Bacterial colonization and biofilm formation are found on nearly all wet surfaces, representing a serious problem for both human healthcare and industrial applications, where traditional treatments may not be effective. Herein, we describe a synergistic approach for improving the performance of antibacterial surfaces based on microstructured surfaces that embed titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO NPs). The surfaces were designed to enhance bacteria entrapment, facilitating their subsequent eradication by a combination of UVC disinfection and TiO NPs photocatalysis.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe deficiency of Surfactant Protein B (SPB) in Amniotic Fluid (AF) has been associated with severe respiratory pathologies in newborns such as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Early-stage diagnosis of these respiratory complications by monitoring the SPB in AF could be a significant clinical tool and the first step toward adopting efficient therapy. In this work, we report the development of a novel sensitive electrochemical immunosensor for the detection of SPB in human AF samples.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFInfectious diseases caused by Aeromonas salmonicida (A. salmonicida) have a huge impact and produce significant losses in aquaculture and fish farming. Fish pathogen early detection is a critical step for the rapid identification and prevention of these problems.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBiosensors have a great impact on our society to enhance the life quality, playing an important role in the development of Point-of-Care (POC) technologies for rapid diagnostics, and monitoring of disease progression. COVID-19 rapid antigen tests, home pregnancy tests, and glucose monitoring sensors represent three examples of successful biosensor POC devices. Biosensors have extensively been used in applications related to the control of diseases, food quality and safety, and environment quality.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOkadaic acid (OA) is produced by marine dinoflagellates and it can be easily accumulated in shellfish, causing intoxications when consumed by humans. Consequently, there is a need for sensitive, reliable and cost-effective methods to detect OA in real samples. In this work, we developed a novel and affordable microfluidic system to detect OA based on the protein phosphatase 1 inhibition colorimetric assay.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFMicrocystins are the most worldwide extended and common toxins produced by cyanobacteria in freshwater. Microcystin-leucine arginine (MC-LR), associated with the most toxic incidents involving microcystins, are within the cyanobacteria (intracellular) until released into the surrounding waters (extracellular) during cell lysis. Therefore, the relationship between intracellular and extracellular cyanotoxins will allow a comprehensive risk of cyanobacteria-containing waters, preventing disease and improving human safety.
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