Diagnostic Approach Research Articles

Current and emerging diagnostic approaches to infectious diseases of cattle

Current and emerging diagnostic approaches to infectious diseases of cattle

Animal health and nutrition: metabolic disorders in cattle and improvement strategies

The health and productivity of cattle are significantly compromised by metabolic diseases on a global scale. These disorders disrupt normal metabolic processes, leading to substantial economic losses for the livestock industry. Metabolic disorders can arise from defective biochemical pathways, deficiencies in enzymes, coenzymes, or cofactors, and may be either inherited or acquired. Dairy cows are particularly susceptible during the transition period from late lactation to early management, facing conditions such as ketosis, milk fever, and hepatic lipidosis. This susceptibility is primarily due to reduced dry matter intake caused by fetal development and a decline in rumen capacity. The negative energy balance (NEB) during this phase, characterized by elevated blood concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) due to increased energy mobilization, is closely linked to the onset of these diseases. Providing high-energy-density diets during this period is critical to mitigating the effects of NEB. Metabolic disorders represent a major health challenge in cattle, adversely affecting animal welfare and agricultural output. A comprehensive understanding of their etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies is essential for effective prevention and treatment. Ongoing research and the adoption of preventive measures are vital to reducing the economic and health impacts of these diseases. Early diagnosis and proactive management strategies are crucial to mitigating their impact on dairy cattle health and productivity. Early identification enables timely interventions, preventing disease progression and reducing adverse effects on animal health. Proactive measures, such as optimizing nutritional programs, implementing precision farming technologies, and ensuring timely veterinary care, are essential for enhancing the overall wellbeing of dairy cows. This review serves as a valuable resource for veterinarians, researchers, and dairy farmers, offering in-depth insights into the etiology, clinical signs, diagnostics, and management of prevalent metabolic disorders in dairy cattle. By equipping stakeholders with this knowledge, it aims to support informed decision-making and improve herd management practices. The focus on early diagnosis and proactive strategies underscores the potential to significantly reduce the economic and health burdens imposed by metabolic diseases on the livestock industry.

Identification of Tumor-Specific Surface Proteins Enables Quantification of Extracellular Vesicle Subtypes for Early Detection of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, largely due to late-stage diagnosis. Reliable early detection methods are critically needed. PDAC-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) carry molecules that reflect their parental tumor cells and are detectable in early disease stages, offering a promising noninvasive diagnostic approach. Here, a streamlined PDAC EV Surface Protein Assay for quantifying PDAC EV subpopulations in 300-µL plasma through a two-step workflow is presented: i) click chemistry-mediated EV enrichment using EV Click Beads and trans-cyclooctene-grafted antibodies targeting three PDAC EV-specific surface proteins (MUC1, EGFR, and TROP2), and ii) quantification of enriched PDAC EVs through reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The three PDAC EV-specific surface proteins are identified using a bioinformatics framework and validated on PDAC cell lines and tissue microarrays. The resultant PDAC EV Score, derived from signals of the three PDAC EV subpopulations, demonstrates robust differentiation of PDAC patients from noncancer controls, with area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.94 in the training (n=124) and 0.93 in the validation (n=136) cohorts. This EV-based diagnostic approach successfully exploits PDAC EV subpopulations as novel biomarkers for PDAC early detection, translating PDAC surface proteins into an EV-based liquid biopsy platform.

Benign and Inflammatory Lesions of the Human Female Prostate: A Narrative Review of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches.

Skene's glands are recognised as the female equivalent of the male prostate gland. They can be affected by a variety of benign, inflammatory, or malignant conditions.This review critically analyses the current literature on the diagnosis and management of non-malignant lesions associated with Skene's gland.A comprehensive search of Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed/MEDLINE was conducted, focusing on non-malignant lesions of Skene's gland while excluding studies involving newborns and animals.Sixty relevant articles were identified, primarily comprising small case series. The benign lesions reviewed include cysts, hyperplasia, tubular-squamous vaginal polyps, leiomyomas, adenofibromas, and Skene's gland lithiasis. Inflammatory conditions such as abscesses and female prostatitis were also analysed.Physical examination, ultrasound, cystoscopy, MRI, and micro-ultrasound are essential diagnostic modalities for evaluating Skene's gland pathologies. Timely conservative or surgical interventions can effectively manage benign conditions, with treatment options typically guided by the severity of symptoms. This review underscores the necessity for further research into the biology of Skene's gland, particularly regarding potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications, and emphasizes the importance of a routine evaluation of Skene's gland in urological and gynaecological practice.

MiR-3605, miR-511 and miR-6788: Potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for squamous cell carcinoma of the lung

Squamous cell carcinoma of the lung (LUSC) is the second most common subtype of lung cancer and lung cancer is responsible for most cancer-related deaths. It can therefore be assumed that there is still a large gap in reducing a significant proportion of the global cancer burden. To close this gap, new methods are needed that provide better diagnostic and prognostic approaches for LUSC. Given the advantages of miRNA biomolecules as potential biomarkers, a systems biology approach was used in this study to define diagnostic and/or prognostic miRNA biomarker candidates for LUSC. Accordingly, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of LUSC were identified by processing RNA-Seq expression data. After analyzing the DEGs, a reporter feature algorithm was applied, which yielded reporter miRNAs that have significant potential as biomarker candidates. Using miRNA-Seq data from LUSC, the potential diagnostic and prognostic performance of reporter miRNAs was investigated. Using this approach, miR-3605 and miR-6788 were found to have diagnostic capabilities in LUSC, while miR-511, which was found in serum, had diagnostic and prognostic properties. Overall, this study offers precious data for further experimental and clinical efforts to diagnose and predict LUSC, and the presented diagnostic and/or prognostic miRNAs were associated with LUSC for the first time in this study.

Cutaneous Psoriasis: Clinical Aspects and Treatments.

To present the clinical manifestations of cutaneous psoriasis and apply evidence-supported pharmacologic and treatment strategies to promote disease remission and symptom relief. This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. After participating in this educational activity, the participant will: 1. Recognize the clinical manifestations of cutaneous psoriasis. 2. Explain diagnostic approaches to assess for cutaneous psoriasis. 3. Identify evidence-based management pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic options for the treatment of cutaneous psoriasis.

Type 1 diabetes risk factors, risk prediction and presymptomatic detection: Evidence and guidance for screening.

Type 1 diabetes is recognized as a chronic disease with a presymptomatic phase that does not require insulin therapy and a clinical phase where insulin treatment becomes necessary. The presymptomatic phase is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies targeting pancreatic islet beta cell antigens (islet autoantibodies). This phase is further classified into three stages: Stage 1, defined by normoglycaemia; Stage 2, characterized by dysglycaemia; and Stage 3, marked by hyperglycaemia, which typically presents clinically and necessitates insulin therapy. The prospect of therapies to delay the onset of clinical disease and insulin treatment has been a driver of research into the presymptomatic phase since the discovery of islet autoantibodies. With the recent approval of teplizumab as a therapy to delay disease progression, attention has increasingly focused on diagnosing individuals with Stage 1 and Stage 2 type 1 diabetes. However, diagnosing an asymptomatic condition that affects fewer than 1 in 200 individuals poses significant challenges. As we enter this new era of diagnosis, it is crucial to refine diagnostic approaches to ensure accuracy and effectiveness. This review summarizes current evidence and guidance while emphasizing the need for continued research alongside broader application of screening. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that affects approximately 0.5% of individuals. In this publication, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of strategies for identifying individuals in the pre-symptomatic, early stages of the disease. Early-stage type 1 diabetes can be detected by the presence of autoantibodies against specific proteins in the blood, signaling an ongoing disease process before clinical symptoms appear. Genetic factors also contribute to the development of these autoantibodies and the disease itself. The paper explores how these markers are used for early identification, emphasizing optimal screening ages and the role of confirmation tests in preventing misdiagnosis. A key consideration in early diagnosis is that disease progression varies-some individuals develop clinical diabetes rapidly, while others may take many years. The authors discuss additional tests that can help predict how soon a diagnosed individual may require insulin treatment. Finally, the paper highlights ongoing challenges in optimizing screening for wider application and the complexities of integrating research-based screening into routine clinical practice.

Cardiac resuscitation-associated lung edema (CRALE): evaluation of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches by an expert group of the German Cardiac Society

Sudden cardiac arrest (CA) is one of the leading causes of death in Europe, with over 70,000 cases annually in Germany. This study aims to evaluate diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for pulmonary edema in the post-resuscitation phase among intensive care physicians in Germany. Methods: The Working Group on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (AG42) of the German Cardiac Societyconducted a web-based survey among its members. The survey assessed diagnostic methods, therapeutic strategies, and risk factors related to pulmonary edema after resuscitation. Results: A total of 77 participants, with a mean age of 43.9 years (±9.6), took part in the survey. Among them, 54.5% had more than 10 years of clinical experience in acute and intensive care medicine. Most clinics have access to radiological and sonographic procedures as well as advanced hemodynamic monitoring. Diagnostic measures are predominantly performed immediately upon admission (49.4%) or within one hour (36.4%) and are typically monitored every eight hours (77.9%). The oxygenation index (paO2/FiO2) is used by 64.9% to assess the severity of pulmonary edema, followed by qualitative evaluation of chest X-rays (46.8%) and B-line scoring via lung ultrasound (33.8%). Therapeutic approaches focus on optimizing ventilation parameters, hemodynamic management, and the use of loop diuretics. To prevent pulmonary edema, participants favor a differentiated therapy involving volume and vasoactive agents, guided by invasive hemodynamicmeasurements.Conclusion: Pulmonary edema, alongside cardiac and cerebral dysfunctions, represents a significant challenge in managing post-resuscitation syndromes. The survey results reveal substantial variability in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Prospective studies are needed to better understand the complex pathological mechanisms and develop standardized protocols.

Initial development and psychometric properties of the Gambling Disorder Test in a nationally representative sample of adults.

Gambling disorder (GD) is an officially recognized mental health disorder. However, its conceptualization and diagnostic criteria have changed substantially over the years due to new clinical and epidemiological research supporting its reconceptualization from an impulse control disorder to an addictive disorder. The evolving nature of GD led to changes in its diagnostic approach within the 11th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11). However, no updated standardized psychometric test reflecting the latest developments exists. Therefore, the goal of the present study was to develop and report the psychometric properties of the Gambling Disorder Test (GDT), a brief and convenient four-item assessment instrument reflecting the current diagnostic criteria for GD in the ICD-11. A nationally representative sample of British adults was recruited (N = 1,028, Mage = 46.54 years, SDage = 15.71). The results showed a one-factor solution for the GDT and initial support for the scale's factorial validity, population cross-validity, criterion validity, concurrent validity, and reliability. Further gender-based measurement invariance was conducted, with the GDT exhibiting full scalar invariance and the results of latent mean comparison showing that males had significantly higher GD latent means compared to females (latent mean difference = -0.156; z = -3.844, p < .001, d = -.249). The self-reported prevalence of GD in the sample was 0.49%. The GDT is a promising brief assessment instrument based on the latest conceptualization and diagnostic criteria for GD that can be employed by clinicians and researchers alike. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

Sex differences in personality dysfunction in help-seeking adolescents

IntroductionUnderstanding sex differences is crucial for improving diagnosis and treatment for personality disorders (PDs). This study aimed to investigate sex differences in personality dysfunction as per Criterion A of the DSM-5 Alternative Model of Personality Disorders in help-seeking adolescents.MethodsThe sample comprised 706 adolescent patients (mean age = 15.4 years; 80.88% females). Personality dysfunction was assessed using the Semi-Structured Interview for Personality Functioning DSM-5 (STiP 5.1).ResultsFemales showed significantly higher overall personality dysfunction (Cohen’s d = 0.36) compared to males, particularly in the self-functioning domain (d = 0.50), including identity (d = 0.52) and self-direction (d = 0.38). Sex differences in interpersonal functioning, particularly empathy, were statistically not significant, but females demonstrated greater impairments in intimacy compared to males (d = 0.23). Age did not moderate sex differences in personality dysfunction. Higher levels of personality dysfunction were associated with an increased likelihood of an alcohol use disorder and more severe psychosocial impairments in females compared to males.DiscussionThe findings indicate that female adolescent patients exhibit greater impairments in personality functioning than males, with the difference being more pronounced in self-functioning than in interpersonal functioning. Results highlight the need for further investigation of the biological, psychological, and social factors driving these differences and call for the development of sex-sensitive diagnostic and interventional approaches to PDs.

A challenging diagnosis of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.

Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive cancer originating in the mesothelial serosal membranes, often associated with pleural mesothelioma. Its diagnosis is challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms, such as abdominal distension, pain, weight loss, and ascites, which overlap with other abdominal conditions. This case study details a 64-year-old male patient with a complex clinical presentation, initially misdiagnosed with seronegative celiac disease, before ultimately being diagnosed with MPM through video-laparoscopy. Despite extensive workup-including CT, PET scans, and colonoscopy-the diagnosis was delayed until peritoneal nodules were identified. MPM remains difficult to detect, often identified at advanced stages, with a poor prognosis and a median survival of less than 1year post-diagnosis. This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach, particularly in patients with nonspecific abdominal symptoms, to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for MPM.

A New Framework for Evaluating City–Industry Integration in New Urban Districts: The Case of Xixian New Area, China

Assessing city–industry integration levels is a critical diagnostic approach for promoting sustainable urban development. However, existing evaluation frameworks are mainly based on overlaying the level of development of individual systems and rely on statistical data, lacking analysis of spatial attributes. This study addresses these gaps by constructing an “industry–city–population” (I–C–P) evaluation system based on the interaction mechanisms among industry (I), city (C), and population (P), viewed through the lens of spatial correlation. Focusing on Xixian New Area and using 2022 sectional data, the study applies the CRITIC method to calculate the overall level of city–industry integration and the interaction levels across different dimensions in the district, and the Entropy Method (EM) is used to validate the results. The findings indicate the following: (1) The overall level of city–industry integration in Xixian New Area remains relatively low, with Fengdong and Fengxi significantly outperforming the other three new cities. (2) The interactions between “P–I” and “C–P” exhibit lower levels compared to the “I–C” interactions. Additionally, the spatial characteristics of the dimensional levels reveal both variability and consistency. The integrated indicator system, incorporating both spatial big data and traditional statistical data, significantly expands the data sources and dimensions for evaluating city–industry integration, which helps to provide a reference for the assessment of the potential for high-quality sustainable development in the new district and other regions.

Advances and challenges in gastric cancer testing: the role of biomarkers.

Advances in the identification of molecular biomarkers and the development of targeted therapies have enhanced the prognosis of patients with advanced gastric cancer. Several established biomarkers have been widely integrated into routine clinical diagnostics of gastric cancer to guide personalized treatment. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) was the first molecular biomarker to be used in gastric cancer with trastuzumab being the first approved targeted therapy for HER2-positive gastric cancer. Programmed death-ligand 1 positivity and microsatellite instability can guide the use of immunotherapies, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab. More recently, zolbetuximab has been approved for patients with claudin 18.2-positive diseases in some countries. More targeted therapies, including savolitinib for MET-positive patients, are currently under clinical investigation. However, the clinical application of these diagnostic approaches could be hampered by many existing challenges, including invasive and costly sampling methods, variability in immunohistochemistry interpretation, high costs and long turnaround times for next-generation sequencing, the absence of standardized and clinically validated diagnostic cut-off values for some biomarkers, and tumor heterogeneity. Novel testing and analysis techniques, such as artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis and multiplex immunohistochemistry, and emerging therapeutic strategies, including combination therapies that integrate immune checkpoint inhibitors with targeted therapies, offer potential solutions to some of these challenges. This article reviews recent progress in gastric cancer testing, outlines current challenges, and explores future directions for biomarker testing and targeted therapy for gastric cancer.

Artificial Intelligence-Based Virtual Assistant for the Diagnostic Approach of Chronic Ataxias.

Chronic ataxias, a complex group of over 300 diseases, pose significant diagnostic challenges because of their clinical and genetic heterogeneity. Here, we propose that artificial intelligence (AI) can aid in the identification and understanding of these disorders through the utilization of a smart virtual assistant. The aim is to develop and validate an AI-powered virtual assistant for diagnosing chronic ataxias. A non-commercial virtual assistant was developed using advanced algorithms, decision trees, and large language models. In the validation process, 453 clinical cases from the literature were selected from 151 causes of chronic ataxia. The diagnostic accuracy was compared with that of 21 neurologists specializing in movement disorders and GPT-4. Usability regarding time and number of questions needed were also evaluated. The virtual assistant accuracy was 90.9%, higher than neurologists (18.3%), and GPT-4 (19.4%). It also significantly outperformed in causes of ataxia distributed by age, inheritance, frequency, associated clinical manifestations, and treatment availability. Neurologists and GPT-4 mentioned 110 incorrect diagnoses, 83.6% of which were made by GPT-4, which also generated seven data hallucinations. The virtual assistant required an average of 14 questions and 1.5 minutes to generate a list of differential diagnoses, significantly faster than the neurologists (mean, 19.4 minutes). The virtual assistant proved to be accurate and easy fast-use for the diagnosis of chronic ataxias, potentially serving as a support tool in neurological consultation. This diagnostic approach could also be expanded to other neurological and non-neurological diseases. © 2025 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches in Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation.

Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) constitute an increasing group of inborn metabolic disorders, with more than 170 described diseases to date. A disturbed glycosylation process characterizes them, with molecular defects localized in distinct cell compartments. In CDG, N-glycosylation, O-glycosylation, glycosylation of lipids (including phosphatidylinositol) as well as the glycosaminoglycan synthesis can be affected. Owing to the importance of glycosylation for the function of concerned proteins and lipids, glycosylation defects have diverse clinical consequences. CDG affected individuals often present with a non-specific multivisceral syndrome including neurological involvement, intellectual disability, dysmorphia, and hepatopathy. As CDG are rare diseases frequently lacking distinctive symptoms, biochemical and genetic testing bear important and complementary diagnostic roles.After an introduction on glycosylation and CDG, we review current biomarkers and analytical techniques in the field. Furthermore, we illustrate their interests in the follow-up of proven therapeutic approaches including D-mannose in MPI-CDG, D-galactose in PGM1-CDG, and manganese (MnSO4) in TMEM165-CDG.

A rolling circle mediated exponential amplification reaction with suppressed nonspecific amplification to detect pathogen RNA with high sensitivity.

Respiratory infections caused by pathogens such as influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 seriously threaten human life and health. RNA has been widely recognized as an important biomarker for diagnosing these pathogens, creating a growing need for rapid and accurate RNA detection methods. Isothermal nucleic acid amplification has emerged as a promising molecular diagnostics approach. Exponential amplification reactions (EXPAR) is a commonly used RNA detection method, known for its simplicity and rapid signal amplification in a short time. However, traditional EXPAR is only suitable for detecting short-sequence RNA, and 3'-end template interactions in the amplification reaction can lead to nonspecific amplification, which greatly limits its practical application. Here, we established an isothermal amplification method comprising a three-way junction (3-WJ) structure and dumbbell probe (DP) for the rapid and sensitive detection of pathogen RNA in a single closed tube, termed the rolling circle mediated exponential amplification reaction (RC-EXPAR). The introduction of the DP eliminated the 3'-end of the template, suppressing nonspecific amplification caused by the 3'-end extension in the reaction. Although the trigger generation by the 3-WJ structure is a linear amplification process, the RC-EXPAR amplifies the triggers exponentially to enhance signal output further and increase sensitivity. The proposed method showed a high sensitivity with a limit of detection (LOD) of 103 copies/mL. Moreover, RC-EXPAR demonstrated strong anti-interference capability in complex biological matrices. This work opens up new ideas for suppressing nonspecific amplification and provides a promising signal amplification strategy for rapid, sensitive, and specific pathogen detection in clinical.

Are there any differences between adult-onset cerebellitis and childhood cerebellitis?

Acute cerebellitis (AC), a rare inflammatory disorder of the cerebellum, is primarily associated with infectious, post-infectious, and autoimmune mechanisms. It predominantly affects children and typically follows a benign and self-limited course. This study, the largest case series to date focusing exclusively on adult-onset AC, reveals distinct clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics compared to the pediatric AC literature. We included 16 patients (mean age of 39.5years) who met the clinico-radiological features of AC. The causes of AC in this study were varied, encompassing paraneoplastic, post-infectious, infectious, anti-GAD-related, and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis etiologies. The most common symptoms were altered consciousness, dysarthria, ataxia, vomiting, fever, headache and seizures. All cases showed bilateral cerebellar involvement on MRI, predominantly affecting the cerebellar cortex. Hemorrhage within cerebellar lesions was observed in three patients. Outcomes were often severe, with 56% of patients experiencing severe sequelae and 31% mortality. This study highlights the distinct characteristics and potential for severe outcomes in adult AC, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach.

Environmental Pollutants, Occupational Exposures, and Liver Disease.

Environmental pollutants significantly impact liver disease development, progression, and outcomes. This review examines the complex relationship between environmental exposures and liver pathology, from malignant conditions like hepatocellular carcinoma to steatotic and cholestatic liver diseases. Key environmental factors include air pollutants, volatile organic compounds, persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These compounds can act through multiple mechanisms, including endocrine disruption, metabolic perturbation, oxidative stress, and direct hepatotoxicity. The impact of these exposures is often modified by factors such as sex, diet, and genetic predisposition. Recent research has revealed that even low-level exposures to certain chemicals can significantly affect liver health, particularly when combined with other risk factors. The emergence of exposomics as a research tool promises to enhance our understanding of how environmental factors influence liver disease. Importantly, exposure effects can vary by demographic and socioeconomic factors, highlighting environmental justice concerns. Implementation of this knowledge in clinical practice requires new diagnostic approaches, healthcare system adaptations, and increased awareness among medical professionals. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive examination of current evidence linking environmental exposures to liver disease and discusses implications for clinical practice and public health policy.

Clinical value of blood routine and tumor markers in differentiating hepatocellular carcinoma from intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) are the 2 major types of primary liver cancer, differing significantly in etiology, treatment strategies, and prognosis despite their common hepatic origin. Accurate preoperative differentiation between HCC and ICC is critical for optimizing treatment and improving patient outcomes. However, traditional diagnostic methods, including imaging and tumor markers, have limitations in sensitivity and specificity, necessitating the exploration of novel diagnostic approaches. This retrospective study included 165 patients diagnosed with HCC (n = 87) or ICC (n = 78) between January 2023 and January 2024. Preoperative data, including routine blood tests and tumor markers (e.g., alpha-fetoprotein [AFP], carbohydrate antigen 19-9 [CA19-9], carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA]), were collected. Blood routine parameters, such as white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent diagnostic factors. A predictive model was constructed and its diagnostic performance evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves. Subgroup analyses were performed to investigate diagnostic efficiency in different patient subsets. AFP and CA19-9 emerged as key tumor markers for differentiating HCC and ICC. AFP levels were significantly higher in HCC patients (P < .001), whereas CA19-9 levels were markedly elevated in ICC patients (P < .001). Among blood routine parameters, elevated WBC (P < .001), monocyte count (P = .005), NLR (P = .02), and monocyte ratio (P = .012) were associated with an increased risk of ICC, while a higher LMR was protective against ICC (P = .006). The multivariate logistic regression model demonstrated robust diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.791. Subgroup analyses revealed superior diagnostic performance at higher levels of AFP (≥200 ng/mL, AUC = 0.90) and CA19-9 (≥37 U/mL, AUC = 0.91). The combination of blood routine parameters and tumor markers demonstrates high diagnostic efficacy in preoperatively differentiating HCC and ICC. Key markers, including AFP and CA19-9, along with inflammatory and immune-related blood parameters such as WBC, NLR, and LMR, significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy. This study provides valuable insights into refining diagnostic strategies and supports individualized treatment planning for patients with primary liver cancer.

LncRNA MALAT1's role in the development of retinopathy: A review.

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) and retinopathy are 2 distinct yet interconnected areas of research in the field of ocular studies. MALAT1, with its diverse biological functions, has been extensively studied and demonstrated to play a role in various diseases, including ocular pathologies. Its involvement in alternative splicing regulation, transcriptional control, and the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network suggests its potential implication in retinopathy. Retinopathy refers to a group of disorders that affect the retina, leading to vision impairment and, in severe cases, even blindness. These conditions include diabetic retinopathy, retinoblastoma, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, and retinal neurodegeneration. The understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of retinopathy, along with the potential involvement of MALAT1, can provide valuable insights for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Retinopathy, characterized by various manifestations and underlying mechanisms, presents a significant challenge in the field of ophthalmology. As a complex disease, its pathogenesis involves multifactorial factors, including angiogenic dysregulation, inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and cellular signaling abnormalities. The emerging role of long noncoding RNA MALAT1 in retinopathy has attracted considerable attention. MALAT1 has been found to participate in multiple cellular processes, including alternative splicing regulation and transcriptional control. Additionally, the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network involving MALAT1 indicates its potential relevance as a regulator in retinopathy. Further investigations into the specific mechanisms underlying MALAT1's involvement in retinopathy pathogenesis may provide valuable insights into the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for managing retinal disorders.