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Search Results (497)

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Keywords = laboratory and diagnostic care

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16 pages, 2645 KB  
Article
Point-of-Care Bilirubin Testing in Neonates: Comparative Performance of Blood Gas Analysis and Transcutaneous Bilirubinometry
by Andrew Xu, Bincy Francis, Kay Weng Choy, George Francis Dargaville, Amy Surkitt, David Tran, Rami Subhi and Wei Qi Fan
Healthcare 2026, 14(3), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14030370 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background: Neonatal jaundice is a common condition with potentially severe complications such as bilirubin-induced neurological dysfunction and kernicterus. While serum bilirubin (SBR) remains the standard laboratory measurement, point-of-care methods, such as transcutaneous bilirubinometry (TcB) and blood gas analysers (BGAs), offer rapid, less [...] Read more.
Background: Neonatal jaundice is a common condition with potentially severe complications such as bilirubin-induced neurological dysfunction and kernicterus. While serum bilirubin (SBR) remains the standard laboratory measurement, point-of-care methods, such as transcutaneous bilirubinometry (TcB) and blood gas analysers (BGAs), offer rapid, less invasive alternatives. Direct comparisons of their diagnostic accuracy remain limited. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess and compare diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of TcB and BGA against SBR in neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia screening. Methods: This retrospective study included neonates (n = 221) with concurrent SBR, BGA, and TcB measurements (n = 333). Assessment was via Passing–Bablok regression, Bland–Altman analysis, and Spearman correlation. Diagnostic performance was evaluated against jaundice thresholds in phototherapy charts (≥95th percentile threshold). Subgroup analyses considered phototherapy status, haemoglobin concentration, and Fitzpatrick skin type. Results: BGA showed stronger agreement with SBR (R2 = 0.88) than TcB (R2 = 0.43). BGA remained accurate regardless of phototherapy or haemoglobin levels. TcB accuracy declined post-phototherapy with reduced predictive value in darker-skinned neonates (Fitzpatrick III–VI) and increased false discovery rates. Both methods demonstrated low sensitivity (45.8%) but high specificity (>95%) and negative predictive value (~91%) for clinically significant hyperbilirubinaemia. BGA had a higher diagnostic odds ratio (47.5) than TcB (19.3). When individual patient sequential SBR and BGA measurements were compared for jaundice tracking (n = 175), there was high correlation, (r = 0.971) with no statistical differences, and 50% of measurements achieving agreement within 10 μmol/L. Conclusions: BGA is a more reliable alternative to SBR than TcB, particularly in time-critical or resource-limited settings. While TcB remains a non-invasive screening tool, limited accuracy post-phototherapy and with darker skinned neonates indicate confirmatory SBR testing. These findings support the selective and context-aware use of BGA and TcB to optimise neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia management and reduce interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Care)
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19 pages, 1719 KB  
Article
Critical Hypercytokinemia in Sepsis and Septic Shock: Identifying Interleukin-6 Thresholds Beyond Which Mortality Risk Exceeded Survival Probability
by Juan Carlos Ruiz-Rodríguez, Luis Chiscano-Camón, Adolf Ruiz-Sanmartin, Natalia Costa-Allué, Ivan Bajaña, Pablo Nicolas-Morales, Juliana Bastidas, Sergi Cantenys-Molina, Manuel Hernández-Gonzalez, Nieves Larrosa, Juan Jose González-López, Vicent Ribas and Ricard Ferrer
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 1057; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15031057 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 235
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with extremely elevated IL-6 levels remain poorly characterized, and no specific plasma concentration has been established to reliably predict mortality or guide immunomodulatory interventions. We hypothesized that extreme hypercytokinemia is associated with increased mortality in sepsis. The primary objective was [...] Read more.
Introduction: Patients with extremely elevated IL-6 levels remain poorly characterized, and no specific plasma concentration has been established to reliably predict mortality or guide immunomodulatory interventions. We hypothesized that extreme hypercytokinemia is associated with increased mortality in sepsis. The primary objective was to identify, in patients with hyperinflammatory endotype, an IL-6 threshold associated with a significantly elevated risk of death. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, single-center observational study based on a historical cohort of adult patients with consecutive activation of the in-hospital sepsis code, a prospective and standardized institutional care pathway, at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital between July 2018 and December 2024. Patients fulfilling Sepsis-2 diagnostic criteria and criteria for severe sepsis or septic shock were eligible. Plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were routinely determined in all patients. The analysis included patients with complete clinical and laboratory data available in the study database. To identify the IL-6 threshold associated with critical risk of death, a cumulative conditional relative frequency analysis was performed. A quantile-based analysis was conducted using predefined intervals of 1000 pg/mL and 15,000 pg/mL. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify clinical and laboratory parameters independently associated with IL-6 > 15,000 pg/mL and outcome. Results are presented as odds ratios (ORs). Survival differences were assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Results: Overall mortality was 31% in the 1669 patients analyzed. Median IL-6 concentration was 772 pg/mL (IQR: 164–8750 pg/mL) with significantly higher levels in non-survivors (2137 pg/mL, IQR: 267–34,758). A critical IL-6 cutoff of 14,930 pg/mL was identified, which was rounded to 15,000 pg/mL for clinical applicability. IL-6 > 15,000 pg/mL was associated with increased mortality (OR 2.22, 95% CI: 1.12–5.36). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed significantly reduced survival in patients above this IL-6 threshold (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: In this cohort of patients with severe sepsis or septic shock, plasma IL-6 levels > 15,000 pg/mL defined a critical threshold beyond which mortality risk exceeded survival probability. Critical hypercytokinemia may serve as a clinically relevant biomarker to identify patients with sepsis and multiorgan dysfunction who could benefit from precision immunomodulatory therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care)
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15 pages, 1097 KB  
Perspective
Point-of-Care Veterinary Diagnostics Using Vis–NIR Spectroscopy: Current Opportunities and Future Directions
by Sofia Rosa, Ana C. Silvestre-Ferreira, Rui Martins and Felisbina Luísa Queiroga
Animals 2026, 16(3), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16030401 - 28 Jan 2026
Viewed by 168
Abstract
Visible-Near-Infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy, spanning approximately 400 to 2500 nm, is an innovative technology with growing relevance for diagnostics performed at the point of care (POC). This review explores the potential of Vis-NIR in veterinary medicine, highlighting its advantages over complex techniques like Raman [...] Read more.
Visible-Near-Infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy, spanning approximately 400 to 2500 nm, is an innovative technology with growing relevance for diagnostics performed at the point of care (POC). This review explores the potential of Vis-NIR in veterinary medicine, highlighting its advantages over complex techniques like Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) by being rapid, non-invasive, reagent-free, and compatible with miniaturized, portable devices. The methodology involves directing a broadband light source, often using LEDs, toward the sample (e.g., blood, urine, faeces), collecting spectral information related to molecular vibrations, which is then analyzed using chemometric methods. Successful veterinary applications include hemogram analysis in dogs, cats, and Atlantic salmon, and quantifying blood in ovine faeces for parasite detection. Key limitations include spectral interference from strong absorbers like water and hemoglobin, and the limited penetration depth of light. However, combining Vis-NIR with Self-Learning Artificial Intelligence (SLAI) is shown to isolate and mitigate these multi-scale interferences. Vis-NIR spectroscopy serves as an important complement to centralized laboratory testing, holding significant potential to accelerate clinical decisions, minimize stress on animals during assessment, and improve diagnostic capabilities for both human and animal health, aligning with the One Health concept. Full article
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32 pages, 2327 KB  
Review
Clinical Presentation, Genetics, and Laboratory Testing with Integrated Genetic Analysis of Molecular Mechanisms in Prader–Willi and Angelman Syndromes: A Review
by Merlin G. Butler
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(3), 1270; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27031270 - 27 Jan 2026
Viewed by 117
Abstract
Prader–Willi (PWS) and Angelman (AS) syndromes were the first examples in humans with errors in genomic imprinting, usually from de novo 15q11-q13 deletions of different parent origin (paternal in PWS and maternal in AS). Dozens of genes and transcripts are found in the [...] Read more.
Prader–Willi (PWS) and Angelman (AS) syndromes were the first examples in humans with errors in genomic imprinting, usually from de novo 15q11-q13 deletions of different parent origin (paternal in PWS and maternal in AS). Dozens of genes and transcripts are found in the 15q11-q13 region, and may play a role in PWS, specifically paternally expressed SNURF-SNRPN and MAGEL2 genes, while AS is due to the maternally expressed UBE3A gene. These three causative genes, including their encoding proteins, were targeted. This review article summarizes and illustrates the current understanding and cause of both PWS and AS using strategies to include the literature sources of key words and searchable web-based programs with databases for integrated gene and protein interactions, biological processes, and molecular mechanisms available for the two imprinting disorders. The SNURF-SNRPN gene is key in developing complex spliceosomal snRNP assemblies required for mRNA processing, cellular events, splicing, and binding required for detailed protein production and variation, neurodevelopment, immunodeficiency, and cell migration. The MAGEL2 gene is involved with the regulation of retrograde transport and promotion of endosomal assembly, oxytocin and reproduction, as well as circadian rhythm, transcriptional activity control, and appetite. The UBE3A gene encodes a key enzyme for the ubiquitin protein degradation system, apoptosis, tumor suppression, cell adhesion, and targeting proteins for degradation, autophagy, signaling pathways, and circadian rhythm. PWS is characterized early with infantile hypotonia, a poor suck, and failure to thrive with hypogenitalism/hypogonadism. Later, growth and other hormone deficiencies, developmental delays, and behavioral problems are noted with hyperphagia and morbid obesity, if not externally controlled. AS is characterized by seizures, lack of speech, severe learning disabilities, inappropriate laughter, and ataxia. This review captures the clinical presentation, natural history, causes with genetics, mechanisms, and description of established laboratory testing for genetic confirmation of each disorder. Three separate searchable web-based programs and databases that included information from the updated literature and other sources were used to identify and examine integrated genetic findings with predicted gene and protein interactions, molecular mechanisms and functions, biological processes, pathways, and gene-disease associations for candidate or causative genes per disorder. The natural history, review of pathophysiology, clinical presentation, genetics, and genetic-phenotypic findings were described along with computational biology, molecular mechanisms, genetic testing approaches, and status for each disorder, management and treatment options, clinical trial experiences, and future strategies. Conclusions and limitations were discussed to improve understanding, clinical care, genetics, diagnostic protocols, therapeutic agents, and genetic counseling for those with these genomic imprinting disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Genetics and Genomics)
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15 pages, 1858 KB  
Article
Leptospirosis in Central Romania: A 17-Year Single-Center Cohort Study of Hospitalized Adults
by Victoria Birlutiu and Rares-Mircea Birlutiu
Microorganisms 2026, 14(2), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14020298 - 27 Jan 2026
Viewed by 223
Abstract
Leptospirosis is an important zoonosis that can present as a self-limited influenza-like illness or progress to severe, including life-threatening multiorgan dysfunction. We report the epidemiology, clinical profile, and correlates of severity among adults hospitalized patients with leptospirosis diagnosed in central Romania over a [...] Read more.
Leptospirosis is an important zoonosis that can present as a self-limited influenza-like illness or progress to severe, including life-threatening multiorgan dysfunction. We report the epidemiology, clinical profile, and correlates of severity among adults hospitalized patients with leptospirosis diagnosed in central Romania over a period of 17 years. We conducted a retrospective, single-center cohort study of adults admitted between 1 January 2008 and 1 December 2025 with laboratory-confirmed leptospirosis. Confirmation was based on positive anti-Leptospira IgM serology, with repeat testing when the initial result was equivocal and confirmation with a microscopic agglutination test. We extracted demographic, exposure, clinical, laboratory, treatment, and outcome data from medical records. The modified Faine score was also calculated using admission data. Sixty-four patients were included in this analysis, of which 53 (82.8%) were male patients. Admissions peaked in 2023–2025 (34/64, 53.1%) and in the August–September months. Reported exposures were predominantly peri-domestic (46.9%), followed by rural/animal-related occupations (20.3%) and freshwater contact (17.2%). Severe disease occurred in 26/64 (40.6%), was more frequent in men (p = 0.021), and was more common pre-pandemic than during/after the pandemic (p < 0.001). Severe cases were associated with oliguria/anuria, hematuria, and jaundice, alongside higher urea/creatinine and bilirubin, lower hemoglobin and lymphocyte percentages, and a longer hospitalization period. One in-hospital death occurred (1.6%). Serogroup identification was available for 10 patients (15.6%) (pre-pandemic only). The mean modified Faine score was 27.5 ± 6.0. In this temperate-region cohort study, hospitalized leptospirosis showed a marked male predominance, a late-summer peak, and a substantial burden of severe disease. Early renal and hepatobiliary manifestations with concordant laboratory abnormalities may support timely risk stratification and escalation of care, while expanded molecular diagnostics and systematic typing are needed to clarify temporal trends and guide prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Disease Surveillance in Romania: Second Edition)
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14 pages, 1264 KB  
Article
Retrospective Study of Complicated Pneumonia at the Pediatric Department of the University Hospital of Padua: Experience from 2022 to 2024
by Valentina Agnese Ferraro, Fiorenza Alfier, Giulia Brigadoi, Daniele Donà, Luca Marchetto, Benedetta Marino, Alberto Sgrò, Federica Visentin, Andrea Volpe, Stefania Zanconato and Silvia Carraro
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15030978 - 26 Jan 2026
Viewed by 161
Abstract
Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children may be complicated by necrotizing pneumonia (NP), complicated parapneumonic effusion (CPPE), and lung abscess. These complications prolong hospitalization and require medical and surgical intervention. Objectives. To describe clinical course, diagnostic workup, and management of cCAP (complicated CAP) [...] Read more.
Background: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children may be complicated by necrotizing pneumonia (NP), complicated parapneumonic effusion (CPPE), and lung abscess. These complications prolong hospitalization and require medical and surgical intervention. Objectives. To describe clinical course, diagnostic workup, and management of cCAP (complicated CAP) in children admitted to the Women’s and Children’s Health Department, Padua University Hospital, between January 2022 and September 2024. To identify factors associated with disease severity and evaluate outcomes. Methods: All children hospitalized for cCAP during the study period were included. Data collected comprised clinical features, laboratory and imaging findings, medical and surgical management, and outcomes. Results: Forty patients (mean age 4.4 y; 13.15% of pneumonia admission) were included: 67.5% had NP with CPPE, 22.5% isolated effusion, 10% NP without effusion. All patients were febrile at onset, 62.2% had cough, 32.5% abdominal pain, 30% rhinitis. NP was confirmed by contrast-enhanced chest CT. Thirty patients (75%) had positive microbiological testing, mainly Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes. 77.5% required oxygen therapy (five invasive ventilation and one with ECMO). Median fever duration 18 days (IQR 15–27) with elevated CRP (median peak 300 mg/L). Pleural drainage was performed in 66.7%, fibrinolytics in 17.5%, thoracoscopic decortication in 12.5%, and lobectomy in one patient. Radiological resolution occurred at a median of 31 days post-discharge, with normal pulmonary function at a median of 15 months. Conclusions: Despite pediatric cCAP severity, short- and long-term outcomes are favorable. Early recognition and integrated management are crucial, and further prospective studies are warranted to optimize care and identify severity predictors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Respiratory Medicine)
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13 pages, 1100 KB  
Article
Development and Validation of a Field-Based Colorimetric LAMP Assay for the Detection of Clavibacter michiganensis in Tomato Plants
by Glykeria Mermigka, Maria Megariti, Dimitris Malliarakis, Marianthi G. Pagoulatou, Electra Gizeli and Dimitrios E. Goumas
Plants 2026, 15(3), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030372 - 25 Jan 2026
Viewed by 194
Abstract
Point-of-care diagnostics are revolutionizing the detection of plant pathogens by enabling rapid, on-site identification without the need for specialized laboratories. One of the tools used for this purpose is loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). LAMP is a powerful molecular technique increasingly used in pathogen [...] Read more.
Point-of-care diagnostics are revolutionizing the detection of plant pathogens by enabling rapid, on-site identification without the need for specialized laboratories. One of the tools used for this purpose is loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). LAMP is a powerful molecular technique increasingly used in pathogen control for its rapid, sensitive, and specific detection of plant pathogens. The aim of this study was the development of a novel, easy-to-use portable colorimetric LAMP (cLAMP) assay that could be used by inexperienced personnel for the detection of the pathogen Clavibacter michiganensis. The assay was combined with a newly constructed device in which LAMP can be performed in 30 min. Initially, a new set of LAMP primers targeting the micA gene was designed and evaluated the sensitivity (100 fg/reaction) and specificity of the assay. Next, the limit of detection (LoD) of two different commercial LAMP kits was compared with common laboratory detection techniques (DAS-ELISA, immunofluorescence, quantitative PCR, and PCR) using the same samples. Additionally, the LoD of the developed cLAMP assay was evaluated in bacterial suspensions and plant extracts spiked with C. michiganensis and validated the effect on the LoD of plant extracts from different tomato varieties. Lastly, its efficacy for C. michiganensis detection was assessed in experimentally inoculated tomato seedlings. The developed method for C. michiganensis detection can be used as a reliable tool for the early detection of the pathogen for field-based applications by untrained personnel. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)
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14 pages, 1018 KB  
Article
Characterization of Clinical, Hematological, and Biochemical Findings in Dogs with Vipera aspis Envenomation
by Filomena Meduri, Claudia Rifici, Pietro Gambadauro, Diego Antonio Sicuso, Gianluca Novari, Giuseppe Mazzullo and Michela Pugliese
Pets 2026, 3(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/pets3010005 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 327
Abstract
Viper envenomation in dogs represents a significant medical emergency in regions where vipers are endemic. Despite its clinical relevance, detailed data on the haematological and biochemical alterations in canine viper envenomation remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical presentation and haematological, [...] Read more.
Viper envenomation in dogs represents a significant medical emergency in regions where vipers are endemic. Despite its clinical relevance, detailed data on the haematological and biochemical alterations in canine viper envenomation remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical presentation and haematological, biochemical and coagulative changes occurring in dogs following bites from the Vipera aspis species, and to assess their diagnostic and prognostic significance. Twelve dogs with suspected Vipera aspis envenomation were encompassed in the study. Clinical data were gathered and blood samples were collected at hospital admission (T1), 24 h (T2) and 48 h later (T3). Complete blood counts, biochemical profiles and coagulation parameters were analysed using standard automated systems. Common clinical signs included local pain and swelling, depression, fever, haematuria and melena. Haematological evaluation revealed progressive anaemia, leucocytosis and thrombocytopenia. Biochemical findings showed elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and creatine kinas (CK), indicating hepatic and muscular injury; however, no consistent evidence of renal failure was found. Coagulation analysis revealed a significant shortening of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT) over time, alongside marked increases in fibrinogen and antithrombin III. This indicates an inflammatory rather than consumptive coagulopathy. Viper envenomation in dogs induces complex haematological and biochemical alterations, reflecting both direct venom toxicity and systemic inflammatory responses. Early recognition, supportive care and continuous laboratory monitoring are essential for improving prognosis. Full article
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16 pages, 585 KB  
Article
Completeness of Initial Laboratory Evaluation Impacts Chronic Hepatitis B Outcomes
by Haris Imsirovic, Jui-Hsia (Cleo) Hung, Asnake Y. Dumicho, Douglas Manuel, Derek R. MacFadden and Curtis L. Cooper
Livers 2026, 6(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/livers6010005 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 187
Abstract
Introduction: The health care burden of chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection can be reduced by appropriate workup, treatment, and monitoring. Methods: As a primary objective, we determined whether adequate initial hepatitis B virus (HBV) laboratory workup in CHB patients is associated with [...] Read more.
Introduction: The health care burden of chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection can be reduced by appropriate workup, treatment, and monitoring. Methods: As a primary objective, we determined whether adequate initial hepatitis B virus (HBV) laboratory workup in CHB patients is associated with improved CHB complications risk. Secondary outcomes assessed included: mortality, hospitalization, emergency department, and liver specialist visits. We conducted a retrospective cohort study from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2018. Participants were followed from 12 months post index event until outcome occurrence, death, loss of eligibility, or 31 March 2023. Health administrative data from Ontario, Canada was utilized. The study cohort included individuals with at least one positive result of either hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis B e antigen, or HBV DNA viral load documented during the study window. The exposure of interest was defined as adequate laboratory workup, defined as having subsequent quantitative HBV DNA, and alanine aminotransferase testing completed within 12 months of the index event. CHB-related complications were assessed using previously validated diagnostic codes. Modified Poisson regression modelling was used to estimate relative risks. Results: The study cohort consisted of 30,794 CHB patients, with a mean age 45.7 years. The majority were male (53.5%) and within the lowest two income quintiles (50.2%). In total, 68.0% underwent adequate workup. Individuals with adequate workup were more likely to be older, male, urban based, and of the highest racialized and newcomer populations quintile. The risk for CHB complications was 1.50 (95% CI 1.36–1.65) times greater among those with adequate workup. By multivariable analysis, adequate workup was associated with a lower risk of mortality (RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.69–0.87), all-cause hospitalizations (RR 0.77; 95% CI 0.74–0.80), all-cause (RR 0.77; 95% CI 0.75–0.78), and liver-related (RR 0.67; 95% CI 0.60–0.75) ED visits. Conclusions: Adequate CHB clinical workup is associated with improved patient outcomes. Our findings advocate for the comprehensive evaluation of CHB patients using key laboratory tests to optimize clinical management and improve long-term health outcomes. We identified gaps in the workup of young adults, females, and those residing in rural settings, which should be addressed to ensure equity of HBV care. Full article
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20 pages, 8243 KB  
Review
Advances in the Diagnosis and Management of High-Risk Cardiovascular Conditions: Biomarkers, Intracoronary Imaging, Artificial Intelligence, and Novel Anticoagulants
by Clarissa Campo Dall’Orto, Rubens Pierry Ferreira Lopes, Gilvan Vilella Pinto, Pedro Gabriel Senger Braga and Marcos Raphael da Silva
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2026, 13(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd13010052 - 19 Jan 2026
Viewed by 264
Abstract
Understanding thrombosis in acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) has evolved through advances in biomarkers, intracoronary imaging, and emerging analytical tools, improving diagnostic accuracy and risk stratification in high-risk patients. This narrative review provides an integrative overview of contemporary evidence from clinical trials, meta-analyses, and [...] Read more.
Understanding thrombosis in acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) has evolved through advances in biomarkers, intracoronary imaging, and emerging analytical tools, improving diagnostic accuracy and risk stratification in high-risk patients. This narrative review provides an integrative overview of contemporary evidence from clinical trials, meta-analyses, and international guidelines addressing circulating biomarkers, intracoronary imaging modalities—including optical coherence tomography (OCT), intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)—artificial intelligence–based analytical approaches, and emerging antithrombotic therapies. High-sensitivity cardiac troponins and natriuretic peptides remain the most robust and guideline-supported biomarkers for diagnosis and prognostic assessment in ACS, whereas inflammatory markers and multimarker strategies offer incremental prognostic information but lack definitive validation for routine therapeutic guidance. Intracoronary imaging with IVUS or OCT is supported by current guidelines to guide percutaneous coronary intervention in selected patients with ACS and complex coronary lesions, leading to improved procedural optimization and clinical outcomes compared with angiography-guided strategies. Beyond procedural guidance, OCT enables detailed plaque characterization and mechanistic insights into ACS, while NIRS provides complementary information on lipid-rich plaque burden, primarily for risk stratification based on observational evidence. Artificial intelligence represents a rapidly evolving tool for integrating clinical, laboratory, and imaging data, with promising results in retrospective and observational studies; however, its clinical application in thrombosis management remains investigational due to the lack of outcome-driven randomized trials. In the therapeutic domain, factor XI inhibitors have demonstrated favorable safety profiles with reduced bleeding and preserved antithrombotic efficacy in phase II and early phase III studies, but their definitive role in ACS management awaits confirmation in large, outcome-driven randomized trials. Overall, the integration of biomarkers, intracoronary imaging, and emerging analytical and pharmacological strategies highlights the potential for more individualized cardiovascular care. Nevertheless, careful interpretation of existing evidence, rigorous validation, and alignment with guideline-directed practice remain essential before widespread clinical adoption. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Thrombosis Diagnosis and Antithrombotic Therapy)
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8 pages, 562 KB  
Case Report
“Hiding in Plain Sight”: A Retrospective Clinical and Microbiological Review of Vancomycin-Dependent Enterococci at a Tertiary Care Centre—A Case Report
by Ruchika Bagga, Johan Delport, Alice Kanyua and Kumudhavalli Kavanoor Sridhar
Microorganisms 2026, 14(1), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14010193 - 15 Jan 2026
Viewed by 282
Abstract
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) are established nosocomial pathogens; however, vancomycin-dependent Enterococci (VDE) represent a rare and underrecognized phenomenon. These organisms paradoxically require vancomycin for growth due to mutations in cell wall precursor synthesis. Limited awareness and significant diagnostic challenges associated with VDE can lead [...] Read more.
Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) are established nosocomial pathogens; however, vancomycin-dependent Enterococci (VDE) represent a rare and underrecognized phenomenon. These organisms paradoxically require vancomycin for growth due to mutations in cell wall precursor synthesis. Limited awareness and significant diagnostic challenges associated with VDE can lead to delayed recognition and treatment failure. We report a case of vancomycin-dependent Enterococcus faecium isolated from a liver transplant recipient receiving oral vancomycin prophylaxis for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection. The isolate failed to grow on standard media but exhibited robust growth on vancomycin-supplemented agar, confirmed by vancomycin disc diffusion testing and PCR detection of the vanB gene. Additionally, we reviewed four further VDE cases identified over a two-year period in our tertiary care microbiology laboratory. All patients originated from complex care settings, had significant comorbidities, and had received prolonged glycopeptide therapy. We summarize the clinical features, diagnostic findings, and microbiological challenges encountered across this case series. This series documents the first reported Canadian case of VDE and highlights the critical need for clinical vigilance and diagnostic suspicion in high-risk patients with prior enterococcal colonization and ongoing glycopeptide exposure. Laboratory findings such as failure to grow on blood agar coupled with growth around vancomycin discs should prompt specific evaluation for VDE. Our findings reinforce the necessity for targeted antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention strategies and underscore the remarkable evolutionary adaptability of Enterococci under sustained antimicrobial pressure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial Infections in Clinical Settings, 2nd Edition)
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12 pages, 1187 KB  
Article
Epidemiology of Rotavirus and Its Association with Other Etiological Agents of Enteric Infections in the Mexican Child Population (0–5 Years)
by Larissa Fernandes-Matano, Luis Antonio Uribe-Noguez, Julio Elias Alvarado-Yaah, Angel Gustavo Salas-Lais, Clara Esperanza Santacruz-Tinoco, José Esteban Muñoz-Medina and Andrea Santos Coy-Arechavaleta
Microorganisms 2026, 14(1), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14010172 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 285
Abstract
Gastrointestinal infections are a major cause of morbidity worldwide. Rotavirus (RVA) is the most frequent cause of severe diarrheal disease in children and is associated with high direct and indirect costs. Symptoms of RVA infection are nonspecific, so diagnostic confirmation requires laboratory testing, [...] Read more.
Gastrointestinal infections are a major cause of morbidity worldwide. Rotavirus (RVA) is the most frequent cause of severe diarrheal disease in children and is associated with high direct and indirect costs. Symptoms of RVA infection are nonspecific, so diagnostic confirmation requires laboratory testing, which is not routinely performed due to its high cost. For this reason, only a small proportion of hospitalizations are correctly classified. In this context, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of RVA and 19 other potential etiological agents in 642 samples from pediatric patients with gastrointestinal symptoms at the Social Security Mexican Institute (IMSS). The findings revealed a prevalence of RVA of 26.8%. When analyzing the 321 samples that were processed for the full panel, the positivity rate was 94.4% (for any of the etiological agents tested) and a high percentage of coinfections were detected (69.8%), including up to seven different etiological agents in the same child. The RVA was more frequent in children under 1 year of age, with higher circulation in winter and spring, while bacterial infections showed a seasonal trend in summer. The proportion of hospitalizations was higher in coinfections than in monoinfections, and RVA was the pathogen with the highest percentage of hospitalizations. The results emphasize the etiological complexity of gastrointestinal infections in the pediatric population, highlighting the importance of using multiplex diagnostic tests for appropriate clinical care and effective epidemiological control strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases)
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17 pages, 2536 KB  
Article
A Portable Dual-Mode Microfluidic Device Integrating RT-qPCR and RT-LAMP for Rapid Nucleic Acid Detection in Point-of-Care Testing
by Baihui Zhang, Xiao Li, Mengjie Huang, Maojie Jiang, Leilei Du, Peng Yin, Xuan Fang, Xiangyu Jiang, Feihu Qi, Yanna Lin and Fuqiang Ma
Biosensors 2026, 16(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios16010051 - 8 Jan 2026
Viewed by 613
Abstract
Point-of-care testing (POCT) has emerged as a vital diagnostic approach in emergency medicine, primary care, and resource-limited environments because of its convenience, affordability, and capacity to provide immediate results. Here, we present a multifunctional portable nucleic acid detection platform integrating reverse transcription polymerase [...] Read more.
Point-of-care testing (POCT) has emerged as a vital diagnostic approach in emergency medicine, primary care, and resource-limited environments because of its convenience, affordability, and capacity to provide immediate results. Here, we present a multifunctional portable nucleic acid detection platform integrating reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) within a unified microfluidic device. The system leverages Tesla-valve-based passive flow control to enhance reaction efficiency and operational simplicity. A four-channel optical detection unit allows for multiplex fluorescence quantification (CY5, FAM, VIC, ROX) and has high sensitivity and reproducibility for RT-LAMP. The compact design reduces the overall size by approximately 90% compared with conventional qPCR instruments. For RT-PCR, the system achieves a detection limit of 2.0 copies μL−1 and improves analytical efficiency by 27%. For RT-LAMP, the detection limit reaches 2.95 copies μL−1 with a 14% enhancement in analytical efficiency. Compared with commercial qPCR instruments, the device maintains equivalent quantitative accuracy despite significant miniaturization, ensuring reliable performance in decentralized testing. Furthermore, the total RT-LAMP assay time is reduced from more than two hours to 42 min, enabling truly rapid molecular diagnostics. This dual-mode platform offers a flexible, scalable strategy for bridging laboratory-grade molecular assays with real-time POCT applications, supporting early disease detection and epidemic surveillance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nano- and Micro-Technologies in Biosensors)
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38 pages, 4718 KB  
Review
Mass Spectrometry-Based Metabolomics in Pediatric Health and Disease
by Debasis Sahu, Andrei M. Matusa, Alicia DiBattista, Bradley L. Urquhart and Douglas D. Fraser
Metabolites 2026, 16(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo16010049 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 551
Abstract
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics is a valuable tool for advancing pediatric health research. Along with nuclear magnetic resonance, it enables detailed biochemical analysis from minimal sample volumes, a critical feature for pediatric diagnosis. Metabolomics supports early detection of inherited metabolic disorders, monitors metabolic changes [...] Read more.
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics is a valuable tool for advancing pediatric health research. Along with nuclear magnetic resonance, it enables detailed biochemical analysis from minimal sample volumes, a critical feature for pediatric diagnosis. Metabolomics supports early detection of inherited metabolic disorders, monitors metabolic changes during growth, and identifies disease markers for a range of conditions, including metabolic, neurodevelopmental, oncological, and infectious diseases. Integrating metabolomic data with genomic, proteomic (i.e., multi-omics approaches), and clinical information enables more precise and preventive care by enhancing risk assessment and informing targeted treatments. However, routine clinical use faces several challenges, including establishing age- and sex-specific reference ranges, standardizing sample collection and processing, ensuring consistency across platforms and laboratories, expanding reference databases, and improving data comparability. Ethical and regulatory issues, including informed consent, data privacy, and equitable access, also require careful consideration. Advances in high-resolution and single-cell metabolomics, artificial intelligence for data analysis, and cost-effective testing are expected to address these barriers and support broader clinical adoption. As standards and data-sharing initiatives grow, metabolomics will play an increasingly important role in pediatric diagnostics and personalized care, enabling earlier disease detection, improved treatment monitoring, and better long-term outcomes for children. Full article
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26 pages, 3426 KB  
Review
The Emerging Threat of Monkeypox: An Updated Overview
by Galal Yahya, Nashwa H. Mohamed, Al-Hassan Soliman Wadan, Esteban M. Castro, Amira Kamel, Ahmed A. Abdelmoaty, Maha E. Alsadik, Luis Martinez-Sobrido and Ahmed Mostafa
Viruses 2026, 18(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18010069 - 3 Jan 2026
Viewed by 715
Abstract
Monkeypox (MPOX) is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), an orthopoxvirus closely related to smallpox. Initially confined to endemic regions in Central and West Africa, MPOX has recently gained global significance with outbreaks reported across multiple continents. MPXV is maintained [...] Read more.
Monkeypox (MPOX) is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), an orthopoxvirus closely related to smallpox. Initially confined to endemic regions in Central and West Africa, MPOX has recently gained global significance with outbreaks reported across multiple continents. MPXV is maintained in animal reservoirs but is increasingly transmitted from person to person, facilitated by close contact, respiratory droplets, and, in some cases, sexual transmission. Clinically, MPOX presents with fever, lymphadenopathy, and a characteristic vesiculopustular rash, though atypical manifestations have been observed in recent outbreaks, complicating diagnosis. Laboratory confirmation relies on molecular testing, while differential diagnosis must consider varicella, herpes, and other vesicular illnesses. Therapeutic options remain limited; supportive care is the cornerstone of management, but antivirals such as tecovirimat and brincidofovir, as well as smallpox vaccines, have shown efficacy in mitigating disease severity and preventing infection. The unprecedented global outbreak has underscored the importance of surveillance, rapid diagnostics, and coordinated public health responses to contain transmission. This review provides an overview of epidemiology, virology, clinical manifestations, modes of transmission, available diagnostics, and prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against MPOX. We also discuss the role of animal reservoirs, viral evolution, and human-to-human transmission in shaping the dynamics of recent MPOX outbreaks. By summarizing the latest evidence, this review aims to inform clinicians, researchers, and policymakers about key aspects of MPOX biology, clinical management, and prevention, while identifying gaps that warrant future investigation for the control of this and potentially other emerging zoonotic-related pathogens with an impact on human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Re-Emerging Viral Zoonoses)
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