Journal Description
Diagnostics
Diagnostics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on medical diagnosis published semimonthly online by MDPI. The British Neuro-Oncology Society (BNOS), the International Society for Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ISIDOG) and the Swiss Union of Laboratory Medicine (SULM) are affiliated with Diagnostics and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, Inspec, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Medicine, General & Internal)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journal: LabMed.
Impact Factor:
3.6 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.7 (2022)
Latest Articles
Retrospective Analysis to Optimize the Detection of MET Exon 14 Skipping Mutations in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111110 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Our study optimized METex14 skipping mutation detection by analyzing 223 Oncomine™ Focus Assay-positive cases using Pan Lung Cancer PCR Panel and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. Among the 11 METex14 skipping mutation-positive cases (average read counts: 1390), 2 with Oncomine™ Focus
[...] Read more.
Our study optimized METex14 skipping mutation detection by analyzing 223 Oncomine™ Focus Assay-positive cases using Pan Lung Cancer PCR Panel and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. Among the 11 METex14 skipping mutation-positive cases (average read counts: 1390), 2 with Oncomine™ Focus Assay read counts of 2540 and 10,177 were positive on all platforms. Those with Oncomine™ Focus Assay read counts ranging from 179 to 612 tested negative elsewhere. Specimens with low ratios (average ratio: 0.12% for nine cases) may yield false-positive results. Our results suggested that monitoring read counts and ratios and validating the results with RT-PCR are crucial to prevent false positives.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
White Matter Hyperintensity in Patients with Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
by
Mehdi Abouzari, Arash Abiri, Karen Tawk, Cynthia Tsang, Beenish Patel, Avissa Khoshsar and Hamid R. Djalilian
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111109 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Objective: To compare white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) and analyze subpopulations with age-matched controls. Methods: T2-weighted MRI scans of 150 patients with SSNHL were assessed for WMHs and compared with
[...] Read more.
Objective: To compare white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) and analyze subpopulations with age-matched controls. Methods: T2-weighted MRI scans of 150 patients with SSNHL were assessed for WMHs and compared with the data of 148 healthy age-matched adults. Assessments of WMHs included independent grading of deep white matter hyperintensities (DWMHs) and periventricular hyperintensities (PVHs). WMH severity was visually rated using the Fazekas and Mirsen scales by two independent observers. Results: Fazekas grades for PVHs (p < 0.001) and DWMHs (p < 0.001) of SSNHL patients were found to be significantly greater than those of healthy participants. The average Mirsen grades for DWMHs of healthy and SSNHL patients were evaluated to be 0.373 ± 0.550 and 2.140 ± 0.859, respectively. Mirsen grades for DWMHs of SSNHL patients were found to be significantly greater (p < 0.001) than those of healthy participants. The Mirsen scale was found to have higher sensitivity (p < 0.001) than the Fazekas scale in grading PVHs and DWMHs. No significant difference (p = 0.24) was found in specificities between the two scales. Conclusions: Patients with sudden hearing loss have a much higher likelihood of having periventricular and deep white matter hyperintensities compared to age-matched controls. These findings indicate that sudden hearing loss patients are more likely to have microvascular changes in the brain, which may indicate a vascular and/or migraine origin to sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hearing Loss: From Diagnosis to Pathology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Complex Craniofacial Cases through Augmented Reality Guidance in Surgical Oncology: A Technical Report
by
Alessandro Tel, Luca Raccampo, Shankeeth Vinayahalingam, Stefania Troise, Vincenzo Abbate, Giovanni Dell’Aversana Orabona, Salvatore Sembronio and Massimo Robiony
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111108 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Augmented reality (AR) is a promising technology to enhance image guided surgery and represents the perfect bridge to combine precise virtual planning with computer-aided execution of surgical maneuvers in the operating room. In craniofacial surgical oncology, AR brings to the surgeon’s sight a
[...] Read more.
Augmented reality (AR) is a promising technology to enhance image guided surgery and represents the perfect bridge to combine precise virtual planning with computer-aided execution of surgical maneuvers in the operating room. In craniofacial surgical oncology, AR brings to the surgeon’s sight a digital, three-dimensional representation of the anatomy and helps to identify tumor boundaries and optimal surgical paths. Intraoperatively, real-time AR guidance provides surgeons with accurate spatial information, ensuring accurate tumor resection and preservation of critical structures. In this paper, the authors review current evidence of AR applications in craniofacial surgery, focusing on real surgical applications, and compare existing literature with their experience during an AR and navigation guided craniofacial resection, to subsequently analyze which technological trajectories will represent the future of AR and define new perspectives of application for this revolutionizing technology.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Advanced Role of Deep Learning and Radiomics in Maxillofacial Imaging)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCorrection
Correction: Díaz-Aljaro et al. Quantitative Microvascular Change Analysis Using a Semi-Automated Algorithm in Macula-on Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Assessed by Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography. Diagnostics 2024, 14, 750
by
Pablo Díaz-Aljaro, Xavier Valldeperas, Laura Broc-Iturralde, Nevena Romanic-Bubalo, Ignacio Díaz-Aljaro, Zhongdi Chu, Ruikang K. Wang and Javier Zarranz-Ventura
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111107 (registering DOI) - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In the original publication [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitreo-Retinal Disorders: Pathophysiology and Diagnostic Imaging)
Open AccessArticle
External Quality Assessment (EQA) for SARS-CoV-2 RNA Point-of-Care Testing in Primary Healthcare Services: Analytical Performance over Seven EQA Cycles
by
Susan J. Matthews, Kelcie Miller, Kelly Andrewartha, Melisa Milic, Deane Byers, Peter Santosa, Alexa Kaufer, Kirsty Smith, Louise M. Causer, Belinda Hengel, Ineka Gow, Tanya Applegate, William D. Rawlinson, Rebecca Guy and Mark Shephard
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1106; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111106 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
In April 2020, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander COVID-19 Point-of-Care (POC) Testing Program was initiated to improve access to rapid molecular-based SARS-CoV-2 detection in First Nations communities. At capacity, the program reached 105 health services across Australia. An external review estimated the
[...] Read more.
In April 2020, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander COVID-19 Point-of-Care (POC) Testing Program was initiated to improve access to rapid molecular-based SARS-CoV-2 detection in First Nations communities. At capacity, the program reached 105 health services across Australia. An external review estimated the program contributed to averting between 23,000 and 122,000 COVID-19 infections within 40 days of the first infection in a remote community, equating to cost savings of between AU$337 million and AU$1.8 billion. Essential to the quality management of this program, a customised External Quality Assessment (EQA) program was developed with the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia Quality Assurance Programs (RCPAQAP). From July 2020 to May 2022, SARS-CoV-2 EQA participation ranged from 93 to 100%. Overall concordance of valid EQA results was high (98%), with improved performance following the first survey. These results are consistent with those reported by 12 Australian and 4 New Zealand laboratories for three SARS-CoV-2 RNA EQA surveys in March 2020, demonstrating that SARS-CoV-2 RNA POC testing in primary care settings can be performed to an equivalent laboratory analytical standard. More broadly, this study highlights the value of quality management practices in real-world testing environments and the benefits of ongoing EQA program participation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Point-of-Care Diagnostics and Devices)
Open AccessArticle
Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Acute Pancreatitis—The Milky Way Constellation—The Seven-Year Experience of a Large Tertiary Centre
by
Andrei Vicențiu Edu, Mihai Radu Pahomeanu, Andreea Irina Ghiță, Dalia Ioana Constantinescu, Daniela Gabriela Grigore, Andreea Daniela Bota, Daniela Maria Luta-Dumitrașcu, Cristian George Țieranu and Lucian Negreanu
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111105 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is a well-known metabolic condition associated with an increased risk of acute pancreatitis. In this study, we tried to establish whether there are any significant disparities concerning recurrence rate, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospital (ICU and total) length
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) is a well-known metabolic condition associated with an increased risk of acute pancreatitis. In this study, we tried to establish whether there are any significant disparities concerning recurrence rate, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, hospital (ICU and total) length of stay (LoS), morphology, severity and age between HTG-induced acute pancreatitis and any other known cause of pancreatitis (OAP). (2) Methods: The research was a retrospective unicentric cohort study, using information from the Bucharest Acute Pancreatitis Index (BUC-API) registry, a database of 1855 consecutive cases of acute pancreatitis. (3) Results: We found a weak association between HTG-AP and recurrence. The HTG-AP patients were younger, with a median of 44.5 years, and had a longer ICU stay than the OAP patients. In addition, we identified that the HTG-AP patients were more likely to develop acute peripancreatic fluid collection (APFC), to be admitted in ICU, to have a more severe course of disease and to be cared for in a gastroenterology ward. (4) Conclusions: Hypertriglyceridemia-induced APs have a more severe course. The typical patient with HTG-AP is a middle-aged male, with previous episodes of AP, admitted in the gastroenterology ward, with a longer ICU stay and longer length of hospitalization, more likely to evolve in a severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) and with a higher probability of developing APFC.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Diagnosis and Prognosis of Gastrointestinal Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Does the Addition of Point-of-Care Testing Alter Antibiotic Prescribing Decisions When Patients Present with Acute Sore Throat to Primary Care? A Prospective Test of Change
by
Rob Daniels, Esther Miles and Karen Button
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111104 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Abstract: Accurate clinical diagnosis of patients presenting to primary care settings with acute sore throat remains challenging, often resulting in the over-prescribing of antibiotics. Using point-of-care tests (POCTs) to differentiate between respiratory infections is well-accepted, yet evidence on the application within primary care
[...] Read more.
Abstract: Accurate clinical diagnosis of patients presenting to primary care settings with acute sore throat remains challenging, often resulting in the over-prescribing of antibiotics. Using point-of-care tests (POCTs) to differentiate between respiratory infections is well-accepted, yet evidence on the application within primary care is sparse. We assessed the application of testing patients (n = 160) from three family practices with suspected Streptococcal infections using rapid molecular tests (ID NOW Strep A2, Abbott). In addition to comparing clinical evaluation and prescription rates with either usual care or testing, patients and staff completed a questionnaire about their experience of molecular POCT in primary care. The immediate availability of the result was important to patients (100%), and staff (≈90%) stated that molecular testing improved the quality of care. Interestingly, only 22.73% of patients with a Centor score > 2 tested positive for Strep A and, overall, less than 50% of Centor scores 3 and 4 tested positive for Strep A with the ID NOW testing platform. The addition of rapid molecular POCTs to clinical assessment resulted in a 55–65% reduction in immediate and deferred antibiotic prescriptions. The intervention was popular with patients and medical staff but was associated with increased cost and a longer appointment length.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Point-of-Care Testing for Infectious Diseases, 2nd Edition)
Open AccessReview
Revolutionizing Cardiology through Artificial Intelligence—Big Data from Proactive Prevention to Precise Diagnostics and Cutting-Edge Treatment—A Comprehensive Review of the Past 5 Years
by
Elena Stamate, Alin-Ionut Piraianu, Oana Roxana Ciobotaru, Rodica Crassas, Oana Duca, Ana Fulga, Ionica Grigore, Vlad Vintila, Iuliu Fulga and Octavian Catalin Ciobotaru
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1103; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111103 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) can radically change almost every aspect of the human experience. In the medical field, there are numerous applications of AI and subsequently, in a relatively short time, significant progress has been made. Cardiology is not immune to this trend,
[...] Read more.
Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) can radically change almost every aspect of the human experience. In the medical field, there are numerous applications of AI and subsequently, in a relatively short time, significant progress has been made. Cardiology is not immune to this trend, this fact being supported by the exponential increase in the number of publications in which the algorithms play an important role in data analysis, pattern discovery, identification of anomalies, and therapeutic decision making. Furthermore, with technological development, there have appeared new models of machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DP) that are capable of exploring various applications of AI in cardiology, including areas such as prevention, cardiovascular imaging, electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, and many others. In this sense, the present article aims to provide a general vision of the current state of AI use in cardiology. Results: We identified and included a subset of 200 papers directly relevant to the current research covering a wide range of applications. Thus, this paper presents AI applications in cardiovascular imaging, arithmology, clinical or emergency cardiology, cardiovascular prevention, and interventional procedures in a summarized manner. Recent studies from the highly scientific literature demonstrate the feasibility and advantages of using AI in different branches of cardiology. Conclusions: The integration of AI in cardiology offers promising perspectives for increasing accuracy by decreasing the error rate and increasing efficiency in cardiovascular practice. From predicting the risk of sudden death or the ability to respond to cardiac resynchronization therapy to the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism or the early detection of valvular diseases, AI algorithms have shown their potential to mitigate human error and provide feasible solutions. At the same time, limits imposed by the small samples studied are highlighted alongside the challenges presented by ethical implementation; these relate to legal implications regarding responsibility and decision making processes, ensuring patient confidentiality and data security. All these constitute future research directions that will allow the integration of AI in the progress of cardiology.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Image-Based Screening, Diagnostics, and Clinical Care)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
An Enhanced Mask R-CNN Approach for Pulmonary Embolism Detection and Segmentation
by
Kâmil Doğan, Turab Selçuk and Ahmet Alkan
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111102 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Pulmonary embolism (PE) refers to the occlusion of pulmonary arteries by blood clots, posing a mortality risk of approximately 30%. The detection of pulmonary embolism within segmental arteries presents greater challenges compared with larger arteries and is frequently overlooked. In this study, we
[...] Read more.
Pulmonary embolism (PE) refers to the occlusion of pulmonary arteries by blood clots, posing a mortality risk of approximately 30%. The detection of pulmonary embolism within segmental arteries presents greater challenges compared with larger arteries and is frequently overlooked. In this study, we developed a computational method to automatically identify pulmonary embolism within segmental arteries using computed tomography (CT) images. The system architecture incorporates an enhanced Mask R-CNN deep neural network trained on PE-containing images. This network accurately localizes pulmonary embolisms in CT images and effectively delineates their boundaries. This study involved creating a local data set and evaluating the model predictions against pulmonary embolisms manually identified by expert radiologists. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, Dice coefficient, and Jaccard index values were obtained as 96.2%, 93.4%, 96.%, 0.95, and 0.89, respectively. The enhanced Mask R-CNN model outperformed the traditional Mask R-CNN and U-Net models. This study underscores the influence of Mask R-CNN’s loss function on model performance, providing a basis for the potential improvement of Mask R-CNN models for object detection and segmentation tasks in CT images.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Classification of Diseases Using Machine Learning Algorithms)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Ultrasound Carotid Plaque Score and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease Assessed by Computed Tomography Angiography in Patients with Arterial Hypertension
by
Andrzej Wysocki, Michał Fułek, Piotr Macek, Monika Michałek-Zrąbkowska, Krzysztof Kraik, Małgorzata Poręba, Katarzyna Fułek, Helena Martynowicz, Grzegorz Mazur, Paweł Gać and Rafał Poręba
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111101 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the presence of atherosclerotic lesions in the carotid arteries detected by ultrasound and the occurrence of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries determined by computed tomography (CT) in patients with arterial hypertension (HTA).
[...] Read more.
The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the presence of atherosclerotic lesions in the carotid arteries detected by ultrasound and the occurrence of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries determined by computed tomography (CT) in patients with arterial hypertension (HTA). A total of 83 patients with HTA were qualified for the study (age: 71.3 ± 8.5 years). All subjects underwent carotid arteries ultrasound and coronary arteries CT. The carotid plaque score was assessed using ultrasound. The studied group was divided into two subgroups: a subgroup with the carotid plaque score ≤ 1 (A) and a subgroup with carotid plaque score ≥ 2 (B). Coronary arteries CT assessed coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and degree of coronary stenosis based on CAD-RADS. In subgroup B, a significantly higher CACS (411.3 ± 70.1 vs. 93.5 ± 31.8) and significantly higher grade in the CAD-RADS classification were demonstrated than in subgroup A (CAD-RADS ≥ 3: 21.8 vs. 6.0%). The regression analysis showed that carotid plaque score and age are independent risk factors for the severity of atherosclerotic lesions in the coronary arteries. In summary, ultrasound assessment of the carotid plaque score in patients with HTA could be considered as surrogate indicator of the risk and severity of atherosclerotic changes in the coronary arteries, but further studies are necessary to corroborate these results.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From B-Mode to 3-D: State of the Art and Clinical Advances in Vascular Ultrasound)
Open AccessReview
Artificial Intelligence in Point-of-Care Biosensing: Challenges and Opportunities
by
Connor D. Flynn and Dingran Chang
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1100; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111100 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into point-of-care (POC) biosensing has the potential to revolutionize diagnostic methodologies by offering rapid, accurate, and accessible health assessment directly at the patient level. This review paper explores the transformative impact of AI technologies on POC biosensing,
[...] Read more.
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into point-of-care (POC) biosensing has the potential to revolutionize diagnostic methodologies by offering rapid, accurate, and accessible health assessment directly at the patient level. This review paper explores the transformative impact of AI technologies on POC biosensing, emphasizing recent computational advancements, ongoing challenges, and future prospects in the field. We provide an overview of core biosensing technologies and their use at the POC, highlighting ongoing issues and challenges that may be solved with AI. We follow with an overview of AI methodologies that can be applied to biosensing, including machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and data processing frameworks that facilitate real-time analytical decision-making. We explore the applications of AI at each stage of the biosensor development process, highlighting the diverse opportunities beyond simple data analysis procedures. We include a thorough analysis of outstanding challenges in the field of AI-assisted biosensing, focusing on the technical and ethical challenges regarding the widespread adoption of these technologies, such as data security, algorithmic bias, and regulatory compliance. Through this review, we aim to emphasize the role of AI in advancing POC biosensing and inform researchers, clinicians, and policymakers about the potential of these technologies in reshaping global healthcare landscapes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 21st Century Point-of-Care, Near-Patient and Critical Care Testing)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
Understanding the Dynamics of Inflammatory Cytokines in Endodontic Diagnosis: A Systematic Review
by
Ignacio Barbero-Navarro, Maria Esther Irigoyen-Camacho, Marco Antonio Zepeda-Zepeda, David Ribas-Perez, Antonio Castaño-Seiquer and Iuliana Sofian-Pauliuc
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111099 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The primary aim of this literature review is to delineate the key inflammatory cytokines involved in the pathophysiology of pulp inflammation. By elucidating the roles of these cytokines, a deeper comprehension of the distinct stages of inflamed pulp can be attained, thereby facilitating
[...] Read more.
The primary aim of this literature review is to delineate the key inflammatory cytokines involved in the pathophysiology of pulp inflammation. By elucidating the roles of these cytokines, a deeper comprehension of the distinct stages of inflamed pulp can be attained, thereby facilitating more accurate diagnostic strategies in endodontics. The PRISMA statement and Cochrane handbook were used for the search strategy. The keywords were created based on the review question using the PICO framework. The relevant studies were meticulously assessed according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for this systematic review. A rigorous quality checklist was implemented to evaluate each included study, ensuring scrutiny for both quality and risk-of-bias assessments. The initial pilot search conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and WoS databases yielded 10 pertinent articles. Within these articles, multiple cytokines were identified and discussed as potential candidates for use in endodontic diagnosis, notably including IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-2. These cytokines have been highlighted due to their significant roles in the inflammatory processes associated with pulp pathology. The identification of specific inflammatory cytokines holds promise for enhancing endodontic diagnostic procedures and exploring diverse treatment modalities. However, the current body of research in this area remains limited. Further comprehensive studies are warranted to fully elucidate the potential of cytokines in refining diagnostic techniques in endodontics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
Open AccessArticle
Applying the German S2k-Guideline for Diagnosis and Treatment of Spondylodiscitis—A 5-Year Retrospective Evaluation of Patients without Neurological Symptoms
by
Moritz Kolster, Alexander Hönning, Wiebke Käckenmester, Janet Goy, Axel Ekkernkamp and Nikolai Spranger
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111098 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Spondylodiscitis is a rather rare condition with an annual incidence of 1–7 per 100,000. Thus, empirical data on the treatment of this disease are limited. In 2020, the first German guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of spondylodiscitis was published. In a 5-year
[...] Read more.
Spondylodiscitis is a rather rare condition with an annual incidence of 1–7 per 100,000. Thus, empirical data on the treatment of this disease are limited. In 2020, the first German guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of spondylodiscitis was published. In a 5-year retrospective analysis, we examined the patient collective, the current diagnosis and treatment strategy, and the effect of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) diagnostics on therapeutic decisions of a consecutive monocentric cohort of 66 patients without neurological symptoms. The majority of the patients were male (55%) with a mean age of 74 years. Non-operative therapy was found to be associated with short-term treatment success in 54 (82%) of the patients. In 12 patients, who underwent surgical therapy, MRI diagnostics and clinical findings were equally important for the decision to perform a surgery. Patients treated operatively stayed for an average of 33.6 (±12.9) days in the hospital and thus significantly longer than non-operatively treated patients with 22.2 (±8.0) days. The in-house standard of care did not essentially deviate from the guideline’s recommendations. Future research should address early detection of the need for surgical therapy, and immediate anti-infective treatment appropriate to the detected pathogen.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Dry Eye Treatment with Sodium Hyaluronate- and Dexpanthenol-Containing Eye Drops on Ocular Surface Improvement after Cataract Surgery
by
Maximilian K. Köppe, Mustafa K. Hallak, Annette L. Stengele, Ramin Khoramnia and Gerd U. Auffarth
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111097 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Background: To clinically evaluate how dry eye symptoms in preoperatively diagnosed dry eye patients change with the use of sodium hyaluronate- and dexpanthenol-containing eye drops (HYLO CARE (HC), URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, Saarbruecken, Germany) after cataract surgery. The aim of the study was not
[...] Read more.
Background: To clinically evaluate how dry eye symptoms in preoperatively diagnosed dry eye patients change with the use of sodium hyaluronate- and dexpanthenol-containing eye drops (HYLO CARE (HC), URSAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, Saarbruecken, Germany) after cataract surgery. The aim of the study was not to compare different eye drops but to implement standard treatment in patients with dry eye undergoing cataract surgery. The impact of treatment was evaluated using Symptom Assessment Tools for Dry Eye. Methods: In this prospective, single-center, open-label clinical trial, 49 patients undergoing cataract surgery were included who showed signs and symptoms of dry eye disease assessed by the Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye (Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)) questionnaire, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), and fluorescein tear break-up Time (TBUT). Patients were instructed to apply HC three to four times a day for 5 weeks in the operated eye in addition to the standard postoperative topical anti-inflammatory regimen. The primary endpoint was the change in TBUT. Secondary endpoints were the assessment of the subjective symptoms (VAS), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and slit-lamp examination including the corneal staining score, Schirmer test, and intraocular pressure. Results: At 5 weeks after operation, the mean TBUT increased from 6.42 ± 1.57 s (s) to 7.81 ± 1.83 s in the per-protocol (PP) population (p > 0.001) and from 6.33 ± 1.64 s to 7.71 ± 2.05 s in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant decrease in all scores (p < 0.05) from the VAS questionnaire except for the tearing score (p = 0.062) at 5 weeks after operation. The mean total corneal staining score also decreased statistically significantly from 8.85 ± 2.49 before operation to 5.61 ± 3.37 at 5 weeks after operation on a 15-point scale. Conclusions: Controlled standardized dry eye treatment (with HC) improved tear film stability, ocular surface defects, and subjective symptoms of dry eye disease in patients 5 weeks after undergoing cataract surgery. Both the patient and physician assessments indicated high efficacy, tolerability, and a reliable safety profile, as indicated by the low number of at least possibly related adverse events (AE), suggesting its beneficial role in the postoperative management of the ocular surface (OS) in patients with dry eye symptoms prior to and after cataract surgery.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Portuguese Version of the SARC-F in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
by
Margarida Isabel Boteta-Gomes, Agustín Aibar-Almazán, Fidel Hita-Contreras, Nuno Eduardo Marques de Loureiro and Vânia Azevedo Ferreira Brandão-Loureiro
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1096; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111096 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: The goal of this study was to analyze the reliability and validity of the Portuguese version of the SARC-F in older adults. (2) Methods: A total of 100 participants (77.1 ± 7.36 years, 73% women) were included in the study. In
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: The goal of this study was to analyze the reliability and validity of the Portuguese version of the SARC-F in older adults. (2) Methods: A total of 100 participants (77.1 ± 7.36 years, 73% women) were included in the study. In a first phase, the Portuguese SARC-F was adapted following the standardized forward–backward translation procedure, and internal consistency as well as inter-rater and test–retest reliability of the Portuguese SARC-F were analyzed. Secondly, clinical validation was evaluated by comparing the SARC-F total score with five operational definitions of sarcopenia and with other sarcopenia-related measurements. Discriminant validity, with respect to low muscle mass and strength and physical function were analyzed. (3) Results: The Portuguese SAR-F showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.82), excellent inter-rater reliability (total score), and substantial to excellent test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.891 for the total score). Specificity ranged from 72.5% (FNIH) to 73.4 (IGWS), and negative predictive values went from 91.8% (EWGSOP1) to 97.3% (FNIH), but low sensitivity and positive predictive value were observed. The Portuguese SARC-F showed a moderate ability to discriminate people with low muscle strength (AUC = 0.78) and gait speed (AUC = 0.89). (4) Conclusions: The Portuguese SARC-F is a valid and reliable tool for ruling out sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults and can discriminate between people with low handgrip strength and gait speed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
Open AccessArticle
Challenges Regarding the Value of Routine Perioperative Transesophageal Echocardiography in Mitral Valve Surgery
by
Luminita Iliuta, Madalina-Elena Rac-Albu, Eugenia Panaitescu, Andreea Gabriella Andronesi, Horatiu Moldovan, Florentina Ligia Furtunescu, Alexandru Scafa-Udriște, Mihai Adrian Dobra, Cristina Mirela Dinescu, Gheorghe Dodu Petrescu and Marius Rac-Albu
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111095 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is considered an indispensable tool for perioperative evaluation in mitral valve (MV) surgery. TEE is routinely performed by anesthesiologists competent in TEE; however, in certain situations, the expertise of a senior cardiologist specializing in TEE is required,
[...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is considered an indispensable tool for perioperative evaluation in mitral valve (MV) surgery. TEE is routinely performed by anesthesiologists competent in TEE; however, in certain situations, the expertise of a senior cardiologist specializing in TEE is required, which incurs additional costs. The purpose of this study is to determine the indications for specialized perioperative TEE based on its utility and the correlation between intraoperative TEE diagnoses and surgical findings, compared with routine TEE performed by an anesthesiologist. Materials and Methods: We conducted a three-year prospective study involving 499 patients with MV disease undergoing cardiac surgery. Patients underwent intraoperative and early postoperative TEE and at least one other perioperative echocardiographic evaluation. A computer application was dedicated to calculating the utility of each type of specialized TEE indication depending on the type of MV disease and surgical intervention. Results: The indications for performing specialized perioperative TEE identified in our study can be categorized into three groups: standard, relative, and uncertain. Standard indications for specialized intraoperative TEE included establishing the mechanism and severity of MR (mitral regurgitation), guiding MV valvuloplasty, diagnosing associated valvular lesions post MVR (mitral valve replacement), routine evaluations in triple-valve replacements, and identifying the causes of acute, intraoperative, life-threatening hemodynamic dysfunction. Early postoperative specialized TEE in the intensive care unit (ICU) is indicated for the suspicion of pericardial or pleural effusions, establishing the etiology of acute hemodynamic dysfunction, and assessing the severity of residual MR post valvuloplasty. Conclusions: Perioperative TEE in MV surgery can generally be performed by a trained anesthesiologist for standard measurements and evaluations. In certain cases, however, a specialized TEE examination by a trained senior cardiologist is necessary, as it is indirectly associated with a decrease in postoperative complications and early postoperative mortality rates, as well as an improvement in immediate and long-term prognoses. Also, for standard indications, the correlation between surgical and TEE diagnoses was superior when specialized TEE was used.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Management of Cardiovascular Disease)
Open AccessArticle
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Analysis Reveals Metabolic Changes in Epithelial Glycosphingolipids and Establishes a Prognostic Risk Model for Pancreatic Cancer
by
Qinwen Ba, Xiong Wang, Hui Hu and Yanjun Lu
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111094 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Objective: Metabolic reprogramming serves as a distinctive feature of cancer, impacting proliferation and metastasis, with aberrant glycosphingolipid expression playing a crucial role in malignancy. Nevertheless, limited research has investigated the connection between glycosphingolipid metabolism and pancreatic cancer. Methods: This study utilized a single-cell
[...] Read more.
Objective: Metabolic reprogramming serves as a distinctive feature of cancer, impacting proliferation and metastasis, with aberrant glycosphingolipid expression playing a crucial role in malignancy. Nevertheless, limited research has investigated the connection between glycosphingolipid metabolism and pancreatic cancer. Methods: This study utilized a single-cell sequencing dataset to analyze the cell composition in pancreatic cancer tissues and quantified single-cell metabolism using a newly developed computational pipeline called scMetabolism. A gene signature developed from the differential expressed genes (DEGs), related to epithelial cell glycosphingolipid metabolism, was established to forecast patient survival, immune response, mutation status, and reaction to chemotherapy with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD). Results: The single-cell sequencing analysis revealed a significant increase in epithelial cell proportions in PAAD, with high glycosphingolipid metabolism occurring in the cancerous tissue. A six-gene signature prognostic model based on abnormal epithelial glycosphingolipid metabolism was created and confirmed using publicly available databases. Patients with PAAD were divided into high- and low-risk categories according to the median risk score, with those in the high-risk group demonstrating a more unfavorable survival outcome in all three cohorts, with higher rates of gene mutations (e.g., KRAS, CDKN2A), increased levels of immunosuppressive cells (macrophages, Th2 cells, regulatory T cells), and heightened sensitivity to Acetalax and Selumetinlb. Conclusions: Abnormal metabolism of glycosphingolipids in epithelial cells may promote the development of PAAD. A model utilizing a gene signature associated with epithelial glycosphingolipids metabolism has been established, serving as a valuable indicator for the prognostic stratification of patients with PAAD.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Classification of Diabetic Retinopathy Disease Levels by Extracting Spectral Features Using Wavelet CNN
by
Sumod Sundar, Sumathy Subramanian and Mufti Mahmud
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1093; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111093 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) arises from blood vessel damage and is a leading cause of blindness on a global scale. Clinical professionals rely on examining fundus images to diagnose the disease, but this process is frequently prone to errors and is tedious. The usage
[...] Read more.
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) arises from blood vessel damage and is a leading cause of blindness on a global scale. Clinical professionals rely on examining fundus images to diagnose the disease, but this process is frequently prone to errors and is tedious. The usage of computer-assisted techniques offers assistance to clinicians in detecting the severity levels of the disease. Experiments involving automated diagnosis employing convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have produced impressive outcomes in medical imaging. At the same time, retinal image grading for detecting DR severity levels has predominantly focused on spatial features. More spectral features must be explored for a more efficient performance of this task. Analysing spectral features plays a vital role in various tasks, including identifying specific objects or materials, anomaly detection, and differentiation between different classes or categories within an image. In this context, a model incorporating Wavelet CNN and Support Vector Machine has been introduced and assessed to classify clinically significant grades of DR from retinal fundus images. The experiments were conducted on the EyePACS dataset and the performance of the proposed model was evaluated on the following metrics: precision, recall, F1-score, accuracy, and AUC score. The results obtained demonstrate better performance compared to other state-of-the-art techniques.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics)
Open AccessCase Report
Fatal Outcome Due to Kounis Syndrome Following Fluorescein Retinal Angiography: A Case Report
by
Vincenzo Cianci, Claudia Pitrone, Daniela Sapienza, Alessandro Meduri, Antonio Ieni, Patrizia Gualniera, Alessio Asmundo and Cristina Mondello
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1092; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111092 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Kounis Syndrome (KS) is a clinical entity triggered by allergic or hypersensitivity reactions capable of inducing acute coronary events. Several causes can induce KS, including drugs and insect stings. Here, a rare case of post mortem assessment of fatal KS related to fluorescein
[...] Read more.
Kounis Syndrome (KS) is a clinical entity triggered by allergic or hypersensitivity reactions capable of inducing acute coronary events. Several causes can induce KS, including drugs and insect stings. Here, a rare case of post mortem assessment of fatal KS related to fluorescein retinal angiography has been reported. An 80-year-old man in follow-up for a retinal vein thrombosis underwent a retinal fluoroangiography. Approximately 30 min later, the patient complained of sweating and dizziness, and suddenly lost consciousness due to a cardiac arrest. Despite the immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation, he died. The autopsy revealed foamy yellowish edema in the respiratory tract and coronary atherosclerosis with eccentric plaques partially obstructing the lumen. The routine histology highlighted lung emphysema and myocyte break-up with foci of contraction band necrosis at the myocardial tissue. Biochemistry showed increased serum tryptase, troponin, and p-BNP. Activated and degranulated (tryptase) mast cells were detected, using immunohistochemistry, in the larynx, lungs, spleen, and heart. Acute myocardial ischemia due to allergic coronary vasospasm related to fluorescein hypersensitivity has been assessed as cause of death. KS-related deaths are considered rare events, and the post mortem assessment of KS quite difficult. The integration of several investigations (gross and microscopic examination, biochemistry, immunohistochemistry) can provide useful findings to support the diagnosis, helping to reduce the unrecognized cases as much as possible.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Shoulder Pathology
by
Cong Cheng, Xinzhi Liang, Dong Guo and Denghui Xie
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111091 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the science and engineering of creating intelligent machines for imitating and expanding human intelligence. Given the ongoing evolution of the multidisciplinary integration trend in modern medicine, numerous studies have investigated the power of AI to address orthopedic-specific problems.
[...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the science and engineering of creating intelligent machines for imitating and expanding human intelligence. Given the ongoing evolution of the multidisciplinary integration trend in modern medicine, numerous studies have investigated the power of AI to address orthopedic-specific problems. One particular area of investigation focuses on shoulder pathology, which is a range of disorders or abnormalities of the shoulder joint, causing pain, inflammation, stiffness, weakness, and reduced range of motion. There has not yet been a comprehensive review of the recent advancements in this field. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to evaluate current AI applications in shoulder pathology. This review mainly summarizes several crucial stages of the clinical practice, including predictive models and prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, and physical therapy. In addition, the challenges and future development of AI technology are also discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Orthopedic Surgery and Sport Medicine)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Diagnostics Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Algorithms, Diagnostics, Entropy, Information, J. Imaging
Application of Machine Learning in Molecular Imaging
Topic Editors: Allegra Conti, Nicola Toschi, Marianna Inglese, Andrea Duggento, Matthew Grech-Sollars, Serena Monti, Giancarlo Sportelli, Pietro CarraDeadline: 31 May 2024
Topic in
Biomedicines, Current Oncology, Diagnostics, Gastrointestinal Disorders, JCM
Advances in Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: From Physiological Mechanisms to Clinical Practice
Topic Editors: Davide Giuseppe Ribaldone, Gian Paolo CavigliaDeadline: 20 June 2024
Topic in
Biomolecules, Diagnostics, JCM, Metabolites, JPM, Nutrients
Metabolic Syndrome, Biomarkers and Lifestyles
Topic Editors: Sang Yeoup Lee, Young Hye ChoDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Cancers, Diagnostics, JCM, Current Oncology, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Biomedicines
Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases: Novel Strategies of Diagnosis and Treatments
Topic Editors: Alessandro Coppola, Damiano Caputo, Roberta Angelico, Domenech Asbun, Chiara MazzarelliDeadline: 20 July 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Diagnostics
Monitoring and Diagnosis of Patients during Rehabilitation Training
Guest Editor: Redha TaiarDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Diagnostics
Improvement of Diagnostic Sensitivity for Tumor Markers
Guest Editors: Jong-Han Lee, Jooyoung ChoDeadline: 16 June 2024
Special Issue in
Diagnostics
Advances in Retinopathy
Guest Editor: Seong Joon AhnDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Diagnostics
Artificial Intelligence in Ophthalmology
Guest Editor: Zhuoting ZhuDeadline: 15 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Diagnostics
Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Diagnostic Approaches to Gastrointestinal and Pancreatic Diseases
Collection Editors: Paolo Aseni, Ervin Toth