of Antifouling Hyperbranched Polyglycerol Coatings

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1021/BM500601Z

Abstract: We demonstrate the patterned biofunctionalization of antifouling hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) coatings on silicon and glass substrates. The ultralow fouling HPG coatings afforded straightforward chemical handles for rapid bioconjugation of amine containing biomolecular species. This was achieved by sodium periodate oxidation of terminal HPG diols to yield reactive aldehyde groups. Patterned microprinting of sodium periodate and cell adhesion mediating cyclic peptides containing the RGD sequence resulted in an array of covalently immobilized bioactive signals. When incubated with mouse fibroblasts, the HPG background resisted cell attachment whereas high density cell attachment was observed on the peptide spots, resulting in high-contrast cell microarrays. We also demonstrated single-step, in situ functionalization of the HPG coatings by printing periodate and peptide concurrently. Our results demonstrate the effectiveness of antifouling and functionalized HPG graft polymer coatings and establish their use in microarray applications for the first time.

Risk Factors for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in a European Cohort of Young Adults

Publisher: American Thoracic Society

Date: 04-2011

DOI: 10.1164/RCCM.201007-1125OC

The relation of adult bronchial responsiveness to serious childhood respiratory illness in the ECRHS

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.RMED.2006.09.004

Abstract: Respiratory symptoms in adulthood have been found to be associated with childhood respiratory infection, but few studies have analyzed adult bronchial responsiveness (BHR) with adequate adjustment for known risk factors. To estimate the relation of BHR with serious childhood respiratory infections in a large population study. The European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) was a cross-sectional population-based survey in 34 centers. Data on serious respiratory infections before the age of 5 years and possible confounders were obtained from a questionnaire administered in the clinic. Blood s les were taken for measurement of total immunoglobulin E (IgE) and specific IgE to four common allergens, and spirometry and bronchial challenge with methacholine were performed. A continuous measure of BHR was analyzed by multiple regression, in 11,282 participants, in relation to serious respiratory infection and other potential risk factors, adjusted for center and major determinants of adult BHR. Those reporting a serious childhood respiratory infection had greater BHR, by an amount corresponding to approximately 0.23 doubling doses (95% confidence interval 0.02-0.44) of the amount of methacholine causing a 20% fall (PD(20)) in forced expiratory volume in 1s (FEV(1)). All childhood factors explained less than 0.3% of variation in BHR in addition to over 20% by factors measured in adulthood. The relation of BHR to BMI was confined to smokers. We found an effect of serious childhood respiratory infection on adult BHR, but this was small in comparison to relations of BHR to IgE-sensitization and airway caliber.

Rapid Detection of Anabolic and Narcotic Doping Agents in Saliva and Urine By Means of Nanostructured Silicon SALDI Mass Spectrometry

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 17-06-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.0C07849

Dense arrays of uniform submicron pores in silicon and their applications

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-01-2015

DOI: 10.1021/AM506891D

Bioengineered Silicon Diatoms: Adding Photonic Features to a Nanostructured Semiconductive Material for Biomolecular Sensing

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-09-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S11671-016-1624-1

MALDI MS imaging analysis of apolipoprotein E and lysyl oxidase-like 1 in human lens capsules affected by pseudoexfoliation syndrome

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.JPROT.2013.01.008

Abstract: Pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome is an age-related systemic disease of the extracellular matrix, characterized by the presence of amyloid-like fibrillar deposits on the anterior lens capsule. The pathological deposits (PEX material) can obstruct aqueous outflow leading to increased intraocular pressure that in turn can result in glaucoma. PEX syndrome is the most common risk factor for glaucoma. In our previous work, we reported a protocol for the analysis of human lens capsules by MALDI MS imaging. Here, we extend our previous work applying the developed protocol to the analysis of human lens capsules affected by PEX syndrome. We focus our investigation on known components of the PEX material, namely lysyl oxidase-like 1 (LOXL1) and apolipoprotein E (APOE). Our results show that LOXL1 is more abundant in the deposits in the iris region and, alternatively APOE is concentrated in the PEX material accumulated in the pupillary area of the anterior lens capsule. Furthermore, we identify potentially relevant post-translational modifications which may have an important role in promoting the cross-linking processes in PEX syndrome and stabilize aggregate structures within the proteinaceous PEX material. This paper is about the identification and localization of apolipoprotein E and lysyl oxidase-like 1 in human lens capsules affected by PEX syndrome by MALDI MS imaging. With this study we expand the clinical application of MALDI MSI toward the use of non-sectioned tissue s les analyzed after in situ enzymatic digestion and advance the knowledge regarding a common pathology like PEX syndrome.

Metabolite mapping by consecutive nanostructure and silver-assisted mass spectrometry imaging on tissue sections

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 17-05-2017

DOI: 10.1002/RCM.7869

Abstract: Nanostructure-based mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is a promising technology for molecular imaging of small molecules, without the complex chemical background typically encountered in matrix-assisted molecular imaging approaches. Here, we have enhanced these surfaces with silver (Ag) to provide a second tier of MSI data from a single s le. MSI data was acquired through the application of laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry to biological s les imprinted onto desorption/ionization on silicon (DIOS) substrates. Following initial analysis, ultra-thin Ag layers were overlaid onto the followed by MSI analysis (Ag-DIOS MSI). This approach was first demonstrated for fingermark small molecules including environmental contaminants and sebum components. Subsequently, this bimodal method was translated to lipids and metabolites in fore-stomach sections from a 6-bromoisatin chemopreventative murine mouse model. DIOS MSI allowed mapping of common ions in fingermarks as well as 6-bromoisatin metabolites and lipids in murine fore-stomach. Furthermore, DIOS MSI was complemented by the Ag-DIOS MSI of Ag-adductable lipids such as wax esters in fingermarks and cholesterol in murine fore-stomach. Gastrointestinal acid condensation products of 6-bromoisatin, such as the 6,6'-dibromoindirubin mapped herein, are very challenging to isolate and characterize. By re-analyzing the same tissue imprints, this metabolite was readily detected by DIOS, placed in a tissue-specific spatial context, and subsequently overlaid with additional lipid distributions acquired using Ag-DIOS MSI. The ability to place metabolite and lipid classes in a tissue-specific context makes this novel method suited to MSI analyses where the collection of additional information from the same s le maximises resource use, and also maximises the number of annotated small molecules, in particular for metabolites that are typically undetectable with traditional platforms. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Role of actin cytoskeleton in cargo delivery mediated by vertically aligned silicon nanotubes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-09-2022

DOI: 10.1186/S12951-022-01618-Z

Abstract: Nanofabrication technologies have been recently applied to the development of engineered nano–bio interfaces for manipulating complex cellular processes. In particular, vertically configurated nanostructures such as nanoneedles (NNs) have been adopted for a variety of biological applications such as mechanotransduction, biosensing, and intracellular delivery. Despite their success in delivering a erse range of biomolecules into cells, the mechanisms for NN-mediated cargo transport remain to be elucidated. Recent studies have suggested that cytoskeletal elements are involved in generating a tight and functional cell–NN interface that can influence cargo delivery. In this study, by inhibiting actin dynamics using two drugs—cytochalasin D (Cyto D) and jasplakinolide (Jas), we demonstrate that the actin cytoskeleton plays an important role in mRNA delivery mediated by silicon nanotubes (SiNTs). Specifically, actin inhibition 12 h before SiNT-cellular interfacing (pre-interface treatment) significantly d ens mRNA delivery (with efficiencies dropping to 17.2% for Cyto D and 33.1% for Jas) into mouse fibroblast GPE86 cells, compared to that of untreated controls (86.9%). However, actin inhibition initiated 2 h after the establishment of GPE86 cell–SiNT interface (post-interface treatment), has negligible impact on mRNA transfection, maintaining 80% efficiency for both Cyto D and Jas treatment groups. The results contribute to understanding potential mechanisms involved in NN-mediated intracellular delivery, providing insights into strategic design of cell–nano interfacing under temporal control for improved effectiveness.

Comparison of the performance of different silicon-based SALDI substrates for illicit drug detection

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2014.09.040

Abstract: Surface-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) is an emerging technique used for the detection of small molecules (<700 Da) such as illicit drugs. In recent times, this technique has been employed for the detection of illicit drugs in various body fluids including saliva. Three common SALDI techniques, desorption ionization on porous silicon (DIOS), nanostructure-initiator mass spectrometry (NIMS) and nanostructured laser desorption ionization (NALDI(™)) are compared for the detection of four drug classes, hetamines, benzodiazepines, opiates and tropane alkaloids. We focus in our comparison on structural and chemical characteristics, as well as analytical performance and longevity.

Bottom‐up in situ proteomic differentiation of human and non‐human haemoglobins for forensic purposes by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-10-2017

DOI: 10.1002/RCM.7986

Abstract: The detection and identification of human blood on crime-related items are of particular relevance to many investigations because shed blood can provide evidence of violent contact between in iduals. However, for any detection and identification technique, specificity is a critical performance characteristic to assess that is, whether the technique has the capability to differentiate between human blood (which usually is of relevance to a criminal investigation) and non-human blood (which usually would not be associated with a crime but may be detected incidentally). Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) approaches using "top-down" (detection of intact proteins) and "bottom-up" (detection of tryptic peptide markers) were used to detect and identify haemoglobin in blood from humans and from a range of Australian native mammals the technique could be carried out directly on blood stains without the need to extract proteins (i.e., in situ measurement). Imaging of haemoglobin was achieved in bloodied fingermarks, including those that had been enhanced using two "industry standard" fingermark enhancement processes. Differentiation of intact haemoglobin proteins in human and non-human blood using "top-down" MALDI-TOF-MS was difficult. However, in situ "bottom-up" approaches using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and de novo sequencing of tryptic digest peptides allowed unambiguous differentiation. Imaging mass spectrometry of human haemoglobin, even when it was mixed with animal blood, was achieved in bloodied fingermarks that had been enhanced using two common processes (staining with Amido Black or dusted with magnetic powder) and "lifted" using adhesive tape. The MALDI-TOF-MS-based in situ "bottom-up" proteomic methodology described here shows great promise for the detection of human blood and even imaging of blood in bloodied fingermarks. The approach is sensitive, can differentiate between human blood and that from many animals (including several Australian native animals), and can be implemented after traditional crime scene fingermark enhancement techniques have been carried out.

Electrospun Composites of Polycaprolactone and Porous Silicon Nanoparticles for the Tunable Delivery of Small Therapeutic Molecules

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 29-03-2018

DOI: 10.3390/NANO8040205

Micropatterned arrays of porous silicon: Toward sensory biointerfaces

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 23-06-2011

DOI: 10.1021/AM2003526

Chitosan‐based nanoscale systems for doxorubicin delivery: Exploring biomedical application in cancer therapy

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 13-09-2022

DOI: 10.1002/BTM2.10325

Abstract: Green chemistry has been a growing multidisciplinary field in recent years showing great promise in biomedical applications, especially for cancer therapy. Chitosan (CS) is an abundant biopolymer derived from chitin and is present in insects and fungi. This polysaccharide has favorable characteristics, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of modification by enzymes and chemicals. CS‐based nanoparticles (CS‐NPs) have shown potential in the treatment of cancer and other diseases, affording targeted delivery and overcoming drug resistance. The current review emphasizes on the application of CS‐NPs for the delivery of a chemotherapeutic agent, doxorubicin (DOX), in cancer therapy as they promote internalization of DOX in cancer cells and prevent the activity of P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) to reverse drug resistance. These nanoarchitectures can provide co‐delivery of DOX with antitumor agents such as curcumin and cisplatin to induce synergistic cancer therapy. Furthermore, co‐loading of DOX with siRNA, shRNA, and miRNA can suppress tumor progression and provide chemosensitivity. Various nanostructures, including lipid‐, carbon‐, polymeric‐ and metal‐based nanoparticles, are modifiable with CS for DOX delivery, while functionalization of CS‐NPs with ligands such as hyaluronic acid promotes selectivity toward tumor cells and prevents DOX resistance. The CS‐NPs demonstrate high encapsulation efficiency and due to protonation of amine groups of CS, pH‐sensitive release of DOX can occur. Furthermore, redox‐ and light‐responsive CS‐NPs have been prepared for DOX delivery in cancer treatment. Leveraging these characteristics and in view of the biocompatibility of CS‐NPs, we expect to soon see significant progress towards clinical translation.

Differential functionalisation of the internal and external surfaces of carbon-stabilised nanoporous silicon

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1039/C9CC03755A

Abstract: A versatile strategy to differentiate the surface chemistry of the internal and external pore walls of highly-stable nanoporous silicon.

Electro-induced protein deposition on low-fouling surfaces

Publisher: IOP Publishing

Date: 09-10-2007

DOI: 10.1088/0964-1726/16/6/025

Combination of iCVD and Porous Silicon for the Development of a Controlled Drug Delivery System

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 21-06-2012

DOI: 10.1021/AM300621K

Abstract: We describe a pH responsive drug delivery system which was fabricated using a novel approach to functionalize biodegradeable porous silicon (pSi) by initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD). The assembly involved first loading a model drug (c tothecin, CPT) into the pores of the pSi matrix followed by capping the pores with a thin pH responsive copolymer film of poly(methacrylic acid-co-ethylene dimethacrylate) (p(MAA-co-EDMA)) via iCVD. Release of CPT from uncoated pSi was identical in two buffers at pH 1.8 and pH 7.4. In contrast, the linear release rate of CPT from the pSi matrix with the p(MAA-co-EDMA) coating was dependent on the pH release of CPT was more than four times faster at pH 7.4 (13.1 nmol/(cm(2) h)) than at pH 1.8 (3.0 nmol/(cm(2) h)). The key advantage of this drug delivery approach over existing ones based on pSi is that the iCVD coating can be applied to the pSi matrix after drug loading without degradation of the drug because the process does not expose the drug to harmful solvents or high temperatures and is independent of the surface chemistry and pore size of the nanoporous matrix.

Electrochemically prepared nanoporous gold as a SERS substrate with high enhancement

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1039/C4RA01909A

Abstract: Gold films were electrochemically etched into nanoporous substrates with tuneable pore sizes down to approximately 2 nm. The SERS enhancement as a result of changes in valley and ligament widths of the nanoporous gold was investigated. Compared to the conventional de-alloyed nano-gold, the etched gold showed a lower limit of detection (2 × 10 −9 M vs. 1 × 10 −7 M Rhodamine 6G).

The hormesis effect of plasma-elevated intracellular ROS on HaCaT cells

Publisher: IOP Publishing

Date: 12-11-2015

DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/48/49/495401

Long-term effect of asthma on the development of obesity among adults: an international cohort study, ECRHS.

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 27-04-2022

DOI: 10.1136/THORAXJNL-2021-217867

Abstract: Obesity is a known risk factor for asthma. Although some evidence showed asthma causing obesity in children, the link between asthma and obesity has not been investigated in adults. We used data from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS), a cohort study in 11 European countries and Australia in 3 waves between 1990 and 2014, at intervals of approximately 10 years. We considered two study periods: from ECRHS I ( We included 7576 participants in the period ECRHS I-II (51.5% female, mean (SD) age of 34 (7) years) and 4976 in ECRHS II-III (51.3% female, 42 (8) years). 9% of participants became obese in ECRHS I-II and 15% in ECRHS II-III. The risk of developing obesity was higher among asthmatics than non-asthmatics (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.38), and particularly higher among non-atopic than atopic (1.47 1.17 to 1.86 vs 1.04 0.86 to 1.27), those with longer disease duration (1.32 1.10 to 1.59 in >20 years vs 1.12 0.87 to 1.43 in ≤20 years) and those on oral corticosteroids (1.99 1.26 to 3.15 vs 1.15 1.03 to 1.28). Physical activity was not a mediator of this association. This is the first study showing that adult asthmatics have a higher risk of developing obesity than non-asthmatics, particularly those non-atopic, of longer disease duration or on oral corticosteroids.

Discovery of the source HESS J1356-645 associated with the young and energetic PSR J1357-6429

Publisher: EDP Sciences

Date: 09-2011

DOI: 10.1051/0004-6361/201117445

An Improved Flexible Telemetry System to Autonomously Monitor Sub-Bandage Pressure and Wound Moisture

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 18-11-2014

DOI: 10.3390/S141121770

Synthesis and Stereoselective DNA Binding Abilities of New Optically Active Open-Chain Polyamines

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 10-02-2007

DOI: 10.1021/JO0619837

Abstract: The efficient synthesis of new open-chain enantiopure polyamines bearing (R,R)- and/or (S,S)-trans-cyclohexane-1,2-diamine moieties is described. The key step for the synthetic procedure is the selective monoalkylation of the cyclohexanebis(sulfonamide) core, which allows the subsequent functionalization of this moiety. Compounds bearing different combinations of absolute configurations, length of the aliphatic spacers and terminal groups have been prepared. As a demonstration of the potential utility of the obtained compounds, the preliminary DNA binding abilities of some of them have been studied by UV-measurements of melting temperatures (Tm). The effects of the absolute configuration of the corresponding chiral centers and the length of the spacer separating the cyclohexanediamine moieties on the strength of the interaction with DNA are also discussed.

The effects of growing up on a farm on adult lung function and allergic phenotypes: an international population-based study

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 26-09-2016

DOI: 10.1136/THORAXJNL-2015-208154

Abstract: Evidence has suggested that exposure to environmental or microbial bio ersity in early life may impact subsequent lung function and allergic disease risk. To investigate the influence of childhood living environment and bio ersity indicators on atopy, asthma and lung function in adulthood. The European Community Respiratory Health Survey II investigated ∼10 201 participants aged 26-54 years from 14 countries, including participants' place of upbringing (farm, rural environment or inner city) before age 5 years. A 'bio ersity score' was created based on childhood exposure to cats, dogs, day care, bedroom sharing and older siblings. Associations with lung function, bronchial hyper-responsiveness (BHR), allergic sensitisation, asthma and rhinitis were analysed. As compared with a city upbringing, those with early-life farm exposure had less atopic sensitisation (adjusted OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.58), atopic BHR (0.54 (0.35 to 0.83)), atopic asthma (0.47 (0.28 to 0.81)) and atopic rhinitis (0.43 (0.32 to 0.57)), but not non-atopic outcomes. Less pronounced protective effects were observed for rural environment exposures. Women with a farm upbringing had higher FEV This is the first study to report beneficial effects of growing up on a farm on adult FEV

Fabrication of gold nanostructures by templating from porous diatom frustules

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2006

DOI: 10.1039/B600073H

Porous Alumina Membrane-Based Electrochemical Biosensor for Protein Biomarker Detection in Chronic Wounds

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 06-03-2020

DOI: 10.3389/FCHEM.2020.00155

A europium-based ‘off-on’ colourimetric detector of singlet oxygen

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.ICA.2017.03.043

Magnetic and fluorescence-encoded polystyrene microparticles for cell separation

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 26-12-2008

DOI: 10.1117/12.812208

Chemical and biomolecule patterning on 2D surfaces using atmospheric pressure microcavity plasma array devices

Publisher: SPIE

Date: 21-12-2011

DOI: 10.1117/12.903304

Electrochemical biosensors featuring oriented antibody immobilization via electrografted and self-assembled hydrazide chemistry

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 13-01-2014

DOI: 10.1021/AC401747J

Abstract: Appropriate site-directed chemistry is essential to maximize the performance of immunosensors. We present two new functionalization strategies that preserve proper folding and binding potential of antibodies by forcing their oriented immobilization. Both strategies are based on the formation of hydrazone bonds between aldehyde groups on the Fc moieties of periodate-oxidized antibodies and hydrazide groups on functionalized gold electrodes. Those hydrazide groups are introduced by electrografting of diazonium salts or by self assembly of mono- and dithiolated hydrazide linkers, resulting in films with tailored functional groups and, thus, antibody distribution and spacing. Their barrier properties and permeability toward electroactive species are evaluated. To demonstrate the potential of these new functionalization strategies, detection of bacteriophage MS2 is performed through either a direct assay using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) or through a sandwich assay using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Diazonium and monothiolated self-assembled monolayer-modified electrodes enable the detection of less than 1 plaque forming unit (pfu)/mL in a direct EIS assay. However, nonspecific adsorption renders measurements in river water s les difficult. In contrast, sandwich-assays on electrodes with electrografted diazonium salts and monothiolated self-assembled monolayers do not show significant matrix effects using river water s les, but the limits of detection are 10(8) times higher than those of the direct assay. Best results are achieved for immunosensors based on mixed monolayers of hydrazide and hydroxyl diothiolated linkers (15 pfu/mL). These new functionalization techniques are facile to implement. They afford the possibility to tune the surface composition and tailor the electrochemical properties of electrochemical sensors. These advantages should translate into broad interest in this type of surface chemistry for biosensor development.

Electrochemically prepared porous silver and its application in surface-enhanced Raman scattering

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.JELECHEM.2011.05.016

Early life origins of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 02-09-2009

DOI: 10.1136/THX.2008.112136

Abstract: Early life development may influence subsequent respiratory morbidity. The impact of factors determined in childhood on adult lung function, decline in lung function and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was investigated. European Community Respiratory Health Survey participants aged 20-45 years randomly selected from general populations in 29 centres underwent spirometry in 1991-3 (n = 13 359) and 9 years later (n = 7738). Associations of early life factors with adult forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1)), FEV(1) decline and COPD (FEV(1)/FVC ratio <70% and FEV(1) or =3 factors, men: 274 ml (95% CI 154 to 395), women: 208 ml (95% CI 124 to 292)). Childhood disadvantage was associated with a larger FEV(1) decline (1 factor: 2.0 ml (95% CI 0.4 to 3.6) per year 2 factors: 3.8 ml (95% CI 1.0 to 6.6) > or =3 factors: 2.2 ml (95% CI -4.8 to 9.2)). COPD increased with increasing childhood disadvantage (1 factor, men: OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.6), women: OR 1.6 (95% CI 1.01 to 2.6) > or =3 factors, men: OR 6.3 (95% CI 2.4 to 17), women: OR 7.2 (95% CI 2.8 to 19)). These findings were consistent between centres and when subjects with asthma were excluded. People with early life disadvantage have permanently lower lung function, no catch-up with age but a slightly larger decline in lung function and a substantially increased COPD risk. The impact of childhood disadvantage was as large as that of heavy smoking. Increased focus on the early life environment may contribute to the prevention of COPD.

Rhinitis and onset of asthma: a longitudinal population-based study

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2008

DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(08)61446-4

Assessment of Allergen Sensitization in a General Population-Based Survey (European Community Respiratory Health Survey I)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.ANNEPIDEM.2010.05.012

Abstract: Exposed to a common environment, the IgE-mediated immune response differs, for instance, among sensitized subjects, some of them reacting toward one allergen (monosensitized) whereas others are sensitized to a wide array of allergens (polysensitized). However, a better phenotypic characterization is needed for epidemiologic studies. Using the data collected during the ECRHS I (European Community Respiratory Health Survey), several assessments of skin prick tests and serum-specific IgE to identify mono- and polysensitized patients were compared. Subjects took part in the ECRHS-I. The CAP-System was used for serum allergen-specific IgE, and allergen-coated Phazet was used for prick tests. Four allergens (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, cat, timothy grass, and Cladosporium) were measured using IgE and nine (the same ones plus olive pollen, birch, Alternaria, Parietaria, and ragweed) were skin tested. One to two local allergens were also tested, depending on countries. Prevalence of sensitization in 11,355 subjects (34.0 [27.9-40.1] years, 49.9% men) ranged from 32.3% (four specific IgE, 19.3% mono- and 13.0% polysensitized) to 41.8% (four specific IgE combined to nine prick tests, 19.6% mono- and 22.2% polysensitized). Concordance between four specific IgE and four prick tests was weak (weighted κ 0.65 [0.64-0.66]). Concordance between seven and nine prick tests was high (weighted κ 0.99 [0.98-1.00]). Local allergens induced small changes in the prevalence of sensitization, and reclassified some subjects from mono- to polysensitized. Skin tests or serum-specific IgE may be chosen to identify allergenic sensitivity, mono- and polysensitized subjects without being strictly interchangeable.