Continuous microfluidic DNA and protein trapping and concentration by balancing transverse electrokinetic forces.

Sample pre-concentration can be a critical element to improve sensitivity of integrated microchip assays. In this work a converging Y-inlet microfluidic channel with integrated coplanar electrodes was used to investigate transverse DNA and protein migration under uniform direct current (DC) electric fields to assess the ability to concentrate a sample prior to other enzymatic modifications or capillary electrophoretic separations. Employing a pressure-driven flow to perfuse the microchannel, negatively charged samples diluted in low and high ionic strength buffers were co-infused with a receiving buffer of the same ionic strength into a main daughter channel.

Inhibition of circulating immune cell activation: a molecular antiinflammatory effect of the Mediterranean diet.

Background: Adherence to the Mediterranean diet (Med-Diet) is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood.

Objective: The objective was to compare the effects of 2 Med-Diets with those of a low-fat diet on immune cell activation and soluble inflammatory biomarkers related to atherogenesis in subjects at high risk of CVD.

Sexual prejudice among Puerto Rican young adults.

Sexual prejudice is linked to hate crimes, mental health, risk behaviors, and stigma. Few studies have examined sexual prejudice among Latinos. We surveyed 382 college students in Puerto Rico.

Identifying HIV prevention service needs of African American men who have sex with men: an application of spatial analysis techniques to service planning.

Background: Black men who have sex with men (MSM) are a priority population for HIV prevention.

Method: We applied spatial analysis techniques to map the availability of HIV prevention services to young black MSM in Chicago to guide prevention planning. GIS was used to map characteristics of ZIP codes in Chicago.

Evaluation of diagnostic markers for measles virus infection in the context of an outbreak in Spain.

A measles outbreak occurred from January to July 2003 in Spain, despite the fact that the Plan of Eradication of Measles and its surveillance program had been set up in 2001. Different diagnostic markers for measles virus infection were compared for 246 patients in tests of serum, urine, and pharyngeal exudate specimens. Measles virus immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG and rubella virus and parvovirus IgM levels in serum were assayed.