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Introduction: Carotid atherosclerotic intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) predicts stroke. Patients with a history of stroke are treated with antiplatelet agents to prevent secondary cardiovascular events. A positive association between previous antiplatelet use and IPH was reported in a cross-sectional analysis. We investigated the changes in IPH over 2 years in patients who recently started versus those with continued antiplatelet use. Methods: In the Plaque at Risk (PARISK) study, symptomatic patients with <70% ipsilateral carotid stenosis underwent carotid plaque magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the baseline and after 2 years to determine IPH presence and volume. Participants were categorized into new users (starting antiplatelet therapy following the index event) and continued users (previous use of antiplatelet therapy before the index event). The association between previous antiplatelet therapy and the presence of IPH at baseline MRI was investigated using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The IPH volume change over a period of 2 years, defined as the difference in volume between follow-up and baseline, was investigated in each group with a Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The IPH volume change was categorized as progression, regression, or no change. Using multivariable logistic regression, we investigated the association between new antiplatelet use and (1) newly developed ipsilateral or contralateral IPH and (2) IPH volume progression. Results: A total of 108 patients underwent carotid MRI at the baseline and follow-up. At the baseline, previous antiplatelet therapy was associated with any IPH (OR = 5.6, 95% CI: 1.3–23.1; p = 0.02). Ipsilateral IPH volume did not change significantly during the 2 years in patients who continued receiving antiplatelet agents (86.4 mm3 [18.2–235.9] vs. 59.3 mm3 [11.4–260.3]; p = 0.6) nor in the new antiplatelet users (n = 31) (61.5 mm3 [0.0–166.9] vs. 27.7 mm3 [9.5–106.4]; p = 0.4). Similar results of a nonsignificant change in contralateral IPH volume during those 2 years were observed in both groups (p > 0.05). No significant associations were found between new antiplatelet use and newly developed IPH at 2 years (odds ratio [OR] = 1.0, 95% CI: 0.1–7.4) or the progression of IPH (ipsilateral: OR = 2.4, 95% CI: 0.3–19.1; contralateral: OR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.01–8.5). Conclusion: Although the baseline association between IPH and previous antiplatelet therapy was confirmed in this larger cohort, the new onset of antiplatelet therapy after transient ischemic attack/stroke was not associated with the newly developed IPH or progression of IPH volume over the subsequent 2 years. Plain Language Summary: Carotid artery narrowing due to an atherosclerotic plaque is responsible for around 20% of stroke. Intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) predicts stroke. Antiplatelet agents are often given to patients who have had a stroke to prevent further cardiovascular events. A previous study found an association between previous antiplatelet use and IPH at a specific point in time. In this study, researchers investigated whether starting antiplatelet therapy after a stroke or continuing to use antiplatelets had any effect on IPH over a 2-year period. The study included patients with <70% carotid narrowing who had a carotid plaque MRI at the baseline and after 2 years to determine the presence and volume of IPH. Patients were categorized into new users (starting antiplatelet therapy following the stroke) and continued users (already using antiplatelet therapy before the stroke). The presence and the volume change of IPH over 2 years were investigated in each group. The study found that IPH was more present at the baseline when patients used antiplatelet agents before the stroke. However, new antiplatelet use after the stroke did not lead to new IPH or an increase in IPH volume over the subsequent 2 years. There were no significant associations between the new antiplatelet use and newly developed IPH or IPH volume progression. Therefore, while the baseline association between IPH and previous antiplatelet therapy was confirmed in this larger cohort, starting antiplatelet therapy after a stroke did not increase the risk of new IPH or progression of IPH volume over the subsequent 2 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights misconceptions around the concept of innovativeness and argues for a broader understanding that encompasses both inward and outward-looking perspectives. It emphasizes the importance of perceived innovativeness as influenced by marketing, innovation culture, leadership, and emotional connection with customers. This customer-centric viewpoint not only offers a fresh lens through which to evaluate firm innovativeness but also underscores its significant implications for innovation management and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction/Aims: Nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are widely used to support the clinical diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders. The aims of this study were to obtain reference values for peroneal, tibial, and sural NCSs and to examine the associations with demographic and anthropometric factors. Methods: In 5099 participants (aged 40–79 years) without type 2 diabetes of The Maastricht Study, NCSs of peroneal, tibial, and sural nerves were performed. Values for compound muscle action potential (CMAP) and sensory nerve action potential amplitude, nerve conduction velocity (NCV), and distal latency were acquired. The association of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and height with NCS values was determined using uni‐ and multivariate linear regression analyses. Results: Detailed reference values are reported per decade for men and women. Significantly lower NCVs and longer distal latencies were observed in all nerves in older and taller individuals as well as in men. In these groups, amplitudes of the tibial and sural nerves were significantly lower, whereas a lower peroneal nerve CMAP was only significantly associated with age. BMI showed a multidirectional association. After correction for anthropometric factors in the multivariate analysis, the association between sex and NCS values was less straightforward. Discussion: These values from a population‐based dataset could be used as a reference for generating normative values. Our findings show the association of NCS values with anthropometric factors. In clinical practice, these factors can be considered when interpreting NCS values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the various imaging modalities and surgical techniques used in fetal surgery. It explains how ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, virtual reality, and Metaverse technology have revolutionized preoperative planning, reduced surgical time and complications, and improved outcomes for both the fetus and the mother. The article also discusses the different modes of ultrasound imaging and their applications in visualizing fetal anatomy and diagnosing anomalies. It highlights the use of teleultrasound and fetal MRI in prenatal care and diagnosis. The text further explores the use of 3D printing, fetoscopy, and open fetal surgery in treating conditions such as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and spina bifida. It emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and minimizing complications in fetal surgery. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the use of three-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create physical models of fetuses using additive manufacturing (AM) technology. The study used images from 73 pregnant women, including cases of twins, and successfully generated physical models that resembled the postnatal appearance of aborted fetuses or newborns. The authors suggest that these technologies can improve our understanding of fetal anatomical characteristics and be used for educational purposes and to help parents visualize their unborn baby. The images obtained from 3DUS and MRI can be segmented and combined to construct 3D virtual and physical models. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a study that aimed to assess the tissue stiffness and vascularization of uterine fibroids using transvaginal ultrasound. The researchers obtained images from 21 patients and measured the tissue stiffness using shear wave elastography and strain elastography, while observing vascularization using superb microvascular imaging. The study found that the most vascularized areas of the fibroids were the most relevant targets for radiofrequency ablation. The researchers also noted that the stiffness of the fibroids was associated with differences in echogenicity, with more hypoechoic fibroids tending to be softer. The use of elastography and microvascular imaging can help establish the specific physical characteristics of uterine fibroids, facilitating treatment planning. However, further studies are needed to determine if fibroid stiffness can be used as a parameter for determining optimal treatment and assessing therapeutic response. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a case study of a rare congenital defect called congenital left ventricular aneurysm (CLVA) in a fetus. The incidence of CLVA is estimated to be around 1 in 200,000 live births, but it may be higher due to asymptomatic cases. The study describes the use of three-dimensional (3D) virtual and printed models to aid in the antenatal management of CLVA. The article emphasizes the value of these models for diagnostic and educational purposes in the field of fetal medicine. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the implementation of augmented reality (AR) and the Metaverse in fetal medicine for multidisciplinary discussion and medical teaching. The study trained students and specialists in using these technologies, allowing for real-time discussions and teaching without geographical limitations. The cases studied involved ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging files, focusing on different stages of pregnancy. The use of AR and the Metaverse was found to contribute to an easy understanding of the cases and improved collaboration between students and specialists. The authors conclude that these technologies have great potential as digital tools to enhance collaboration and understanding of complex fetal cases. [Extracted from the article]

This article, titled "EP17.55: Interobserver reproducibility of a novel cervical elastography index," discusses a study that aimed to evaluate the interobserver reproducibility of a new cervical Strain Imaging (elastography) index in pregnant women at 18-24 weeks. The study involved 100 pregnant women at high and low risk for preterm birth, and the elastographic index (EI) was calculated using markers positioned at the external os (EOs) and internal os (IOs) of the cervix. The results showed that the EI obtained through vaginal ultrasonography had a high interobserver reproducibility, but further testing is needed to determine its potential for predicting preterm birth. [Extracted from the article]

This article, titled "EP16.07: MRI in cases of Caesarean scar pregnancy on the first half of pregnancy," discusses the use of MRI in cases of Caesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) during the 5th to 20th week of gestation. The study analyzed 7 cases, with 8 MRI studies, and found that MRI below the 13th week of gestation did not provide additional clinical information. However, after the 13th week, MRI was able to demonstrate the relationship between the placenta, uterus, and cervix, improving spatial perspectives and aiding in surgical treatment if necessary. The article was authored by A.P. Matos, P.T. Castro, C.M. Coutinho, E. Araujo Junior, T. Fazecas, R. Nogueira, G. Ribeiro, I.V. Castro, O.L. Aranda, and H. Werner. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a case study involving a 34-year-old pregnant woman with diabetes who was referred for a fetal echocardiography evaluation. The ultrasound revealed abnormal outflow tracts, indicating a suspicion of transposition of the great arteries (TGA). The diagnosis was confirmed by the anatomical characteristics of the arteries. The researchers used 3D ultrasound imaging and software to create virtual and physical models of the fetal heart, which were used as additional diagnostic tools for counseling and surgical planning. The male neonate was born by Caesarean section and underwent surgical correction for TGA. Currently, he is in good health with mild aortic insufficiency. [Extracted from the article]

This article, published in the journal "Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology," examines the frequency of microphthalmia and anophthalmia, rare malformations related to severe central nervous system malformations, in a tertiary center. The study reviewed 2,231 fetal MRI cases from April 2004 to February 2023 and found that 19 cases of microphthalmia-anophthalmia were diagnosed during this period, accounting for 1.17% of fetal MRI examinations. The most common form of the malformation was bilateral, with 79% of cases, and the majority of cases with bilateral malformation had severe holoprosencephaly. The study concludes that microphthalmia-anophthalmia is a rare condition, with the bilateral form being the most frequent, and severe central nervous system malformations being the most common associated malformation. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the use of Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, in fetal medicine and the importance of the General Data Protection Law (GDPL) in this context. The study used images from 47 cases, including twins, obtained through high-resolution 3D ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. The AM technology successfully generated accurate physical reproductions of fetal anatomy. Patients signed consent forms ensuring the anonymity of their images and expressing their confidence in the use of the GDPL. The article concludes that AM has the potential to aid students and healthcare teams in understanding complex fetal malformations, but emphasizes the need to consider the GDPL in all related studies. [Extracted from the article]

A study published in the journal "Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology" explores the impact of 3D physical models of fetal hearts on the understanding and emotional well-being of pregnant women. The study involved a group of 15 pregnant women, some of whom were expecting babies with congenital heart disease. After undergoing echocardiographic evaluations, the women and their partners completed a questionnaire to assess their insights and emotional responses to the 3D models. The results showed that the integration of 3D models significantly improved maternal understanding of fetal cardiac anomalies and fostered a stronger emotional bond between mother and fetus. The study suggests that these models could be valuable educational tools in prenatal care, leading to more informed medical decisions, reduced anxiety, and enhanced quality of care. [Extracted from the article]

This article, titled "The utility of 3D reconstruction of segmented MRI images in cases of fetal head tumours," explores the use of segmented 3D images of fetal MRI scans in diagnosing and understanding fetal head tumors. The study found that in all six cases examined, the tumors could be accurately segmented and the spatial relationship between the tumor and normal tissues could be demonstrated. The authors conclude that this technique has utility in parental counseling and postnatal surgical planning. [Extracted from the article]

This article, published in the journal Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, discusses the use of three-dimensional (3D) imaging segmentation for visualizing fetal facial malformations. The study used MRI images of five fetuses with facial malformations to create 3D reconstructed images. The results showed that MRI images can be successfully reconstructed, allowing for a detailed visualization of the esthetical appearance and anatomical extension of the malformations. The authors suggest that these 3D images can be used for parental counseling and postnatal surgical planning. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the use of 3D virtual models and navigation technology in evaluating and teaching fetal heart anatomy. The authors obtained fetal echocardiogram scans of normal and malformed hearts and used automatic scanning techniques to create 3D volumes of the hearts. These volumes were then segmented and used to construct virtual reality rooms for educational purposes. The use of virtual reality and navigation tools allowed for in-depth exploration and evaluation of both normal and abnormal fetal hearts, enhancing the educational experience for students and residents in the field of pediatric cardiology. Additionally, interdisciplinary discussions on outcome and prognosis were facilitated among healthcare professionals within the virtual environment, aiding in decision-making processes for perinatal care and outcomes. The study suggests that these technologies are effective in improving education, understanding fetal heart anatomy, and enhancing collaborative discussions in the field of fetal and pediatric cardiology. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses a case of Herlyn-Werner-Wunderlich syndrome (HWW), also known as obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA) syndrome. HWW is a congenital condition characterized by a triad of uterus didelphys, obstructed hemivagina, and unilateral renal agenesis. The optimal diagnostic method for OHVIRA syndrome is still unclear, but ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are commonly used. The article highlights the use of 3D ultrasound, 3D sonovaginography, and virtual navigation in the diagnosis of complex Müllerian malformations, including OHVIRA syndrome. These techniques can improve understanding, facilitate discussions within the medical team, and aid in patient counseling. [Extracted from the article]

Hidradenitis suppurativa, also referred to as inverse acne , manifests as a persistent inflammatory skin disorder characterized by lesions such as deep nodules, abscesses, sinus tracts, and fibrotic scars. These manifestations predominantly occur in skin folds and intertriginous areas, notably in the axillary, inguinal, perianal, perineal, and inframammary regions. Due to similarities with other conditions in its initial stages, accurate diagnosis of hidradenitis suppurativa is often delayed, sometimes spanning several years. Diagnosis relies on identifying specific morphologic features (such as deep, inflamed, and painful nodules; sinus tracts; and scars), considering the affected sites (skin folds and areas with apocrine glands), and recognizing the chronic nature of the condition (persistent course with periods of exacerbation and remission). There are no definitive biologic or pathologic diagnostic tests, and biopsy of the affected area is not necessary. Treatment varies based on severity and may include topical and systemic antibiotics, hormonal therapy, immunomodulators, and surgery. Due to associated pain, increased site sensitivity, secretion drainage, odor, and scarring, this condition can have a negative psychosocial impact. Imaging studies, including high-frequency US and MRI with subsequent three-dimensional reconstruction, serve as valuable tools for precise staging, monitoring disease activity, and preoperative assessment. Currently, high-frequency US stands as the preferred method, incorporating sonographic classifications, while MRI and thee-dimensional imaging represent an emerging and promising approach. Imaging helps identify the extent of sinus tracts, assess involvement dimensions in advanced disease stages, and monitor proposed treatments. © RSNA, 2024 Supplemental material and the slide presentation from the RSNA Annual Meeting are available for this article.

To the best of our knowledge, this case presents the first prenatal magnetic resonance imaging diagnosis of focal dermal hypoplasia with long-term follow-up, with important discordance between the prenatal and postnatal imaging characteristics of the skin malformation., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objective: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the vascularization pattern of uterine myoma (UM) by ultrasonography using Superb Microvascular Imaging (SMI) and tissue stiffness elastography., Method: A prospective and cross-sectional study was carried out between March 2020 and December 2022 among women with clinical and ultrasound diagnosis of UM who would subsequently undergo radiofrequency ablation. Ultrasound examination was performed using both transvaginal and transabdominal routes. UM vascularization pattern was assessed by power Doppler (PD) and SMI, while elastographic pattern was assessed by shear wave (SWE) and strain (STE). FIGO classification, location, and measurement of the largest UM were also described., Results: A total of 21 women diagnosed with UM were evaluated. There was a predominance of nulliparous women and 20 women (95.2%) reported desire for pregnancy. Of the 18 women with abnormal uterine bleeding, 15 (83.3%) had abdominal cramping. As far as previous treatment, 7 (33.3%) had undergone myomectomy for other UM. The mean uterine and UM volumes were 341.9 cm 3 (90-730) and 126.52 cm 3 (6.0-430), respectively. There was a predominance of hypoechogenic lesions (90.5%). There was also preponderance of UM in the FIGO 2-5 classification (n = 9; 42.9%). Vascularization patter was mostly moderate (score 2) in 9 cases (42.9%). The majority of UM were considered to have intermediate stiffness (n = 10; 47.6%)., Conclusion: The majority of UM showed vascularization and moderate stiffness. A relationship was observed between the stiffness of the UM assessed by elastography and its FIGO classification., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Three-dimensional navigation allows in a virtual reality environment across the fetal heart structures using glasses and joysticks. This technology allows virtual interactive discussions among multidisciplinary teams providing new perspectives on diagnosis and planning possible surgical corrections., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Genetic disorders pose great challenges for affected individuals and their families, as they must cope with the irreversible nature of the disease and a life-long dependence on medical assistance and treatment. Children and adolescents dealing with Pompe disease (PD) often struggle to keep up with their peers in physical activities. To gain valuable insights into their subjective experiences and better understand their perception and coping related to daily challenges linked to their condition and treatment, the use of standardized questionnaires is crucial. This study introduces the novel PompeQoL 1.0 questionnaire for children and adolescents with PD, designed for comprehensive assessment of both disease-specific FDH and HRQoL through self- and proxy reports. Content validity was ensured through patients' and parents' involvement at the initial stages of development and in subsequent cognitive debriefing process. Participants found the questionnaire easy to understand, answerable, relevant, and comprehensive. Adjustments based on feedback from patients and their parents improved its utility as a patient- and observer-reported outcome measure. After careful item examination, 52 items were selected, demonstrating moderate to excellent test-retest reliability for most scales and initial evidence for satisfactory construct validity. The PompeQoL questionnaire stands as a valuable screening instrument for both clinical and research purposes. Future research should prioritize additional revisions and larger validation studies, focusing on testing the questionnaire in clinical practice and trials. Nevertheless, the PompeQoL 1.0 stands out as the first standardized measure providing insights into disease-specific FDH and HRQoL among children and adolescents with various forms of PD., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of SSIEM.)

Fetal cervical tumors are a life-threatening condition if proper diagnosis and perinatal care are inadequate. The most common causes of fetal cervical masses are teratomas and lymphangiomas. Less common tumors may obstruct the fetal airway due to cervical compression. In this case report, a fetus with a cervical sarcoma was evaluated by ultrasound and MRI. The prenatal imaging characteristics of the tumor were described, virtual navigation of the fetal airway was performed and compared with fetal bronchoscopy to evaluate the consistency of the tumor. Neonatal outcome was also described., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Introduction: The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system plays a key role in regulating growth and invasiveness in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and is considered a promising therapeutic target. EOC is an immunosuppressive disease, although there are limited data about the involvement of the IGF1R system in the anti-tumor immune response in the EOC microenvironment., Methods: In the current study, we hypothesized that IGF 1 receptor (IGF1R) involvement in the maturation of dendritic cells (DC) with the co-inhibition of IGF1R and PD-1 would affect the EOC microenvironment., Results: We found that DC pretreated with IGF1R inhibitor resulted in fewer EOC cells. Moreover, in vivo experiments conducted with an EOC mouse model, with anti-PD-1/IGF1R combined, resulted in lower tumor weight compared to individual treatments. Additionally, anti-PD-1/IGF1R treatment increased DC by 34% compared with AEW-541 and 40% with anti-PD-1. The combined treatment increased CD8+ T-cell levels compared to AEW-541 alone. RNA-seq data analysis indicated that anti-PD-1/IGF1R led to a more potent immune response, as reflected by altered gene expression levels related to anti-tumor immune response, compared with either treatment alone., Discussion: These findings provide novel evidence that IGF1R axis inhibition combined with PD-1 blockade may be an effective therapeutic strategy for selected EOC patient populations., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Somri-Gannam, Meisel-Sharon, Hantisteanu, Bar-Noy, Sigal, Groisman, Hallak, Werner and Bruchim.)

Importance: Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) is associated with various cerebrovascular outcomes, but data on sex differences in SVD are scarce., Objective: To investigate whether the frequency, severity, and distribution of cerebral microbleeds (CMB), other SVD markers on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and outcomes differ by sex., Design, Setting, and Participants: This cohort study used pooled individual patient data from the Microbleeds International Collaborative Network, including patients from 38 prospective cohort studies in 18 countries between 2000 and 2018, with clinical follow-up of at least 3 months (up to 5 years). Participants included patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack with available brain MRI. Data were analyzed from April to December 2023., Main Outcomes and Measures: Outcomes of interest were presence of CMB, lacunes, and severe white matter hyperintensities determined on MRI. Additionally, mortality, recurrent ischemic stroke, and intracranial hemorrhage during follow-up were assessed. Multivariable random-effects logistic regression models, Cox regression, and competing risk regression models were used to investigate sex differences in individual SVD markers, risk of recurrent cerebrovascular events, and death., Results: A total of 20 314 patients (mean [SD] age, 70.1 [12.7] years; 11 721 [57.7%] male) were included, of whom 5649 (27.8%) had CMB. CMB were more frequent in male patients, and this was consistent throughout different age groups, locations, and in multivariable models (female vs male adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.86; 95% CI, 0.80-0.92; P < .001). Female patients had fewer lacunes (aOR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.74-0.90; P < .001) but a higher prevalence of severe white matter hyperintensities (aOR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.01-1.20; P = .04) compared with male patients. A total of 2419 patients (11.9%) died during a median (IQR) follow-up of 1.4 (0.7-2.5) years. CMB presence was associated with a higher risk of mortality in female patients (hazard ratio, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.02-1.31), but not male patients (hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.84-1.07) (P for interaction = .01). A total of 1113 patients (5.5%) had recurrent ischemic stroke, and 189 patients (0.9%) had recurrent intracranial hemorrhage, with no sex differences., Conclusions and Relevance: This cohort study using pooled individual patient data found varying frequencies of individual SVD markers between female and male patients, indicating potential pathophysiological differences in manifestation and severity of SVD. Further research addressing differences in pathomechanisms and outcomes of SVD between female and male patients is required.

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the available scientific literature on ultrasound-detected fetal liver changes in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to explore the potential of these markers to inform clinical management and improve outcomes. A total of four articles investigating fetal liver changes in GDM pregnancies were selected. The studies varied in methodology, gestational age studied, and diagnostic criteria for GDM. Fetal liver indices, such as fetal liver length and fetal liver volume, emerged as potential markers for identifying GDM and predicting adverse outcomes. Studies suggest an association between fetal liver changes and GDM, with implications for both maternal glycemic control and fetal metabolic adaptation. Variability in study methodology highlights the need for standardized approaches to assess fetal hepatic indices and their correlation with GDM outcomes., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: The aim of this extended review of multicenter case series is to describe the prenatal ultrasound features and pathogenetic mechanisms underlying placental and umbilical cord anomalies and their relationship with adverse perinatal outcome. From an educational point of view, the case series has been divided in three parts; Part 1 is dedicated to placental abnormalities., Methods: Multicenter case series of women undergoing routine and extended prenatal ultrasound and perinatal obstetric care., Results: Prenatal ultrasound findings, perinatal care, and pathology documentation in cases of placental pathology are presented., Conclusions: Our case series review and that of the medical literature confirms the ethiopathogenetic role and involvement of placenta abnormalities in a wide variety of obstetrics diseases that may jeopardize the fetal well-being. Some of these specific pathologies are strongly associated with a high risk of poor perinatal outcome., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Clinical manifestations of dermatological and musculoskeletal conditions can sometimes overlap, leading to confusion in diagnosis. Patients with nail and skin infections may undergo imaging examinations with suspicions of muscle, tendon, or joint injuries. Dermatological infections often involve soft tissues and musculoskeletal structures, and their etiology can range from fungi, bacteria, viruses, to protozoa. Relying solely on physical examination may not be sufficient for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, necessitating the use of complementary imaging exams. The objective of this paper is to present and discuss imaging findings of the main infectious conditions affecting the nail apparatus and skin. The paper also highlights the importance of imaging in clarifying diagnostic uncertainties and guiding appropriate treatment for dermatological conditions., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to International Skeletal Society (ISS).)

We reported a case of heterotopic twin pregnancy in a unicornuate uterus with a non-communicating rudimentary horn with survival of both fetuses. The diagnosis was made late at 28 weeks of gestation, with suspicion raised by ultrasound and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). During hospitalization, obstetric ultrasound with color Doppler was performed every 2 days to assess fetal well-being and myometrial thickness, which was determined by measurements of the uterine wall at the accessory horn. Elective cesarean section was performed at 33 + 5 weeks of gestation. Delivery started with the fetus in the rudimentary horn, with subsequent extraction of the fetus in the unicornate uterus. Three-dimensional virtual reconstruction allowed a spatial view of the both uterus and fetuses with better understanding of the obstetrical condition by the parents and interactive discussion by the multidisciplinary medical team., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Children and adolescents with Pompe disease (PD) face chronic and progressive myopathy requiring time-intensive enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). Little is known about their perspectives on the disease and its treatment. This study explored their perceptions of disease symptoms and functioning status, and more subjective feelings about the impacts on their lives as part of developing a disease-specific questionnaire., Methods: Eleven pediatric patients aged 8-18 years and 26 caregivers from six children's hospitals in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland underwent semi-structured interviews. Data were recorded, transcribed using MAXQDA software, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. A system of meaningful categories was developed., Results: Sixteen main categories were derived across four major thematic areas: perceptions of symptoms and limitations, experiences to do with the biopsychosocial impact of PD, treatment experiences, and general emotional well-being/burden. Participants demonstrated broad heterogeneity in symptom perceptions such as muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, pain, and fatigue. Emotional appraisals of limitations were not directly proportional to their severity, and even comparatively minor impairments were often experienced as highly frustrating, particularly for social reasons. The main psychosocial topics were social exclusion vs. inclusion and experiences to do with having a disease. The main finding regarding treatment was that switching ERT from hospital to home was widely viewed as a huge relief, reducing the impact on daily life and the burden of infusions. Emotional well-being ranged from not burdened to very happy in most children and adolescents, including the most severely affected., Conclusion: This study provided qualitative insights into the perceptions and experiences of pediatric PD patients. Interestingly, biopsychosocial burden was not directly related to disease severity, and tailored psychosocial support could improve health-related quality of life. The present findings ensure the content validity of a novel questionnaire to be tested as a screening tool to identify patients in need of such support., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

The complete absence of the nose, arhinia, is a malformation most often associated with severe brain malformations. However, arhinia can be isolated, but only a few cases have been described. The prenatal diagnosis of isolated arhinia is also rarely described, with only three cases describing their follow-up, mostly in the first months of life. In this case report, we describe the prenatal diagnosis of isolated arhinia and the long-term follow-up of 8 years with normal psychological and cognitive development. We also demonstrated the fetal magnetic resonance imaging and pediatric computed tomography three-dimensional reconstructions of the face., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objectives : We sought to identify in which clinical scenarios 3D printed models are used to plan for fetal surgeries as well as the main purpose and the imaging method utilized for the models. In addition, we describe benefits and shortcomings of the models, as well as potential future improvements. Methods : In this scoping review, data were collected retrospectively from scientific databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Web of Science platform) and screened by title, abstract, and full text against strict criteria. The inclusion criteria required the study be performed on a live fetus and involve 3D models used for fetal surgery. The models must have been designed from diagnostic imaging modalities such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound. The articles considered include clinical trials, review articles, cohort studies, case series, case reports, and conference abstracts. Results : Of the initial 742 articles collected, six met the inclusion criteria. Spina bifida and EXIT procedures were the most frequent use cases that inspired surgeons to print models for surgical planning. The ability to view patient-specific anatomy in a 3D handheld model was often touted as providing a great benefit to the surgical team's ability to anticipate intraoperative challenges. Conclusions : Three-dimensional printing models have been applied to plan for fetal surgeries, more specifically, for EXIT procedures and fetoscopic surgical repair of spina bifida. The potential benefits of 3D printing in fetal surgery are enormous.