Carbon Inks-Based Screen-Printed Electrodes for Qualitative Analysis of Amino Acids.

Due to the great significance of amino acids, a substantial number of research studies has been directed toward the development of effective and reliable platforms for their evaluation, detection, and identification. In order to support these studies, a new electrochemical platform based on PANI/ZnO nanowires' modified carbon inks screen-printed electrodes was developed for qualitative analysis of electroactive amino acids, with emphasis on tyrosine (Tyr) and tryptophan (Trp). A comparative investigation of the carbon ink before and after modification with the PANI/ZnO was performed by scanning electron microscopy and by Raman spectroscopy, confirming the presence of PANI and ZnO nanowires. Electrochemical investigations by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy have shown a higher charge-transfer rate constant, which is reflected into lower charge-transfer resistance and higher capacitance values for the PANI/ZnO modified ink when compared to the simple carbon screen-printed electrode. In order to demonstrate the electrochemical performances of the PANI/ZnO nanowires' modified carbon inks screen-printed electrodes for amino acids analysis, differential pulse voltammograms were obtained in individual and mixed solutions of electroactive amino acids. It has been shown that the PANI/ZnO nanowires' modified carbon inks screen-printed electrodes allowed for tyrosine and tryptophan a peak separation of more than 100 mV, enabling their screening and identification in mixed solutions, which is essential for the electrochemical analysis of proteins within the proteomics research field.

[Detection of a rotavirus G9P[8] outbreak causing gastroenteritis in a geriatric nursing home]. / Detección de rotavirus G9P[8] como agente causante de un brote de gastroenteritis en una residencia de ancianos.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to describe an outbreak of gastroenteritis due to rotavirus in a geriatric nursing home. METHOD: Stool samples from 8 patients were studied. Antigen detection was carried out by ELISA, and molecular typing was performed by RT-PCR. RESULTS: Rotavirus antigen was detected in 6 patients. Typing demonstrated a common genotype (G9P[8]). CONCLUSION: The outbreak detected in elderly persons suggests a loss of immunity with age or a lack of protection against an emergent genotype.