1
|
Marques A, Cavaco P, Torre C, Sepodes B, Rocha J. Tumor mutational burden in colorectal cancer: Implications for treatment. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 197:104342. [PMID: 38614266 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Although immune checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of several advanced solid cancers, in colorectal cancer, the transformative benefit of these innovative medicines is currently limited to those with deficient mismatch repair or high microsatellite instability. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) has emerged as a potential predictor of immunotherapy benefit, but the lack of standardization in its assessment and reporting has hindered the introduction of this biomarker in routine clinical practice. Here, we compiled 45 colorectal cancer studies utilizing numerical thresholds for high-TMB. In this group of studies, TMB cut-offs ranged from 6.88 to 41 mut/Mb and were most often set at 10, 17, or 20 mut/Mb. Additionally, we observed divergent TMB definitions and inconsistent disclosure of specific methodological details, which collectively emphasize the substantial lack of harmonization within the field. Ongoing efforts to harmonize TMB assessment will be critical to validate TMB as a predictive marker of immunotherapy response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Marques
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Cavaco
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal; Pharmacy Department, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa 1449-005, Portugal
| | - Carla Torre
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Almeida JC, Sousa C, Tavares DS, Pinto J, Henriques B, Lin Z, Rocha J, Pereira E. Enhanced removal of rare earth elements from aqueous media: exploring the potential of AM-3 and AM-4 titanosilicates. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2024; 31:28856-28869. [PMID: 38564133 PMCID: PMC11058749 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33063-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of three key variables on the performance of nanoporous AM-3 and layered AM-4 titanosilicates in removing nine REEs (Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Tb, and Dy) from natural mineral water and identifies optimal operational conditions using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The experimental conditions were determined by a Box-Behnken Design of 3 factors-3 levels (pH 4, 6, and 8; sorbent dose 20, 100, and 180 mg/L; and element concentration 1, 3, and 5 μmol/L). Three-dimensional response surfaces were used to assess the linear, quadratic, and interaction influences of each factor on the REEs' removal percentage. The pH was the most significant factor in the removal process using AM-3, while the sorbent dose was more important for AM-4. The results highlighted the sorbents' strong capacity for REE removal. The optimal operating conditions obtained by RSM were applied to aqueous solutions with salinity 10 (common in coastal and transitional systems) and 30 (average seawater salinity). The results showed that AM-3 has a strong potential for removing REEs in solutions with salinity 10 and 30, while AM-4 was less efficient due to competition between REEs and other ions present in the solution.
Collapse
Grants
- UIDB/50006/2020 FCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- UIDP/50006/2020 FCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- UIDB/50011/2020 FCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- UIDP/50011/2020 FCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- SFRH/BD/139471/2018 FCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- 2020.05323.BD FCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- CEECIND/03511/2018 AFCT/MCTES, Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia and Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior
- Universidade de Aveiro
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana C Almeida
- Chemistry Department and CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Chemistry Department and LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Cátia Sousa
- Chemistry Department and LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Daniela S Tavares
- Chemistry Department and LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
- Central Laboratory of Analysis, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João Pinto
- Chemistry Department and LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Bruno Henriques
- Chemistry Department and LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Zhi Lin
- Chemistry Department and CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Chemistry Department and CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Pereira
- Chemistry Department and LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Central Laboratory of Analysis, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Estarreja J, Pimenta AC, Botelho J, Vilares AM, Mendes JJ, Rocha J, Pinto R, Mateus V, Machado V. Blood count, endocrine, immunologic, renal, and hepatic markers in a case-control animal study of induced periodontitis in female rodents. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1327399. [PMID: 38444766 PMCID: PMC10912185 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1327399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Periodontitis is a non-communicable chronic inflammatory disease with a systemic burden. Animal models of induced periodontitis help elucidate the mechanisms by which periodontal inflammation drives systemic effects. Studying this systemic involvement over longer follow-up periods may provide a strong foundation for future research on the association between diseases and periodontitis, particularly in female rats. Therefore, we aimed to compare blood, endocrine, immunologic, renal, and hepatic markers in a rat model of induced periodontitis in females with their control counterparts. Methods: Experimental periodontitis was induced in 20 female Wistar rats by the application and maintenance of silk ligatures on the upper molars. The rats were then assessed for macroscopical analysis, complete blood count, and biochemical, endocrine, and immunologic markers at 21, 28, 42, and 56 days. Results: Chronic periodontal inflammation was observed after 42 days of exposure to the ligatures. Additionally, it was also possible to notice significant systemic manifestations, such as the reduction of triiodothyronine and thyroxine levels, along with an increase in the expression of alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, and lactate dehydrogenase. Discussion: The study's findings imply that certain changes can be underscored to highlight a reduced risk of conception. Notably, previous investigations have indicated that subfertile women exhibit lower levels of thyroid hormones and elevated lactate dehydrogenase expression. Despite the absence of preclinical data delineating a possible association between periodontitis and female infertility, the results of this study may prove to be a crucial contribution to both the scientific and medical fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Estarreja
- H&TRC—Health and Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Clara Pimenta
- Clinical Research Unit (CRU), Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Almada, Portugal
| | - João Botelho
- Clinical Research Unit (CRU), Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Almada, Portugal
| | - Arminda Maria Vilares
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica do Exercício, Universidade de Lisboa Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - José João Mendes
- Clinical Research Unit (CRU), Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Almada, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- iMed.ULisboa, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Pinto
- iMed.ULisboa, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Joaquim Chaves Saúde, Joaquim Chaves Laboratório de Análises Clínicas, Miraflores, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Mateus
- H&TRC—Health and Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- iMed.ULisboa, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Vanessa Machado
- Clinical Research Unit (CRU), Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, Almada, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Valente G, Ferreira P, Hernández-Rodríguez MA, Brites CDS, Amaral JS, Zelenovskii P, Paz FAA, Guieu S, Rocha J, Souto M. Exploring the Luminescence, Redox, and Magnetic Properties in a Multivariate Metal-Organic Radical Framework. Chem Mater 2024; 36:1333-1341. [PMID: 38370275 PMCID: PMC10870702 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemmater.3c02460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Persistent neutral organic radicals are excellent building blocks for the design of functional molecular materials due to their unique electronic, magnetic, and optical properties. Among them, triphenylmethyl radical derivatives have attracted a lot of interest as luminescent doublet emitters. Although neutral organic radicals have been underexplored as linkers for building metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), they hold great potential as organic elements that could introduce additional electronic properties within these frameworks. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of a novel multicomponent metal-organic radical framework (PTMTCR@NR-Zn MORF), which is constructed from the combination of luminescent perchlorotriphenylmethyl tricarboxylic acid radical (PTMTCR) and nonemissive nonradical (PTMTCNR) organic linkers and Zn(II) ions. The PTMTCR@NR-Zn MORF structure is layered with microporous one-dimensional channels embedded within these layers. Kelvin probe force microscopy further confirmed the presence of both organic nonradical and radical linkers in the framework. The luminescence properties of the PTMTCR ligand (first studied in solution and in the solid state) were maintained in the radical-containing PTMTCR@NR-Zn MORF at room temperature as fluorescence solid-state quenching is suppressed thanks to the isolation of the luminescent radical linkers. In addition, magnetic and electrochemical properties were introduced to the framework due to the incorporation of the paramagnetic organic radical ligands. This work paves the way for the design of stimuli-responsive hybrid materials with tunable luminescence, electrochemical, and magnetic properties by the proper combination of closed- and open-shell organic linkers within the same framework.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonçalo Valente
- Department
of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - Pedro Ferreira
- Department
of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | | | - Carlos D. S. Brites
- Department
of Physics, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - João S. Amaral
- Department
of Physics, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - Pavel Zelenovskii
- Department
of Physics, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - Filipe A. Almeida Paz
- Department
of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - Samuel Guieu
- Department
of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
- Department
of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE, University
of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department
of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - Manuel Souto
- Department
of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
- CIQUS,
Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Bioloxica
e Materiais Moleculares, Departamento de Química-Física, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago
de Compostela, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Encarnação S, Lima K, Malú Q, Caldeira GI, Duarte MP, Rocha J, Lima BS, Silva O. An Integrated Approach to the Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Genotoxic Potential of Portuguese Traditional Preparations from the Bark of Anacardium occidentale L. Plants (Basel) 2024; 13:420. [PMID: 38337956 PMCID: PMC10857173 DOI: 10.3390/plants13030420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Anacardium occidentale L. stem bark Traditional Herbal Preparations (AoBTHPs) are widely used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and genotoxic potential of red and white Portuguese AoBTHPs. Using a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, a significant anti-edema effect was observed for all tested doses of white AoBTHP (40.2, 71.5, and 127.0 mg/kg) and the two highest doses of red AoB THP (71.5 and 127.0 mg/kg). The anti-edema effect of red AoBTHP's highest dose was much more effective than indomethacin 10 mg/kg, Trolox 30 mg/kg, and Tempol 30 mg/kg. In DPPH, FRAP, and TAC using the phosphomolybdenum method, both types of AoBTHPs showed similar antioxidant activity and no genotoxicity up to 5000 µg/plate in the Ames test. The LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS fingerprint allowed the identification of gallic and protocatechuic acids as the two main marker compounds and the presence of catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, and ellagic acid in both AoBTHPs. The obtained results support the validation of red and white AoB and their THPs as anti-inflammatory agents and contribute to the possible development of promising new therapeutic options to treat inflammatory conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Encarnação
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| | - Katelene Lima
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| | - Quintino Malú
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| | - Gonçalo I. Caldeira
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| | - Maria Paula Duarte
- MEtRICs/NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Almada, Portugal;
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| | - Beatriz Silva Lima
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| | - Olga Silva
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (S.E.); (K.L.); (Q.M.); (G.I.C.); (J.R.); (B.S.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Almeida-Pinto F, Pinto R, Rocha J. Navigating the Complex Landscape of Ebola Infection Treatment: A Review of Emerging Pharmacological Approaches. Infect Dis Ther 2024; 13:21-55. [PMID: 38240994 PMCID: PMC10828234 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-023-00913-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
In 1976 Ebola revealed itself to the world, marking the beginning of a series of localized outbreaks. However, it was the Ebola outbreak that began in 2013 that incited fear and anxiety around the globe. Since then, our comprehension of the virus has been steadily expanding. Ebola virus (EBOV), belonging to the Orthoebolavirus genus of the Filoviridae family, possesses a non-segmented, negative single-stranded RNA genome comprising seven genes that encode multiple proteins. These proteins collectively orchestrate the intricate process of infecting host cells. It is not possible to view each protein as monofunctional. Instead, they synergistically contribute to the pathogenicity of the virus. Understanding this multifaceted replication cycle is crucial for the development of effective antiviral strategies. Currently, two antibody-based therapeutics have received approval for treating Ebola virus disease (EVD). In 2022, the first evidence-based clinical practice guideline dedicated to specific therapies for EVD was published. Although notable progress has been made in recent years, deaths still occur. Consequently, there is an urgent need to enhance the therapeutic options available to improve the outcomes of the disease. Emerging therapeutics can target viral proteins as direct-acting antivirals or host factors as host-directed antivirals. They both have advantages and disadvantages. One way to bypass some disadvantages is to repurpose already approved drugs for non-EVD indications to treat EVD. This review offers detailed insight into the role of each viral protein in the replication cycle of the virus, as understanding how the virus interacts with host cells is critical to understanding how emerging therapeutics exert their activity. Using this knowledge, this review delves into the intricate mechanisms of action of current and emerging therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Rui Pinto
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines (iMED.ULisboa), 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
- Dr. Joaquim Chaves, Medicine Laboratory, Joaquim Chaves Saúde (JCS), Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines (iMED.ULisboa), 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fontes LFB, Rocha J, Silva AMS, Guieu S. Excited-State Proton Transfer in Luminescent Dyes: From Theoretical Insight to Experimental Evidence. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202301540. [PMID: 37450664 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202301540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The effective utilization of luminescent dyes often relies on a comprehensive understanding of their excitation and relaxation pathways. One such pathway, Excited-State Proton Transfer (ESPT), involves the tautomerization of the dye in its excited state, resulting in a new structure that exhibits distinct emission properties, such as a very large Stokes' shift or dual-emission. Although the ESPT phenomenon is well-explained theoretically, its experimental demonstration can be challenging due to the presence of numerous other phenomena that can yield similar experimental observations. In this review, we propose that an all-encompassing methodology, integrating experimental findings, computational analyses, and a thorough evaluation of diverse mechanisms, is essential for verifying the occurrence of ESPT in luminescent dyes. Investigations have offered significant understanding of the elements impacting the ESPT process and the array of approaches that can be used to validate the existence of ESPT. These discoveries hold crucial ramifications for the advancement of molecular probes, sensors, and other applications that depend on ESPT as a detection mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luís F B Fontes
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Artur M S Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Samuel Guieu
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xu WJ, Zelenovskii P, Tselev A, Verissimo L, Romanyuk K, Yuan W, Zhang WX, Kholkin A, Rocha J. A hybrid double perovskite ferroelastic exhibiting the highest number of orientation states. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:11264-11267. [PMID: 37661855 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc02645k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Integrating NH4+ as a B'-site ion within a three-dimensional double hybrid perovskite resulted in a novel high-temperature ferroelastic, (Me3NOH)2(NH4)[Co(CN)6], which uniquely demonstrates a reversible triclinic-to-cubic phase transition at 369 K and offers a record-setting 24 orientation states, the highest ever reported among all ferroelastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jian Xu
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Pavel Zelenovskii
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Alexander Tselev
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Luis Verissimo
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Konstantin Romanyuk
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Wei Yuan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Wei-Xiong Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| | - Andrei Kholkin
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Martins MD, Rocha A, Mendes M, Rocha J, Ferreira I. Spinal cord infarction after supraventricular tachycardia-A diagnosis not to be forgotten. Porto Biomed J 2023; 8:e232. [PMID: 37846306 PMCID: PMC10575348 DOI: 10.1097/j.pbj.0000000000000232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marta D. Martins
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, E.P.E. Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Ana Rocha
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, E.P.E. Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Marina Mendes
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, E.P.E. Penafiel, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, E.P.E., Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Inês Ferreira
- Internal Medicine Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, E.P.E. Penafiel, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Godinho-Pereira J, Vaz D, Figueira I, Aniceto-Romão J, Krizbai I, Malhó R, Rocha J, Carvalheiro MC, Simões S, Gaspar MM, Brito MA. Breast Cancer Brain Metastases: Implementation and Characterization of a Mouse Model Relying on Malignant Cells Inoculation in the Carotid Artery. Cells 2023; 12:2076. [PMID: 37626886 PMCID: PMC10453310 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) brain metastases (BCBM) is a severe condition frequently occurring in the triple-negative subtype. The study of BCBM pathogenesis and treatment has been hampered by the difficulty in establishing a reliable animal model that faithfully recapitulates the preferential formation of brain metastases. The injection of BC cells in the carotid artery of mice has been proposed but the procedure is challenging, with the metastatic pattern being scarcely characterized. In this work, we thoroughly describe an improved procedure, highlighting the tricks and challenges of the process, and providing a characterization of the brain and peripheral metastatic pattern at the cellular and molecular level. Triple-negative BC (4T1) cells were inoculated in the common carotid artery of BALB/c mice. Brains and peripheral organs were harvested at 7-14 days for the histological characterization of the metastases' pattern and the immunofluorescence analysis of specific markers. With our surgical procedure, both mouse death and procedure-associated weight loss were negligible. Brain metastases mostly occurred in the hippocampus, while sparse peripheral lesions were only detected in the lungs. Brain-colonizing BC cells presented proliferative (Ki-67) and epithelial (pan-cytokeratin and tomato lectin) features, which account for metastases' establishment. The presented surgical approach constitutes an important and reliable tool for BCBM studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Godinho-Pereira
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniela Vaz
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Figueira
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Farm-ID—Faculty of Pharmacy Research and Development Association, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Aniceto-Romão
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Istvan Krizbai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), 6726 Szeged, Hungary;
- Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Str. Liviu Rebreanu 86, 310414 Arad, Romania
| | - Rui Malhó
- BioISI—Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1746-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - João Rocha
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuela Colla Carvalheiro
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sandra Simões
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Manuela Gaspar
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Alexandra Brito
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (D.V.); (I.F.); (J.A.-R.); (J.R.); (M.C.C.); (S.S.); (M.M.G.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Frey L, Oliveira O, Sharma A, Guntermann R, Fernandes SPS, Cid‐Seara KM, Abbay H, Thornes H, Rocha J, Döblinger M, Kowalczyk T, Rao A, Salonen LM, Medina DD. Building Blocks and COFs Formed in Concert-Three-Component Synthesis of Pyrene-Fused Azaacene Covalent Organic Framework in the Bulk and as Films. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202302872. [PMID: 37141015 PMCID: PMC10952658 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202302872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
A three-component synthesis methodology is described for the formation of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) containing extended aromatics. Notably, this approach enables synthesis of the building blocks and COF along parallel reaction landscapes, on a similar timeframe. The use of fragmental building block components, namely pyrene dione diboronic acid as aggregation-inducing COF precursor and the diamines o-phenylenediamine (Ph), 2,3-diaminonaphthalene (Naph), or (1R,2R)-(+)-1,2-diphenylethylenediamine (2Ph) as extending functionalization units in conjunction with 2,3,6,7,10,11-hexahydroxytriphenylene, resulted in the formation of the corresponding pyrene-fused azaacene, i.e., Aza-COF series with full conversion of the dione moiety, long-range order, and high surface area. In addition, the novel three-component synthesis was successfully applied to produce highly crystalline, oriented thin films of the Aza-COFs with nanostructured surfaces on various substrates. The Aza-COFs exhibit light absorption maxima in the blue spectral region, and each Aza-COF presents a distinct photoluminescence profile. Transient absorption measurements of Aza-Ph- and Aza-Naph-COFs suggest ultrafast relaxation dynamics of excited-states within these COFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Frey
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience (CeNS)Ludwig-Maximilians-UniversityButenandtstraße 11 (E)81377MunichGermany
| | - Orlando Oliveira
- International Iberian Nanotechnology (INL)Avenida Mestre José Veiga4715-330BragaPortugal
- CICECO—Aveiro Institute of MaterialsUniversity of Aveiro3810-193AveiroPortugal
| | - Ashish Sharma
- Cavendish LaboratoryUniversity of Cambridge19 JJ Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
| | - Roman Guntermann
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience (CeNS)Ludwig-Maximilians-UniversityButenandtstraße 11 (E)81377MunichGermany
| | - Soraia P. S. Fernandes
- International Iberian Nanotechnology (INL)Avenida Mestre José Veiga4715-330BragaPortugal
- Associate Laboratory for Green Chemistry-Network of Chemistry and Technology (LAQV-REQUIMTE)University of AveiroCampus Universitário de Santiago3810-193AveiroPortugal
| | - Krystal M. Cid‐Seara
- International Iberian Nanotechnology (INL)Avenida Mestre José Veiga4715-330BragaPortugal
- Department of Inorganic ChemistryUniversity of VigoCampus Universitário, As Lagoas-Marcosende36310VigoSpain
| | - Hosanna Abbay
- Department of Chemistry and Advanced Materials Science and Engineering Center (AMSEC)Western Washington University516 High StreetBellinghamWA-98225USA
| | - Henry Thornes
- Department of Chemistry and Advanced Materials Science and Engineering Center (AMSEC)Western Washington University516 High StreetBellinghamWA-98225USA
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO—Aveiro Institute of MaterialsUniversity of Aveiro3810-193AveiroPortugal
| | - Markus Döblinger
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience (CeNS)Ludwig-Maximilians-UniversityButenandtstraße 11 (E)81377MunichGermany
| | - Tim Kowalczyk
- Department of Chemistry and Advanced Materials Science and Engineering Center (AMSEC)Western Washington University516 High StreetBellinghamWA-98225USA
| | - Akshay Rao
- Cavendish LaboratoryUniversity of Cambridge19 JJ Thomson AvenueCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
| | - Laura M. Salonen
- CINBIOUniversidade de VigoDepartment of Organic Chemistry36310VigoSpain
- International Iberian Nanotechnology (INL)Avenida Mestre José Veiga4715-330BragaPortugal
| | - Dana D. Medina
- Department of Chemistry and Center for Nanoscience (CeNS)Ludwig-Maximilians-UniversityButenandtstraße 11 (E)81377MunichGermany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Drafi F, Bauerova K, Chrastina M, Taghdisiesfejír M, Rocha J, Direito R, Figueira ME, Sepodes B, Ponist S. Rhodiola rosea L. Extract, a Known Adaptogen, Evaluated in Experimental Arthritis. Molecules 2023; 28:5053. [PMID: 37446715 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Rhodiola rosea L. extract (RSE) is mostly known for its adaptogen properties, but not for its antiarthritic activities, therefore monotherapy and combination with low-dose methotrexate (MTX) was studied. The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was used to measure the functional score, and the change in hind paw volume (HPV). Both parameters had significant antiarthritic effects. Based on these preliminary results, an adjuvant arthritis (AA) model was further applied to assess another parameters. The experiment included these animal groups: healthy controls, untreated AA, AA administered with RSE (150 mg/kg b.w. daily, p.o.), AA administered by MTX (0.3 mg/kg b.w. twice a week, p.o.), and AA treated with the combination of RSE+MTX. The combination of RSE+MTX significantly reduced the HPV and increased the body weight. The combination significantly decreased HPV when compared to MTX monotherapy. The plasmatic levels of inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-17A, MMP-9 and CRP) were significantly decreased by MTX+RSE treatment. The RSE monotherapy didn't influence any of the inflammatory parameters studied. In CIA, the RSE monotherapy significantly decreased the arthritic parameters studied. In summary, the combination of RSE and sub-therapeutic MTX was significantly effective in AA by improving inflammatory and arthritic parameters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frantisek Drafi
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Katarina Bauerova
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Martin Chrastina
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Malá Hora 10701/4A, 036 01 Martin, Slovakia
| | - Mohsen Taghdisiesfejír
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rosa Direito
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Eduardo Figueira
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Silvester Ponist
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine SAS, 841 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xu WJ, Li MF, Garcia AR, Romanyuk K, Martinho JMG, Zelenovskii P, Tselev A, Verissimo L, Zhang WX, Chen XM, Kholkin A, Rocha J. Molecular Design of a Metal-Nitrosyl Ferroelectric with Reversible Photoisomerization. J Am Chem Soc 2023. [PMID: 37329320 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c01530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The development of photo-responsive ferroelectrics whose polarization may be remotely controlled by optical means is of fundamental importance for basic research and technological applications. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a new metal-nitrosyl ferroelectric crystal (DMA)(PIP)[Fe(CN)5(NO)] (1) (DMA = dimethylammonium, PIP = piperidinium) with potential phototunable polarization via a dual-organic-cation molecular design strategy. Compared to the parent non-ferroelectric (MA)2[Fe(CN)5(NO)] (MA = methylammonium) material with a phase transition at 207 K, the introduction of larger dual organic cations both lowers the crystal symmetry affording robust ferroelectricity and increases the energy barrier of molecular motions, endowing 1 with a large polarization of up to 7.6 μC cm-2 and a high Curie temperature (Tc) of 316 K. Infrared spectroscopy shows that the reversible photoisomerization of the nitrosyl ligand is accomplished by light irradiation. Specifically, the ground state with the N-bound nitrosyl ligand conformation can be reversibly switched to both the metastable state I (MSI) with isonitrosyl conformation and the metastable state II (MSII) with side-on nitrosyl conformation. Quantum chemistry calculations suggest that the photoisomerization significantly changes the dipole moment of the [Fe(CN)5(NO)]2- anion, thus leading to three ferroelectric states with different values of macroscopic polarization. Such optical accessibility and controllability of different ferroelectric states via photoinduced nitrosyl linkage isomerization open up a new and attractive route to optically controllable macroscopic polarization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Jian Xu
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mao-Fan Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Ana R Garcia
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences and Department of Chemical Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Konstantin Romanyuk
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - José M G Martinho
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences and Department of Chemical Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pavel Zelenovskii
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Alexander Tselev
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Luís Verissimo
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Wei-Xiong Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Andrei Kholkin
- Department of Physics & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry & CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Silva RM, Rocha J, Silva RF. ALD/MLD coating of patterned vertically aligned carbon nanotube micropillars with Fe-NH 2TP hybrids. Nanoscale 2023. [PMID: 37306049 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr01610b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The creation of nanoscale organic-inorganic hybrid coatings with uniform architecture and high surface area, while maintaining their structural and morphological integrity, remains a significant challenge in the field. In this study, we present a novel solution, by utilizing Atomic/Molecular Layer Deposition (ALD/MLD) to coat patterned vertically aligned carbon nanotube micropillars with a conformal amorphous layer of Fe-NH2TP, which is a trivalent iron complex complexed with 2-amino terephthalate. The effectiveness of the coating is verified through multiple analytical techniques, including high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, grazing incidence X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The Fe-NH2TP hybrid film exhibits hydrophobic properties, as confirmed by water contact angle measurements. Our findings contribute to advancing the understanding of how to grow high-quality one-dimensional materials using ALD/MLD and hold promise for future research in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R M Silva
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - J Rocha
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - R F Silva
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sousa E, Abreu M, Tkachenko N, Rocha J, Falcão Reis C. Case report: Mohr-Tranebjaerg syndrome: hearing impairment as the onset of an insidious disorder with high recurrence risk. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1161940. [PMID: 37325222 PMCID: PMC10267341 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1161940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mohr-Tranebjaerg syndrome (MTS) is an X-linked recessive disorder caused by TIMM8A loss of function. It is characterized by sensorineural hearing loss in childhood, progressive optic atrophy in early adulthood, early onset dementia and psychiatric symptoms of variable expressivity. We present a family with 4 affected males, explore age-related and interfamilial variability and review the literature. Case report A 31 years-old male developed psychiatric symptoms at age 18 and presented early onset dementia. Sensorineural hearing loss had been diagnosed in childhood. At 28yo, he developed dysarthria, dysphonia, dysmetria, limb hyperreflexia, dystonia, and spasticity following an acute encephalopathic crisis. WES revealed a hemizygous novel likely pathogenic variant in TIMM8A, c.45_61dup p.(His21Argfs*11), establishing the diagnosis of MTS. Genetic counseling of the family allowed the diagnosis of three other symptomatic relatives -3 nephews (11yo and two 6yo twins), children of a carrier sister. The oldest nephew had been followed since 4yo due to speech delay. Sensorineural hearing loss was diagnosed at 9yo, and hearing aids were prescribed. The two other nephews were monozygotic twins, and both had unilateral strabismus. One of the twins had macrocephaly and hypoplasia of the anterior temporal lobe, as disclosed by an MRI performed due to febrile seizures. Both had developmental delays, with the language being the most affected area. Their audiograms confirmed hearing loss. All three nephews were hemizygous for the familial TIMM8A variant. Discussion Hearing loss, an early sign of MTS due to auditory neuropathy, can often be overlooked until more severe features of the disorder manifest. Recurrence risk is high for female carriers, and reproductive options should be offered. Early monitoring of hearing and vision loss and neurological impairment in MTS patients is mandatory since early interventions may positively impact their development. This family showcases the importance of performing a timely etiological investigation of hearing loss and its impact on genetic counseling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eulalia Sousa
- Pediatrics Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Maria Abreu
- Medical Genetics Unit, Centro de Genética Médica Jacinto Magalhães, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nataliya Tkachenko
- Medical Genetics Unit, Centro de Genética Médica Jacinto Magalhães, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar Tâmega e Sousa, Penafiel, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Falcão Reis
- Medical Genetics Unit, Centro de Genética Médica Jacinto Magalhães, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Domingues M, Torre C, Guerreiro JP, Barata P, Correia-Neves M, Rocha J, Sepodes B, Teixeira Rodrigues A. COVID-19 pandemic and the quality of antibiotic use in primary care: an interrupted time-series study. Int J Qual Health Care 2023; 35:7179254. [PMID: 37226230 DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzad014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease-19 pandemic and the related public health mitigation measures have impacted the transmission of infectious diseases; however, their impact on the use of antibacterials has not yet been extensively evaluated. This study evaluated the impact of the pandemic on the consumption patterns of antibacterials for systemic use in primary care in Portugal. An interrupted time-series analysis was performed using the autoregressive integrated moving average model of the antibacterials dispensed in the community pharmacies in Portugal from 1 January 2016 to 30 June 2022. Monthly rates of absolute consumption (all antibacterials for systemic use, and specifically penicillins; cephalosporins; macrolides, lincosamides, and streptogramins; and quinolones) and the relative consumption of antibacterials (penicillins sensitive to β-lactamase, penicillin combinations including β-lactamase inhibitors, third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones, and the ratio of broad- to narrow-spectrum antibacterials) were estimated. Antibiotic consumption was expressed in defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID). In Portugal, the consumption of antibacterials (J01) declined sharply immediately after the beginning of the pandemic, having a significant reduction of >5 DID (P < .0001). A similar, short-term impact was found for penicillins (-2.920 DID; P < .0001); cephalosporins (-0.428 DID; P < .0001); macrolides, lincosamides, and streptogramins (-0.681 DID; P = .0021); and quinolones (-0.320 DID; P < .0001). A long-term increase was found for cephalosporins (+0.019 DID per month; P < .0001). Relative consumption changes were only found for third- and fourth-generation cephalosporins (0.0734%). Our study suggests that the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic may have resulted in a decrease in antibiotic use, with no significant changes in the relative dispense. Uncertainties regarding the long-term effects of the pandemic and its impact on the rates of resistance remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Domingues
- Departamento de Farmácia, Farmacologia e Tecnologias em Saúde, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Carla Torre
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - José Pedro Guerreiro
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR-INFOSAUDE), National Association of Pharmacies (ANF), R. Mal. Saldanha 1, Lisboa 1249-069, Portugal
| | - Pedro Barata
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto (CHUPorto), Largo Prof. Abel Salazar, Porto 4099-001, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Fernando Pessoa, Rua Carlos da Maia, 296, Porto 4200-150, Portugal
| | - Margarida Correia-Neves
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga/Guimarães 4710-057, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Departamento de Farmácia, Farmacologia e Tecnologias em Saúde, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Departamento de Farmácia, Farmacologia e Tecnologias em Saúde, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| | - António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR-INFOSAUDE), National Association of Pharmacies (ANF), R. Mal. Saldanha 1, Lisboa 1249-069, Portugal
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga/Guimarães 4710-057, Portugal
- Departamento de Farmácia, Farmacologia e Tecnologias em Saúde, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, Lisboa 1649-003, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Valente G, Esteve-Rochina M, Alves SPC, Martinho JMG, Ortí E, Calbo J, Paz FAA, Rocha J, Souto M. Perylene-Based Coordination Polymers: Synthesis, Fluorescent J-Aggregates, and Electrochemical Properties. Inorg Chem 2023; 62:7834-7842. [PMID: 37156094 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.3c00540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The incorporation of electroactive organic building blocks into coordination polymers (CPs) and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offers a promising approach for adding electronic functionalities such as redox activity, electrical conductivity, and luminescence to these materials. The incorporation of perylene moieties into CPs is, in particular, of great interest due to its potential to introduce both luminescence and redox properties. Herein, we present an innovative synthesis method for producing a family of highly crystalline and stable coordination polymers based on perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylate (PTC) and various transition metals (TMs = Co, Ni, and Zn) with an isostructural framework. The crystal structure of the PTC-TM CPs, obtained through powder X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement, provides valuable insights into the composition and organization of the building blocks within the CP. The perylene moieties are arranged in a herringbone pattern, with short distances between adjacent ligands, which contributes to the dense and highly organized framework of the material. The photophysical properties of PTC-Zn were thoroughly studied, revealing the presence of J-aggregation-based and monomer-like emission bands. These bands were experimentally identified, and their behavior was further understood through the use of quantum-chemical calculations. Solid-state cyclic voltammetry experiments on PTC-TMs showed that the perylene redox properties are maintained within the CP framework. This study presents a simple and effective approach for synthesizing highly stable and crystalline perylene-based CPs with tunable optical and electrochemical properties in the solid state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonçalo Valente
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - María Esteve-Rochina
- Instituto de Ciencia Molecular (ICMol), Universidad de Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Sergio P C Alves
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences and Department of Chemical Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José M G Martinho
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Institute of Molecular Sciences and Department of Chemical Engineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Enrique Ortí
- Instituto de Ciencia Molecular (ICMol), Universidad de Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Joaquín Calbo
- Instituto de Ciencia Molecular (ICMol), Universidad de Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Filipe A Almeida Paz
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| | - Manuel Souto
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-393, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rocha J, Pacheco M, Matos M, Ferreira S, Almeida JS. Gitelman Syndrome: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e38418. [PMID: 37273382 PMCID: PMC10234615 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gitelman syndrome is a rare hereditary tubulopathy characterized by hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalciuria. In this case report, we describe a 21-year-old male who presented with myalgias, asthenia, general muscle weakness, and hypokalemia after receiving oral potassium supplementation for six months. Additional biochemical studies showed hypomagnesemia, metabolic alkalosis, and increased urinary potassium and magnesium excretion. Calcium urinary excretion was within the normal range, but 25-hydroxycholecalciferol levels were low. Systolic arterial hypertension was found, probably reflecting chronic hyperreninemic hyperaldosteronism. Genetic testing for SCL12A3 mutations identified a pathogenic variant in homozygosity, which confirmed the Gitelman syndrome diagnosis. Treatment with chronic potassium and magnesium oral supplementation was started, as well as eplerenone and amiloride, with sustained correction of hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Rocha
- Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, PRT
| | - Mariana Pacheco
- Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, PRT
| | - Mariana Matos
- Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, PRT
| | - Susana Ferreira
- Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, PRT
| | - Jorge S Almeida
- Internal Medicine, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, PRT
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Neto Í, Rocha J, Gaspar MM, Reis CP. Experimental Murine Models for Colorectal Cancer Research. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092570. [PMID: 37174036 PMCID: PMC10177088 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent malignancy worldwide and in both sexes. Numerous animal models for CRC have been established to study its biology, namely carcinogen-induced models (CIMs) and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs). CIMs are valuable for assessing colitis-related carcinogenesis and studying chemoprevention. On the other hand, CRC GEMMs have proven to be useful for evaluating the tumor microenvironment and systemic immune responses, which have contributed to the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches. Although metastatic disease can be induced by orthotopic injection of CRC cell lines, the resulting models are not representative of the full genetic diversity of the disease due to the limited number of cell lines suitable for this purpose. On the other hand, patient-derived xenografts (PDX) are the most reliable for preclinical drug development due to their ability to retain pathological and molecular characteristics. In this review, the authors discuss the various murine CRC models with a focus on their clinical relevance, benefits, and drawbacks. From all models discussed, murine CRC models will continue to be an important tool in advancing our understanding and treatment of this disease, but additional research is required to find a model that can correctly reflect the pathophysiology of CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Íris Neto
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Manuela Gaspar
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina P Reis
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
- Instituto de Biofísica e Engenharia Biomédica (IBEB), Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Marques A, Torre C, Pinto R, Sepodes B, Rocha J. Treatment Advances in Sepsis and Septic Shock: Modulating Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082892. [PMID: 37109229 PMCID: PMC10142733 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is currently defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, and it affects over 25 million people every year. Even more severe, septic shock is a subset of sepsis defined by persistent hypotension, and hospital mortality rates are higher than 40%. Although early sepsis mortality has greatly improved in the past few years, sepsis patients who survive the hyperinflammation and subsequent organ damage often die from long-term complications, such as secondary infection, and despite decades of clinical trials targeting this stage of the disease, currently, no sepsis-specific therapies exist. As new pathophysiological mechanisms have been uncovered, immunostimulatory therapy has emerged as a promising path forward. Highly investigated treatment strategies include cytokines and growth factors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and even cellular therapies. There is much to be learned from related illnesses, and immunotherapy trials in oncology, as well as the recent COVID-19 pandemic, have greatly informed sepsis research. Although the journey ahead is a long one, the stratification of patients according to their immune status and the employment of combination therapies represent a hopeful way forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Marques
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Torre
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Pinto
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Joaquim Chaves Saúde, Joaquim Chaves Laboratório de Análises Clínicas, Miraflores, 1495-069 Algés, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pinheiro A, Ruivo A, Rocha J, Ferro M, Pinto JV, Deuermeier J, Mateus T, Santa A, Mendes MJ, Martins R, Gago S, Laia CAT, Águas H. Parylene-Sealed Perovskite Nanocrystals Down-Shifting Layer for Luminescent Spectral Matching in Thin Film Photovoltaics. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2023; 13:210. [PMID: 36616119 PMCID: PMC9823874 DOI: 10.3390/nano13010210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The present contribution aims to enhance solar cells' performance via the development of advanced luminescent down-shifting based on encapsulated nanostructured perovskite materials. Here, thin films of inorganic lead halide (CsPbBr3) perovskite nanocrystal luminophores were synthetized, by hot-injection, deposited on glass substrates by spin-coating, and encapsulated with parylene type C, via chemical vapor deposition, to protect and stabilize the films. The optical properties of these thin films were characterized by absorption, emission and 2D contour spectra, their structure by X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and the morphology by Scanning Transmission Electron microscopy. I-V curve and spectral response nanocrystalline silicon photovoltaic (nc-Si:H PV) cells were studied in the absence and presence of the perovskite and parylene luminescent down-shifting layers. The incorporation of the CsPbBr3 nanocrystals and their encapsulation with the parylene type C polymeric coating led to an increase in the current generated and the spectral response of the PV cells in the regime of the nanocrystals' fluorescence emission. A 3.1% increase in the short circuit current density and a 5.6% increase in the power conversion efficiency were observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Pinheiro
- R&D Unit VICARTE—Vidro e Cerâmica para as Artes, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), NOVA School of Sciences and Technology, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Andreia Ruivo
- R&D Unit VICARTE—Vidro e Cerâmica para as Artes, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marta Ferro
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Vaz Pinto
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Jonas Deuermeier
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Tiago Mateus
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Ana Santa
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Manuel J. Mendes
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Rodrigo Martins
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Sandra Gago
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), NOVA School of Sciences and Technology, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - César A. T. Laia
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), NOVA School of Sciences and Technology, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Hugo Águas
- CENIMAT|i3N, NOVA School of Sciences and Technology and CEMOP/UNINOVA, FCT NOVA, Largo da Torre, 2825-516 Caparica, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Martinho I, Teixeira Rodrigues A, Guerreiro J, Rocha J, Sepodes B, Torre C. A cross-country utilization patterns comparison of high expenditure therapeutic groups between Portugal and six European countries: the two sides of the Portuguese coin. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2023; 23:89-97. [PMID: 36345962 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2023.2144839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding variability in prescribing patterns through comparative drug utilization studies can contribute to improve an efficient, effective and safe use of medicines. OBJECTIVES To perform a cross-country comparison of consumption patterns of ambulatory high expenditure therapeutic groups between Portugal and six European countries and simulate potential cost-saving scenarios through the adoption of the different prescribing patterns of studied countries. METHODS Cross-country comparison of 2019 drug consumption patterns between Portugal, Denmark, England, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Spain. Analysis comprised antihypertensive drugs, glucose lowering drugs (GLD), insulins, lipid lowering drugs (LLD) and oral anticoagulants. Cost-saving analysis were performed using the Portugal average annual cost/daily defined dose and the potential reduction in expenditure simulating other European countries consumption pattern scenarios. RESULTS Portugal had the lowest consumption uptake of metformin and the highest consumption of GLD (30.1%) and LLD (8.5% vs <3%) fixed-dose combinations. Annual cost-savings scenarios showed that Portugal would have saved between 53 M€ and 305 M€ if it had the same prescribing patterns than Norway or the Netherlands, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Different utilization patterns across countries were found. Although Portugal has the lowest gross domestic product per capita among the countries studied, it had the highest uptake of newly and costly drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inês Martinho
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR-INFOSAUDE), National Association of Pharmacies (ANF), Lisboa, Portugal.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - José Guerreiro
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR-INFOSAUDE), National Association of Pharmacies (ANF), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Torre
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lin Z, Tavares D, Pereira E, Rocha J. Microporous Framework (Nb, Fe)-Silicate with Much Potential to Remove Rare-Earth Elements from Waters. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202202435. [PMID: 36163545 PMCID: PMC10092455 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202202435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Nanoparticles of a new small-pore metal silicate formulated as Na2.9 (Nb1.55 Fe0.45 )Si2 O10 ⋅ xH2 O and exhibiting the structure of previously reported Rb2 (Nb2 O4 )(Si2 O6 ) ⋅ H2 O have been synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. Replacement of the bulky Rb+ by smaller Na+ ions was accomplished by stabilizing the framework structure via partial occupancy of the Nb5+ sites by Fe3+ ions. Exploratory ion-exchange assays evidence the considerable potential of this new silicate to remove rare-earth elements from aqueous solutions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Lin
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Daniela Tavares
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE - Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Eduarda Pereira
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE - Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Malú Q, Lima K, Malmir M, Pinto R, da Silva IM, Catarino L, Duarte MP, Serrano R, Rocha J, Lima BS, Silva O. Contribution to the Preclinical Safety Assessment of Lannea velutina and Sorindeia juglandifolia Leaves. Plants (Basel) 2022; 12:130. [PMID: 36616259 PMCID: PMC9823897 DOI: 10.3390/plants12010130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Dried leaves of Lannea velutina A. Rich. and Sorindeia juglandifolia (A. Rich.) Planch. ex Oliv. (family Anacardiaceae) are used in African traditional medicine. Although these medicinal plants have widespread use in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, there is no scientific data concerning their preclinical or clinical safety. This work aimed to investigate the phytochemical properties of the leaves of both species using HPLC-UV/DAD, as well as the in vivo oral repeated-dose toxicity of 70% hydroethanolic leaf extract of S. juglandifolia and the in vitro genotoxicity of 70% hydroethanolic leaf extracts of L. velutina and S. juglandifolia. Clinical signs of toxicity, body weight variations, and changes in food consumption, mortality, and blood biochemical parameters were monitored. Genotoxicity was assessed using the bacterial reverse mutation assay (Ames test) with and without metabolic activation, according to OECD guidelines. The obtained results showed the presence of gallic acid and anacardic acid as the main marker constituents in both species. No significant changes in general body weight or food intake were observed; small significant changes with no critical relevance were observed in the blood biochemistry of animals treated with S. juglandifolia hydroethanolic extract (50, 400, and 1000 mg/kg body weight) compared to those in the control group. No genotoxicity was observed in the bacterial reverse mutation assay with S. juglandifolia and L. velutina extracts (up to 5 mg/plate). The safety data obtained in vivo and lack of genotoxic potential in vitro points to the safe medicinal use of S. juglandifolia and L. velutina extracts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quintino Malú
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Katelene Lima
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maryam Malmir
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Pinto
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Dr Joaquim Chaves Laboratório de Análises Clínicas, 2790-224 Carnaxide, Portugal
| | - Isabel Moreira da Silva
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Catarino
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, (cE3c) & CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Paula Duarte
- MEtRICs/Chemical Department, Nova School of Science and Technology, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Rita Serrano
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Silva Lima
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Olga Silva
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sabiha S, Serrano R, Hasan K, Moreira da Silva IB, Rocha J, Islam N, Silva O. The Genus Cynometra: A Review of Ethnomedicine, Chemical, and Biological Data. Plants (Basel) 2022; 11:3504. [PMID: 36559616 PMCID: PMC9781411 DOI: 10.3390/plants11243504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cynometra L. is a Fabaceae genus that is widely distributed throughout the tropics, consisting of tropical forest trees with ecological and economic importance since they are used as food and herbal medicines by the populations of their natural habitats. Our goal is to provide a review of the research data concerning the potential of this botanical genus as a source of herbal medicines and secondary metabolites that are useful for human health. To that end, scientific databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were searched using the following terms: Cynometra, medicine, chemical, biological activity, toxicity, and “AND” as the Boolean connector. Eleven Cynometra species (9.7%) were reported to be used in traditional medicine to treat different ailments. A total of 185 secondary metabolites of various chemical classes, mainly flavonoids and terpenoids, were identified in eight Cynometra species (7.1%). Vitexin was the only flavonoid identified as bioactive in the sequence of bioguided studies on this botanical genus. Ten species (8.8%) were submitted to in vitro and in vivo biological activity assays. The main evaluated activities were in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities, but no human clinical trials or safety data about this genus were found. Cynometra cauliflora and Cynometra ramiflora were the most studied species. The present work confirms the use of Cynometra species as a source of medicinal plants. However, more experimental studies must be conducted to better understand this botanical genus’s usefulness as a source of raw materials for pharmaceutical use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Sabiha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rita Serrano
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Kamrul Hasan
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isabel B. Moreira da Silva
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Nurul Islam
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Olga Silva
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rodrigues J, Sá A, Fontes R, Barbosa A, Barbosa-Martins J, Oliveira C, Peixoto M, Santos S, Rocha J, Almeida M, Carvalho C, Queiroz L, Fernandes R, Faustino I, Portela C, Coutinho C, Nabiço R. Anxiety and depression screening during neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment in early breast cancer patients: a multicenter longitudinal observational study. Eur J Cancer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(22)01446-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
27
|
Nunes SC, Gomes AP, Nunes P, Fernandes M, Maia A, Bacelar E, Rocha J, Cruz R, Boatto A, Ravishankar AP, Casal S, Anand S, Bermudez VDZ, Crespí AL. Leaf surfaces and neolithization - the case of Arundo donax L. Front Plant Sci 2022; 13:999252. [PMID: 36275521 PMCID: PMC9581231 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.999252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Arundo donax L. (Arundinoideae subfamily, Poaceae family) is a sub-tropical and temperate climate reed that grows in arid and semi-arid environmental conditions, from eastern China to the Mediterranean basin, suggesting potential adaptations at the epicuticular level. A thorough physical-chemical examination of the adaxial and abaxial surfaces of A. donax leaf was performed herein in an attempt to track such chemophenetic adaptations. This sort of approach is of the utmost importance for the current debate about the hypothetical invasiveness of this species in the Mediterranean basin versus its natural colonization along the Plio-Pleistocene period. We concluded that the leaf surfaces contain, apart from stomata, prickles, and long, thin trichomes, and silicon-rich tetralobate phytolits. Chemically, the dominating elements in the leaf ashes are oxygen and potassium; minor amounts of calcium, silicon, magnesium, phosphorous, sulphur, and chlorine were also detected. In both surfaces the epicuticular waxes (whose density is higher in the adaxial surface than in the abaxial surface) form randomly orientated platelets, with irregular shape and variable size, and aggregated rodlets with variable diameter around the stomata. In the case of green mature leaves, the dominating organic compounds of the epicuticular waxes of both surfaces are triterpenoids. Both surfaces feature identical hydrophobic behaviour, and exhibit the same total transmittance, total reflectance, and absorption of incident light. The above findings suggest easy growth of the plant, remarkable epidermic robustness of the leaf, and control of water loss. These chemophenetic characteristics and human influence support a neolithization process of this species along the Mediterranean basin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia C. Nunes
- Fib EnTech - Fiber Materials and Environmental Technologies, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana P. Gomes
- Fib EnTech - Fiber Materials and Environmental Technologies, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Paulo Nunes
- Centro de Química Vila Real (CQ-VR), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Mariana Fernandes
- Centro de Química Vila Real (CQ-VR), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ana Maia
- Fib EnTech - Fiber Materials and Environmental Technologies, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Eunice Bacelar
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Centro de Química Vila Real (CQ-VR), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Herbarium and Botanical Garden, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Rebeca Cruz
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Aline Boatto
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ajith P. Ravishankar
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Albanova University Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susana Casal
- Associated Laboratory for Green Chemistry (LAQV) of the Network of Chemistry and Technology (REQUIMTE), Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Srinivasan Anand
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Albanova University Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Verónica de Zea Bermudez
- Centro de Química Vila Real (CQ-VR), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - António L. Crespí
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Herbarium and Botanical Garden, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Esteves CIC, Fontes LFB, Rocha J, Silva AMS, Guieu S. Cover Feature: Influence of the Intramolecular Hydrogen Bond on the Fluorescence of 2‐
ortho
‐Aminophenyl Pyridines (Chem. Eur. J. 53/2022). Chemistry 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.202202459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cátia I. C. Esteves
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Luís F. B. Fontes
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
- Department of Chemistry CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Samuel Guieu
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
- Department of Chemistry CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Esteves CIC, Fontes LFB, Rocha J, Silva AMS, Guieu S. Influence of the Intramolecular Hydrogen Bond on the Fluorescence of 2‐
ortho
‐Aminophenyl Pyridines. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201844. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cátia I. C. Esteves
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Luís F. B. Fontes
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
- Department of Chemistry CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Samuel Guieu
- Department of Chemistry, LAQV-REQUIMTE University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
- Department of Chemistry CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials University of Aveiro Campus de Santiago 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Bornes C, Stosic D, Geraldes CFGC, Mintova S, Rocha J, Mafra L. Elucidating the Nature of the External Acid Sites of ZSM‐5 Zeolites Using NMR Probe Molecules. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201795. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Bornes
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Dusan Stosic
- Laboratoire Catalyse & Spectrochimie (LCS) Normandie Univ ENSICAEN, UNICAEN, CNRS 14000 Caen France
| | - Carlos F. G. C. Geraldes
- Department of Life Sciences and Coimbra Chemistry Center Faculty of Science and Technology University of Coimbra 3000-393 Coimbra Portugal
- CIBIT-Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Svetlana Mintova
- Laboratoire Catalyse & Spectrochimie (LCS) Normandie Univ ENSICAEN, UNICAEN, CNRS 14000 Caen France
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Luís Mafra
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Teixeira MM, Borges FC, Ferreira PS, Rocha J, Sepodes B, Torre C. A review of patient-reported outcomes used for regulatory approval of oncology medicinal products in the European Union between 2017 and 2020. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:968272. [PMID: 36035431 PMCID: PMC9411861 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.968272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cancer and corresponding available treatments are associated with substantial symptoms and functional limitations. In this context, collection of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in clinical trials gained special interest and is recommended by regulatory authorities. Within clinical trials framework, PRO may provide evidence to support medicines approval, labeling and marketing claims. This study aims to analyze the existing evidence based on PRO as part of new oncology indications receiving positive opinions issued by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) between 2017 and 2020 and to identify PRO related label claims granted. Methodology Oncology medicinal products and indications approved by the European Commission following a positive opinion from the EMA between 2017 and 2020 were identified. European Public Assessment Report (EPAR) and Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) were reviewed for each medicinal product to identify use of PRO and PRO label claims. Results A total of 128 oncology indications, corresponding to 76 medicines, were approved; of those, 100 (78.1%) included PRO in the confirmatory clinical trials. Thirty-seven indications were supported by double-blind randomized trials and the remainder 63 by open-label trials. Out of the 104 confirmatory trials analyzed, PRO were defined as a secondary endpoint in 60 studies (57.7%), exploratory in 31 (29.8%) and as both in 13 (12.5%). In total, 54 different PRO measures (PROM) were used, of those 41 (75.9%) were disease-specific measures. Nevertheless, PROM selected relied on the EORTC (41.3%), FACIT (17.1%) and EQ-5D (29.2%) measures. A total of 76 indications (59.4%) had PRO reviewers comments included in the EPAR, however only 22 indications (17.8%) included label claims in the SmPC. The reasons identified in the EMA assessment supporting the exclusion of PRO claims were described for 34 indications (44.7%). Conclusions Despite growing recognition of the value of PRO data for the development of improved cancer therapies, PRO implementation remains challenging. The main reasons identified in our study are related with study design, missing data, study conduct and PROM selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fábio Cardoso Borges
- European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paula Sousa Ferreira
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Torre
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical and Regulatory Science, Research Institute for Medicines (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Pereira RFP, Rocha J, Nunes P, Fernandes T, Ravishankar AP, Cruz R, Fernandes M, Anand S, Casal S, de Zea Bermudez V, Crespí AL. Vicariance Between Cercis siliquastrum L. and Ceratonia siliqua L. Unveiled by the Physical-Chemical Properties of the Leaves' Epicuticular Waxes. Front Plant Sci 2022; 13:890647. [PMID: 35860538 PMCID: PMC9289549 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.890647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Classically, vicariant phenomena have been essentially identified on the basis of biogeographical and ecological data. Here, we report unequivocal evidences that demonstrate that a physical-chemical characterization of the epicuticular waxes of the surface of plant leaves represents a very powerful strategy to get rich insight into vicariant events. We found vicariant similarity between Cercis siliquastrum L. (family Fabaceae, subfamily Cercidoideae) and Ceratonia siliqua L. (family Fabaceae, subfamily Caesalpinoideae). Both taxa converge in the Mediterranean basin (C. siliquastrum on the north and C. siliqua across the south), in similar habitats (sclerophyll communities of maquis) and climatic profiles. These species are the current representation of their subfamilies in the Mediterranean basin, where they overlap. Because of this biogeographic and ecological similarity, the environmental pattern of both taxa was found to be very significant. The physical-chemical analysis performed on the epicuticular waxes of C. siliquastrum and C. siliqua leaves provided relevant data that confirm the functional proximity between them. A striking resemblance was found in the epicuticular waxes of the abaxial surfaces of C. siliquastrum and C. siliqua leaves in terms of the dominant chemical compounds (1-triacontanol (C30) and 1-octacosanol (C28), respectively), morphology (intricate network of randomly organized nanometer-thick and micrometer-long plates), wettability (superhydrophobic character, with water contact angle values of 167.5 ± 0.5° and 162 ± 3°, respectively), and optical properties (in both species the light reflectance/absorptance of the abaxial surface is significantly higher/lower than that of the adaxial surface, but the overall trend in reflectance is qualitatively similar). These results enable us to include for the first time C. siliqua in the vicariant process exhibited by C. canadensis L., C. griffithii L., and C. siliquastrum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui F. P. Pereira
- Chemistry Department and Chemistry Centre, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Herbarium and Botanical Garden, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Paulo Nunes
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Tânia Fernandes
- Chemistry Department and Chemistry Centre, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ajith P. Ravishankar
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Albanova University Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rebeca Cruz
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Fernandes
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Srinivasan Anand
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Albanova University Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susana Casal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Verónica de Zea Bermudez
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - António L. Crespí
- Herbarium and Botanical Garden, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
- CITAB, Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Vila Real, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Seringa J, Pedreiras S, Freitas MJ, Valente de Matos R, Rocha J, Millett C, Santana R. Direct Costs of COVID-19 Inpatient Admissions in a Portuguese Tertiary Care University Centre. Port J Public Health 2022; 40:26-34. [PMID: 37753497 PMCID: PMC9148881 DOI: 10.1159/000524368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has posed greater financial pressure on health systems and institutions that had to respond to the specific needs of COVID-19 patients while ensuring the safety of the diagnosis and treatment of all patients and healthcare professionals. To assess the financial impact of COVID-19 patients admitted to hospitals, we have characterized the cost of COVID-19 admissions, using inpatient data from a Portuguese Tertiary Care University Centre. Methods We analysed inpatient data from adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who were admitted between March 1, 2020 and May 31, 2020. Admissions were eligible if the ICD-10-CM principal diagnosis was coded U07.1. We excluded admissions from patients under 18 years old, admissions with incomplete records, admissions from patients who had been transferred to or from other hospitals or those whose inpatient stay was under 24 h. Pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium admissions were also excluded, as well as admissions from patients who had undergone surgery. Results We identified 223 admissions of patients diagnosed with COVID-19. Most were men (64.1%) and aged 45-64 years (30.5%). Around 13.0% of patients were admitted to intensive care units and 9.9% died in hospital. The average length of hospital stay was 12.7 days (SD = 10.2) and the average estimated cost per admission was EUR 8,177 (SD = 11,534), which represents more than triple the inpatient base price (EUR 2,386). Human resources accounted for the highest proportion of the total costs per admission (50.8%). About 92.4% of the admissions were assigned to Diagnosis Related Group (DRG) 723, whose inpatient price is lower than COVID-19 inpatient costs for all degrees of severity. Conclusion COVID-19 admissions represent a substantial financial burden for the Portuguese NHS. For each COVID-19 hospitalized patient it would have been possible to treat three other hospitalized patients. Also, the price set for DRG 723 is not adjusted to the cost of COVID-19 patients. These findings highlight the need for additional financial resources for the health system and, in particular, for hospitals that have treated high volumes of hospitalized patients diagnosed with COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Seringa
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, E.P.E., Lisbon, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Pedreiras
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, E.P.E., Lisbon, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria João Freitas
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, E.P.E., Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - João Rocha
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Christopher Millett
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
- Public Health Policy Evaluation Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rui Santana
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA Lisboa, Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fischer M, Bornes C, Mafra L, Rocha J. Elucidating the Germanium Distribution in ITQ‐13 Zeolites by Density Functional Theory**. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202104298. [PMID: 35080291 PMCID: PMC9303350 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202104298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
ITQ‐13 is a medium‐pore zeolite that can be prepared in all‐silica form and as silicogermanate with Si/Ge ratios as low as 3. Usually synthesised in the presence of fluoride, ITQ‐13 is among the very few systems containing fluoride anions in two distinct cage types, cube‐like d4r units and [4 ⋅ 56] cages. Here, dispersion‐corrected density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to investigate the energetically most favourable Ge distributions for Si/Ge ratios between 55 and 6. The calculations show Ge atoms are incorporated at both the corners of d4r cages and at the basal plane of the [4 ⋅ 56] cages, in accordance with 19F NMR spectroscopy. Two Ge atoms at adjacent corners of [4 ⋅ 56] cages are stable at the highest Ge content considered (Si/Ge=6). Such a local environment has not yet been considered in the experimental literature. A calculation of the corresponding 19F NMR resonance points to overlap with other resonances, which might preclude its clear identification. Additional calculations investigate the variation of the dynamic behaviour of the fluoride anions as a function of the local environment as well as the selective defluorination of the [4 ⋅ 56] cages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fischer
- Faculty of Geosciences University of Bremen Klagenfurter Straße 2–4 28359 Bremen Germany
- Bremen Center for Computational Materials Science (BCCMS) University of Bremen 28359 Bremen Germany
- MAPEX Center for Materials and Processes University of Bremen 28359 Bremen Germany
| | - Carlos Bornes
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Luís Mafra
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Torres T, Paiva-Lopes MJ, Gonçalo M, Claro C, Oliveira M, Gomes J, Vieira AP, Amoedo P, Alpalhão M, Nogueira M, Santiago F, Henrique M, Amaro C, Esteves T, Alves J, Cerejeira D, Mendes-Bastos P, Pestana M, Ramos L, Rocha J, Carvalho R, Teixeira L, Selores M, Mota A, Filipe P. Dupilumab for atopic dermatitis: a real-world portuguese multicenter retrospective study. J DERMATOL TREAT 2022; 33:2554-2559. [PMID: 35083945 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2022.2035309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a difficult-to-treat inflammatory skin disease with a high impact on patients' quality of life. Dupilumab, an IL-4 and IL-13 inhibitor, was the first monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe AD and is currently approved in patients aged 6 or older.Methods: This is a nationwide, multicenter, retrospective, 48-week study designed by the Portuguese Group of AD to assess real-world efficacy and safety of dupilumab for the treatment of AD.Results: A total of 169 patients were enrolled, with a mean disease duration of 22.75 (±11.98) years. The percentage of patients achieving an improvement of at least 75% in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) compared to baseline (EASI75 response) at weeks 12 and 48 was 67.6% and 74.1%, respectively. In the same timepoints, 25.0% and 44.1% achieved an EASI90 response. Patient-reported outcome measures also improved throughout the study period. Regarding safety, 32.0% of the patients developed adverse events, with conjunctivitis (26.6%), persistent facial erythema (4.7%), and arthritis/arthralgia (3.6%) as the more frequently reported.Conclusion: Data from real-world populations are crucial to guide clinicians in their daily decisions. This study provides data demonstrating that dupilumab is an effective and safe therapeutic option for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Torres
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M J Paiva-Lopes
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal.,CEDOC, Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M Gonçalo
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Clinic of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - C Claro
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M Oliveira
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Tondela Viseu, Viseu, Portugal
| | - J Gomes
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
| | - A P Vieira
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
| | - P Amoedo
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João EPE, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Alpalhão
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, Lisbon, Portugal.,Dermatology University Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,Dermatology Research Unit, IMM João Lobo Antunes, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Nogueira
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - F Santiago
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Leiria-Pombal, Leiria, Portugal
| | - M Henrique
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Leiria-Pombal, Leiria, Portugal
| | - C Amaro
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Egas Moniz, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - T Esteves
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Central do Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
| | - J Alves
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - D Cerejeira
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal
| | - P Mendes-Bastos
- Dermatology Center, Hospital CUF Descobertas, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - M Pestana
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - L Ramos
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J Rocha
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Pedro Hispano, Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - R Carvalho
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Central, Lisboa, Portugal.,Nova Medical School, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - L Teixeira
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS.UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - M Selores
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - A Mota
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João EPE, Porto, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, CINTESIS, Porto, Portugal
| | - P Filipe
- Department of Dermatology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, Lisbon, Portugal.,Dermatology University Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.,Dermatology Research Unit, IMM João Lobo Antunes, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Grácio M, Rocha J, Pinto R, Boavida Ferreira R, Solas J, Eduardo‐Figueira M, Sepodes B, Ribeiro AC. A proposed lectin-mediated mechanism to explain the in Vivo antihyperglycemic activity of γ-conglutin from Lupinus albus seeds. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:5980-5996. [PMID: 34760231 PMCID: PMC8565248 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo, as well as clinical trials for hypoglycemic therapeutics, support the hypoglycemic properties of the lectin γ-conglutin, a Lupinus seed storage protein, by a mechanism not yet been clarified. Structural studies established that binding of γ-conglutin, in native and denatured form, to insulin occurs by a strong binding that resists rupture when 0.4 M NaCl and 0.4 M galactose are present, suggesting that strong electrostatic interactions are involved. Studies on binding of γ-conglutin in native and denatured form to HepG2 membrane glycosylated receptors were conducted, which reveal that only the native form of γ-conglutin with lectin activity is capable of binding to these receptors. Glycosylated insulin receptors were detected on purified HepG2 cell membranes and characterized by 1D and 2D analyses. Preclinical assays with male mice (CD-1) indicated that native and denatured γ-conglutins display antihyperglycemic effect, decreasing glucose in blood comparable after 120 min to that exhibited by the animal group treated with metformin, used to treat T2D and used as a positive control. Measurement of organ injury/functional biomarkers (hepatic, pancreatic, renal, and lipid profile) was comparable to that of metformin treatment or even better in terms of safety endpoints (pancreatic and hepatic biomarkers).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madalena Grácio
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
- Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food (LEAF)University of Lisbon Higher Institute of AgronomyLisbonPortugal
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences (iMed.UL) and Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
| | - Rui Pinto
- Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences (iMed.UL) and Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
- JCS Dr Joaquim Chaves Lab Análises ClínicasAlgésPortugal
| | - Ricardo Boavida Ferreira
- Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food (LEAF)University of Lisbon Higher Institute of AgronomyLisbonPortugal
| | - João Solas
- Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences (iMed.UL) and Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
- HTRC‐Health and Technology Research CenterESTeSLInstituto Superior TécnicoUniversidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
| | - Maria Eduardo‐Figueira
- Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences (iMed.UL) and Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Research Institute for Medicines and Pharmaceutical Sciences (iMed.UL) and Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
| | - Ana Cristina Ribeiro
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de LisboaLisboaPortugal
- Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food (LEAF)University of Lisbon Higher Institute of AgronomyLisbonPortugal
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mendes RF, Antunes MM, Silva P, Barbosa P, Figueiredo F, Linden A, Rocha J, Valente AA, Almeida Paz FA. Corrigendum: A Lamellar Coordination Polymer with Remarkable Catalytic Activity. Chemistry 2021; 27:14353. [PMID: 34581466 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202102244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
|
38
|
Direito R, Rocha J, Sepodes B, Eduardo-Figueira M. From Diospyros kaki L. (Persimmon) Phytochemical Profile and Health Impact to New Product Perspectives and Waste Valorization. Nutrients 2021; 13:3283. [PMID: 34579162 PMCID: PMC8465508 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) fruit's phytochemical profile includes carotenoids, proanthocyanidins, and gallic acid among other phenolic compounds and vitamins. A huge antioxidant potential is present given this richness in antioxidant compounds. These bioactive compounds impact on health benefits. The intersection of nutrition and sustainability, the key idea behind the EAT-Lancet Commission, which could improve human health and decrease the global impact of food-related health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, bring the discussion regarding persimmon beyond the health effects from its consumption, but also on the valorization of a very perishable food that spoils quickly. A broad option of edible products with better storage stability or solutions that apply persimmon and its byproducts in the reinvention of old products or even creating new products, or with new and better packaging for the preservation of food products with postharvest technologies to preserve and extend the shelf-life of persimmon food products. Facing a global food crisis and the climate emergency, new and better day-to-day solutions are needed right now. Therefore, the use of persimmon waste has also been discussed as a good solution to produce biofuel, eco-friendly alternative reductants for fabric dyes, green plant growth regulator, biodegradable and edible films for vegetable packaging, antimicrobial activity against foodborne methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus found in retail pork, anti-Helicobacter pylori agents from pedicel extracts, and persimmon pectin-based emulsifiers to prevent lipid peroxidation, among other solutions presented in the revised literature. It has become clear that the uses for persimmon go far beyond the kitchen table and the health impact consumption demonstrated over the years. The desired sustainable transition is already in progress, however, mechanistic studies and clinical trials are essential and scaling-up is fundamental to the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Direito
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Eduardo-Figueira
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Carvalho RFS, Pereira GAL, Rocha J, Castro MMCA, Granadeiro CM, Nogueira HIS, Peters JA, Geraldes CFGC. Lanthanopolyoxometalate‐Silica Core/Shell Nanoparticles as Potential MRI Contrast Agents. Eur J Inorg Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ejic.202100445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rui F. S. Carvalho
- Department of Life Sciences Faculty of Science and Technology University of Coimbra Calçada Martim de Freitas 3000-393 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Giovannia A. L. Pereira
- Department of Life Sciences Faculty of Science and Technology University of Coimbra Calçada Martim de Freitas 3000-393 Coimbra Portugal
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
- Fundamental Chemistry Department UFPE Recife, Pernambuco Brazil
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - M. Margarida C. A. Castro
- Department of Life Sciences Faculty of Science and Technology University of Coimbra Calçada Martim de Freitas 3000-393 Coimbra Portugal
- Coimbra Chemistry Center Rua Larga University of Coimbra 3004-535 Coimbra Portugal
| | - Carlos M. Granadeiro
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Faculty of Sciences University of Porto Rua do Campo Alegre 4169-007 Porto Portugal
| | - Helena I. S. Nogueira
- CICECO Aveiro Institute of Materials Department of Chemistry University of Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro Portugal
| | - Joop A. Peters
- Department of Biotechnology Delft University of Technology Van der Maasweg 9 2629 HZ Delft The Netherlands
| | - Carlos F. G. C. Geraldes
- Department of Life Sciences Faculty of Science and Technology University of Coimbra Calçada Martim de Freitas 3000-393 Coimbra Portugal
- Coimbra Chemistry Center Rua Larga University of Coimbra 3004-535 Coimbra Portugal
- CIBIT/ICNAS–Instituto de Ciências Nucleares Aplicadas à Saúde Pólo das Ciências da Saúde Azinhaga de Santa Comba 3000-548 Coimbra Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Sepodes B, Rocha J, Batista J, Figueira ME, Dráfi F, Torre C. Implementation and Access to Pre-exposure Prophylaxis for Human Immunodeficiency Virus by Men Who Have Sex With Men in Europe. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:722247. [PMID: 34513883 PMCID: PMC8424070 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.722247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a significant public health intervention with proven efficacy and safety in the prevention of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which has taken a considerable amount of time to reach Europe in relation to their transatlantic counterparts, namely, the United States of America (USA). There, it is perceived as being an essential prevention tool to be integrated within existing medical, behavioral and structural interventions in place for the management and containment of HIV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). In a region such as Europe, with approximately double the USA population, it is estimated that not even 10% have proper access to PrEP, and given the lack of coordination with healthcare, taking PrEP has to be at their own expense. Here, we identify the reasons behind the 4-year lag in the approval of PrEP in the European Union/European Economic Area (and Europe in general) and explore the efficacy and effectiveness of PrEP needed to be confirmed with some implementation or demonstration studies conducted in the region. Independent of the data gathered, access of MSM to PrEP is far from ideal in Europe and much still needs to be done. The demonstration of the cost-effectiveness of PrEP alongside other social and behavioral factors needs to be addressed, while the clear populations within MSM that will benefit from this intervention are properly identified and make use of the latest recommendations of the World Health Organization that consider not only daily PrEP but also event-driven PrEP. The momentum for the proper implementation of PrEP in the EU is not lost, and with the existence of generics and even new formulations, there is a renewed opportunity for unleashing the public health benefits arising from this pharmacological tool with other interventions in place (e.g., condoms, testing, and counseling).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Sepodes
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jorge Batista
- Unidade de Saúde Pública Internacional e Bioestatística, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria-Eduardo Figueira
- Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal.,Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - František Dráfi
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Centre of Experimental Medicine of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Carla Torre
- Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Lisbon, Portugal.,Laboratory of Systems Integration Pharmacology, Clinical & Regulatory Science-Research Institute for Medicines of the University of Lisbon (iMED.ULisboa), Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bornes C, Fischer M, Amelse JA, Geraldes CFGC, Rocha J, Mafra L. What Is Being Measured with P-Bearing NMR Probe Molecules Adsorbed on Zeolites? J Am Chem Soc 2021; 143:13616-13623. [PMID: 34410690 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.1c05014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Elucidating the nature, strength, and siting of acid sites in zeolites is fundamental to fathom their reactivity and catalytic behavior. Despite decades of research, this endeavor remains a major challenge. Trimethylphosphine oxide (TMPO) has been proposed as a reliable probe molecule to study the acid properties of solid acid catalysts, allowing the identification of distinct Brønsted and Lewis acid sites and the assessment of Brønsted acid strengths. Recently, doubts have been raised regarding the assignment of the 31P NMR resonances of TMPO-loaded zeolites. Here, it is shown that a judicious control of TMPO loading combined with two-dimensional 1H-31P HETCOR solid-state NMR, DFT, and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD)-based computational modeling provides an unprecedented atomistic description of the host-guest and guest-guest interactions of TMPO molecules confined within HZSM-5 molecular-sized voids. 31P NMR resonances usually assigned to TMPO molecules interacting with Brønsted sites of different acid strength arise instead from both changes in the probe molecule confinement effects at ZSM-5 channel system and the formation of protonated TMPO dimers. Moreover, DFT/AIMD shows that the 1H and 31P NMR chemical shifts strongly depend on the siting of the framework aluminum atoms. This work overhauls the current interpretation of NMR spectra, raising important concerns about the widely accepted use of probe molecules for studying acid sites in zeolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Bornes
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Michael Fischer
- Faculty of Geosciences, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany.,MAPEX Center for Materials and Processes, University of Bremen, 28359 Bremen, Germany
| | - Jeffrey A Amelse
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carlos F G C Geraldes
- Department of Life Sciences and Coimbra Chemistry Center, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-393 Coimbra, Portugal.,CIBIT-Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, Edifício do ICNAS, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Luís Mafra
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Vaz PAAM, Rocha J, Silva AMS, Guieu S. Benzimidazole-Based N,O Boron Complexes as Deep Blue Solid-State Fluorophores. Materials (Basel) 2021; 14:ma14154298. [PMID: 34361489 PMCID: PMC8348718 DOI: 10.3390/ma14154298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Benzimidazole-based boranils were designed and synthesized in order to assess the influence of halogen substituents on their optoelectronic properties. All compounds are photoluminescent in solution and solid state. Compared to the free ligands, the new boranils emit at a lower wavelength, by elimination of the excited-state intramolecular proton transfer observed with the ligands. In the solid state, some of the boranils exhibit a deep blue emission, presenting Commission Internationale de l’Éclairage (CIE) coordinates with an x-component of less than 0.16 and a y-component smaller than 0.04, highly desired values for the development of blue emitting materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia A. A. M. Vaz
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.A.A.M.V.); (A.M.S.S.)
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.A.A.M.V.); (A.M.S.S.)
| | - Samuel Guieu
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.A.A.M.V.); (A.M.S.S.)
- CICECO, Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Rocha J, Soares P, Filipe C, Lopes S, Teixeira M, Fonseca I, Sousa J, Marquês D, Mestre R, Duarte A, Santana R. Inpatient Hospitalizations during the First Wave of COVID-19 in Portugal. Port J Public Health 2021. [PMCID: PMC8018194 DOI: 10.1159/000514163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of the pandemic on inpatient hospital admissions during the first wave in Portugal. Data from hospital admissions in mainland Portugal from 2008 to 2017 were used to forecast inpatient hospital admissions for March to May 2020. The observed number of hospitalizations and their characteristics were compared to forecasted values. Variations were compared by hospital and region. Statistical analysis was used to investigate whether patterns of variations existed according to hospital characteristics. There were 119,315 fewer hospitalizations than expected during March to May 2020 in Portugal, which represented a 57% reduction. Non-COVID-19 hospitalizations had a higher mean length of stay and proportion of inpatient deaths than forecasted values. Differences between observed and forecasted values varied greatly among regions and hospitals. These variations were not associated with COVID-19 hospital admissions, region, forecasted number of hospitalizations, type of hospital, or occupation rate. The impact on inpatient hospital admissions for each hospital was not consistent or proportional to the expected use across Portugal, as indicated by variations between forecasted and observed values. The appropriate planning of future responses may contribute to improving the necessary balance between the level of hospital admissions for usual health needs of the population and the response to COVID-19 patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Rocha
- National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- *João Rocha, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Avenida Padre Cruz, PT–1600-560 Lisbon (Portugal),
| | - Patrícia Soares
- National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Catarina Filipe
- National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Lopes
- National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mário Teixeira
- National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Fonseca
- National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Joana Sousa
- National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diana Marquês
- National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Mestre
- Administração Central do Sistema de Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - António Duarte
- Administração Central do Sistema de Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Santana
- National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Rizvi N, Camargo S, Escovar C, Chate R, Szarf G, Teles G, Guimarães M, Gross J, Barbosa P, Chiarantano R, Reis R, Mauad E, Ghefter M, Sarmento P, Pereira R, Rocha J, Albuquerque M, Franceschini J, Hochhegger B. P41.05 Challenges of Implementing Lung Cancer Screening in Brazil: Preliminary Results of a Multicenter Group. J Thorac Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2021.01.819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
45
|
Rodríguez S, Rocha J, Fernandes M, Ravishankar AP, Steinbrück N, Cruz R, Bacelar E, Kickelbick G, Anand S, Crespí AL, Casal S, de Zea Bermudez V. The Surfaces of the Ceratonia siliqua L. (Carob) Leaflet: Insights from Physics and Chemistry. Langmuir 2021; 37:2011-2028. [PMID: 33533623 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c02806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The production of superhydrophobic coatings inspired by the surface of plant leaves is a challenging goal. Such coatings hold a bright technological future in niche markets of the aeronautical, space, naval, building, automobile, and biomedical sectors. This work is focused on the adaxial (top) and abaxial (bottom) surfaces of the leaflet of the Ceratonia silique L. (carob), a high-commercial-value Mediterranean tree cultivated in many regions of the world. The adaxial and abaxial surfaces feature hydrophobic and superhydrophobic behaviors, respectively. Their chemical composition is very simple: monopalmitin ester and palmitic acid are protuberant in the epicuticular and intracuticular wax layers of the adaxial surface, respectively, whereas 1-octacosanol dominates in the abaxial wax layers. In both surfaces, epicuticular wax is organized along a randomly oriented and intricate network of nanometer-thick and micrometer-long plates, whose density and degree of interconnection are significantly higher in the abaxial surface. The measured tilting angles for the abaxial surface (12-70°) reveal unusual variable density and water adhesion of the nanostructured plate-based texture. Optical measurements demonstrate that light reflectance/absorbance of the glaucous abaxial surface is significantly higher/lower than that of the nonglaucous adaxial surface. In both surfaces, diffuse reflectance is dominant, and the absorbance is weakly dependent on the light incidence angle. We show that the highly dense nanostructured platelike texture of the epicuticular abaxial layer of the C. siliqua leaflet works as a sophisticated light and water management system: it reflects solar radiation diffusely to lower the surface temperature, and it has superhydrophobic character to keep the surface dry. Such attributes enable efficient gas exchange (photosynthesis and respiration), transpiration, and evaporation. To mimic for the first time the abaxial surface, a templation approach was adopted using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)/poly(methylphenylsiloxane) (PMPS) positive/negative replicas and a soft polymer/siloxane negative replica produced by the sol-gel process. Because high topographical variations of the biotemplate and wax adhesion to the biohybrid film affected the replication quality, the reproduction of the wax texture via the synthesis of 1-octacosanol-grafted siloxane-based hybrid materials is proposed as a suitable route to duplicate the abaxial surface with high fidelity. The natural chemical/physical strategy adopted by the C. siliqua leaflet to face the harsh Mediterranean climate is a powerful source of bioinspiration for the development of diffuse reflecting and superhydrophobic material systems with foreseen applications as dual-functional antiglare and water-repelling coatings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Rodríguez
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - J Rocha
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
- Herbarium and Botanical Garden, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - M Fernandes
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - A P Ravishankar
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Albanova University Centre, Roslagstullsbacken 21, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - N Steinbrück
- Inorganic Solid State Chemistry, Saarland University, Campus Building C4 1, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - R Cruz
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - E Bacelar
- CITAB, Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - G Kickelbick
- Inorganic Solid State Chemistry, Saarland University, Campus Building C4 1, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - S Anand
- Department of Applied Physics, School of Engineering Sciences, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Albanova University Centre, Roslagstullsbacken 21, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - A L Crespí
- Herbarium and Botanical Garden, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
- CITAB, Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - S Casal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - V de Zea Bermudez
- CQ-VR, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-811 Vila Real, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Bártolo I, Santos BS, Fontinha D, Machado M, Francisco D, Sepodes B, Rocha J, Mota-Filipe H, Pinto R, Figueira ME, Barroso H, Nascimento T, Alves de Matos AP, Alves AJS, Alves NG, Simões CJV, Prudêncio M, Pinho e Melo TMVD, Taveira N. Spiro-β-lactam BSS-730A Displays Potent Activity against HIV and Plasmodium. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:421-434. [PMID: 33395253 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The high burden of malaria and HIV/AIDS prevents economic and social progress in developing countries. A continuing need exists for development of novel drugs and treatment regimens for both diseases in order to address the tolerability and long-term safety concerns associated with current treatment options and the emergence of drug resistance. We describe new spiro-β-lactam derivatives with potent (nM) activity against HIV and Plasmodium and no activity against bacteria and yeast. The best performing molecule of the series, BSS-730A, inhibited both HIV-1 and HIV-2 replication with an IC50 of 13 ± 9.59 nM and P. berghei hepatic infection with an IC50 of 0.55 ± 0.14 μM with a clear impact on parasite development. BSS-730A was also active against the erythrocytic stages of P. falciparum, with an estimated IC50 of 0.43 ± 0.04 μM. Time-of-addition studies showed that BSS-730A potentially affects all stages of the HIV replicative cycle, suggesting a complex mechanism of action. BSS-730A was active against multidrug-resistant HIV isolates, with a median 2.4-fold higher IC50 relative to control isolates. BSS-730A was equally active against R5 and X4 HIV isolates and displayed strong synergism with the entry inhibitor AMD3100. BSS-730A is a promising candidate for development as a potential therapeutic and/or prophylactic agent against HIV and Plasmodium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inês Bártolo
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruna S. Santos
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Diana Fontinha
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1648-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Machado
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1648-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Denise Francisco
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1648-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Rocha
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hélder Mota-Filipe
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Pinto
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria E. Figueira
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Helena Barroso
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, 2829-511 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
| | - Teresa Nascimento
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, 2829-511 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
| | - António P. Alves de Matos
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, 2829-511 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
| | - Américo J. S. Alves
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno G. Alves
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos J. V. Simões
- Coimbra Chemistry Centre (CQC), Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Prudêncio
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1648-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Nuno Taveira
- Instituto de investigação do Medicamento (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz (CiiEM), Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Quinta da Granja, 2829-511 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Direito R, Rocha J, Sepodes B, Eduardo-Figueira M. Phenolic Compounds Impact on Rheumatoid Arthritis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Microbiota Modulation. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13020145. [PMID: 33499333 PMCID: PMC7912052 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13020145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) are nowadays the principal cause of death, especially in most industrialized nations. These illnesses have increased exponentially with the consumption of diets very high in fat and sugar, not to mention stress and physical inactivity among other factors. The potential impact of suboptimal diets on NCDs’ morbidity and mortality rates brings to the forefront the necessity for a new way of improving dietary habits. The literature provides extensive scientific work that presents evidence that phenolic compounds from diets have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities that impact human health. Gut microbiota modulation by some phenolic compounds leads to favorable changes in abundance, diversity, and in the immune system. However, polyphenol’s limited bioavailability needs to be overcome, highlighting their application in new delivery systems and providing their health benefits in well-established ways such as health maintenance, treatment or adjuvant to conventional pharmacological treatments. In this context, novel dietary approaches, including new food supplements, have emerged to prevent diseases and preserve health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Direito
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-96-3654-899
| | - João Rocha
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bruno Sepodes
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Eduardo-Figueira
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.R.); (B.S.); (M.E.-F.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Skalny A, Aschner M, Paoliello M, Santamaria A, Nikitina N, Rejniuk V, Jiang Y, Rocha J, Tinkov A. Endocrine-disrupting activity of mancozeb. Arhiv za farmaciju 2021; 71:491-507. [DOI: 10.5937/arhfarm71-34359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to review the existing data on the mechanisms involved in the endocrine disrupting activity of mancozeb (MCZ) in its main targets, including thyroid and gonads, as well as other endocrine tissues that may be potentially affected by MCZ. MCZ exposure was shown to interfere with thyroid functioning through impairment of thyroid hormone synthesis due to inhibition of sodium-iodine symporter (NIS) and thyroid peroxidase (TPO) activity, as well as thyroglobulin expression. Direct thyrotoxic effect may also contribute to thyroid pathology upon MCZ exposure. Gonadal effects of MCZ involve inhibition of sex steroid synthesis due to inhibition of P450scc (CYP11A1), as well as 3b-HSD and 17b-HSD. In parallel with altered hormone synthesis, MCZ was shown to down-regulate androgen and estrogen receptor signaling. Taken together, these gonad-specific effects result in development of both male and female reproductive dysfunction. In parallel with clearly estimated targets for MCZ endocrine disturbing activity, namely thyroid and gonads, other endocrine tissues may be also involved. Specifically, the fungicide was shown to affect cortisol synthesis that may be mediated by modulation of CYP11B1 activity. Moreover, MCZ exposure was shown to interfere with PPARg signaling, being a key regulator of adipogenesis. The existing data also propose that endocrine-disrupting effects of MCZ exposure may be mediated by modulation of hypothalamus-pituitary-target axis. It is proposed that MCZ neurotoxicity may at least partially affect central mechanisms of endocrine system functioning. However, further studies are required to unravel the mechanisms of MCZ endocrine disrupting activity and overall toxicity.
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
A family of iminoboronates was prepared through a one-pot multicomponent reaction, starting from boronic acid, anthranilic acid, and different salicylaldehydes. Their synthesis was straightforward and the complexes were obtained in good to excellent yields. Their photophysical properties were assessed in a diluted solution, and the complexes proved to be faintly luminescent. These chelates demonstrated remarkable Aggregation-Induced Emission Enhancement, which was rationalized using crystal structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Guieu
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Cátia I. C. Esteves
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - João Rocha
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Artur M. S. Silva
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abdelhameed RM, Rocha J, Silva AMS. Selective separation of hibiscus acid from Roselle extracts by an amino-functionalized Metal Organic Framework. J Chromatogr A 2020; 1636:461789. [PMID: 33326926 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2020.461789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The separation and purification of biologically-active compounds from natural sources is of interest because such molecules find wide application in the pharmaceutical sector and in other industrial areas. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) plants are a good source of anthocyanins, flavonoids, hydroxycitric acid, tartaric acid, ascorbic acid and hibiscus acid. The separation of hibiscus acid from the Roselle extract is very challenging, requiring the use of selective methods. It is accomplished here by means of the indium-bearing Metal Organic Framework MIL-68-NH2. Before and after exposure to MIL-68-NH2, the Roselle extract is analyzed by thin-layer chromatography, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography. The structural integrity of MIL-68-NH2 after the separations is investigated by powder X-ray diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy, confirming the adsorption selectivity of MIL-68-NH2 towards hibiscus acid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reda M Abdelhameed
- Applied Organic Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, 33 EL Bohouth st., Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - João Rocha
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Artur M S Silva
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV-REQUIMTE, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|