Browsing by Author "Oliveira, Manuela"
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- An overview of the recent advances in antimicrobial resistancePublication . Oliveira, Manuela; Antunes, Wilson; Mota, Salete; Carvalho, Áurea Madureira; Oliveira, Ricardo Jorge Dinis; Silva,Diana Dias daAntimicrobial resistance (AMR), frequently considered a major global public health threat, requires a comprehensive understanding of its emergence, mechanisms, advances, and implications. AMR’s epidemiological landscape is characterized by its widespread prevalence and constantly evolving patterns, with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) creating new challenges every day. The most common mechanisms underlying AMR (i.e., genetic mutations, horizontal gene transfer, and selective pressure) contribute to the emergence and dissemination of new resistant strains. Therefore, mitigation strategies (e.g., antibiotic stewardship programs—ASPs—and infection prevention and control strategies—IPCs) emphasize the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and surveillance. A One Health approach (i.e., the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health) highlights the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration and holistic strategies in combating AMR. Advancements in novel therapeutics (e.g., alternative antimicrobial agents and vaccines) offer promising avenues in addressing AMR challenges. Policy interventions at the international and national levels also promote ASPs aiming to regulate antimicrobial use. Despite all of the observed progress, AMR remains a pressing concern, demanding sustained efforts to address emerging threats and promote antimicrobial sustainability. Future research must prioritize innovative approaches and address the complex socioecological dynamics underlying AMR. This manuscript is a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals seeking to navigate the complex AMR landscape and develop effective strategies for its mitigation.
- Sequencing technologies in forensic microbiology: current trends and advancementsPublication . Oliveira, Manuela; Dias da Silva, Diana Cristina; Marszałek, Kamila; Kowalski, Michał; Frolova, Alina; Łabaj, Paweł P.; Branicki, Wojciech; Carvalho, Áurea Madureira; Silva, Diana Dias da; Oliveira, Ricardo Jorge DinisForensic microbiology is a subject of interest and research development across the forensic community. Studies of pathogen outbreaks, biocrime or bioterrorism attacks, and analyses of crime scenes fall within this field. Significant progress has been made in evolving DNA sequencing technologies in recent decades. These newly emerged transformative tools have become available to both biomedicine and forensics. Based on the published literature, this review provides an overview of the current trends and developments of NGS (next-generation sequencing) technologies applied to forensic microbiology. These new methods present numerous advantages over traditional sequencing technology and are useful in several practical applications within this forensic field. This article then examines the main challenges and limitations of this technology in forensics, providing a comprehensive review of NGS technology capabilities in expanding the precision and effectiveness of microbial forensic investigations—with the aim of inspiring scientists, forensic experts, lawyers, public health professionals, and policymakers alike to approach this newly powerful sequencing tool appropriately.