Selection, characterization, and biosensing applications of DNA aptamers targeting cyanotoxin BMAA.

Scientists have established a connection between environmental exposure to toxins like β--methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and a heightened risk of neurodegenerative disorders. BMAA is a byproduct from certain strains of cyanobacteria that are present in ecosystems worldwide and is renowned for its bioaccumulation and biomagnification in seafood. The sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility of the current analytical techniques are insufficient to support efforts regarding food safety and environment monitoring adequately.

Porous Cellulose Acetate/Block Copolymer Membranes for the Recovery of Polyphenolic Compounds from Aquatic Environments.

Polyphenols are natural compounds with strong antioxidant properties synthesized by plants and widely distributed in plant tissues. They compose a broad class of compounds that are commonly employed for multiple applications such as food, pharmaceutical, adhesives, biomedical, agricultural, and industrial purposes. Runoffs from these sources result in the introduction of polyphenols into aquatic environments where they further transform into highly toxic pollutants that can negatively affect aquatic ecosystems and humans.

Bioinformatic identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis proteins likely to target host cell mitochondria: virulence factors?

Background: M. tuberculosis infection either induces or inhibits host cell death, depending on the bacterial strain and the cell microenvironment. There is evidence suggesting a role for mitochondria in these processes.

[Information, knowledge, and perception of dengue risk in Argentina: two intervention experiments to generate local control strategies].

With the objectives of dengue prevention, health promotion, and action-based research, two experiments were conducted in pilot areas of Buenos Aires and Vicente López, Argentina. In each area, community, government, and non-governmental references were identified. The study included an entomological survey (with ovitraps), environmental survey (with field observations, interviews, and workshops), and social survey (using questionnaires, interviews, and meetings).

Frequent occurrence of rapid as well as delayed gastric emptying of a corn flakes and milk meal in clinical patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.

Purpose: Early satiety, nausea and vomiting have traditionally been associated with delayed gastric emptying (GE). A study was performed to determine the frequency of rapid/delayed GE in 100 patients sequentially referred for scintigraphic GE using a corn flakes and milk meal.

Methods And Materials: A retrospective review of 100 consecutive GE studies at the University Hospital, San Antonio, Texas, was performed.