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The insertion of an HfO2–y layer within TiO2–x/HfO2–y/TiO2–x resistive random access memory (RRAM) yields in low set power of 50 nW (10 nA at 5 V), low reset power of 3 nW (1 nA at −3 V), and good cycling variability ( \sigma /\mu < 0.5 ). In addition, under pulse experiments, fast switching time of 1~\mu \text{s} , good 10^{7}$ cycling endurance and retention performance at 150 °C, was demonstrated. The confinement of the switching effect into the HfO2–y film, which has the highest oxygen content and deeper oxygen vacancy energy levels compared with the adjusting two layers of TiO2–x which act as two series resistances, can explain the low switching energy. The gradual modulation of the resistance permits also the manifestation of long-term potentiation synaptic plasticity, induced by the application of a train of pulses with different repetition intervals. A quantitative model was applied in order to reproduce the analog SET/RESET responses of the trilayer configuration and highlight the role of the local distribution of oxygen vacancies. These effects in conjunction with the room temperature fabrication process used and the forming-free nature of the thin films are considered as an optimization route toward high-density RRAM design. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Vanadium pentoxide (V 2 O 5 ) thin films grown by rf-sputtering have been studied as a function of two growth parameters, O 2 content and substrate temperature, which influence importantly their structural, as well as their electrochemical and electrochromic properties. The increase in O 2 content appears to result in an increase of the grain size of the films, while the increase in substrate temperature leads in platelets perpendicular to the substrate, which enhance the porosity of the films. Films with low O 2 content (3%) and films grown at a substrate temperature of 300 °C, present enhanced charge storage properties of 553 mA h g −1 and large transmittance modulation ability. On the contrary, high O 2 content (11%) and a substrate temperature of 150 °C lead to improved coloration efficiency (at λ = 400 nm), reaching values of 84.5 and ∼132 cm 2 C −1 , respectively. These findings are discussed in terms of structural and morphological changes occurring during the two parameters studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing the sputtering technique, platinum nanoparticles of 5 nm in diameter have been deposited on top of oxidized silicon substrates. The nanoparticle layer has been subsequently functionalized with DNAzymes that are known to self-cleave in the presence of lead (Pb 2+ ) ions. The resulting device has proven to operate as an environmental monitoring sensor for the detection of lead ions down to concentrations of 10 nM, having good reproducibility and stability. The conductive bridging of the DNAzymes that facilitates charge transport between discreet nanoparticles “collapses” due to their self-cleavage upon exposure to lead ions, leading to a shift in the measured resistance of the sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) is doped for the first time with Mg, and the influence of Mg content on the films properties and functionality is investigated in detail, emphasis given on the electrochemical and electrochromic response. The Mg-doped V2O5 films exhibit characteristics suitable for lithium ion batteries and electrochromic window applications, the optimization of the functionality depending on the Mg content. Low Mg content (2 at. % Mg) appears to favor lithium ion battery applications, the corresponding films exhibiting high specific discharge capacity, increased diffusion coefficient, and high capacity retention. In contrast, high Mg content (15 at. % Mg) is more favorable for electrochromic windows, presenting fast switching response time, high coloration efficiency, and high visible transmittance. In both cases, the determined characteristics are superior or at least equivalent to those reported for V2O5 doped with other transition metals. The obtained results clearly indicate that tuning of the Mg doping enables the growth of thin films with application-centered characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acne is a disorder of the pilosebaceous unit, common among adolescents, which may be extended to adulthood. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of hormonal disorders in women with acne resistance to conventional therapy. We included 72 women aged between 15 and 36 years (divided in two age groups) who presented to our clinic between May and October 2014, suffering from moderate and severe forms of papulopustular and nodulocystic acne. The subjects were non-responsive to classic dermatological treatment or had clinical manifestation of hyperandrogenism. Based on age, we divided the women into two groups, group I with 40 patients aged 15-22 years and group II with 32 patients aged 23-36 years. Using ELISA, a hormonal profile was performed for each patient in days 1-3 of the menstrual cycle including, total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, prolactin, and plasma cortisol. For statistical analysis we used Stata 13 software. We compared the hormonal profile of the two groups and identified significant differences for: testosterone levels (mean value, 0.64±0.35 vs. 0.97±0.50 ng/ml; p<0.0001), DHEA-S levels (mean value, 0.85±0.27 vs. 1.05 ±0.33 mg/24 h; p=0.001), prolactin levels (mean value, 281. 85±91.113 vs. 353.969±102.841 mIU/ml; p=0.002) and LH levels (14.8±6.7 vs. 20.1±8.2 mIU/ml; p=0.002) were higher in group II. No statistically significant differences were found for estradiol (p=0.588) and cortisol (p=0.182) levels. In conclusion, refractory acne can be the first sign of systemic illness including polycystic ovary syndrome. Thus, for a correct therapeutic approach it is necessary to interpret the clinical and biochemical elements in correlation with the medical history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel nanoparticle based biosensor for the fast and simple detection of DNA hybridization events is presented. The sensor utilizes hybridized DNA's charge transport properties, combining them with metallic nanoparticle networks that act as nano-gapped electrodes. The DNA hybridization events can be detected by a significant reduction in the sensor's resistance due to the conductive bridging offered by hybridized DNA. By modifying the nanoparticle surface coverage, which can be controlled experimentally being a function of deposition time, and the structural properties of the electrodes, an optimized biosensor for the in situ detection of DNA hybridization events is ultimately fabricated. The fabricated biosensor exhibits a wide response range, covering four orders of magnitude, a limit of detection of 1 nM and can detect a single base pair mismatch between probe and complementary DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Core–shell structured PANI-Co 3 O 4 nanocomposites for supercapacitor applications were synthesized by combination of carbon-assisted method and in situ polymerization method. The crystalline structure, optical band gap, morphology, and hydrophilic property, as the major factors affecting the performances of supercapacitors, were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–vis spectrophotometry (UV–vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and water contact angle (WCA). The core–shell structured PANI-Co 3 O 4 nanocomposites are characterized by amorphous PANI, small bandgaps, large surface area and favorable hydrophilicity, which indicates the superior electrochemical performances of the nanocomposites as electrode material for supercapacitors. Cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge/discharge and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were conducted in 6 M KOH aqueous solution to evaluate the electrochemical performances. The results shows that core–shell structured PANI-Co 3 O 4 nanocomposites exhibit a high specific capacitance of 1184 F g −1 at 1.25 A g −1 , excellent cycling stability of a capacitance retention of 84.9% after 1000 galvanostatic charge/discharge cycles, good electrical conductivity and ion diffusion behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advancement of microfluidic and Lab on Chip systems, new challenges arise regarding efficient system monitoring as well as the detailed tracking of fluids within the system's microfluidic channels. In this paper, a strain-sensing module offering facile integration with most microfluidic-systems is used for the determination of flow in a microfluidic chip. The sensor is based on platinum nanoparticle networks that are produced via a modified-sputtering technique; the nanoparticles self-assemble on top of flexible polyolefin substrates that also serve as the sealing layer of the microfluidic channels (fabricated on printed circuit board substrates or PCBs, by means of milling and computer numerical control machining). By introducing varying flow rates, pressure within the microfluidic channel increases thus resulting in the straining of the polyolefin layer and in modifying the resistance of the module. Numerical calculations, which take into account the bidirectional connection of fluid flow with the deformation of the sealing layer, are used to extract the channel geometry maximizing the sealing layer strain. Flow determination or flow-sensing experiments have also underlined the importance of polyolefin to PCB bonding-strength, which was greatly improved by oxygen plasma treatment. The module is able to detect flow rates as low as 5 μL/min, corresponding to a strain of 0.00337%, and showing a sensitivity of 0.021 (μL/min)−1, showcasing a) a competitive limit of detection (LoD), and b) low-cost, low-power requirements and easy integration with existing microfluidic systems, either as an autonomous unit or by integrating it on its sealing material. [Display omitted] • A novel sensor-approach for the determination of flow in microfluidic channels. • The sensor is based on metallic nanoparticles deposited on polymer substrates. • Sensor-design is optimized via numerical calculations. • Strain was determined via numerical calculations and was connected to flow-rate. • The device can be integrated in preexisting chips or used as a stand-alone module. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel triangular cross-section Ag nanostructured grating is demonstrated in this paper, which can be used as an extremely high sensitivity bio-chemical sensing substrate. Ag films with a thickness of several nanometers and up to 40 nm were sputtered on a pre-strained PDMS substrate. After releasing the PDMS, the Ag films wrinkled and sharp structures were formed due to the mechanical stress on the continuous thin metallic nano films. Because of the electromagneticfield enhancement at the sharp peaks, extremely high Surface Enhanced Fluorescence (SEF) and Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) was observed which can be used to detect Crystal Violet (CV) and Rhodamine 6G (R6G) molecules with concentrations down to 10 −14 M. The method provides an effective and inexpensive technique to create wrinkled periodic singular patterns for various applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we compare the experimental and simulation results of the effect of laser annealing on boron implanted silicon using a CO2 source and commercially available process TCAD tools. The main objective of this analysis is the prediction of the evolution of temperature distribution induced into the wafer during the laser irradiation below the melting threshold as well as its effect on boron diffusion and activation kinetics. A series of factors are considered along with the use of advanced heat transfer and dopant diffusion models provided by the TCAD tool to accurately prototype the effect of the CO2 irradiation on temperature and dopant distribution. These include the nonuniformity of the incident laser beam, the strong dependence of heat capacity and thermal conductivity from temperature and, most importantly, the dependency of the absorptivity from temperature and dopant distribution, which requires the solving of dopant and heat transfer equations in a coupled and self-consistent way. Using surface temperature data obtained by pyrometry measurements, it was possible to calibrate and to verify the validity of the results. Experimental boron profiles were then used to compare with simulations in the transient regime where dopant diffusion just starts to occur. Both TCAD and experimental data confirmed previous suggestions that submelt CO2 laser annealing is an efficient tool for profile engineering, allowing diffusionless activation of the plasma doped boron profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Early-stage disease diagnosis is of particular importance for effective patient identification as well as their treatment. Lack of patient compliance for the existing diagnostic methods, however, limits prompt diagnosis, rendering the development of non-invasive diagnostic tools mandatory. One of the most promising non-invasive diagnostic methods that has also attracted great research interest during the last years is breath analysis; the method detects gas-analytes such as exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and inorganic gases that are considered to be important biomarkers for various disease-types. The diagnostic ability of gas-pattern detection using analytical techniques and especially sensors has been widely discussed in the literature; however, the incorporation of novel nanomaterials in sensor-development has also proved to enhance sensor performance, for both selective and cross-reactive applications. The aim of the first part of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of the main categories of sensors studied for disease diagnosis applications via the detection of exhaled gas-analytes and to highlight the role of nanomaterials. The second and most novel part of this review concentrates on the remarkable applicability of breath analysis in differential diagnosis, phenotyping, and the staging of several disease-types, which are currently amongst the most pressing challenges in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The detection of DNA hybridization using capacitive readout and a biosensor array of ultrathin Si membranes is presented. The biosensor exploits the ability of the ultrathin membranes to deflect upon surface stress variations caused by biological interactions. Probe DNA molecules are immobilized on the membrane surface and the surface stress variations during hybridization with their complementary strands force the membrane to deflect and effectively change the capacitance between the flexible membrane and the fixed substrate. The sensor array comprises 256 such sensing sites thus allowing the concurrent sensing of multiple DNA mutations. The biosensor and its performance for the detection of complementary DNA strands are demonstrated using beta-thalassemia oligonucleotides. The experimental results show that the presented sensors are able to detect DNA hybridization and to discriminate single nucleotide mismatches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The detection of the biotin–streptavidin interaction is presented based on surface stress changes of functionalized Si membranes. During the biomolecular interaction, the surface stress of the functionalized membranes alters resulting in their deflection and finally in capacitance variations. The biological interaction on the sensors surface was verified after each experiment using fluorescent microscopy. Successful detection of 21nM of streptavidin using 3.55mM biotin probes is presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study presents the experimental testing of a gas-sensing array, for the detection of two commercially available pesticides (i.e., Chloract 48 EC and Nimrod), towards its eventual use along a commercial smart-farming system. The array is comprised of four distinctive sensing devices based on nanoparticles, each functionalized with a different gas-absorbing polymeric layer. As discussed herein, the sensing array is able to identify as well as quantify three gas-analytes, two pesticide solutions, and relative humidity, which acts as a reference analyte. All of the evaluation experiments were conducted in close to real-life conditions; specifically, the sensors response towards the three analytes was tested in three relative humidity backgrounds while the effect of temperature was also considered. The unique response patterns generated after the exposure of the sensing-array to the two gas-analytes were analyzed using the common statistical analysis tool Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The sensing array, being compact, low-cost, and highly sensitive, can be easily integrated with pre-existing crop-monitoring solutions. Given that there are limited reports for effective pesticide gas-sensing solutions, the proposed gas-sensing technology would significantly upgrade the added-value of the integrated system, providing it with unique advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Combination of substrate capping and liquid precursor for large MoS2 flakes growth. • Two substrate pieces with identical MoS2 flakes are produced at the same process. • The grown MoS2 flakes are large (>300 μm) and monolayers. • The conduction mechanism of the MoS2 flakes is temperature-dependent. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2) has attracted a lot of attention due to its semiconducting behavior. Chemical vapor deposition of MoS 2 is considered a relatively simple and user-friendly technique but there are several obstacles that may hinder the growth, and might result in rather small and non-uniformly distributed triangular flakes over the substrate surface. To tackle this issue, we developed an approach for large flakes (>300 μm) grown homogeneously over two substrates at once. This is based on spin-coating one of the two substrates with an aqueous solution of Mo-based salt particles, and covering it with the other. During the growth, the particles will act as nucleation sites for both substrates. Raman and atomic force microscopy measurements show that the grown flakes are monolayer. Finally, electrical measurements demonstrate the semiconducting behavior of the material and further analysis reveal two conduction mechanisms (nearest-neighbor and variable-range hopping) that dominate according to the temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syngas fermentation is a promising technique to produce biofuels using syngas obtained through gasified biomass and other carbonaceous materials or collected from industrial CO-rich off-gases. The primary components of syngas, carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2), are converted to alcohols and other chemicals through an anaerobic fermentation process by acetogenic bacteria. Dissolved CO and H2 concentrations in fermentation media are among the most important parameters for successful and stable operation. However, the difficulties in timely and precise dissolved CO and H2 measurements hinder the industrial-scale commercialization of this technique. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of available dissolved CO and H2 measurement methods, focusing on their detection mechanisms, CO and H2 cross interference and operations in syngas fermentation process. This paper further discusses potential novel methods by providing a critical review of gas phase CO and H2 detection methods with regard to their capability to be modified for measuring dissolved CO and H2 in syngas fermentation conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we test the performance of a compact gas chromatograph with photoionization detector (GC-PID) and optimize the configuration to detect ambient (sub-ppb) levels of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene isomers (BTEX). The GC-PID system was designed to serve as a relatively inexpensive (~10 k USD) and field-deployable air toxic screening tool alternative to conventional benchtop GCs. The instrument uses ambient air as a carrier gas and consists of a Tenax-GR sorbent-based preconcentrator, a gas sample valve, two capillary columns, and a photoionization detector (PID) with a small footprint and low power requirement. The performance of the GC-PID has been evaluated in terms of system linearity and sensitivity in field conditions. The BTEX-GC system demonstrated the capacity to detect BTEX at levels as high as 500 ppb with a linear calibration range of 0–100 ppb. A detection limit lower than 1 ppb was found for all BTEX compounds with a sampling volume of 1 L. No significant drift in the instrument was observed. A time-varying calibration technique was established that requires minimal equipment for field operations and optimizes the sampling procedure for field measurements. With an analysis time of less than 15 min, the compact GC-PID is ideal for field deployment of background and polluted atmospheres for near-real time measurements of BTEX. The results highlight the application of the compact and easily deployable GC-PID for community monitoring and screening of air toxics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Laser Induced Transfer employed for the printing of Au nanoparticles on PDMS. • The nanoparticle diameters range from 150 to 300 nm with<3 nm variation. • The array pitch is in the order of 500 nm, exhibiting a sharp resonance at 730 nm. • Demonstration of a narrowband, strongly reflecting metal/dielectric surface. Laser Induced Forward and Backward Transfer (LIFT and LIBT) have emerged as direct nano- and micro-fabrication technologies allowing the digital and controllable printing of a large variety of materials for components with flexible and stretchable form factors. Further advancements on the achievement of very challenging metal/ polymer interfaces can be enabled by employing combinational schemes comprising the best features of direct printing methods and conventional nano-fabrication technologies. This work is a demonstration of the combination of LIFT and LIBT with e-beam and nano-imprint lithography for the fabrication of a narrowband, strongly reflecting surface comprising highly ordered square arrays of Au nanoparticles embedded within Polydimethylsiloxane substrates. The transferred nanoparticle diameters range from 150 to 300 nm and the array pitch is in the order of 500 nm, enabling resonance within the visible range of the spectrum. The resulting arrays are characterized optically and the obtained spectra are explained with the help of finite element simulations. Excellent agreement between characterization and simulation is shown for the sharp resonance, which appears around 730 nm and is associated with lattice induced modes owing to diffraction of light in the periodic lattice. The reported results highlight the capability of LIFT and LIBT for the implementation of thin, stretchable and transparent components for novel photonic and optoelectronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A hybrid nanomaterial based gas-sensing array has been used for pesticide detection. • The pesticide is the commercially available organophosphate based Chloract 48 EC. • The array has successfully distinguished between relative humidity and pesticide. • The successful operation of the array has been validated via the PCA method. • This study expands the limited available results related to pesticide gas-sensors. The increased use of pesticides across the globe has a major impact on public health. Advanced sensing methods are considered of significant importance to ensure that pesticide use on agricultural products remains within safety limits. This study presents the experimental testing of a hybrid, nanomaterial based gas-sensing array, for the detection of a commercial organophosphate pesticide, towards its integration in a holistic smart-farming tool such as the "gaiasense" system. The sensing array utilizes nanoparticles (NPs) as the conductive layer of the device while four distinctive polymeric layers (superimposed on top of the NP layer) act as the gas-sensitive layer. The sensing array is ultimately called to discern between two gas-analytes: Chloract 48 EC (a chlorpyrifos based insecticide) and Relative Humidity (R.H.) which acts as a reference analyte since is anticipated to be present in real-field conditions. The unique response patterns generated after the exposure of the sensing-array to the two gas-analytes were analysed using a common statistical analysis tool, namely Principal Component Analysis (PCA). PCA has validated the ability of the array to detect, quantify as well as to differentiate between R.H. and Chloract. The sensing array being compact, low-cost and highly sensitive (LOD in the order of ppb for chlorpyrifos) can be effectively integrated with pre-existing crop-monitoring solutions such as the gaiasense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors report on a simple bistable switching device based on a thin film of an electroactive polymer containing a fluorene group sandwiched between aluminum electrodes. No additional materials (e.g., metallic or semiconductive nanoparticles) are required for the devices to operate. This improves considerably the scalability of the memory elements at nanometer dimensions. The device operation is thought to depend on charge trapping at fluorenone defects within the organic film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, arthritis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and various infectious diseases; lately most notably COVID-19 have been in the front line of research worldwide. Although targeting different organs, these pathologies have common biochemical impairments – redox disparity and, prominently, dysregulation of the inflammatory pathways. Research data have shown that diet components like polyphenols, poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), fibres as well as lifestyle (fasting, physical exercise) are important factors influencing signalling pathways with a significant potential to improve metabolic homeostasis and immune cells' functions. In the present manuscript we have reviewed scientific data from recent publications regarding the beneficial cellular and molecular effects induced by dietary plant products, mainly polyphenolic compounds and PUFAs, and summarize the clinical outcomes expected from these types of interventions, in a search for effective long-term approaches to improve the immune system response. Image 1 • Inflammatory cues contribute to chronic and acute disease. • Nutraceuticals are important in prevention and treatment of inflammation. • Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have beneficial effects in chronic disease. • Polyphenols inhibit the inflammatory processes through multiple pathways. • Carbohydrate restriction and Mediterranean diet generate reduction of inflammatory markers in clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incorporation of a TaO y layer in a HfO x /TaO y /HfO x resistive switching memory stack results in low-power (~nW in pulsing mode) and forming-free operation. With this material configuration, we derive a stable memory window (~102), good cycling variability (σ/μ < 0.6) and robust pulse endurance (106). The switching phenomenon is confined in the TaO y layer because of its higher oxygen content and deeper oxygen vacancy levels in contrast to the surrounding HfO x layers that act as series resistances. This enables the manifestation of analog switching characteristics, sub-pJ energy consumption for both SET and RESET transitions, enhanced synaptic weight modulation, Spike-Timing-Dependent-Plasticity and short-term plasticity effects of our devices that play an important role in emulating the function of a biological synapse. Unlabelled Image • Enhanced resistive and synaptic performance by implementing multilayer devices. • Tunable conductance changes for the multilayer devices in contrast to reference. • Low-power synaptic operation. • Demonstration of short-term memory dynamics similar to a biological brain. • Improved STDP performance and frequency modulated weight update. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the working performance of Platinum (Pt), solvent-free nanoparticle (NP)-based strain sensors made on a flexible substrate has been studied. First, a new model has been developed in order to explain sensor behaviour under strain in a more effective manner than what has been previously reported. The proposed model also highlights the difference between sensors based on solvent-free and solvent-based NPs. As a second step, the ability of atomic layer deposition (ALD) developed Al2O3 (alumina) thin films to act as protective coatings against humidity while in adverse conditions (i.e., variations in relative humidity and repeated mechanical stress) has been evaluated. Two different alumina thicknesses (5 and 11 nm) have been tested and their effect on protection against humidity is studied by monitoring sensor resistance. Even in the case of adverse working conditions and for increased mechanical strain (up to 1.2%), it is found that an alumina layer of 11 nm provides sufficient sensor protection, while the proposed model remains valid. This certifies the appropriateness of the proposed strain-sensing technology for demanding applications, such as e-skin and pressure or flow sensing, as well as the possibility of developing a comprehensive computational tool for NP-based devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochromic W-doped V 2 O 5 thin films have been deposited on FTO-coated glass substrates by RF magnetron sputtering. The structural, morphological, optical and electrochromic properties of films deposited with various tungsten concentrations were studied. The increase of the doping content induces an amorphization of the films, which contributes to an enhanced cycling performance. High W doping (resulting in WO 3) values exhibit high coloration efficiency of ∼ 41 cm2 C−1at 560 nm and large transmittance modulation of 76.9% at 560 nm. Both WO 3 and V 2 O 5 are electrochromic materials with very good properties, hence their combination is of interest from both technological and fundamental perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates a fabrication technology of Ag wrinkled electrodes with application in highly stretchable wireless sensors. Ag wrinkled thin films that were formed by vacuum deposition on top of pre-strained and relaxed polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates which have been treated using an O2 plasma and a surface chemical functionalization process can reach a strain limit up to 200%, while surface adhesion area can reach 95%. The electrical characteristics of components such as resistors, inductors and capacitors made from such Ag conductors have remained stable under stretching exhibiting low temperature and humidity coefficients. This technology was then demonstrated for wireless wearable electronics using compatible processing with established micro/nano fabrication technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin condition with significant metabolic complications. Although lipid metabolism is linked to its pathogenesis, reliable biomarkers and the impact of modifiable factors remain underexplored. The aim of the present study was to identify potential biomarkers, study the affected metabolic networks, and assess the role of dietary and lifestyle factors in psoriasis. Plasma samples from 56 patients with psoriasis and 49 healthy controls were analyzed, as part of the Metabolic Biomarkers in Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Psoriasis (METHAP) clinical trial. Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry 23 fatty acids and their ratios were quantified, revealing significant changes in psoriasis. Specifically, lower levels of α-linoleic acid (C18:3n3), linoleic acid (C18:2n6), and gamma-linolenic acid (C18:3n6) were observed along with higher levels of eicosatrienoic acid (C20:3n3), eicosapentaenoic acid (C20:5n3), and erucic acid (C22:1n9). Total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were significantly decreased, and the ratio of saturated to total fatty acids (SFA/Total) was increased in psoriasis ( p -values < 0.0001). Linear regression identified α-linoleic acid, linoleic acid, eicosatrienoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid as potential biomarkers for psoriasis, adjusting for demographic, dietary, and lifestyle confounders. Network analysis revealed key contributors in the metabolic reprogramming of psoriasis. These findings highlight the association between psoriasis and fatty acid biomarkers of inflammation, insulin resistance and micronutrients deficiency, suggesting their potency in disease management.

Flexible electronics have gained a lot of attention in recent years due to their compatibility with soft robotics, artificial arms, and many other applications. Meanwhile, the detection of acoustic frequencies is a very useful tool for applications ranging from voice recognition to machine condition monitoring. In this work, the dynamic response of Pt nanoparticles (Pt NPs)-based strain sensors on flexible substrates is investigated. the nanoparticles were grown in a vacuum by magnetron-sputtering inert-gas condensation. Nanoparticle sensors made on cracked alumina deposited by atomic layer deposition on the flexible substrate and reference nanoparticle sensors, without the alumina layer, were first characterized by their response to strain. The sensors were then characterized by their dynamic response to acoustic frequency vibrations between 20 Hz and 6250 Hz. The results show that alumina sensors outperformed the reference sensors in terms of voltage amplitude. Sensors on the alumina layer could accurately detect frequencies up to 6250 Hz, compared with the reference sensors, which were sensitive to frequencies up to 4250 Hz, while they could distinguish between two neighboring frequencies with a difference of no more than 2 Hz.

Telomeres are major contributors to cell fate and aging through their involvement in cell cycle arrest and senescence. The accelerated attrition of telomeres is associated with aging‑related diseases, and agents able to maintain telomere length (TL) through telomerase activation may serve as potential treatment strategies. The aim of the present study was to assess the potency of a novel telomerase activator on TL and telomerase activity in vivo . The administration of a nutraceutical formulation containing Centella asiatica extract, vitamin C, zinc and vitamin D3 in 18‑month‑old rats for a period of 3 months reduced the telomere shortening rate at the lower supplement dose and increased mean the TL at the higher dose, compared to pre‑treatment levels. TL was determined using the Q‑FISH method in peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected from the tail vein of the rats and cultured with RPMI‑1640 medium. In both cases, TLs were significantly longer compared to the untreated controls (P≤0.001). In addition, telomerase activity was increased in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of both treatment groups. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that the nutraceutical formulation can maintain or even increase TL and telomerase activity in middle‑aged rats, indicating a potential role of this formula in the prevention and treatment of aging‑related diseases.

A hybrid noble nanoparticle/DNAzyme electrochemical biosensor is proposed for the detection of Pb 2+ , Cd 2+ , and Cr 3+ . The sensor takes advantage of a well-studied material that is known for its selective interaction with heavy metal ions (i.e., DNAzymes), which is combined with metallic nanoparticles. The double-helix structure of DNAzymes is known to dissociate into smaller fragments in the presence of specific heavy metal ions; this results in a measurable change in device resistance due to the collapse of conductive inter-nanoparticle DNAzyme bridging. The paper discusses the effect of DNAzyme anchoring groups (i.e., thiol and amino functionalization groups) on device performance and reports on the successful detection of all three target ions in concentrations that are well below their maximum permitted levels in tap water. While the use of DNAzymes for the detection of lead in particular and, to some extent, cadmium has been studied extensively, this is one of the few reports on the successful detection of chromium (III) via a sensor incorporating DNAzymes. The sensor showed great potential for its future integration in autonomous and remote sensing systems due to its low power characteristics, simple and cost-effective fabrication, and easy automation and measurement.

The presence of heavy metal ions in soil, air and water constitutes an important global environmental threat, as these ions accumulate throughout the food chain, contributing to the rise of chronic diseases, including, amongst others, cancer and kidney failure. To date, many efforts have been made for their detection, but there is still a need for the development of sensitive, low-cost, and portable devices able to conduct on-site detection of heavy metal ions. In this work, we combine microfluidic technology and electrochemical sensing in a plastic chip for the selective detection of heavy metal ions utilizing DNAzymes immobilized in between platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs), demonstrating a reliable portable solution for water pollution monitoring. For the realization of the microfluidic-based heavy metal ion detection device, a fast and easy-to-implement fabrication method based on the photolithography of dry photosensitive layers is proposed. As a proof of concept, we demonstrate the detection of Pb 2+ ions using the prototype microfluidic device.

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disease that affects mainly the skin. However, the moderate to severe forms have been associated with several comorbidities, such as psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Keratinocytes and T helper cells are the dominant cell types involved in psoriasis development via a complex crosstalk between epithelial cells, peripheral immune cells and immune cells residing in the skin. Immunometabolism has emerged as a potent mechanism elucidating the aetiopathogenesis of psoriasis, offering novel specific targets to diagnose and treat psoriasis early. The present article discusses the metabolic reprogramming of activated T cells, tissue-resident memory T cells and keratinocytes in psoriatic skin, presenting associated metabolic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. In psoriatic phenotype, keratinocytes and activated T cells are glycolysis dependent and are characterized by disruptions in the TCA cycle, the amino acid metabolism and the fatty acid metabolism. Upregulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) results in hyperproliferation and cytokine secretion by immune cells and keratinocytes. Metabolic reprogramming through the inhibition of affected metabolic pathways and the dietary restoration of metabolic imbalances may thus present a potent therapeutic opportunity to achieve long-term management of psoriasis and improved quality of life with minimum adverse effects., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Sarandi, Krueger-Krasagakis, Tsoukalas, Sidiropoulou, Evangelou, Sifaki, Rudofsky, Drakoulis and Tsatsakis.)

Vitamin D deficiency and obesity are global health problems that are associated with increased asthma risk in children. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether BMI modifies pulmonary function across vitamin D tertiles in pediatric asthma patients of the mild asthma phenotype. This cross-sectional study conducted from November 2016-September 2017 compared lung function variability as assessed by spirometry and nitric oxide in exhaled breath (FeNO) among 35 normal-weight and 26 overweight/obese Greek schoolchildren (5-12 years old) with mild asthma. Serum 25 (OH)D levels ≥ 30 ng/mL were defined as 'sufficient', 20-30 ng/mL 'insufficient', and <20 ng/mL 'deficient'. Stratification by BMI category, linear regression showed positive associations between D, % FVC (β = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.05, 0.94), and % FEV 1 (β = 0.48, 95%CI: -0.01, 0.95) in the normal-weight only, adjusted for age, sex, regular exercise, and medication. FEV 1 was 10% higher in the normal-weight D-sufficient group compared to those D-deficient (β = 10.43, 95%CI: 0.54, 20.32). No associations were observed for the overweight/obese group or FeNO. In conclusion, BMI modified associations of vitamin D on airway mechanics in children of the mild asthma phenotype. Serum 25 (OH)D concentrations ≥ 30 ng/mL were associated with higher ventilation in central airways of normal-weight asthmatic children.