Multiplex Target Decode
Decode multiplex target detections while preserving the supplied assay-control validity flag.
Description
Multiplex assays report several target detections alongside control information.
Multiplex assays report several target detections alongside control information. Target flags and control validity answer different questions and need to be read together.
The tool returns positiveTargets (positive targets); panelValid (panel valid); positiveCount (positive count). Input measurements and model parameters are supplied by the caller; the tool computes the stated summary rather than acquiring those measurements.
When to use Multiplex Target Decode
Use Multiplex Target Decode when you already have targetNames, positiveFlags, controlPassed and want positiveTargets, panelValid, positiveCount. This is useful for checking a supplied calculation, documenting a measurement convention, or comparing observations prepared on the same basis.
How to use Multiplex Target Decode and understand its results
- Enter targetNames, positiveFlags, controlPassed using the field table below. Match the units, ordering and data boundaries described in the calculation.
- Run the tool after checking the stated bounds and matching paired observations or categories. A malformed request gives a tool error rather than a usable measurement.
- Read positiveTargets, panelValid, positiveCount. Use the calculation and interpretation below to distinguish amounts, ratios, signs and decision flags where applicable.
- Review the supplied parameters and assumptions before using the result in a report or comparing it with another observation.
| Input field | Meaning | Value type and bounds | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| targetNames | Target names | list of string | Required |
| positiveFlags | Positive flags | list of number | Required |
| controlPassed | Control passed | boolean | Required |
Require distinct nonempty target names aligned with binary flags. Return the names flagged positive and carry the supplied control status into the output.
positive targets = targetNames where flag = 1; panelValid = controlPassed The symbols refer to the supplied quantities or generated values described above; unit conversions and comparison boundaries follow the stated implementation.
{
"input": {
"targetNames": [
"A",
"B",
"C"
],
"positiveFlags": [
1,
0,
1
],
"controlPassed": true
},
"output": {
"positiveTargets": [
"A",
"C"
],
"panelValid": true,
"positiveCount": 2
}
}Limitations and assumptions
Positive targets are still listed when controlPassed is false; users must review panel validity before interpreting them. The tool does not inspect raw assay signals.
Numerical inputs must be finite. The tool checks its declared input shape and calculation constraints; those checks do not verify the quality, calibration or representativeness of the supplied observations.
Alternative or Complementary methods
Western Band Pattern Match: Compare western-blot band observations with caller-defined required and forbidden assay patterns. Coinfection Species Count: Deduplicate reported parasite species and flag multiple-species detections.
Methodological background: DPDx: diagnostic procedures.1
References
-
DPDx: diagnostic procedures — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Similar or alternative tools
- Western Band Pattern Match
Compare western-blot band observations with caller-defined required and forbidden assay patterns.
- Coinfection Species Count
Deduplicate reported parasite species and flag multiple-species detections.