196 research outputs found

    Molecular imprinted polymer functionalized carbon nanotube sensors for detection of saccharides

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    In this work, we report the synthesis and fabrication of an enzyme-free sugar sensor based on molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) on the surface of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Electropolymerization of 3-aminophenylboronic acid (3-APBA) in the presence of 10 M d-fructose and fluoride at neutral pH conditions resulted in the formation of a self-doped, molecularly imprinted conducting polymer (MICP) via the formation of a stable anionic boronic ester complex between poly(aniline boronic acid) and d-fructose. Template removal generated binding sites on the polymer matrix that were complementary to d-fructose both in structure, i.e., shape, size, and positioning of functional groups, thus enabling sensing of d-fructose with enhanced affinity and specificity over non-MIP based sensors. Using carbon nanotubes along with MICPs helped to develop an efficient electrochemical sensor by enhancing analyte recognition and signal generation. These sensors could be regenerated and used multiple times unlike conventional affinity based biosensors which suffer from physical and chemical stability

    Genomic Variation: What Does It Mean?

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    New technologies have given us the ability to detect genomic variation at resolutions 50-100 times greater than earlier tests. The good news is that we can now detect variations that help explain developmental delays, autism, or multiple congenital anomalies in up to 20% of children. The bad news is that we can also detect small missing or extra pieces of chromosomes that remain unexplained: that is, we don’t know whether they have any clinical significance at all. The rapid pace of technological change may have outpaced the lab’s ability to interpret, providers’ abilities to explain, and patients’ abilities to understand the test results. This Issue Brief summarizes a series of studies examining the uncertainties revolving around chromosomal microarray testing, which has become the new standard of practice in genetic testing of children with unexplained anomalies

    A prospective study of intrauterine death cases at a tertiary care hospital

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    Background: Intrauterine fetal death is defined as foetus with no signs of life in utero after 20 weeks of gestations. Stillbirth is a useful index to measure the values of antenatal and intra-natal care. Intrauterine fetal death is due to various causes whether it be maternal causes, fetal causes or placental causes.Methods: It was a prospective study, conducted at SSG hospital, Vadodara over a period of 1 year from January 2019 to December 2019. All pregnant women coming to labour room with intrauterine fetal death with gestation age more than 28 weeks were included in study. It included complaints on admission, obstetric profile, mode of delivery, fetal outcomes, placental examination, condition of cord and investigation reports.Results: During the study period of one year, a total of 462 intrauterine fetal deaths were reported amongst 7295 deliveries conducted during the study period. Incidence rate calculated was 63/1000 births. Many of the intrauterine fetal death cases were associated with pregnancy induced hypertension and antepartum hemorrhage. Out of all intrauterine death cases, 410 cases delivered vaginally. Congenital anomalies were also found to be associated with intrauterine death cases.Conclusions: High risk pregnancy cases should be identified during routine antenatal check-ups so that intrauterine fetal death can be prevented. The mode of antepartum and intrapartum surveillance for fetal wellbeing should be advanced to prevent fetal demise

    Time trends in tuberculosis in London during the COVID-19 pandemic

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    This document describes changes in the rate and characteristics of diagnosed tuberculosis (TB) cases in London during the COVID-19 pandemic

    A community-level investigation following a yellow fever virus outbreak in South Omo Zone, South-West Ethiopia.

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    BACKGROUND: Despite the availability of a highly effective vaccine, yellow fever virus (YFV) remains an important public health problem across Africa and South America due to its high case-fatality rate. This study investigated the historical epidemiology and contemporary entomological and social determinants of a YFV outbreak in South Omo Zone (SOZ), Ethiopia. METHODS: A YFV outbreak occurred in SOZ, Ethiopia in 2012-2014. Historical epidemiological data were retrieved from the SOZ Health Department and analyzed. Entomological sampling was undertaken in 2017, including mosquito species identification and molecular screening for arboviruses to understand mosquito habitat distribution, and finally current knowledge, attitudes and preventative practices within the affected communities were assessed. RESULTS: From October 2012 to March 2014, 165 suspected cases and 62 deaths were reported, principally in rural areas of South Ari region (83.6%). The majority of patients were 15-44 years old (75.8%) and most case deaths were males (76%). Between June and August 2017, 688 containers were sampled across 180 households to identify key breeding sites for Aedes mosquitoes. Ensete ventricosum ("false banana") and clay pots outside the home were the most productive natural and artificial breeding sites, respectively. Entomological risk indices classified most sites as "high risk" for future outbreaks under current World Health Organization criteria. Adult mosquitoes in houses were identified as members of the Aedes simpsoni complex but no YFV or other arboviruses were detected by PCR. The majority of community members had heard of YFV, however few activities were undertaken to actively reduce mosquito breeding sites. DISCUSSION: Study results highlight the potential role vector control could play in mitigating local disease transmission and emphasize the urgent need to strengthen disease surveillance systems and in-country laboratory capacity to facilitate more rapid responses to future YFV outbreaks
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