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16 pages, 2107 KB  
Article
An Epidemiological Study on the Effectiveness of Nasturtium Herb and Horseradish Root (Angocin® Anti-Infekt N) as well as Other Phytopharmaceuticals, Synthetic Products, and Antibiotics on the Course of Acute Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (aURTI)
by Nina Kassner, Meinolf Wonnemann, Yvonne Ziegler and Karel Kostev
Antibiotics 2026, 15(4), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics15040336 (registering DOI) - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: The goal of this study was to evaluate whether medical recommendation of Angocin® Anti-Infekt N (hereafter referred to as Angocin®) on the day of diagnosis of an acute upper respiratory tract infection (aURTI) or acute sinusitis (AS) is [...] Read more.
Background: The goal of this study was to evaluate whether medical recommendation of Angocin® Anti-Infekt N (hereafter referred to as Angocin®) on the day of diagnosis of an acute upper respiratory tract infection (aURTI) or acute sinusitis (AS) is negatively associated with a recurrence of these diagnoses, incidence of antibiotic prescriptions, incidence of chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, or sick leave duration. Methods: This retrospective cohort study utilized the IQVIATM Disease Analyzer database and included patients by general practitioners with at least one diagnosis of aURTI or AS from 2005 to 2024 and a prescription of Angocin®, nasal medications (xylometazoline, oxymetazoline) and mucolytics (ambroxol or acetylcysteine), other phytopharmaceutical drugs, or antibiotics on the day of diagnosis. Patients who received Angocin® were matched separately to each of the three comparison cohorts in a 1:5 ratio using a nearest-neighbor propensity score approach. The relationship between Angocin® prescription and the risks of a recurrence, subsequent antibiotic use or progression to chronic disease was then estimated with Cox proportional hazard models. To examine whether Angocin® exposure was associated with the length of sick leave, univariable conditional logistic regression was applied. Results: A total of 3501 Angocin® patients and 17,505 patients in each further cohort were investigated. Angocin® prescription was associated with a significantly lower incidence of a newly diagnosed aURTI/AS as compared to other phytopharmaceuticals (Hazard ratio (HR): 0.78; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.68–0.86), nasal medications and mucolytics (HR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.71–0.88), or antibiotics (HR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.77–0.95). In addition, there was a significantly lower incidence of subsequent further prescriptions of antibiotics when compared to other phytopharmaceuticals (HR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.82–0.99), nasal medications and mucolytics (HR: 0.87 (95%; CI: 0.80–0.95), or antibiotics (HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.57–0.67). Furthermore, Angocin® was associated with the most advantageous pattern of work absence across all time periods examined. Conclusions: Considering the limitations of the study, the results cast a positive light on Angocin® prescription in the management of aURTI/AS, particularly with regard to recurrence rates, subsequent antibiotic prescriptions, and sick leave duration. Full article
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26 pages, 1908 KB  
Review
Recent Advances in Graphene-Based Field-Effect Transistor Biosensors for Disease Biomarker Detection and Clinical Prospects
by Deeksha Nagpal, Anup Singh, John Link, Abijeet Singh Mehta, Ashok Kumar and Vinay Budhraja
Biosensors 2026, 16(4), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios16040190 (registering DOI) - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Field-effect transistor (FET) biosensors using graphene have become one of the most promising biosensing platforms for the early diagnosis of diseases with featu21res such as high sensitivity, label-free detection and application compatibility with point-of-care systems. Herein, we critically discuss recent advances in graphene [...] Read more.
Field-effect transistor (FET) biosensors using graphene have become one of the most promising biosensing platforms for the early diagnosis of diseases with featu21res such as high sensitivity, label-free detection and application compatibility with point-of-care systems. Herein, we critically discuss recent advances in graphene FET (GFET) biosensor development toward clinically relevant biomarkers associated with representative diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative disease, infectious disease, and inflammatory conditions. Recent progress was reviewed to evaluate GFET architectures, surface functionalization methods, and detection quality. The biomarkers explored were clusterin in Alzheimer’s disease, thrombin in coagulopathy, estrogen receptor α (ER-α) in breast cancer, Carcinoembryonic antigen in lung cancer, microRNAs for malignant tumors, exosomes derived from HepG2 for the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell line, interleukin-6 (IL-6) for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Polyclonal antibodies and antigens (P24) for HIV and prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer. The developed devices demonstrate ultralow detection limits at femtomolar to attomolar concentrations with the aid of designed antibodies, aptamers and nanomaterials. Herein, this review presents the sensing mechanisms and biomedical application of various GFET platforms, focusing on their emerging potential as next-generation platforms for rapid, non-invasive and point-of-care diagnostics. Full article
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13 pages, 248 KB  
Review
Open Pilonidal Excision as a Translational Human Model for Wound Healing and Skin Regeneration Research
by Dimitrios Vardakostas, Zoe Garoufalia, Anastassios Philippou and Dimitrios Mantas
Biomedicines 2026, 14(4), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14040751 (registering DOI) - 26 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Wound healing is a complex biological process involving coordinated interactions among inflammatory cells, growth factors, extracellular matrix components, and resident tissue cells. Despite significant advances in experimental research, translation of these findings into clinical practice remains limited, partly due to the lack [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Wound healing is a complex biological process involving coordinated interactions among inflammatory cells, growth factors, extracellular matrix components, and resident tissue cells. Despite significant advances in experimental research, translation of these findings into clinical practice remains limited, partly due to the lack of reproducible and ethically accessible human wound models. Pilonidal disease, a chronic inflammatory condition of the sacrococcygeal region, is frequently treated by surgical excision with healing by secondary intention. The resulting open wound provides a unique opportunity to study the natural progression of human tissue repair. Methods: This narrative review examines current knowledge on wound-healing physiology, commonly used experimental wound models, and clinical studies related to pilonidal disease. Evidence from experimental, translational, and clinical literature was evaluated to explore the potential of open pilonidal excision wounds as a standardized human model for wound-healing research. Results: Following open excision, healing typically occurs within 4–10 weeks through the classical phases of inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. During this period, the wound remains externally accessible, allowing repeated clinical observation and serial collection of tissue samples, wound fluid, and exudate. This accessibility facilitates investigation of key biological processes, including angiogenesis, fibroblast proliferation, epithelial migration, cytokine signaling, and extracellular matrix remodeling. Compared with in vitro systems and animal models, the open pilonidal wound offers direct insight into human wound biology under clinically relevant conditions. Conclusions: Open pilonidal excision wounds constitute a reproducible and ethically feasible in vivo human model for translational wound-healing research. This model may support biomarker discovery and contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for impaired healing and chronic wounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Wound Healing and Skin Regeneration)
16 pages, 752 KB  
Project Report
Testing a Personalised Dysautonomia Management Protocol in Patients with Orthostatic Intolerance and a Diagnosis of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Long COVID
by Julia Barr, Lowri Marsden, Theshan Dassanayake, Norah Almutairi, Vikki McKeever, Tarek Gaber, Rachel Tarrant, Belinda Godfrey, Sharon Witton and Manoj Sivan
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2510; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072510 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long COVID (LC) are complex multisystem conditions with significant functional disability. Many patients experience symptoms of orthostatic intolerance, which can be captured in some cases as Orthostatic Hypotension (OH) or Postural orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long COVID (LC) are complex multisystem conditions with significant functional disability. Many patients experience symptoms of orthostatic intolerance, which can be captured in some cases as Orthostatic Hypotension (OH) or Postural orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS) on objective testing. Conservative treatments are recommended for first-line symptom management, but there is a lack of efficacy evidence. This study aims to assess the feasibility of an 8-week clinically supervised, personalised Dysautonomia Management Protocol (DMP) in a cohort of ME/CFS and LC patients with subjective and objective evidence of orthostatic intolerance (dysautonomia). Methods: ME/CFS and LC patients with objective dysautonomia on the 10 min active Lean Test (LT) were recruited to an 8-week DMP, with interventions introduced cumulatively every two weeks. Interventions included increasing daily fluid intake to 3 litres and salt intake to 10 g, pacing to avoid crashes and calf activation. Baseline and weekly data collection included the LT, Composite Autonomic Symptom Score questionnaire (COMPASS-31) and Yorkshire Rehabilitation Scale (YRS). Results: Sixteen participants completed the 8-week program, five discontinued during the program, and one was withdrawn following a severe crash. The COMPASS-31 improved by 7.7 points from week 1 to week 8 (p = 0.045), with a medium Cohen’s d effect size of 0.55. For the same period, there was a non-significant (p = 0.16) improvement in the YRS symptom severity score by 2 points. Comparing the final two weeks of the program with the first two weeks, mean heart rate during the LT decreased by 4.8 beats per minute (p = 0.032), with a medium Cohen’s d effect size of 0.44. Adherence to the interventions was highly variable, with none of the patients able to fully employ all four recommendations. Conclusions: The results suggest that targeted conservative interventions could influence autonomic function and symptom reduction. However, the magnitude of change was limited, and statistical significance might not necessarily relate to a clinically significant improvement in symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue POTS, ME/CFS and Long COVID: Recent Advances and Future Direction)
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16 pages, 1077 KB  
Article
Antibacterial Activity of a Probiotic and Synbiotic Suspension Combined with Inulin Against Helicobacter pylori in an In Vitro Model
by Henry Paniagua González, Guadalupe Guzmán Barboza, José Bolaños Jiménez, Melissa Moya Granados and Vanessa Bagnarello Madrigal
Appl. Microbiol. 2026, 6(4), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/applmicrobiol6040048 (registering DOI) - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori is a highly prevalent pathogen associated with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Treatment is increasingly challenging due to antibiotic resistance and adverse effects that can reduce adherence. These limitations have encouraged the exploration of complementary strategies. This study evaluated [...] Read more.
Helicobacter pylori is a highly prevalent pathogen associated with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancer. Treatment is increasingly challenging due to antibiotic resistance and adverse effects that can reduce adherence. These limitations have encouraged the exploration of complementary strategies. This study evaluated the in vitro antibacterial activity of selected probiotic strains and synbiotic formulations containing inulin against clinical isolates of H. pylori. Isolates obtained from gastric biopsies were identified by MALDI-TOF. Four probiotic strains (Lacticaseibacillus casei, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, and Streptococcus thermophilus) were tested individually and as a mixed culture, both alone and combined with inulin. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method under microaerophilic conditions after 72 h of incubation at 37 °C. Variable inhibitory effects were observed, with L. fermentum (8.08 ± 1.98 mm) and the probiotic mixture (7.92 ± 0.90 mm) showing greater activity, while S. thermophilus exhibited limited inhibition. The addition of low-dose inulin (3 mg/mL) was associated with increased inhibition by the probiotic mixture (9.58 ± 1.51 mm), whereas higher concentrations did not enhance this effect. These findings indicate that certain probiotic and synbiotic formulations exhibit in vitro activity against H. pylori and warrant further investigation as complementary approaches. Full article
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39 pages, 1820 KB  
Review
Metastatic Odyssey: Decoding the Genomic Journey from Primary Colorectal Cancer to Disseminated Disease
by Taxiarchis Konstantinos Nikolouzakis, John Souglakos, Epameinondas Evangelos Kantidakis, Katerina Achilleos, Troye van Staden and Emmanuel Chrysos
Cancers 2026, 18(7), 1062; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18071062 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) accounts for 90% of CRC-related mortality. This review synthesizes insights from comparative genomics tracing evolutionary trajectories from primary tumor to disseminated disease. Multi-region sequencing reveals metastatic seeding often occurs early—before clinical detection—challenging linear progression models. The metastatic bottleneck reduces [...] Read more.
Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) accounts for 90% of CRC-related mortality. This review synthesizes insights from comparative genomics tracing evolutionary trajectories from primary tumor to disseminated disease. Multi-region sequencing reveals metastatic seeding often occurs early—before clinical detection—challenging linear progression models. The metastatic bottleneck reduces clonal diversity while enriching for dissemination-competent traits including SMAD4 loss, PTEN inactivation and metabolic reprogramming. Organ-specific adaptation yields distinct molecular signatures: liver metastases exhibit Wnt hyperactivation and TGF-β-driven immune suppression; peritoneal tumors display mucinous features; brain metastases show HER2 enrichment. The immune microenvironment evolves toward immunosuppressive configurations, with Microsatellite instability high (MSI-H) tumors acquiring B2M or JAK1/2 mutations. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) enables real-time tracking of clonal dynamics, detecting molecular residual disease months before radiographic progression. Therapeutic resistance follows predictable evolutionary trajectories—from RAS/BRAF mutations to EGFR ectodomain alterations, HER2/MET amplifications and lineage plasticity—with metastasis-specific mechanisms including microenvironmental protection and cellular dormancy. The clinical future lies in interception: leveraging liquid biopsies for early detection, targeting both tumor-intrinsic vulnerabilities and permissive metastatic niches and adapting therapy dynamically to anticipate resistance. Understanding this genomic odyssey is essential for transforming mCRC into a controllable chronic condition. Full article
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17 pages, 260 KB  
Article
Patient-Drug Related Factors Associated with Nonadherence to Chronic Treatment in Patients Attending a Primary Care Setting in South Africa
by Lucky Norah Katende-Kyenda
Hospitals 2026, 3(2), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/hospitals3020008 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Medication nonadherence among patients with chronic diseases represents a major challenge in healthcare systems worldwide and is associated with poor clinical outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and higher healthcare costs. Patient-drug related factors such as knowledge of treatment, beliefs about medication, and the experience [...] Read more.
Background: Medication nonadherence among patients with chronic diseases represents a major challenge in healthcare systems worldwide and is associated with poor clinical outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and higher healthcare costs. Patient-drug related factors such as knowledge of treatment, beliefs about medication, and the experience of side effects may significantly influence adherence behaviour. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 80 patients receiving treatment for chronic conditions at a primary healthcare facility in South Africa. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a standardized questionnaire that assessed demographic characteristics and patient-drug-related factors potentially associated with medication adherence. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Version 30.0.0.0 (172). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, while inferential analyses, including chi-square tests and Fisher’s exact tests, were applied to determine associations between demographic variables, patient-drug related factors, and medication nonadherence. Results: The majority of participants were female, aged between 41 and 50 years, single, unemployed, and had completed secondary education. Most participants lived in rural areas, and HIV/AIDS was the most commonly reported chronic condition. Significant associations with medication nonadherence were identified for the experience of medication side effects and inadequate knowledge about treatment. These factors demonstrated moderate effect sizes and suggest that both clinical and educational aspects of treatment may influence adherence behaviour. Conclusions: Patient-drug related factors, particularly medication side effects and insufficient knowledge regarding treatment, play a significant role in medication nonadherence among patients with chronic conditions in primary care settings. Interventions aimed at improving patient education, counselling regarding medication side effects, and strengthening patient-provider communication may help improve adherence and treatment outcomes. Full article
23 pages, 6469 KB  
Article
Placement-Dependent Accuracy of a Smartphone-Based Sensor Application Compared to an Accelerometer-Based System for Measuring Physical Activity in Healthy Adults: A Validation Study
by Mette Garval, Louise Pedersen, Lars M. Pedersen, Ane Kathrine W. d. J. Nielsen, David H. Christiansen, Jeppe Lange and Stefan Wagner
Sensors 2026, 26(7), 2033; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26072033 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Accurately monitoring physical activity, including stationary cycling on an exercise bike, is important in managing chronic diseases and rehabilitation after lower limb surgery. This study aimed to validate a new smartphone-based sensor application (the BeSAFE+) for activity recognition and step counting across five [...] Read more.
Accurately monitoring physical activity, including stationary cycling on an exercise bike, is important in managing chronic diseases and rehabilitation after lower limb surgery. This study aimed to validate a new smartphone-based sensor application (the BeSAFE+) for activity recognition and step counting across five phone placements, using the SENS Motion® system as a reference standard, and observed activity time as ground truth. In a laboratory-based study, 20 participants performed walking, brisk walking, running, high- and low-intensity cycling, sitting, standing, and lying activities while carrying five smartphones placed in the front and back trouser pockets, a backpack, a running armband, and a fanny pack, and wearing the activity tracker. The front pocket placement had the most accurate classification during cycling activities (89–93%) versus SENS Motion® (96–98%). For other activities, the highest overall classification accuracy was achieved with the phone in the back pocket. Overall, the SENS Motion® activity tracker demonstrated higher classification accuracy than most smartphone placements across all activities, except for running. Nevertheless, several smartphone placements and Application Programming Interface (API) approaches achieved activity recognition and step count estimates that were not significantly different from the SENS Motion® activity tracker, indicating that smartphone-based activity recognition can be valid under specific conditions. Full article
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17 pages, 1729 KB  
Article
Impact of Dyslipidemia on Allogeneic Transplantation Outcomes and Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients with Acute Leukemias in the Post-Transplant Cyclophosphamide Era
by Sema Seçilmiş, Burcu Aslan Candır, Uğur Hatipoğlu, Mert Seyhan, Bahar Uncu Ulu, Tuğçe Nur Yiğenoğlu, Dicle İskender, Merih Kızıl Çakar, Turgay Ulaş, Mehmet Sinan Dal and Fevzi Altuntaş
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(4), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19040529 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is associated with increased cardiovascular risk driven by endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and treatment-related metabolic disturbances, including dyslipidemia. In the contemporary era of post-transplant cyclophosphamide-based prophylaxis, the prognostic significance of dyslipidemia—particularly as assessed by non-HDL cholesterol—remains [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is associated with increased cardiovascular risk driven by endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and treatment-related metabolic disturbances, including dyslipidemia. In the contemporary era of post-transplant cyclophosphamide-based prophylaxis, the prognostic significance of dyslipidemia—particularly as assessed by non-HDL cholesterol—remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to compare the engraftment days, graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) development, relapse, overall survival rates, and cardiovascular mortality in patients using myeloablative/reduced intensity conditioning regimens with post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) 50 mg/kg/day for 2 days in patients with acute leukemias. Methods: A total of 95 adult patients with acute leukemias were included in their first remission who underwent matched sibling donor transplantation with PTCy (50 mg/kg on days +3 and +4). Patients were stratified according to pre-transplant non-HDL-C levels (<160 mg/dL vs. ≥160 mg/dL). Matched related donors were selected for the patients. All patients received either myeloablative or reduced-intensity conditioning based on EBMT criteria, with fludarabine-based combinations including busulfan, treosulfan, or TBI, along with ATLG administered at a total dose of 15 mg/kg. Peripheral blood stem cells were used for all transplants, and GVHD prophylaxis consisted of cyclosporine. Results: Platelet (median 13 vs. 14 days) and neutrophil (median 14 vs. 15 days) engraftment times and veno-occlusive disease (VOD) rates were comparable across groups (all p > 0.05); cumulative incidences of grade II–IV aGVHD at +100 days, grade III–IV aGVHD at +100 days, and moderate-severe cGVHD at 1 year, relapse-free survival, and non-relapse mortality at 1 year were comparable in two cohorts (all p > 0.05). GVHD-free/relapse-free survival (GRFS) at 1 year was also comparable across groups (p = 0.15). Median GRFS was 150 (95% CI: 120–330) days and 270 (95% CI: 154-not reached) days, respectively [HR was 0.68 (0.40–1.15), p = 0.15; GRFS at 1 year was 66.6% vs. 52.0%, respectively]. The groups were also comparable in terms of overall survival (OS). Follow-up ranged from 0.5 to 108 months, and median follow-up was 60 months in two cohorts. Median OS was not reached in non-HDL-C < 160 (95% CI: 70 months–not reached) and 67 months in non-HDL-C ≥ 160 groups (95% CI: 13 months–not reached) (Log rank = 0.21). No cardiovascular death events occurred during the follow-up period. Conclusions: In this homogeneous matched sibling donor transplant cohort with extended follow-up and uniform administration of post-transplant cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine-based GVHD prophylaxis, and anti-thymocyte lymphoglobulin (ATLG), pre-existing dyslipidemia was not associated with an adverse impact on GRFS, NRM, PFS, CMV reactivation, OS or long-term cardiovascular mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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15 pages, 588 KB  
Article
Comorbidity in Lichen Planus: A Retrospective Population-Based Case–Control Study in Sweden
by Hilda Odell, Sandra Jerkovic Gulin and Oliver Seifert
Life 2026, 16(4), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16040541 - 25 Mar 2026
Abstract
Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease of unknown etiology affecting the skin and mucous membranes and is frequently associated with comorbid conditions, although data from Swedish populations remain limited. This retrospective population-based case–control study included all registered citizens in Region [...] Read more.
Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease of unknown etiology affecting the skin and mucous membranes and is frequently associated with comorbid conditions, although data from Swedish populations remain limited. This retrospective population-based case–control study included all registered citizens in Region Jönköping, Sweden, between 2013 and 2022, to examine comorbidities, estimate prevalence and incidence, assess diagnostic validity of ICD-10 coding (L43), and evaluate treatment patterns. Incidence and prevalence were calculated, demographic and treatment characteristics were described, and diagnostic validity was assessed through independent medical record review of 70 randomly selected cases to determine positive predictive value (PPV). Associations between LP and predefined comorbidities were analyzed using binomial logistic regression adjusted for age and sex. Among 361,812 individuals, prevalence was 235.5 and incidence 19.6 per 100,000 inhabitants. The PPV of the LP diagnosis was 78.6%, yielding an adjusted prevalence of 184.9 per 100,000 inhabitants. Over one third of prevalent patients received topical therapy, primarily corticosteroids. LP was significantly associated with thyroid, malignant, metabolic, and autoimmune conditions. LP is relatively uncommon, ICD-10 coding shows acceptable validity, and its association with clinically relevant comorbidities highlights the need for comprehensive patient assessment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Biomarkers, and Treatments of Skin Diseases)
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16 pages, 1696 KB  
Article
Rapid Finger-Pump Microfluidic Paper-Based Assay Platform for Monitoring Calcium Ions in Human Biofluids
by Kuan-Hsun Huang, Chin-Chung Tseng, Chia-Chun Lee, Cheng-Xue Yu and Lung-Ming Fu
Biosensors 2026, 16(4), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios16040183 - 24 Mar 2026
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressively worsening condition that erodes renal function over time, reduces quality of life, and can ultimately culminate in kidney failure with far-reaching systemic complications. In addition to reduced filtration, worsening kidney function disrupts mineral homeostasis and leads [...] Read more.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressively worsening condition that erodes renal function over time, reduces quality of life, and can ultimately culminate in kidney failure with far-reaching systemic complications. In addition to reduced filtration, worsening kidney function disrupts mineral homeostasis and leads to CKD–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). Dysregulated calcium handling and maladaptive endocrine responses contribute to bone pathology and increase cardiovascular calcification risk; therefore, serial calcium monitoring remains clinically relevant for longitudinal CKD management. Conventional calcium measurements are typically obtained with centralized analyzers or laboratory assays (e.g., colorimetry and electrode/optical readouts). Despite high accuracy, the required instrumentation, controlled operating conditions, and pretreatment steps complicate rapid point-of-care deployment, especially when only microliter-scale biofluids are available. Accordingly, this study develops a finger-actuated microfluidic colorimetric platform capable of determining calcium ion concentrations in human biofluids, such as whole blood, serum, and urine. The platform integrates a three-dimensional PMMA/paper microchip with a compact reader that maintains stable temperature control while enabling CMOS-based optical detection. With just 6 μL of sample, a brief finger press propels the biofluid across an internal filtration layer, generating serum or cleaned urine that subsequently reacts with a pre-deposited murexide reagent. Under optimized conditions (1.6% reagent, 50 °C, 3 min), the signal follows a strong logarithmic relationship with calcium concentration (Y = 47.273 ln X + 28.890; R2 = 0.9905), supporting quantification over 1–40 mg/dL and a detection limit of 0.2 mg/dL. Across 80 clinical CKD specimens spanning serum, whole blood, and urine, results aligned closely with the NM-BAPTA reference assay, with R2 values exceeding 0.97. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Microfluidic Biosensing Systems: Designs and Applications)
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14 pages, 885 KB  
Article
Autoimmune Gastritis and Gastric Cancer Risk: Endoscopic and Histopathological Outcomes
by Laura Moreu, Irina Luzko, Joan Llach and Leticia Moreira
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2486; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072486 - 24 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background and Aims: Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is a chronic immune-mediated condition characterized by corpus-predominant atrophy, which can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, achlorhydria, and an increased risk of gastric adenocarcinoma (GC) and neuroendocrine tumours. Diagnosis is often challenging due to a long asymptomatic [...] Read more.
Background and Aims: Autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is a chronic immune-mediated condition characterized by corpus-predominant atrophy, which can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, achlorhydria, and an increased risk of gastric adenocarcinoma (GC) and neuroendocrine tumours. Diagnosis is often challenging due to a long asymptomatic phase and variable clinical presentation. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of gastric cancer and advanced premalignant lesions and to identify risk factors associated with a worse endoscopic outcome. Methods: This retrospective observational study involving AIG patients undergoing endoscopic surveillance (2006–2024) at the Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. Patients with AIG were identified based on the presence of anti-parietal cell antibodies and/or intrinsic factor antibodies and underwent endoscopic surveillance with histological assessment. Clinical, serological, endoscopic, and histological data were evaluated to estimate the prevalence of gastric lesions. Potential risk factors were evaluated using logistic regression. Results: A total of 70 patients met the inclusion criteria (median age 60 years; 60% female). Advanced premalignant findings (high- and low-grade dysplasia) were identified in 15.7% of the patients, while GC was found in 5.7%. Atrophy and intestinal metaplasia were present in 98.6% and 74.3% of patients, respectively. Female sex was independently associated with a lower risk of advanced neoplastic findings (OR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.06–0.95; p = 0.044), whereas older age at diagnosis was associated with an increased risk (OR = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.00–1.11; p = 0.031). Conclusions: Given the high prevalence of premalignant lesions in AIG, endoscopic surveillance appears essential for early detection. The observed associations with female sex and older age, toward lower and higher probabilities of advanced neoplastic findings, respectively, may contribute to future risk stratification models. However, the limited identification of significant predictors underlines the complexity of AIG progression and supports the development of individualized follow-up protocols. Full article
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23 pages, 1269 KB  
Review
The Nutritional Paradox of Obesity: Mechanisms and Clinical Implications of Micronutrient Deficiencies
by Raluca-Elena Alexa, Raluca Ecaterina Haliga, Bianca Codrina Morărașu, Alexandr Ceasovschih, Oana Sîrbu, Andreea Asaftei, Victorița Șorodoc and Laurențiu Șorodoc
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(2), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14020160 - 24 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Obesity is commonly seen as a condition of overnutrition; however, it is paradoxically associated with micronutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies are clinically relevant and may contribute to the progression of obesity-related comorbidities through interconnected pathways, including chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, gut [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity is commonly seen as a condition of overnutrition; however, it is paradoxically associated with micronutrient deficiencies. These deficiencies are clinically relevant and may contribute to the progression of obesity-related comorbidities through interconnected pathways, including chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, gut dysbiosis, and impaired nutrient absorption. Objectives: This narrative review aims to summarize current evidence regarding the prevalence, underlying mechanisms, and clinical consequences of micronutrient deficiencies in individuals with obesity, with particular emphasis on their metabolic implications and potential therapeutic strategies. Results: Among individuals with obesity, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and folate are the most frequently reported deficiencies. These deficiencies arise from multiple mechanisms, including poor diet quality, increased metabolic demands, and compromised gastrointestinal absorption. In addition, obesity-related alterations in pharmacokinetics may further interfere with micronutrient distribution and bioavailability. Together, these mechanisms may lead to various clinical outcomes, such as anemia, immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular dysfunctions, along with cognitive impairment. Although several studies suggest that correcting these deficiencies may improve clinical outcomes, findings remain inconsistent, highlighting the complex and multifactorial pathophysiology underlying micronutrient imbalance in obesity. Conclusions: Micronutrient deficiencies represent frequently overlooked contributors to metabolic dysregulation in obesity. Their identification and correction should be considered a central part of the obesity management strategy. A personalized supplementation approach, based on clinical, biological, and pathophysiological characteristics, may provide a complementary support for weight-management treatments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases)
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16 pages, 856 KB  
Article
Cross-Sectional Analysis: Waist-to-Hip Ratio and Oxygen Saturation Association in Men Exposed to Long-Term Chronic Intermittent Hypobaric Hypoxia
by Eduardo Pena, Samia El Alam, Karen Flores, Karem Arriaza, Patricia Siques, Julio Brito, Alexandra Del Río, Isaac Cortes and Mário de Castro
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(7), 2485; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15072485 - 24 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Long-term chronic intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (CIHH) is a common occupational exposure among high-altitude workers, particularly miners in northern Chile. This condition consists of working several days above 2500 m followed by rest at sea level, maintaining this cycle for years, which generates [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Long-term chronic intermittent hypobaric hypoxia (CIHH) is a common occupational exposure among high-altitude workers, particularly miners in northern Chile. This condition consists of working several days above 2500 m followed by rest at sea level, maintaining this cycle for years, which generates physiological alterations. This study analyzed associations among anthropometric indices and biomedical conditions in miners chronically exposed to long-term CIHH. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional analysis of 120 healthy Chilean male miners working at altitudes above 4400 m under a 7-day work/7-day rest schedule. Eligibility required ≥5 years of CIHH exposure and absence of cardiopulmonary disease, hypertension, diabetes, or oxygen therapy use. The assessments at altitude included oxygen saturation (SpO2), blood pressure, heart rate, hematological parameters, metabolic parameters, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR); measurements were obtained 18 h after arrival at altitude. WHR, BMI, SpO2, and biomedical variables were collected following standardized procedures. Descriptive statistics and group comparisons were performed with Student’s t-test or the Wilcoxon test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Normality assumption was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilk test. The association between WHR and SpO2 was estimated using linear regression, with WHR scaled so that one unit corresponds to a 0.1-unit increase. Adjusted models included BMI, age, and years working under CIHH. Effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported. All statistical analyses were performed in the R programming language. Results: Mean SpO2 was 89.07 ± 0.50% and mean WHR was 0.94 ± 0.01. In unadjusted comparisons, workers with WHR > 0.94 had lower SpO2 than those below the threshold (88.8 ± 0.54 vs. 90.41 ± 0.50; p = 0.031). In adjusted models, the WHR–SpO2 association was small and imprecise (β per 0.1-unit WHR = −0.67 pp; 95% CI −2.08 to 0.74). Hemoglobin showed an independent association with SpO2, while other metabolic variables did not materially contribute. Conclusions: SpO2 showed a modest inverse association with WHR in long-term CIHH workers. Even small saturation decreases may matter at high altitude. Combined WHR–SpO2 monitoring may aid occupational surveillance, though longitudinal studies are needed to establish meaningful risk thresholds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances and Future Challenges for Occupational Health)
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16 pages, 847 KB  
Article
Lower Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in Fibromyalgia Compared with Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis and Its Association with Disease Burden and Lifestyle Factors
by Cristina Iannuccelli, Martina Favretti, Giulio Dolcini, Carlo Cauli, Vincenzo Ferraro, Daniele Franculli, Giulia Scalese, Rossana Scrivo, Fabrizio Conti and Manuela Di Franco
Nutrients 2026, 18(7), 1019; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18071019 - 24 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects and potential benefits in several chronic conditions. However, adherence to the MedDiet and its relationship with lifestyle factors and disease severity across different rheumatological diseases remain poorly characterized. Objectives: This [...] Read more.
Background: The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has been associated with anti-inflammatory effects and potential benefits in several chronic conditions. However, adherence to the MedDiet and its relationship with lifestyle factors and disease severity across different rheumatological diseases remain poorly characterized. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate differences in MedDiet adherence among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and fibromyalgia (FM), and to explore its association with cardiovascular comorbidities, bowel habits, and disease-related outcomes. Methods: In this monocentric cross-sectional study, adherence to the MedDiet was assessed using the 14-item PREDIMED questionnaire. Self-reported data on sociodemographic characteristics, cardiovascular comorbidities, bowel habits, and dietary behaviors were collected through questionnaires. Disease activity and severity were assessed using validated disease-specific measures. Differences in MedDiet adherence across diagnostic groups were evaluated using non-parametric tests. Multivariable models were performed to examine associations between MedDiet adherence and cardiovascular comorbidities or disease outcomes, adjusting for potential confounders including age, sex, BMI, smoking status, and educational level. Results: A total of 422 participants were included (RA n = 165, PsA n = 85, FM n = 172). Significant differences in MedDiet adherence were observed across diagnostic groups (p < 0.001), with the highest adherence in RA, intermediate values in PsA, and the lowest in FM. Compared with the other groups, a higher proportion of FM participants reported food intolerances (46.5%) and restrictive diets, including lactose-free (34.9%) and gluten-free (15.1%) diets. In the FM group, high adherence to the MedDiet was significantly associated with lower FIQR scores (β = −16.9; 95% CI −32.1 to −1.7; p = 0.01) and lower PDS scores (β = −4.34; 95% CI −7.81 to −0.86; p = 0.01). Sensitivity analyses using the continuous PREDIMED score confirmed these associations. Conclusions: Adherence to the MedDiet differs across rheumatological diseases, with the lowest adherence observed in FM. Higher adherence was associated with lower disease severity and impact in FM. These findings highlight the potential relevance of nutritional counselling in rheumatological diseases and support the need for longitudinal and interventional studies evaluating the role of the MedDiet within multidisciplinary disease management. Full article
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