bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P1213 The role of stress in dietary choices and disease outcomes in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Acampora M , Usta D , Costa Pereira A , Savarese M , Avedano L , De Rocchis M S , Leone S , Graffigna G
Published: January 2025

Background

The role of nutrition in managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is widely discussed, yet its interplay with stress-related factors influencing eating behaviour and disease management remains complex. Stress-induced eating behaviours, such as increased comfort foods consumption, may exacerbate symptoms and hinder effective disease management, impacting clinical outcomes and quality of life. This study, part of EU-funded MiGut-Health project, assesses the relationship between stress, eating behaviours, and disease management in IBD patients, focusing on comfort food consumption, psychological food involvement, and disease-related factors, including health engagement, stool consistency, and disease activity.

Methods

In August 2024, a cross-sectional study was conducted applying an online survey to a cohort of 2,276 adult IBD patients across Italy. The survey included validated scales: the Patient Health Engagement Scale (PHE-s), Psychological Food Involvement Scale (PFIS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Salzburg Stress Eating Scale, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Symptom Inventory (IBDSI-SF), and Bristol Stool Chart, along with items on Comfort Food Consumption. Data analysis involved descriptive analysis and independent samples t-test.

Results

Participants reported moderate perceived stress (mean=17.3 ± 7.75), with 35.5% indicating increased comfort food consumption when stressed, primarily chocolate (23.2%), sweet snacks (22.0%), and savoury snacks (21.0%). Individuals with high stress (32.6%) were more likely to consume fast food (mean=0.4 ± 0.66, p < 0.001) and sweetened beverages (mean=0.7 ± 1.21, p < 0.001). They placed greater importance on comfort food groups for managing stress (mean=2.7 ± 1.17 vs 2.5 ± 1.14, p < 0.001). Disease activity was notably higher in the high-stress group (mean=29.2 ± 15.61 vs. 16.8 ± 11.66, p < 0.001), alongside looser stool consistency (mean=4.8 ± 1.59 vs. 4.3 ± 1.45, p < 0.001). High-stress patients also demonstrated lower health engagement (mean=2.1 ± 0.68 vs. 2.6 ± 0.74, p < 0.001) and reduced psychological food involvement (mean=4.1 ± 1.17 vs. 4.4 ± 1.09, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Stress significantly shapes eating behaviours and disease management in IBD patients. High stress correlates with increased comfort foods consumption, reduced psychological food involvement, and poorer disease outcomes, including heightened symptoms, looser stool consistency, and diminished health engagement. These findings highlight the complex relationship between stress and disease-related factors, suggesting the need for integrated interventions targeting stress management to improve dietary behaviours and overall disease management in IBD.
P1331 Differences in gut microbiome comparing lifestyle habits between ulcerative colitis patients and healthy controls during COVID-19
Authors: Straume Z , Krumina N , Elbere I , Rozenberga M , Blomniece L , Zidkova L , Rudzite D , Erts R , Megnis K , Krumina A
Published: January 2025

Background

Tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption are leading causes of the global burden of disease and are major contributors to premature mortality. The risk factors like cigarette smoking, and diet preferences have been identified responsible for ulcerative colitis patient’s microbiome alteration.

Methods

In 12-month time (June 2021 to June 2021) 79 ulcerative colitis (UC) outpatients from Riga East Clinical University Hospital and 78 healthy controls were included in a Cross-sectional study. All patients were divided into groups according to medically proven data about COVID-19 status (COVID-19 pos vs. COVID-19 neg) within the last 6 months. Information about smoking, alcohol intake and sports activities, as well as faecal samples, were collected. For taxonomical classifying of the gut microbiome shotgun-metagenome data, MetaPhlAn v.2.6.0 tool was used. In further analysis gut microbiome (mostly bacteria phyla) and related data were analysed with SPSS 20.0.

Results

Of 157 participants, 79 patients with ulcerative colitis and 78 healthy controls. In the UC group were 35 (44.3%) females and 44 (55.7%) males, in controls 63 (80.8%) females and 15 (19.2%) males, p<0.001 with a slight age difference in the UC group 38.3 (8.53) vs. 44.4 (12.8),p=0.001.People in the UC group were slightly taller (169 (8.08) vs. 174 (9.60), p=0.003) and weighed more (69.3 (13.0) vs. 75.5 (14.7), p=0.006). More smokers were reported in the UC group (17 (21.5%) vs. 6 (7.69%) in the control group, p=0.026. UC group respondents admitted smoking cessation in the past more than controls (48 (60.8%) vs.30 (38.5%), p=0.008),median pack years 9.89 (12.7) vs. 2.85 (4.87),p<0.001). In the UC group, smokers had less Euryarchaeota than no smokers (M=0.3;SD=0.7 vs. M=1.0;SD=2.3, p=0.029). Also, there were no statistically significant differences regarding overall alcohol use and gut microbiome. Sports activities were less frequent in the UC group (35 (44.3%) vs. 57 (73.1%), p<0.001). The most common sports activities were gym (10 (12.7%) vs. 21 (27.3%), p=0.037), stretching and yoga (8 (10.1%) vs. 18 (23.1%), p=0.04) and running (11(14.1%) vs. 13 (16.7%),p=0.8). Cycling was equally frequent in both groups 9 (11.5%), p>0.05. There were no statistically significant differences between activity in sports and gut microbiota, though, cyclers had less Verrucomicrobia (M=0.58; SD=1.02 vs. M=1.46; SD=4.07, p=0.04).

Conclusion

More smokers were found in UC group. There were no differences regarding overall alcohol use and gut microbiome. There were no differences between sports and gut microbiota, except cyclers had less Verrucomicrobia.
P1338 Defining the preclinical changes of microbial composition, gut barrier function, and subclinical inflammatory markers associated with future risk of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Bharali B , Li Q , Xue M , Guttman D , Madsen K , Griffiths A , Panaccione R , Verdu E F , Moayyedi P , Turpin W , Croitou K , Lee Dr. S H ,   The GEM Project Research Consortium
Published: January 2025

Background

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the rectum and colon with a complex aetiology involving genetic, immune, and microbial factors. Less is known about the pre-disease phase of UC compared to Crohn’s disease (CD). Investigating the preclinical biomarkers that precede the development of UC may provide insights into its pathogenesis.

Methods

Participants were recruited as part of the CCC-GEM project, a prospective cohort study following healthy first-degree relatives (FDR) of patients with CD. Baseline gut inflammation was assessed using faecal calprotectin (FCP), with a cut-off of 100ug/g, while baseline gut permeability was assessed by the fractional urinary excretion ratio of lactulose-to-mannitol (LMR). Baseline faecal microbiome composition was analyzed using 16s rRNA sequences, and functional pathways were inferred using PICRUSt2. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association of baseline variables with UC onset, adjusting for age, sex, and family clustering. Significance was determined using p-values and false discovery rate-adjusted q-values.

Results

Among 3,596 FDRs, 16 developed UC during a median follow-up of 6.88 years. FDRs with elevated baseline FCP had a 3.1-fold higher risk (p=0.02) of developing UC, while no significant association was observed between baseline LMR and UC onset.

The relative abundance of genus Bilophila (HR=0.33 per SD, q=0.010) and Bifidobacteria (HR=0.16, q=0.02) were associated with UC risk, but lost significance after adjusting for FCP. Interestingly, the relative abundances of genera Alistipes (HR=0.15, q=0.0007), Phascolarctobacterium (HR=0.08, q=0.027), Christensenellaceae R.7 group (HR=8.37, q=0.02) and Angelakisella (HR=5.28, q=0.004) remained significantly associated with risk of UC even after adjusting for FCP.

Thirty-seven pathways, predominantly involved in specific metabolic processes such as carbohydrates, lipid, or folate metabolism, were also associated with UC risk. Fur example, pathways involving hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HR=0.44, q=0.03), choline monooxygenase (HR=0.22, q=0.005), and 3-phenylpropionate/trans-cinnamate dioxygenase (HR=4.70, q=0.001) remained significantly associated with UC risk even after adjusting for FCP.

Conclusion

We report that elevated FCP, but not LMR, was significantly associated with future risk of UC. Furthermore, specific microbial taxa and functional pathways exhibited strong associations with future risk of UC, independent of FCP. These microbial signatures were distinct from the previously reported pre-CD microbial changes, suggesting a unique gut microbial contribution to the development of UC.

References

Raygoza Garay JA, Turpin W, Lee S-H, et al. Gastroenterology 2023;165:670–681.
P1346 Response to biologic treatment in patients with Crohn’s disease is associated with consistent decreased antibody response to bacterial flagellins
Authors: Leibovitzh H , Krongauz D , Schlesinger Y , Hirsch A , Ron Y , Thurm T , Godneva A , Weinberger A , Cohen N A , Segal E , Maharshak N
Published: January 2025

Background

Patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) exhibit over-representation of antibody-bound peptides derived from bacterial flagellins. Using longitudinal measurements prior to and during treatment, we aimed to assess serum antibody response to bacterial flagellins and related fecal microbial alterations associated with response to treatment.

Methods

Thirty-nine patients with active CD (Harvey-Bradshaw Index [HBI]>4 or fecal calprotectin [FCP]>150μg/g) commencing biologic treatment (Anti-TNF 56.4%, Ustekinumab 20.5%, Vedolizumab 23.1%) between 1/2018 to 6/2021 in a single tertiary center were included in this study. Serum and stool samples were collected at baseline and during treatment at weeks 14, 22 and 52 (30, 25 and 14 patients with pre-and post- treatment samples, respectively). Remission was defined as HBI≤ 4 and FCP≤ 150. Serum samples were analyzed using high-throughput phage-display immunoprecipitation sequencing (PhIP-Seq) to assess antibody response to microbial flagellins. Fecal samples were assessed by DNA shotgun metagenomic sequencing to obtain microbial compositional data. PhIP-Seq data was analyzed using the Wilcox-test on the mean fold change and microbial data was analyzed using a multivariable linear regression mixed effects model.

Results

Median age of the cohort was 33.0 [IQR 27.0;46.5] and 19 (48.7%) were females (Table 1). Antibody response against bacterial flagellins was significantly attenuated in patients achieving remission vs. non-remission at all time points (p<0.05) (Figure 1). Remission was associated with change in the abundances of several individual species compared to baseline, including decreased abundance of Ruminococcus_A.sp003011855, Ruminococcus_B gnavus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Veillonella parvula_A and increased abundance of Roseburia intestinalis, whereas non-remission was associated with increased abundance of Sutterella wadsworthensis (q<0.05 or consistent direction of effect at all different time points). Moreover, most of these taxa belonged to the Lachnospiraceae and Enterobacteriaceae family and Roseburia genera which are the target of anti-flagellin antibodies.

Conclusion

Response to biological treatment in patients with CD is associated with consistent decreased antibody response to bacterial flagellins and related fecal microbial alterations compared to non-responders. These findings support the role of anti-bacterial flagellins as a potential marker for treatment response and needs to be further validated in larger cohorts.
P1349 Fungal profile of the gut colon - a new tool in diagnostics of ulcerative colitis remission
Authors: Tarasova G , Zubova A
Published: January 2025

Background

Numerous studies show structural and quantitative changes in the bacterial microbiota of the colon in different phases of ulcerative colitis (UC) and its relationship with the pathogenesis and prognosis of the disease. However, in addition to bacterial community dysbiosis, patients with UC exhibit changes in the composition of the fungal microbiota, which allows it to be considered from the standpoint of a non-invasive method for predicting disease remission.

Methods

The study included 21 patients (ages from 20 to 41, 13 men and 8 women) in the relapse stage of UC - left-sided UC with mild to moderate activity (Truelov-Witts scale, Mayo index); and 20 patients (ages from 26 to 52, 10 men and 10 women) in the stage of clinical endoscopic remission. Gut microbiota was assessed by sequencing of the 18S ribosomal RNA.

Results

A logistic regression model was evaluated to predict UC remission. In cases of achieving clinical endoscopic remission of the disease, a statistically significant increase in the levels of Malassezia and Blastocystis genera and a decrease in Aspergillus were recorded. The results of the model evaluation are presented in Table 1.

The model is statistically significant according to the chi-square criterion (p=0.008), the Cox and Snell determination pseudo-coefficient is 0.449, Nagelkerk – 0.599. The sensitivity and specificity of the model are 0.8 (Fig. 1).

The indicators show that this model has sufficient predictive ability.

Conclusion

Analysis of the gut mycobiota profile in different phases of the course of UC allowed to determine a model for predicting remission - an increase in the levels of the Malassezia and Blastocystis genera and a decrease in the Aspergillus genus, which constitutes a new non-invasive method for monitoring the course of the disease.
N49 Sexual and reproductive health of Australian women who live with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: O'reilly K , Peters K , Holroyd E
Published: January 2025

Background

Robust research in the field of inflammatory bowel disease is readily available, however an exploration of gender issues which are specific for women who live with inflammatory bowel disease remain limited in the literature. Currently much of the literature regarding sexual health is limited to reproduction and sexual dysfunction and the broader impact that inflammatory bowel disease has on sexual wellbeing is not well understood. By exploring sexual and reproductive health issues for Australian women who live with inflammatory bowel disease, this research aims to draw attention to the current limitations within the literature and to stimulate discussion and inform future directions for research, policy, and practice.

Methods

An exploratory concurrent mixed methods study, using an online survey and qualitive interviews, was employed to develop an understanding of the sexual and reproductive health needs of Australian women who live with inflammatory bowel disease. The survey included questions specific to women’s physical and emotional health, their self-esteem, their satisfaction with life and women’s pregnancy related knowledge specific to inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally qualitative interviews allowed for further exploration of women’s experiences accessing health services and more detail regarding the challenges for them as women and the impact of inflammatory bowel disease on their identify. In keeping with feminist frameworks, qualitative data collection and analysis was informed by Anderson and Jack (1991) and Hesse-Biber (2014). This included the interviewer actively listening and encouraging women to talk about their day-to-day experiences and feelings which were related to their sexual and reproductive health and how this may have been impacted by their diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease.

Results

Australian women participated in conversational interviews and completed an online survey. Preliminary themes which have emerged from this research include Sexuality, Sexual and reproductive health; Feeling vulnerable and dismissed.

Conclusion

Research which focuses specifically on the sexual health experience of women living with inflammatory bowel disease is important to inform acute and chronic models of care which are relevant across women’s lifespan. Findings may help to inform nursing curricula, primary healthcare service delivery and sexual and reproductive health services policy development.

References

Anderson, K., & Jack, D. (1991). Learning to listen: Interview techniques and analyses. In S. Berger-Gluck, & D. Patai (Eds.), Women’s words: The feminist practice of oral history (pp.11 – 26). Routledge Publications.

Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2016). Thematic Analysis. In E. Lyons & A. Coyle (Eds.), Analysing qualitative data in Psychology (2nd ed., pp.84 – 103). SAGE publications.

Hesse- Biber, S. (2014). Feminist approaches to in-depth interviewing. In S. Hesse- Biber (Ed.), Feminist Research Practice (pp. 182 – 232). SAGE publications.
Citizen science contributions to the investigation of extralimital tropical and subtropical marine fish distribution via Gulf Stream transport
Authors: O’Neill Michael E , Bluhm Samantha C , Nichols Owen C
Published: January 2025

The Gulf Stream exerts tremendous influence over oceanographic conditions in the northwestern Atlantic as it transports tropical water to higher latitudes. While the meandering eddies and warm core rings of the Gulf Stream persist year-round, the seasonal warming of coastal waters in the northwestern Atlantic afford many young-of-year tropical and subtropical species temporary refuge through the summer and fall after Gulf Stream dispersal. Several aspects of this dispersal and its impact on coastal ecosystems are difficult to document. Due to the broad scale and intensive sampling effort required to survey these expatriated species, we used a citizen science platform to gather species observations. We analyzed over 1,200 reports of fish from 28 taxonomic families to describe extralimital geographic distributions, observation frequency, and phenological aspects of their dispersal. The influence of ecosystem dynamics and life stage-specific biological characteristics on the observed extralimital distributions of species is discussed. We found that citizen scientists gathered novel sightings relevant to coastal marine fish ecology through a variety of coastal activities, and complimentary to established research methods. These findings support incorporating crowd-sourced data to improve our understanding of marine species assemblages of the northwestern Atlantic.
Influence of birthplace and age at migration on cognitive aging among Hispanic/Latino populations in the U.S.: Study of Latinos-Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging (SOL-INCA)
Authors: Liu Mao-Mei , Stickel Ariana M , Tarraf Wassim , Li Lehan , Perreira Krista M , Riosmena Fernando , Lamar Melissa , Testai Fernando D , Gallo Linda C , Garcia Tanya P , Llibre-Guerra Jorge J , Isasi Carmen R , Lipton Richard B , Daviglus Martha , Dow William H , González Hector M
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

While Hispanic/Latino populations in the U.S. are remarkably diverse in terms of birthplace and age at migration, we poorly understand how these factors are associated with cognitive aging. Our research seeks to operationalize a life course perspective of migration and health and contribute new understanding of Alzheimer’s disease / Alzheimer’s disease related dementias among U.S.-based Hispanic/Latino older adults.

Research Design and Methods

Harnessing the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (n=16,415) and the Study of Latinos-Investigation of Neurocognitive Aging (n=6,377) data, we compare baseline cognition and 7-year cognitive change among U.S./mainland-born Hispanic/Latino adults relative to foreign/island-born immigrants by age of migration (four groups: born in mainland U.S., immigrated <16 years, 16-34 years, >34 years). Global cognition was calculated as a composite measure, and domain specific measures were considered in secondary analyses. We employed linear regressions, ANOVA contrasts and Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition techniques.

Results

All Hispanic/Latino immigrant adults, regardless of age at migration, have a cognitive health disadvantage (at each visit and over time) relative to U.S./mainland-born Hispanic/Latino individuals. Differences did not endure the inclusion of covariates and were explained predominantly by first socio-economic and then acculturative factors, and far less by health and health behaviors. Acculturative factors are particularly important for individuals who migrated after childhood.

Discussion and Implications

Socio-economic and acculturation factors have outsized roles in explaining gaps in cognitive aging among U.S.-born and migrant Hispanic/Latino adults. It is then vital to examine whether disrupting socio-economic and acculturation inequalities closes such gaps in cognitive aging.
Bone quality in Pycnodysostosis: micropetrosis, locally distorted osteocyte lacuno-canalicular network and heterogenous mineralization pattern in an adult female patient with multiple fractures
Authors: Fratzl-Zelman Nadja , Blouin Stéphane , Kornak Uwe , Hartmann Markus A , Kurth Andreas A , Zwerina Jochen
Published: January 2025

Pycnodysostosis is a very rare skeletal dysplasia caused by biallelic loss-of-function mutations in cathepsin K, a proteolytic enzyme highly expressed by osteoclasts. Deficiency of cathepsin K impairs bone resorption, and bone remodeling and leads to progressive osteosclerosis and bone fragility. Moreover, cathepsin K is also expressed by mature osteocytes. Whether the density, size and viability of osteocytes and the osteocyte lacuno-canalicular network (OLCN) are also altered and thereby impact bone quality in pycnodysostosis has not been explored.

We used light microscopy, quantitative backscattered electron imaging and confocal laser scanning microscopy to examine bone material obtained from a 57-year-old female patient obtained during surgical correction after femoral head fracture.

The cortex consisted of a compact shell of multilayered collagen fibrils oriented in parallel to the periosteum reflecting vigorous primary bone apposition, multiple osteons with concentrically ordered lamellae and scattered patches of woven bone. The trabecular area was very dense with BV/TV, varying locally from 30.3% to 67.4%. The bone matrix was overmineralized (average calcium content: +7.5% versus reference values, with a fivefold increase of highly mineralized areas >27 weight % calcium). Numerous multinucleated osteoclasts and fringes of demineralized matrix were viewed on bone surfaces.

The density (number/mm2: 193 to 223) and area (20 μm2) of the osteocyte lacunae and their canalicular length (0.05 μm/μm3 bone volume) were within normal range. However, numerous bone packets exhibited (hyper)mineralized osteocyte lacunas (micropetrosis) resulting in a locally disrupted OLCN.

In summary, our data indicate that in pycnodysostosis not only osteoclast function is impaired but also osteocyte viability is decreased, leading to micropetrosis, distorted OLCN and heterogenous mineralization pattern. Thus, osteoclasts and osteocytes both contribute to reduce bone quality. However, the presence of a dense osteocyte network in large areas of the sample indicates that cathepsin K is not essential for the formation of the OLCN.
Engineered allogeneic stem cells orchestrate T lymphocyte driven immunotherapy in immunosuppressive leptomeningeal brain metastasis
Authors: Kanaya Nobuhiko , Seddiq Waleed , Chen Kok-Siong , Kajiwara Yoshinori , Moreno Lama Lucia , Borges Paulo , Kuroda Shinji , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Shah Khalid
Published: January 2025

Background

Immune-checkpoint inhibitors have shown clinical benefit in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) derived brain metastasis (BM), however, their efficacy in lung to leptomeningeal brain metastasis (LLBM) remains poor.

Methods

A paired matched RNA expression dataset of patients with NSCLCs and BMs was analyzed to idenfiy BM specific suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) features. Next, we created immune-competent LLBM mouse models that mimic clinical LLBM. We evaluated the efficacy of intrathecal (IT) delivery of allogeneic stem cells (SCs) engineered to release single-chain variable fragment anti-PD-1 (scFvPD-1). To enhance tumor cell killing and subsequent modulation of the immune TME, we explored the therapeutic activity of dual SCs releasing oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) and scFvPD-1 and profiled immune and metabolic consequences.

Results

RNA sequencing analysis of primary NSCLCs and BMs revealed an immune-suppressive TME with reduced immune cells and increased PD-1+ T cells in BMs. We showed significantly decreased immune cells and increased PD-1+ T cells in the TME of LLBM compared to primary NSCLC tumors in LLBM mouse tumor models. Next, we showed that locoregional IT treatment with SC releasing scFvPD-1, but not conventional systemic injection of anti-PD-1 antibody, suppressed tumor growth and improved survival in our immune-competent LLBM models. Furthermore, dual SCs releasing oHSV and scFvPD-1 (SC-oHSV/scFvPD-1) enhanced therapeutic outcomes by inducing oHSV-mediated immunogenic cell death, activating anti-tumor T cell signaling, and disrupting oxidative phosphorylation, which sensitized tumors to cisplatin.

Conclusion

Locoregional delivery of SC-oHSV/scFvPD-1 effectively targets the immune-suppressive TME in LLBM, providing a promising strategy for treating LLBM.
Anal melanoma: a clinical challenge without therapeutic consensus
Authors: Fuentes-Calvo Kevin J , Alvarez-Bautista Francisco E , Santes Oscar , De Nora-Jiménez Renata , Arias-Ruíz Luis F , Salgado-Nesme Noel
Published: January 2025

Anal melanoma is a rare malignancy, accounting for 0.4% to 1.6% of all melanomas. Its atypical presentation, low incidence, and non-specific symptoms make it a challenging diagnosis, which can lead to delayed treatment with an unfavorable impact on clinical outcomes. Treatment should be multidisciplinary and may include surgical resection with adjuvant therapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. We present the case of a male patient who presented to the emergency department due to foreign body sensation and transanal bleeding. The patient underwent an anal exploration under anesthesia, where a hyperpigmented canal-dependent tumor lesion with extension into the perianal skin was found. After a wide local excision, histopathological study confirmed the diagnosis of invasive nodular melanoma. The patient was discharged without complications for follow-up and management in the outpatient medical oncology clinic.
Epstein-Barr virus Infection Exacerbates Ulcerative Colitis by Driving Macrophage Pyroptosis via the Upregulation of Glycolysis
Authors: Ma Chunxiang , Chen Kexin , Li Lili , Jiang Mingshan , Zeng Zhen , Yin Fang , Yuan Jing , Jia Yongbin , Zhang Hu
Published: January 2025

Background

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is associated with clinical symptoms, treatment response, need for surgical intervention, and an enhanced likelihood of lymphoma among patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). However, existing studies have primarily concentrated on the epidemiological and clinical associations between EBV and UC, leaving the mechanisms by which EBV exacerbates colitis poorly understood.

Methods

Clinical specimens of UC patients with EBV infection and a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis with concurrent murine γ-herpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) infection were utilized to investigate the relationship between EBV infection and macrophage pyroptosis. In vivo, adoptive transfer of MHV-68-induced macrophages and macrophage depletion were performed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In vitro, myeloid leukemia mononuclear cells of human (THP-1) and macrophages derived from mouse bone marrow (BMDMs) were stimulated with EBV and MHV-68, respectively, to assess macrophage pyroptosis and glycolysis.

Results

EBV-induced activation of macrophage pyroptosis was positively correlated with clinical disease activity in UC patients. Furthermore, MHV-68 infection activated pyroptosis by upregulating Gasdermin D, NLRP3, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-18 in colonic tissues and peritoneal macrophages of mice with colitis. In vitro, EBV and MHV-68 also mediated activation of pyroptosis in human THP-1 cells and mouse BMDMs, respectively. Additionally, the adoptive transfer of MHV-68-induced BMDMs aggravated murine colitis, whereas macrophage depletion attenuated MHV-68-induced intestinal injury. Mechanistically, MHV-68 promoted macrophage pyroptosis by upregulating glycolysis, while the glycolysis inhibitor, 2-Deoxy-d-glucose, blocked this process in vitro.

Conclusion

EBV infection exacerbates UC by driving macrophage pyroptosis through upregulation of glycolysis, indicating a potential therapeutic approach to mitigate EBV-induced intestinal inflammation.
Fixed drug eruption in a cribriform pattern: an atypical presentation
Authors: Mathur Mahesh , Thakur Neha , Regmi Sandhya , Paudel Supriya , Bhattarai Nabita , Karki Sambidha
Published: January 2025

Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a distinct adverse drug reaction characterized by a well-defined, dusky, violaceous to erythematous patch that recurs at the same site upon re-exposure to causative drugs and resolves with hyperpigmentation. This unique reaction is a type IV hypersensitivity reaction mediated by memory CD8+ T cells that reside in the basal layer of the epidermis of the resting FDE lesion. Variants of FDE described in the literature include bullous, generalized bullous, nonpigmenting, linear, papular, erythema multiforme-like, transitory giant, annular, psoriasiform, erythema dyschromicum perstans-like and cellulitis-like. We present the case of a 12-year-old boy with FDE in a cribriform pattern that has not been defined so far.
Detection of Non-cardiac Fetal Abnormalities on Ultrasound at 11–14 Weeks: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Karim J.N. , Di Mascio D. , Roberts N. , Papageorghiou A.T. ,   for the ACCEPTS study
Published: January 2025

(Abstracted from Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2024;64:15–27)

First-trimester ultrasound scans are traditionally used to confirm fetal viability, establish gestational age, identify multiple pregnancies, and screen for trisomies, whereas second-trimester scans focus on detecting other congenital abnormalities. Advances in ultrasonography suggest the potential for detecting certain anomalies during first-trimester screening, though the accuracy of this approach remains uncertain.
Multidimensional 1-Year Outcomes After Intensive Care Admission for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Seijbel Thomas C. , Hoste Levi , Buysse Corinne M. P. , Dulfer Karolijn , Haerynck Filomeen , de Hoog Matthijs , Ketharanathan Naomi
Published: January 2025

OBJECTIVES:

The COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to uncertainty concerning potential sequelae related to a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. This landscape is currently unfolding with studies reporting sequelae on various domains (physical, cognitive, and psychosocial), although most studies focus on adults or only one domain. We sought to investigate concurrent sequelae on multiple domains 1 year after PICU admission for Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C).

DESIGN:

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING:

Two academic, tertiary referral hospitals in The Netherlands and Belgium.

PATIENTS:

Patients (< 18 yr, n = 58) seen in-person 1-year after PICU admission for MIS-C.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

Seventy MIS-C patients (62% male; median age, 10.0 [interquartile range, 7.4–13.0]) were admitted to the PICU, mostly (86%) due to (imminent) circulatory failure. The majority received IV immunoglobulins (95%), steroids (83%), and vasopressors and/or inotropes (72%). Invasive respiratory support and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were necessary in 7% and 2%, respectively. All patients survived. Fifty-eight patients (83%) attended 1-year follow-up. Although most patients had normal functional performance scores (Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category, Pediatric Overall Performance Category, and Functional Status Score), 62% still experienced physical sequelae: fatigue (40%), headaches (27%), and decreased exercise tolerance (19%). Cognitive, behavioral, and psychological problems were reported in 14%, 13%, and 23%, respectively. This resulted in 22% requiring ongoing healthcare utilization, 9% not being able to return to full-time school attendance and cessation of hobbies in 7%.

CONCLUSIONS:

This is the first 1-year outcome study of MIS-C PICU patients to include both physical and psychosocial characteristics. One year after PICU admission, most children had normalized functional performance as measured by three validated performance scores. However, many still reported a variety of multidimensional sequelae at 1-year follow-up impacting daily life. This emphasizes the importance of continued investigative efforts and multidisciplinary follow-up programs to better understand pathophysiology and contributing factors to the MIS-C disease trajectory and initiate patient-specific interventions to improve outcome and social participation.
The Role of Interventional Radiology in Managing Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Deshmukh Uma , Pabon-Ramos Waleska , Ayyagari Raj
Published: January 2025

Interventional Radiology (IR) can be a crucial player in managing placenta accrete spectrum disorder (PAS), offering minimally invasive angiographic techniques that can prevent or control hemorrhage and preserve fertility. These include prophylactic balloon occlusion of the aorta or iliac arteries, preoperative catheter placement in the iliac or uterine arteries for subsequent embolization, or pre-emptive arterial embolization preceding hysterotomy and delivery. This review provides obstetricians with an overview of IR's role in the management of PAS by describing specific endovascular techniques; existing outcomes data; and considerations for protocol development, preoperative planning, and intraoperative dynamics for when IR assists with PAS cases.
Orbital and Ocular Venous Congestion: A Rare Manifestation of Hypervascular Paget Disease of the Bone
Authors: Yuan Melissa , Chiou Carolina A. , Hu Jennifer C. W. , Zekavat Seyedeh Maryam , Eliott Dean , Patel Aman B. , Lefebvre Daniel R.
Published: January 2025

A 73-year-old male with a history of incidentally diagnosed Paget disease of bone affecting the skull and left orbit 2 years prior presented with 3 months of vision loss, proptosis, and periorbital swelling of the OS. Examination showed best-corrected Snellen visual acuity of 20/150 in the affected eye, intact motility, 7 mm of relative proptosis, significant dilated and tortuous “corkscrew” conjunctival vessels, serous choroidal and retinal detachments, optic nerve hyperemia, and venous tortuosity and dilation. Although the bony lesions in the left orbit were stable from 1 year prior on imaging, the diagnostic angiogram demonstrated osseous blush and hypervascularity of the lesion. It was thus determined that the abnormal bone of the left orbit with enhanced blood flow was adversely affecting the blood flow in the orbit and eye. The patient underwent coil embolization of the feeding vessels and external blood supply to the lateral orbital wall and hyperostotic Paget lesion via coil embolization of the left internal maxillary artery and left middle meningeal artery with improvement of the choroidal effusions and subretinal fluid, followed by bony orbital decompression with improvement in the proptosis. This is a novel case of orbital and ocular vascular congestion due to Paget disease.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Rapid Antigen Tests for Trichomoniasis: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Hsiao Ke-Yu , Lin Hsiu-Ling , Chen Hui-Mei , Chen Cheng-Chieh
Published: January 2025

Objective

Trichomoniasis is a globally prevalent sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the gold standard for diagnosing trichomoniasis, but it is expensive. Antigen tests are immunochromatographic immunoassays that detect T. vaginalis membrane proteins. Despite being user-friendly and rapid, the diagnostic accuracy of antigen tests remains uncertain. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of antigen tests for T. vaginalis infections.

Materials and Methods

We mined the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases for studies evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of antigen tests for T. vaginalis. We included studies that provided diagnostic test accuracy data in order to conduct a meta-analysis. We evaluated antigen tests based on immunochromatography and lateral flow devices. The meta-analysis was conducted by using the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic model.

Results

Eleven studies with 5,884 samples were included. The meta-analysis yielded a pooled sensitivity of 87.0% and a pooled specificity of 98.3%. A subgroup analysis employing PCR as the reference standard yielded a sensitivity of 58.5%, whereas another subgroup analysis using culture returned a sensitivity of 95.9%. The subgroup analysis of 6 studies comprising 2,328 specimens from symptomatic individuals yielded a pooled sensitivity of 85% and a specificity of 99.9%.

Conclusions

The antigen tests exhibited high sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, subgroup analyses revealed that antigen tests demonstrated greater sensitivity in diagnosing symptomatic patients compared to asymptomatic individuals. While less sensitive than PCR, antigen testing remains a promising avenue for detecting T. vaginalis infections.
The role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in detecting recurrence and metastasis in posttreatment nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with elevated Epstein–Barr virus DNA
Authors: Su Shuting , Wang Ge , Ye Xiuhuan , Wang Hao , Chen Yuxuan , Song Shaoli , Yang Zhongyi
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the clinical utility of 18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose PET and computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in detecting recurrence and metastasis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) who exhibit elevated levels of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA following treatment.

Methods

A total of 103 patients with NPC were studied retrospectively. All patients were in remission following initial treatment. Elevated EBV DNA was found for the first time at review and 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging was completed. The number of tracer lesions and the maximum standardized uptake value in the body region were recorded to evaluate the diagnostic ability of 18F-FDG PET/CT. The final diagnosis was confirmed either through pathology or clinical follow-up lasting 6 months or longer.

Results

Out of the 103 patients, 97 patients had a total of 434 lesions that were ultimately diagnosed as recurrent or metastatic. In patient-based analyses, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging were 100%, 50%, 97%, and 100%, respectively. In lesion-based analyses, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging were 99.3%, 30.3%, 94.9%, and 83.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

18F-FDG PET/CT demonstrates potential value in detecting recurrence and metastasis of NPC.
Barriers and Facilitators of Implementing Colorectal Cancer Screening Management in China
Authors: Shi Bingzi , Zhang Jing , Zhang Yasi , Sun Yujing , Xu Chen , Cui Wenming
Published: January 2025

Background

Colorectal cancer is a major cause of cancer-related deaths in China. Timely screening is essential for reducing mortality, but implementing comprehensive programs in Chinese healthcare settings is challenging.

Objective

This study identifies barriers and facilitators to colorectal cancer screening (CRCS) in China and recommends effective implementation strategies.

Methods

Conducted from October 2023 to April 2024, this mixed-methods study under the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research involved 128 practitioners and 440 residents near 5 community health centers and 4 tertiary care hospitals in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression, whereas qualitative data from 21 practitioners and 23 community members underwent directed content analysis.

Results

The study identified 18 facilitators and 29 barriers to CRCS implementation in China, analyzed across 5 Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains: innovation (2 facilitators, 5 barriers), outer setting (5 facilitators, 4 barriers), inner setting (3 facilitators, 4 barriers), individual characteristics (5 facilitators, 11 barriers), and implementation process (3 facilitators, 5 barriers).

Conclusion

This study highlights critical facilitators and barriers from the perspectives of healthcare professionals and the screening-eligible population. It suggests strategies to enhance early CRCS initiatives in China, including regular training, public education, financial support, and improved accessibility.

Implications for Practice

The findings from this study provide actionable insights for enhancing the implementation of CRCS in Chinese healthcare settings.
From Bedside to Boardroom
Authors: Ferren Melora D.
Published: January 2025

This interview explores the unexpected leadership journey of Dr Erik Martin, the 2022-2023 American Organization for Nursing Leadership President and chief nursing officer at Norton Children's Hospital. Starting as a bedside nurse, Dr Martin shares how others encouraged him to pursue leadership roles. The interview highlights the turning points in his career, the challenges he has faced, and valuable lessons learned.
Building an Exemplary Team of Master's-Prepared Nurses to Support Magnet® Designation
Authors: Pate Kimberly , Rankin Veronica
Published: January 2025

Although hospitals successfully achieving Magnet® designation demonstrate a multitude of positive outcomes, initial certification and maintenance require support from a highly engaged team. Two healthcare facilities used a team of master's-prepared nurses including the clinical nurse specialist, clinical nurse leader, and nursing professional development practitioner to strengthen a culture of nursing excellence, resulting in a successful redesignation cycle and the need for nurse executives to evaluate supportive nursing roles in acute care settings.
Predictors of Resilience in Prelicensure Nursing Faculty
Authors: Jones Hope E. , Beebe Lora Humphrey
Published: January 2025

Background:

Nursing faculty vacancies reduce the numbers of students entering the nursing profession, exacerbating the health care workforce crisis. Resilience, known to mitigate occupational burnout, may play a role in retaining existing prelicensure nursing faculty (PNF), a population that has not been extensively studied.

Purpose:

We examined compassion satisfaction (CS), perceived support (PS), and associated demographic factors of resilience among PNF.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study used a secondary data analysis of survey responses from 499 PNF. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to identify significant predictors of resilience.

Results:

Multivariate analysis revealed CS and PS were significant predictors of resilience when controlling for age, with CS being the strongest predictor in the regression model.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the importance of CS and PS in fostering resilience among PNF. Understanding these factors can guide academic institutions in developing interventions to retain nursing faculty, thereby addressing the broader nursing shortage.
Nutritional Changes to Improve Female Fertility: Role of Obesity, Hormones, Dietary Patterns and Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals
Authors: Noguera-Navarro Clara , Candela-González Joana , Orenes-Piñero Esteban
Published: January 2025

Importance

Infertility affects around 180 million people in the world and can be influenced by a number of nutritional factors.

Objective

The idea of a pretreatment optimization including beneficial weight loss, adequate physical activity, and good lifestyle habits could enhance fertility for many couples who want to conceive a baby.

Results

There are different aspects related to nutrition, such as obesity (affecting 23%–30% of reproductive-aged women), dietary patterns (type of diet, good or bad habits, and physical activity), nutrients (vitamins or minerals), hormones (adipokines, among others), and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (phytoestrogens and bisphenol A, among others) that have a clear impact on women’s fertility.

Evidence Acquisition

Findings have shown that a Mediterranean or balanced diet with an adequate weight loss in case of obesity and an appropriate serum concentration of different nutrients with low endocrine-disrupting exposure could improve female fertility. In addition, the context is quite important, as there are many differences between overweight and low-weight women, and both can encounter difficulties conceiving.

Conclusions and Relevance

The aim of this review is to elucidate the impact of obesity and hormones in women’s fertility. In addition, how dietary patterns could help people to increase probability of conception and birth using less fertility treatments cycles will be also analyzed. Moreover, the role of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pollutants, and contaminants will be discussed.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians.

Learning objectives

After completing this activity, the learner will be better able to discuss how obesity and hormones impact fertility; explain the role of dietary patterns regarding conception and birth; and describe the effect of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pollutants, and contaminants.
Preoperative Anemia Prior to Gynecologic Surgery Is Associated With Increased Healthcare Costs
Authors: Murji Ally , Lam Melody , Shirreff Lindsay , Lipscombe Lorraine , Isaranuwatchai Wanrudee
Published: January 2025

(Abstracted from J Minim Invasiv Gynecol 2024;31:778.e1–786.e1

Current guidelines state that preoperative anemia is a risk factor for adverse outcomes such as perioperative blood transfusion, surgical site infection, prolonged hospital stay, and hospital readmission after myomectomy or hysterectomy. Though standardized guidance states that this should be addressed prior to surgical procedures, it has been reported that as many as 1 in 5 patients having hysterectomies or myomectomies for benign causes is anemic at the time of their procedure.