Browsing by Author "Ferreira, Bianca"
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- Bioinspired host-tailored polymers based on molecular imprinting for cytokine assessmentPublication . Ferreira, Bianca; Correa-Duarte, Miguel; Marques, Arcelina; Moreira, Felismina; Martins, GabrielaMolecular imprinting undergone a substantial boost driven by the awareness of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs)-ligand recognition skills. In particular, the introduction of natural-based compounds like cyclodextrins into the structural scaffold of synthetic recognition elements attracted great importance as a novel route to design more friendly-environments for protein binding, while promoting higher selectivity features. Herein, carbon electrodes doped with platinum nanoparticles supported on multiwalled carbon nanotubes and functionalized with polyallylamine (MWCNTs-PAH/Pt) were electrochemically modified with an imprinted sensing layer of poly(β-cyclodextrin-pyrrole) (poly(β-CD-Py)) towards interleukin 6 (IL-6) monitoring. The analytical performance of the biosensor was evaluated by using Cyclic Voltammetry and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy techniques. Along the assembly, experimental parameters like nanomaterial deposition, monomer-protein concentrations and template removal solutions were carefully optimized and discussed. Furthermore, the electrodeposited film was characterized in terms of composition, morphology and structure using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Raman spectroscopy. Under optimal conditions, the developed sensor was able to rebind IL-6 over a wide linear range [1 pg/mL – 100 ng/mL], displaying high sensitivity, quick electrochemical response, and specific binding of the target molecule. Overall, this work reported the relevance of using hostguest complexes directly embedded in polymeric chains to generate newly controlled electrochemical sensors holding great potential for protein biosensing.
- Digital mental health interventions for children and youthPublication . Machado, Alexandra Silva; Ferreira, Bianca; Pereira, Catarina Ye; Carrola, Carolina; Melo, Bruno Bastos Vieira de; Campos, CarlosThe period from childhood to adolescence is critical for mental health promotion, as it is estimated that, worldwide, approximately 10% to 20% of individuals in this age group have mental health problems that may lead to mental disorders that may persist throughout adulthood. Furthermore, recent studies show that mental health problems during childhood and adolescence contribute to a decrease in academic performance and an increase of risk-taking behaviors, self-injury, and suicide, with consequences into adulthood. Thus, preventing mental health problems in children and adolescents is essential to promote positive lifelong outcomes for young people. Schools are a privileged context for creating favorable environments for the implementation of mental health promotion programs, effectively and with long-term benefits. This context allows for an early intervention during the phase of development of socioemotional skills, thus enhancing the results of the programs themselves, contributing to the healthy development of children and youth and to a higher academic achievement of students.