Saved Queries

by Flavia Bartoli, Annalaura Casanova Municchia, Marco Tescari, Ilaria Ciccone, Paolo Rosati, Alessandro Lazzara and Maria Catrambone

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8762; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158762 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

The frescoed Annunziata Oratory chapel in Riofreddo (Italy), a unique testimony to the pontificate of Martin V, sheds light on the trade routes of Ninfa in the first half of the 15th century. Despite having undergone several restorations in the past (the most recent in the 2010s), the Oratory presents serious conservation issues. At first glance, there are no evident signs of biological colonization; rather, the most obvious damage is attributed to detachments and saline efflorescence. Biological colonization at several points was identified using various diagnostic field and laboratory techniques such as ATPase point analysis, field stereoscopy in visible and UV light, culture-based and molecular approaches, Raman spectroscopy, and SEM analysis, biological colonization at several points was identified. The characterization of salt efflorescence was carried out using ion chromatography analysis. The presence of bacteria, fungi and algae, which are also linked to saline efflorescence, was observed. A clear correlation between the biological colonization and salt efflorescence composition was highlighted by our results, as well as the potential sources of microorganisms and salts via the capillary rise of groundwater. This early diagnostic approach regarding the presence of lithobionts and salt efflorescence demonstrates the complex interplay between environmental factors and microbial colonization, which can lead to biodeterioration processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biology to Cultural Heritage III)

19 pages, 258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Digital Change in Action: A Transferable Model for Teacher Competence Development

by Alberto A. Jiménez-Hidalgo, Linda Castañeda and María Dolores Lettelier

Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15081018 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

This article presents a case of strategic and participatory institutional innovation in higher education, focused on developing teacher digital competence (TDC) as a key enabler of sustainable digital transformation. In response to the post-pandemic challenges faced by the National University of Cuyo (UNCuyo), a large and multi-campus public university in Argentina, the European CUTE methodology was adapted and implemented to align professional development with institutional planning. Grounded in the DigCompEdu framework, this action-oriented process moved beyond individual initiatives to create a coordinated, multi-level strategy involving educators, department leaders, and university authorities. Through a research-based design that included context analysis, participatory diagnosis, and co-designed interventions, the project built a shared understanding of digital teaching needs and institutional readiness. The implementation highlights how locally adapted frameworks, collaborative structures, and iterative decision-making can drive meaningful change across a complex university system. This case contributes to the international conversation on how higher education institutions can operationalize innovation at scale by investing in teacher competence, inclusive processes, and strategic alignment. Lessons learned from this experience are relevant for universities seeking to build institutional capacity for digital transformation in diverse educational contexts with potential downstream benefits for student learning and inclusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Higher Education Development and Technological Innovation)

13 pages, 462 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychosocial Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Omanis with Multiple Sclerosis: Single Tertiary Center Experience

by Jihad Yaqoob Ali Al Kharbooshi, Abdullah Al-Asmi, Ronald Wesonga, Samir Al Adawi and Amal S. S. Al-Fahdi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(8), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22081236 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in Oman, necessitating targeted healthcare planning and patient support. This study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on MS management and disease course, incidence, and outcomes of COVID-19, psychosocial and mental health effects of the pandemic, and demographic and clinical predictors of the effects related to COVID-19 among Omani PwMS. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2021. Adult (18–60 years) Omani PwMS completed a structured interview along with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and World Health Organization Well-being Index (WHO-5). Clinical data on relapses and disease-modifying therapies and adherence were analyzed. The data was statistically analyzed. (3) Results: Of 104 PwMS (73.1% female), 22.1% contracted COVID-19, with fatigue being the most reported symptom (87%). Female sex (p = 0.042), younger age (18–34 vs. 35–45 years; p = 0.014), diagnosis of COVID-19 (p = 0.037), and low current mental well-being scores (p = 0.021) predicted greater COVID-19-related effects. (4) Conclusion: These findings highlight the need to study the mental resilience of this subgroup of PwMS and provide them with targeted support during crises. Full article

12 pages, 760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Congenital Portosystemic Shunt in Neonatal Hypergalactosemia Using Gal-1-P/Gal Ratio, Bile Acid, and Ammonia

by Sayaka Suzuki-Ajihara, Ikuma Musha, Masato Arao, Koki Mori, Shunsuke Fujibayashi, Ihiro Ryo, Tomotaka Kono, Asako Tajima, Hiroshi Mochizuki, Atsuko Imai-Okazaki, Ryuichiro Araki, Chikahiko Numakura and Akira Ohtake

Int. J. Neonatal Screen. 2025, 11(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijns11030061 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSSs) are often associated with life-threatening systemic complications, which may be detected by identifying hypergalactosemia in newborn screening (NBS). However, diagnosing CPSS at an early stage is not easy. The purpose of this study was to predict CPSS early using screening values and general blood tests. The medical records of 153 patients with hypergalactosemia who underwent NBS in Saitama Prefecture between 1 December 1997 and 31 October 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. We provided the final diagnosis of the analyzed patients. Of the 153 patients, 44 (29%) were in the CPSS group and 83 (54%) were in the transient galactosemia group. Using the initial screening items and the six blood test items, we attempted to extract a CPSS group from the transient galactosemia group. Finally, a model for CPSS prediction was established. From multiple logistic regression analysis, filtered blood galactose-1 phosphate/galactose, serum total bile acid, and ammonia were adopted as explanatory variables for the prediction model. If the cut-off value for predicted disease probability value (P) was >0.357, CPSS was identified with 86.4% sensitivity (95%CI 72.6–94.8%) and 81.9% specificity (95%CI 72.0–89.5%). This predictive model might allow prediction of CPSS and early intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Newborn Screening in Japan)

12 pages, 2150 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Survey on the Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii in Positive Human Patients from 2015 to 2024 in Sardinia, Italy

by Cinzia Santucciu, Maria Paola Giordo, Antonio Tanda, Giovanna Chessa, Matilde Senes, Gabriella Masu, Giovanna Masala and Valentina Chisu

Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080790 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Coxiella burnetii, the etiological agent of Q fever, is a globally distributed zoonotic pathogen affecting both animals and humans. Despite its known endemicity in various Mediterranean regions, data on human seroprevalence in Sardinia are still lacking. This study aimed to assess seroprevalence in patients and to analyze the annual positivity rate related to the serum samples collected in Sardinia over a ten-year period (2015–2024). For this purpose, a total of 1792 patients were involved in the survey, and 4310 serum samples were analyzed using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFI) to detect IgM and IgG antibodies against C. burnetii. The global seroprevalence rates relating to all the patients over a ten-year period were determined along with the annual positivity rate and trends from all sera. An overall seroprevalence of 27.0% and an average of annual positivity rate of 16.0% were determined, with the IFI detecting IgG antibodies in 15.2% of positive samples and IgM antibodies in 0.9%, suggesting significant prior exposure of the population evaluated. Annual positivity rates ranged from 24.8% in 2016 to 8.0% in 2020. These results confirmed the endemic circulation of C. burnetii in Sardinia and the ongoing risk of human exposure. A GIS-based map was built to evidence the spatial distribution of Q fever in Sardinia. Interestingly, areas with higher seroprevalence appear to coincide with the distribution of sheep and goat farms, indicating a link between livestock and human exposure. These findings confirm the circulation of C. burnetii in Sardinia and underscore the importance of epidemiological monitoring, public health interventions, and educational efforts in populations at increased risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)

18 pages, 5419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Surveillance and Whole Genomic Characterization of Bovine Rotavirus A G6P[1] Reveals Interspecies Reassortment with Human and Feline Strains in China

by Ahmed H. Ghonaim, Mingkai Lei, Yang Zeng, Qian Xu, Bo Hong, Dongfan Li, Zhengxin Yang, Jiaru Zhou, Changcheng Liu, Qigai He, Yufei Zhang and Wentao Li

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080742 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Group A rotavirus (RVA) is a leading causative agent of diarrhea in both young animals and humans. In China, multiple genotypes are commonly found within the bovine population. In this study, we investigated 1917 fecal samples from calves with diarrhea between 2022 and 2025, with 695 testing positive for RVA, yielding an overall detection rate of 36.25%. The highest positivity rate was observed in Hohhot (38.98%), and annual detection rates ranged from 26.75% in 2022 to 42.22% in 2025. A bovine rotavirus (BRV) strain, designated 0205HG, was successfully isolated from a fecal sample of a newborn calf. Its presence was confirmed through cytopathic effects (CPEs), the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), electron microscopy (EM), and high-throughput sequencing. Genomic characterization identified the strain as having the G6-P[¹]-I2-R2-C2-M2-A3-N2-T6-E2-H3 genotype constellation. The structural proteins VP2 and VP7, along with nonstructural genes NSP1–NSP4, shared high sequence identity with Chinese bovine strains, whereas VP1, VP4, and NSP5 clustered more closely with human rotaviruses, and VP3 was related to feline strains. These findings highlight the genetic diversity and interspecies reassortment of BRVs in China, underlining the importance of continued surveillance and evolutionary analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Infections in Wild and Domestic Animals)

18 pages, 1049 KiB

Open AccessReview

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Dentistry and Sleep Medicine: A Narrative Review of Sleep Apnea and Oral Health

by Ramona Cioboata, Mara Amalia Balteanu, Denisa Maria Mitroi, Oana Maria Catana, Maria-Loredana Tieranu, Silviu Gabriel Vlasceanu, Eugen Nicolae Tieranu, Viorel Biciusca and Adina Andreea Mirea

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5603; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155603 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a prevalent disorder with significant systemic and oral health consequences. This narrative review synthesizes the current knowledge on the interplay between dental health and sleep apnea, highlighting the expanding role of dentists in the screening, early detection, and management of OSAS. Validated questionnaires, anatomical assessments, and anthropometric measurements have enhanced dentists’ capacity for early screening. However, knowledge and training gaps remain, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Dentists are uniquely positioned to identify anatomical and oral risk factors, facilitate referrals for diagnosis, and provide therapeutic interventions such as oral appliance therapy. Interdisciplinary collaboration between dental and medical professionals is essential to improve early detection, treatment outcomes, and patient quality of life. Enhancing education, standardizing protocols, and integrating dentists into multidisciplinary care pathways are critical steps for advancing the management of sleep apnea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Otolaryngology)

14 pages, 3230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CFAP300 Loss-of-Function Mutations with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: Evidence from Ex Vivo and ALI Cultures

by Anna G. Demchenko, Tatiana A. Kyian, Elena I. Kondratyeva, Elizaveta E. Bragina, Oksana P. Ryzhkova, Roman V. Veiko, Aleksandra G. Nazarova, Vyacheslav B. Chernykh, Svetlana A. Smirnikhina and Sergey I. Kutsev

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157655 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a genetically heterogeneous disorder characterized by impaired mucociliary clearance due to defects in motile cilia. This study investigates the impact of loss-of-function mutations in the CFAP300 gene on the ciliary structure and function in three PCD patients. Using a multimodal approach, we integrated molecular genetic testing, transmission electron microscopy, the high-speed video microscopy assay and immunofluorescence staining to analyze ciliary motility and protein expression in both ex vivo and in vitro-obtained ciliary cells. Our results revealed that the pathogenic variant c.198_200delinsCC (p.Phe67ProfsTer10) in CFAP300 led to the absence of the functional CFAP300 protein, the complete loss of outer and inner dynein arms and immotile cilia. Air–liquid interface (ALI)-cultured cells from patients exhibited no ciliary beating, contrasting with healthy controls. Immunostaining confirmed the absence of CFAP300 in patient-derived cilia, underscoring its critical role in dynein arm assembly. These findings highlight the diagnostic utility of ALI cultures combined with functional and protein analyses for PCD, offering a clinically actionable framework that can be readily incorporated into standard diagnostic workflows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics for Respiratory Diseases)

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27 pages, 31042 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diagnostic System for Early In Situ Melanoma Detection Using Acoustic Microscopy and Infrared Spectroscopic Mapping Imaging

by Georgios th Karagiannis, Ioannis Grivas, Anastasia Tsingotjidou, Georgios Apostolidis, Eirini Tsardaka, Ioanna Dori, Kyriaki-Nefeli Poulatsidou, Ioannis Tsougos, Stefan Wesarg, Argyrios Doumas and Panagiotis Georgoulias

Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2599; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152599 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study proposes a novel diagnostic system for the early detection of cutaneous melanoma based on morphological and biochemical changes during tumor formation. The methods used in this system are acoustic microscopy and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The former identifies the anatomical parameters of the developing tumor, whilst the latter identifies its biochemical features, both at the micron scale. To implement this diagnostic method, an animal model that mimics human melanoma was developed. The results of this investigation show that using high-frequency (>20

MHz

) acoustic microscopy in conjunction with spectroscopic images provides useful information about distinct features of melanoma tumors’ 3D structures. The structures and cytoarchitecture of the tumors were assessed using conventional histology, and their malignant nature was confirmed using histological and immumohistochemical analysis. The proposed approach may provide an invaluable tool in diagnostic dermatology, as it is noninvasive and produces highly detailed and accurate data about the early appearance and development of melanoma tumors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Diagnostics and Optical Imaging Technologies in Cancer Research)

29 pages, 10437 KiB

Open AccessReview

Neuromorphic Photonic On-Chip Computing

by Sujal Gupta and Jolly Xavier

Chips 2025, 4(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/chips4030034 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Drawing inspiration from biological brains’ energy-efficient information-processing mechanisms, photonic integrated circuits (PICs) have facilitated the development of ultrafast artificial neural networks. This in turn is envisaged to offer potential solutions to the growing demand for artificial intelligence employing machine learning in various domains, from nonlinear optimization and telecommunication to medical diagnosis. In the meantime, silicon photonics has emerged as a mainstream technology for integrated chip-based applications. However, challenges still need to be addressed in scaling it further for broader applications due to the requirement of co-integration of electronic circuitry for control and calibration. Leveraging physics in algorithms and nanoscale materials holds promise for achieving low-power miniaturized chips capable of real-time inference and learning. Against this backdrop, we present the State of the Art in neuromorphic photonic computing, focusing primarily on architecture, weighting mechanisms, photonic neurons, and training, while giving an overall view of recent advancements, challenges, and prospects. We also emphasize and highlight the need for revolutionary hardware innovations to scale up neuromorphic systems while enhancing energy efficiency and performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silicon Photonic Integrated Circuits: Advancements and Challenges)

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11 pages, 227 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Antipsychotic Potential of Opioids: Rethinking Substance-Induced Psychosis and Treatment Stratification

by Angelo G. I. Maremmani, Filippo Della Rocca, Silvia Bacciardi, Manuel Glauco Carbone and Icro Maremmani

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5596; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155596 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Substance-induced psychosis is a recognized clinical entity, commonly linked to cannabinoids, stimulants, hallucinogens, alcohol, and polysubstance use. These agents may provoke transient or persistent psychotic symptoms during intoxication or withdrawal. Opioids, however, constitute a noteworthy exception: psychosis is rarely observed during opioid intoxication, and emerging data suggest that opioid agonists might even exert antipsychotic-like effects. This article examines the paradoxical interaction between opioids and psychosis, with attention to clinical reports of psychotic symptoms arising following abrupt discontinuation of methadone or buprenorphine. In numerous cases, symptoms resolved swiftly after reintroduction of the opioid agonist, implying a neuromodulatory role. Opioids, unlike other substances of abuse, seem to lack intrinsic psychotogenic effects and may influence dopaminergic activity via kappa-opioid receptor antagonism and endorphinergic mechanisms. This challenges standard models of substance-induced psychosis and calls for a refined understanding of opioid pharmacodynamics in psychiatric contexts. In psychotic presentations among polysubstance users who also use opioids, restoring opioid agonist therapy should be prioritized, with antipsychotics reserved as second-line options—preferably agents with favorable receptor profiles. Where opioids are not involved, antipsychotics remain first-line, but should be applied judiciously, with efforts to taper when clinically appropriate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mental Health)

15 pages, 726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Risk Factors: Are Current Criteria Still Valid? A Retrospective, Monocenter Analysis

by Maike Kaufhold, Sepideh Asadi, Yalda Ghoreishi, Annika Brekner, Stephan Grabbe, Henner Stege and Hadrian Nassabi

Life 2025, 15(8), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15081257 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common skin cancer entity in Germany, following basal cell carcinoma. Its incidence has increased fourfold over the past three decades. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for achieving favorable outcomes. Our study aims to identify prognostic factors based on real-world data to improve follow-up protocols and raise clinical vigilance. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, monocenter analysis with a total of 124 patients with at least one cSCC thicker than 3 mm, treated at the Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Mainz, between 2010 and 2020. Tumor-specific criteria were correlated with patient-specific data, such as gender, age, immunosuppression, UV exposure and mortality. Results: A higher incidence of cSCC was found on UV-exposed skin (91.1%); however, tumors on non-UV-exposed skin were on average thicker (6.55 mm vs. 9.25 mm, p = 0.011) and associated with higher metastasis rates (10.6% vs. 63.3%, p < 0.001). Immunosuppression was strongly associated with a younger age at diagnosis (74 years vs. 81 years), a higher metastasis rate (29% vs. 10.8%, p = 0.021) and a worse 5Y-OS-rate (36.1% vs. 97.8%, p = 0.04). SLNB was performed in eight patients, with one positive SLN identified (12.5%). Local recurrence was observed in 18.1% (n = 21) of patients who did not experience SLNB, whereas no local recurrences (0%) were reported in patients with SLNB (p = 0.349). Discussion: Tumors on non-UV-exposed areas were thicker and more often metastatic, suggesting delayed detection or more aggressive tumor subtypes. Immunosuppression was associated with worse outcomes, underscoring the need for intensified follow-up. SLNB was rarely performed, and larger studies are needed to assess its role. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skin Diseases and Dermatologic Comorbidities)

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24 pages, 2572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

DIALOGUE: A Generative AI-Based Pre–Post Simulation Study to Enhance Diagnostic Communication in Medical Students Through Virtual Type 2 Diabetes Scenarios

by Ricardo Xopan Suárez-García, Quetzal Chavez-Castañeda, Rodrigo Orrico-Pérez, Sebastián Valencia-Marin, Ari Evelyn Castañeda-Ramírez, Efrén Quiñones-Lara, Claudio Adrián Ramos-Cortés, Areli Marlene Gaytán-Gómez, Jonathan Cortés-Rodríguez, Jazel Jarquín-Ramírez, Nallely Guadalupe Aguilar-Marchand, Graciela Valdés-Hernández, Tomás Eduardo Campos-Martínez, Alonso Vilches-Flores, Sonia Leon-Cabrera, Adolfo René Méndez-Cruz, Brenda Ofelia Jay-Jímenez and Héctor Iván Saldívar-Cerón

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(8), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15080152 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

DIALOGUE (DIagnostic AI Learning through Objective Guided User Experience) is a generative artificial intelligence (GenAI)-based training program designed to enhance diagnostic communication skills in medical students. In this single-arm pre–post study, we evaluated whether DIALOGUE could improve students’ ability to disclose a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) diagnosis with clarity, structure, and empathy. Thirty clinical-phase students completed two pre-test virtual encounters with an AI-simulated patient (ChatGPT, GPT-4o), scored by blinded raters using an eight-domain rubric. Participants then engaged in ten asynchronous GenAI scenarios with automated natural-language feedback. Seven days later, they completed two post-test consultations with human standardized patients, again evaluated with the same rubric. Mean total performance increased by 36.7 points (95% CI: 31.4–42.1; p < 0.001), and the proportion of high-performing students rose from 0% to 70%. Gains were significant across all domains, most notably in opening the encounter, closure, and diabetes specific explanation. Multiple regression showed that lower baseline empathy (β = −0.41, p = 0.005) and higher digital self-efficacy (β = 0.35, p = 0.016) independently predicted greater improvement; gender had only a marginal effect. Cluster analysis revealed three learner profiles, with the highest-gain group characterized by low empathy and high digital self-efficacy. Inter-rater reliability was excellent (ICC ≈ 0.90). These findings provide empirical evidence that GenAI-mediated training can meaningfully enhance diagnostic communication and may serve as a scalable, individualized adjunct to conventional medical education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Artificial Intelligence in Heath, Psychology and Education)

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11 pages, 225 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diagnostic Performance of CXR and CT in Pediatric Foreign Body Aspiration: A PICU-Based Bronchoscopy Study

by Mustafa Orhan Duyar, Mehmet Akif Dündar, Sinem Nisa Karadeli and Murat Doğan

Children 2025, 12(8), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12081035 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the clinical, radiological, and bronchoscopic features of pediatric patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with suspected foreign body aspiration (FBA), and to compare the diagnostic performance of chest radiography (CXR) and computed tomography (CT). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 71 children admitted to the PICU of Kayseri City Training and Research Hospital for suspected tracheobronchial FBA between January 2020 and December 2024. Demographic data, clinical presentations, imaging findings, bronchoscopic results, and outcomes were recorded. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of CXR and CT were calculated using bronchoscopy as the reference standard. Results: The mean age was 2.61 ± 3.59 years, and 66.1% were male. Organic materials were the most commonly aspirated objects, especially in children aged 0–3 years. The right main bronchus was the most frequently affected site. CXR had a sensitivity of 94.9% (95% CI: 83.1–98.6) and a specificity of 71.0% (95% CI: 53.4–83.9), while CT had a sensitivity of 63.2% (95% CI: 41.0–80.9) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI: 87.5–100.0). Bronchoscopy revealed no foreign body in 45.1% of cases. Most patients (94.4%) fully recovered; complications included two deaths, one lobectomy, and one case of hypoxic sequelae. Conclusion: FBA remains a critical pediatric emergency, particularly in young children. CXR is a highly sensitive and accessible screening tool, while CT offers high specificity but lower sensitivity. Prompt diagnosis and bronchoscopy by experienced teams ensure favorable outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Emergency Medicine & Intensive Care Medicine)

14 pages, 693 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dermoscopy of Melanoma According to Age Groups: A Retrospective Monocentric Study on 285 Patients

by Francesco Cavallo, Umberto Santaniello, Elisa Bin, Gabriele Roccuzzo, Silvia Giordano, Andrea Agostini, Martina Merli, Paolo Fava, Pietro Quaglino, Simone Ribero and Paolo Broganelli

Cancers 2025, 17(15), 2597; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17152597 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer with increasing incidence worldwide. Dermoscopy has revolutionized early melanoma detection, but most studies have focused on the general adult population. This study aims to analyze dermoscopic and histological differences in melanoma across age groups, evaluating whether specific patterns vary between younger and older patients. Methods: This retrospective study included 285 histopathological confirmed melanomas diagnosed at the Dermatology Clinic of the University of Turin between November 2021 and April 2024. Patients were stratified by age (<40 vs. ≥40 years), and statistical analyses (Chi-square, logistic regression) assessed differences in dermoscopic, histopathological, and anatomical parameters. Results: Younger patients showed a higher prevalence of growth-related features (e.g., pseudopods, OR = 5.43; asymmetric globules, OR = 2.33) and a thicker Breslow index (mean = 1.05 mm). Older patients exhibited more regression-associated signs (scar-like depigmentation, OR = 0.15; peppering, OR = 0.39), greater lesion size, and solar elastosis. Dermoscopic regression significantly predicted histological regression, with age-stratified analysis revealing peppering as a predictor in younger patients (p = 0.015) and scar-like depigmentation in older ones (p = 0.012). Conclusions: Melanoma exhibits distinct dermoscopic features depending on patient age, with growth-associated patterns being more common in younger individuals and regressive patterns predominating in older patients. These findings highlight the importance of age-specific diagnostic considerations in melanoma detection, potentially improving early diagnosis and patient outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dermoscopy in Skin Cancer)

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