Novice learners' perspectives on obstetric airway crisis decision-making training using virtual reality simulation

BACKGROUND

Current training on managing an obstetric difficult airway crisis is likely inadequate, as real-life opportunities to practice are rare. Frequent simulation training sessions could be helpful but are resource intensive. Virtual reality (VR) simulation training may be a potential tool to complement existing simulation curricula.

METHODS

In this pilot qualitative study, a VR simulation scenario of an obstetric airway crisis was designed to test the decision-making of novice learners rotating through obstetric anesthesia training. Individual interviews were conducted pre-VR to assess learning needs and post-VR to assess perspectives on utilizing the VR teaching tool. The interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-one residents were recruited and participated in the study. Analysis of pre-VR interviews identified three major themes, including gaps in the current curriculum, lack of confidence in managing obstetric difficult airway crises, and recognition that simulation is resource intensive. Post-VR interview themes revealed that VR could be helpful in learning decision-making under stress. Suggested improvements included better video and audio quality, and adding haptic feedback and potential multiplayer features in the future.

CONCLUSION

We identified the advantages of VR simulation and its potential as an intervention to address gaps in our curriculum. Areas of improvement were identified for more effective future implementation.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio on postoperative day three as a biochemical predictor of clinically significant pancreatic fistula in patients undergoing distal pancreatectomy

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

Distal pancreatectomy is a frequent procedure and postoperative fistula, its most common complication, has an incidence of 30 to 60%. The aim of the present work was to study the role of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, as indicators of inflammatory response in the setting of pancreatic fistula.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted on patients that underwent distal pancreatectomy. The diagnosis of postoperative pancreatic fistula was made according to the definition proposed by the International Study Group on Pancreatic Fistula. The relation of postoperative pancreatic fistula to the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio was determined in the postoperative evaluation. SPSS v.21 software was utilized for the statistical analysis and a P<.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 12 patients (27.2%) developed grade B or grade C postoperative pancreatic fistula. ROC curves were constructed and a threshold of 8.3 (PPV 0.40, NPV 0.86) was established for the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, with an area under the curve of 0.71, sensitivity of 0.81, and specificity of 0.62, whereas a threshold of 33.2 (PPV 0.50, NPV 0.84) was established for the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, with an area under the curve of 0.72, sensitivity of 0.72, and specificity of 0.71.

CONCLUSION

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio are serologic markers that can aid in identifying patients that will present with grade B or grade C postoperative pancreatic fistula, thus helping to provide an opportune focus on care and resources.

Interdisciplinary collaboration in critical care alarm research: A bibliometric analysis

BACKGROUND

Alarm fatigue in nurses is a major patient safety concern in the intensive care unit. This is caused by exposure to high rates of false and non-actionable alarms. Despite decades of research, the problem persists, leading to stress, burnout, and patient harm resulting from true missed events. While engineering approaches to reduce false alarms have spurred hope, they appear to lack collaboration between nurses and engineers to produce real-world solutions. The aim of this bibliometric analysis was to examine the relevant literature to quantify the level of authorial collaboration between nurses, physicians, and engineers.

METHODS

We conducted a bibliometric analysis of articles on alarm fatigue and false alarm reduction strategies in critical care published between 2010 and 2022. Data were extracted at the article and author level. The percentages of author disciplines per publication were calculated by study design, journal subject area, and other article-level factors.

RESULTS

A total of 155 articles with 583 unique authors were identified. While 31.73 % (n = 185) of the unique authors had a nursing background, publications using an engineering study design (n = 46), e.g., model development, had a very low involvement of nursing authors (mean proportion at 1.09 %). Observational studies (n = 58) and interventional studies (n = 33) had a higher mean involvement of 52.27 % and 47.75 %, respectively. Articles published in nursing journals (n = 32) had the highest mean proportion of nursing authors (80.32 %), while those published in engineering journals (n = 46) had the lowest (9.00 %), with 6 (13.04 %) articles having one or more nurses as co-authors.

CONCLUSION

Minimal involvement of nursing expertise in alarm research utilizing engineering methodologies may be one reason for the lack of successful, real-world solutions to ameliorate alarm fatigue. Fostering a collaborative, interdisciplinary research culture can promote a common publication culture across fields and may yield sustainable implementation of technological solutions in healthcare.

The Effects of Human Papillomavirus Status and Treatment on the Positive Predictive Value of Post-radiotherapy 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography in Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

AIMS

The high negative predictive value of post-chemoradiation (CRT) positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) is well established in head and neck squamous cell cancers (HNSCC). The positive predictive value (PPV) remains under scrutiny, with increasing evidence that it is affected by several factors. The aim of this study was to assess the PPV of post-treatment PET-CT for residual nodal disease when stratified by treatment modality and tumour human papillomavirus (HPV) status.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study in a tertiary oncology centre carried out between January 2013 and December 2019. Patients were radically treated with radiotherapy only/CRT for node-positive HNSCC. PET-CT nodal responses were categorised as complete, equivocal (EQR) or incomplete (ICR), and outcomes extracted from electronic records.

RESULTS

In total, 480 patients were evaluated, all had a minimum potential follow-up of 2 years, with a median of 39.2 months. The PPV of 12-week PET-CT was significantly different between HPV-positive (22.5%) and HPV-unrelated (52.7%) disease, P < 0.001. It was also significantly different between the CRT (24.8%) and radiotherapy-only (51.1%) groups, P = 0.001. The PPV of an EQR was significantly less than an ICR, irrespective of HPV status and primary treatment modality. In HPV-positive disease, the PPV of an EQR was 9.0% for the CRT group compared with 21.4% for radiotherapy only, P = 0.278. The PPV in those who achieved an ICR was 34.2% in the CRT group, significantly lower than 70.0% in the radiotherapy-only group, P = 0.03.

CONCLUSION

The PPV of 12-week PET-CT is significantly lower for HPV-positive compared with HPV-unrelated HNSCC. It is poorer in patients with HPV-positive disease treated with CRT compared with radiotherapy alone.

Molecular Subtypes and Outcomes in a Multi-Institutional Review of Rectal Cancer Patients

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous malignancy associated with a variety of genetic mutations. More recent data indicates that CRC can be broken down into unique biologically distinct consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) based on different pathological and genetic signatures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of rectal cancer patients in a multi-institutional network based on tumor mutational assessment and CMS group.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Patient exome and transcriptome sequencing data and clinical outcomes were collected under the Total Cancer Care Protocol and Avatar® project within the Oncology Research Information Exchange Network (ORIEN). A total of 101 patients with demographic and outcomes information had data for microsatellite instability (MSI), tumor mutation burden (TMB), transcriptome, and whole exome sequencing (WES). Molecular subclasses (CMS1, CMS2, CMS3, CMS4, CMS-Mixed) were assigned based on transcriptional signatures by the R package "CMS Caller." Survival analysis was performed with the R packages "Survival" and "Survminer."

RESULTS

A total of 101 rectal cancer patients, with a median age of 56.8, had a median follow up of 3.5 years (range 0.26-23.5). 78 patients were treated with curative intent for clinically localized disease and 35% of these patients developed metastatic disease. The remaining 23 patients had synchronous metastatic disease at presentation. There were 5 (5%) CMS1, 29 (29%) CMS2, 13 (13%) CMS 3, 49 (49%) CMS 4, and 5 (5%) CMS-Mixed patients in our cohort respectively. The cohort included 5 (5%) BRAF, 51 (50%) KRAS, and 63 (62%) TP53 mutated patients and 5 (5%) MSI high patients. Median survival was 18.8, 117.2, 125.7 and 119 months for CMS1, CMS2, CMS3, and CMS4 patients respectively, with insufficient events in CMS-mixed for calculation (p = 0.15). CMS1 patients had a significantly shorter survival compared to the other cohorts (p = 0.02), with 2 of 5 of these patients having received immunotherapy. 40% (2,0) CMS1, 52% (7,8) of CMS2, 15% (1,1) of CMS3, 59% (13,15) of CMS4, and 40% (1,1) of CMS-Mixed presented with or developed metastatic disease respectively. When divided into mutation groups, median survival was 43 versus 119, 119 versus 117, and 126 versus 119 months for BRAF, KRAS, and TP53 mutated and wild type patients respectively (p = 0.18, p = 0.48, p = 0.93). Evaluation of TMB and MSI status did not reveal significant differences in outcomes (p = 0.54, p = 0.7), with median survival of 126 months versus 117 in TMB high versus low patients and unreached versus 119 months in MSI versus MSS patients respectively. Of note, 3 of the 5 MSI patients were also CMS1, with the other two coming from CMS4 and CMS-mixed cohorts.

CONCLUSION

CMS classification and tumor mutation status are associated with differential outcomes for rectal cancer patients, with some groups having a large likelihood of developing metastatic disease. Further work on optimizing and personalizing treatments for these high-risk populations is necessary.

First Dark Matter Search Results from the LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) Experiment

The LUX-ZEPLIN experiment is a dark matter detector centered on a dual-phase xenon time projection chamber operating at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in Lead, South Dakota, USA. This Letter reports results from LUX-ZEPLIN's first search for weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) with an exposure of 60 live days using a fiducial mass of 5.5 t. A profile-likelihood ratio analysis shows the data to be consistent with a background-only hypothesis, setting new limits on spin-independent WIMP-nucleon, spin-dependent WIMP-neutron, and spin-dependent WIMP-proton cross sections for WIMP masses above 9  GeV/c^{2}. The most stringent limit is set for spin-independent scattering at 36  GeV/c^{2}, rejecting cross sections above 9.2×10^{-48}  cm at the 90% confidence level.

A48 LYOPHILIZED FECAL MICROBIOTA TRANSPLANT (FMT) DELAYS THE ONSET OF SPONTANEOUS COLITIS IN MUC2-/- MICE

Background

Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is the transfer of fecal microbes from a healthy donor to a recipient to normalize gut microbiota. FMT therapy has been effectively used to prevent recurrent Clostridium difficile infections. While there are emerging studies applying FMT to other gastrointestinal (GI) disorders including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), its efficacy in treating IBD, and the mechanisms involved remain unclear. In the GI tract, the mucus barrier plays a critical role in protecting the underlying epithelium against harmful luminal stimuli. The secreted mucin 2 (MUC2) is a glycosylated protein and the major component of the GI mucus layer. Muc2 deficient (^-/-) mice are used to model IBD because they develop a leaky gut as well as spontaneous colitis.

Purpose

We investigated the efficacy of FMT in attenuating the development of spontaneous colitis in Muc2^-/- mice. This study also evaluated whether FMT using lyophilized stool can successfully alter the gut microbiome of recipient mice.

Method

To achieve successful colonization of transplanted microbiota, Muc2^-/- mice were pretreated prior to FMT with the antifungal amphotericin B, followed by an antibiotic mixture of metronidazole, ampicillin, neomycin and vancomycin in their drinking water for ten days. For two consecutive days, FMT was administered to Muc2^-/- mice via consumption of lyophilized stool cakes created from donor C57BL/6 mice, while sucrose cakes were given as control. The fecal microbiome was analyzed at baseline, post-antibiotics and biweekly post-FMT using 16S rRNA sequencing. We monitored body weight and signs of spontaneous colitis, including rectal prolapse, until the mice reached their humane endpoint or turned 30 weeks old.

Result(s)

Following antibiotic pretreatment, Muc2^-/- mice experienced significant weight loss, with 15-20% requiring euthanization within ten days of receiving antibiotics. Unless FMT was administered post-antibiotics, 95% of the mice developed rectal prolapse or otherwise reached their humane endpoint. In comparison, FMT-treated mice rarely developed rectal prolapse, with 55-80% of the FMT-treated mice surviving until the end of the experiment; some FMT-treated mice had no signs of rectal prolapse when euthanized at 30 weeks. Therefore, FMT significantly improved the survival rate of antibiotic-treated Muc2^-/- mice and delayed the onset of rectal prolapse / spontaneous colitis. Microbiome analysis revealed that the lyophilized FMT altered the fecal microbiome as compared to mice receiving the sucrose control.

Conclusion(s)

Notably, FMT increased the survival rates of antibiotic-pretreated Muc2^-/- mice while delaying the onset of rectal prolapse. This indicates that lyophilized FMT counteracts the typical spontaneous colitis and weight loss seen in Muc2^-/- mice. Our findings can offer clinically relevant insight into how FMT induces a shift in the gut microbiome and its potential usage in treating IBD, as well as other gastrointestinal conditions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared

Quantitative, multiplexed, targeted proteomics for ascertaining variant specific SARS-CoV-2 antibody response

Determining the protection an individual has to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern (VoCs) is crucial for future immune surveillance, vaccine development, and understanding of the changing immune response. We devised an informative assay to current ELISA-based serology using multiplexed, baited, targeted proteomics for direct detection of multiple proteins in the SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibody immunocomplex. Serum from individuals collected after infection or first- and second-dose vaccination demonstrates this approach and shows concordance with existing serology and neutralization. Our assays show altered responses of both immunoglobulins and complement to the Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), and Delta (B.1.617.1) VoCs and a reduced response to Omicron (B1.1.1529). We were able to identify individuals who had prior infection, and observed that C1q is closely associated with IgG1 (r > 0.82) and may better reflect neutralization to VoCs. Analyzing additional immunoproteins beyond immunoglobulin (Ig) G, provides important information about our understanding of the response to infection and vaccination.

471 Assessing the Accuracy and Bias of Digital Symptom Checkers with Myocardial Infarction Patients

Aim

The accuracy and safety of symptom checkers in diagnosing and triaging patients is of concern; especially those with life-threatening conditions. The study's aims were to: 1. assess the accuracy of symptom checkers in diagnosing and triaging myocardial infarctions (MI) and, 2. determine whether differences in gender or presentation type exist.

Method

This prospective diagnostic accuracy study assessed 8 symptom checkers using 100 MI patients of various presentations: typical or atypical. The ability of a symptom checker in providing MI as the first diagnosis (D1) and the first 3 (D3) diagnoses were diagnostic accuracy measures. Triage advice was deemed correct if the symptom checker recommended seeking emergency treatment.

Results

Symptom checkers correctly diagnosed 48.0±31.4% of cases with MI first. D3 accuracy was 72.6±20.2%. Mean triage accuracy was 82.6±12.6%.

24.0±16.2% of atypical cases had a correct primary diagnosis. D3 accuracy for atypical MI was 43.8±20.6%, significantly lower than that of typical MI (p&lt;0.01). Atypical case triage accuracy was 52.7±20.0%, significantly lower than typical cases (84.2±14.7%, p&lt;0.01).

10.0% of the atypical female cases were diagnosed correctly with MI as the first diagnosis. Female atypical cases had significantly lower accuracy than typical female cases for all accuracy measures (p&lt;0.01).

Conclusions

Symptom checkers generally provide low accuracy for diagnosing MI. Approximately 20% of cases were under-triaged. Results varied between symptom checkers: patients who presented with atypical symptoms tended to be under-diagnosed and under-triaged, especially those who were female. This demonstrated potential gender bias and therefore raises questions regarding symptom checker regulation and safety.

Search for Subsolar-Mass Binaries in the First Half of Advanced LIGO's and Advanced Virgo's Third Observing Run

We report on a search for compact binary coalescences where at least one binary component has a mass between 0.2  M_{⊙} and 1.0  M_{⊙} in Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo data collected between 1 April 2019 1500 UTC and 1 October 2019 1500 UTC. We extend our previous analyses in two main ways: we include data from the Virgo detector and we allow for more unequal mass systems, with mass ratio q≥0.1. We do not report any gravitational-wave candidates. The most significant trigger has a false alarm rate of 0.14  yr^{-1}. This implies an upper limit on the merger rate of subsolar binaries in the range [220-24200]  Gpc^{-3} yr^{-1}, depending on the chirp mass of the binary. We use this upper limit to derive astrophysical constraints on two phenomenological models that could produce subsolar-mass compact objects. One is an isotropic distribution of equal-mass primordial black holes. Using this model, we find that the fraction of dark matter in primordial black holes in the mass range 0.2  M_{⊙}<m_{PBH}<1.0  M_{⊙} is f_{PBH}≡Ω_{PBH}/Ω_{DM}≲6%. This improves existing constraints on primordial black hole abundance by a factor of ∼3. The other is a dissipative dark matter model, in which fermionic dark matter can collapse and form black holes. The upper limit on the fraction of dark matter black holes depends on the minimum mass of the black holes that can be formed: the most constraining result is obtained at M_{min}=1  M_{⊙}, where f_{DBH}≡Ω_{DBH}/Ω_{DM}≲0.003%. These are the first constraints placed on dissipative dark models by subsolar-mass analyses.

Immune boosting by B.1.1.529 Omicron) depends on previous SARS-CoV-2 exposure

The Omicron, or Pango lineage B.1.1.529, variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) carries multiple spike mutations with high transmissibility and partial neutralizing antibody (nAb) escape. Vaccinated individuals show protection against severe disease, often attributed to primed cellular immunity. We investigated T and B cell immunity against B.1.1.529 in triple BioNTech BNT162b2 messenger RNA-vaccinated health care workers (HCWs) with different SARS-CoV-2 infection histories. B and T cell immunity against previous variants of concern was enhanced in triple-vaccinated individuals, but the magnitude of T and B cell responses against B.1.1.529 spike protein was reduced. Immune imprinting by infection with the earlier B.1.1.7 (Alpha) variant resulted in less durable binding antibody against B.1.1.529. Previously infection-naïve HCWs who became infected during the B.1.1.529 wave showed enhanced immunity against earlier variants but reduced nAb potency and T cell responses against B.1.1.529 itself. Previous Wuhan Hu-1 infection abrogated T cell recognition and any enhanced cross-reactive neutralizing immunity on infection with B.1.1.529.

Evaluation of prognostic risk models for postoperative pulmonary complications in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: a systematic review and international external validation cohort study

BACKGROUND

Stratifying risk of postoperative pulmonary complications after major abdominal surgery allows clinicians to modify risk through targeted interventions and enhanced monitoring. In this study, we aimed to identify and validate prognostic models against a new consensus definition of postoperative pulmonary complications.

METHODS

We did a systematic review and international external validation cohort study. The systematic review was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase on March 1, 2020, for articles published in English that reported on risk prediction models for postoperative pulmonary complications following abdominal surgery. External validation of existing models was done within a prospective international cohort study of adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing major abdominal surgery. Data were collected between Jan 1, 2019, and April 30, 2019, in the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Discriminative ability and prognostic accuracy summary statistics were compared between models for the 30-day postoperative pulmonary complication rate as defined by the Standardised Endpoints in Perioperative Medicine Core Outcome Measures in Perioperative and Anaesthetic Care (StEP-COMPAC). Model performance was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC).

FINDINGS

In total, we identified 2903 records from our literature search; of which, 2514 (86·6%) unique records were screened, 121 (4·8%) of 2514 full texts were assessed for eligibility, and 29 unique prognostic models were identified. Nine (31·0%) of 29 models had score development reported only, 19 (65·5%) had undergone internal validation, and only four (13·8%) had been externally validated. Data to validate six eligible models were collected in the international external validation cohort study. Data from 11 591 patients were available, with an overall postoperative pulmonary complication rate of 7·8% (n=903). None of the six models showed good discrimination (defined as AUROCC ≥0·70) for identifying postoperative pulmonary complications, with the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia score showing the best discrimination (AUROCC 0·700 [95% CI 0·683-0·717]).

INTERPRETATION

In the pre-COVID-19 pandemic data, variability in the risk of pulmonary complications (StEP-COMPAC definition) following major abdominal surgery was poorly described by existing prognostication tools. To improve surgical safety during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and beyond, novel risk stratification tools are required.

FUNDING

British Journal of Surgery Society.

972 Investigating the Modified Glasgow Prognostic Score as A Tool in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Sarcoma - A Newcastle Cohort Study

Aim

Sarcomas are an aggressive group of cancers with a poor prognosis. The modified Glasgow Prognostic Score (mGPS) uses CRP and albumin levels to generate a score from 0 to 2. A higher mGPS is associated with worse outcomes and is validated in various carcinomas. However, less evidence exists for its usefulness in sarcoma and this study aims to further investigate this area.

Method

All patients with a bone or soft tissue sarcoma diagnosis presenting to the North of England Bone and Soft Tissue Tumour Service between 2010 – 2014 were analysed. A retrospective review of clinical notes, pre-operative biochemistry results and oncological outcome was performed. Primary outcome measures were local recurrence or metastasis and overall survival (OS).

Results

80 patients met the inclusion criteria (28 females and 52 males). 64% of patients were aged &gt;50 at diagnosis. 78% of tumours were high grade (Trojani Grade 2/3) and 71% were &gt;5cm in size. 51 patients had a calculated mGPS=0, 19 patients had mGPS=1 and 10 patients had mGPS=2. In the mGPS=0 group, 22% developed recurrence or metastases and median OS was 42.2 months. For an mGPS of 1 and 2, the rate of recurrence or metastasis was 58% and 60% respectively, and median OS was 41.6 and 39.9 months.

Conclusions

Pre-surgical CRP and albumin levels (mGPS) may be important in predicting outcome and aiding the management of sarcoma patients. In this cohort, a higher mGPS (1/2) was associated with increased frequency of recurrence or metastasis, however further data is required to determine statistical significance.

P–480 Adding fuel to the flame of low fertility: Fertility intention and perceived socio-political stability of young adults in Hong Kong

Study question

How does perceived socio-political stability impact on the fertility intention of Hong Kong adults?

Summary answer

Political and economic uncertainties play an especially significant role in reproductive decision-making among young adults in Hong Kong, where traditional family beliefs diminish in importance.

What is known already

Hong Kong has one of the lowest fertility rates in the world, despite the importance placed on values like family lineage and childbearing as a filial obligation. Previous investigation of Hong Kong students’ perception of reproduction showed that proximal factors such as having a stable relationship and personal maturity as the most important conditions for parenthood. It is yet to be explored whether more distal factors such as the economy and political stability also play a role in reproductive decision-making among Hong Kong adults, especially under the influence of the Anti-Extradition Bill Movement from onwards.

Study design, size, duration

This study uses cross-sectional data from an online survey that explores the fertility attitudes, intentions, and behaviours and perceived socio-political stability of Hong Kong Chinese adults. Data were collected between July and August 2020.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Participants were 629 childless Hong Kong Chinese women (mean age = 30±6.68) recruited through community network and social media. Participants answered questions on fertility intention, and rated the extent to which ‘political environment’, ‘economic stability’ and ‘education system’ are important social-political factors in considering family formation, and to which they agree with traditional family beliefs. We conducted binary logistic regression with fertility intention as the criterion variable and social-political factors of family formation as predictors.

Main results and the role of chance

Participants considered the ‘political environment’ and ‘education system’ very important factors when considering family formation, especially among those aged 25 or below. More than 70% of respondents said they would like to have children, yet only 44% said they plan on actualizing their parenthood goals in the near future. Regression analyses showed significant main effects of age and gender on fertility intention, such that younger (P&lt;.001) and male (P&lt;.01) participants were less likely to intend on becoming parents. The more participants valued ‘political environment’ (B = 0.48, P&lt;.001) and ‘economic stability’ (B = 0.39, P&lt;.05), the less likely it is for them to intend on becoming parents, controlling for age and gender. There was also significant interaction between age and importance of ‘political environment’ (P&lt;.01), indicating that for whom ‘political environment’ is an important condition for parenthood, younger participants had lower intention of having children than older participants. There was no significant effect of gender. Overall, participants did not subscribe to traditional beliefs such as that childbearing is ‘a necessary part of married life’ or that it is ‘a filial obligation as sons or daughters’ (ratings = 1.95 – 3.05, out of 5).

Limitations, reasons for caution

Participants were recruited by self-selection through community network and social media, potentially favouring individuals who were more concerned with fertility issues to begin with. Additionally, men were largely under-represented in this sample (15%), potentially obscuring any significant gender differences relating to traditional family beliefs and determinants of reproductive decisions.

Wider implications of the findings: With economic and political uncertainties expected to persist, these findings call for increased psychosocial and fertility education for young adults in navigating long-term parenthood goals and reproductive options, and policies that assist young adults in overcoming personal and structural barriers to parenthood amid diminishing confidence in governmental support.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

P–470 Sex in the time of Covid–19: Examining the sexual behavior and sexual desire of female adults in Hong Kong

Study question

How are sexual behavior and sexual desire of Hong Kong women affected during the Covid–19 pandemic?

Summary answer

The Covid–19 pandemic has a negative impact on the sexual life of adult women, in particular, single women who do not have a live-in partner.

What is known already

Since the beginning of the Covid–19 pandemic, there have been ongoing debates on whether lockdown measures would do more harm on individuals or families who are already living in fear of virus infection. Some studies have shown that despite social distancing and measures that limit contact and interaction, women, particularly those who are either married or have a stable partner, were found to be sexually more active and reported stronger emotional bonding with their partners during lockdown. This study attempts to examine any significant changes in sexual behavior and sexual desire of adult females in Hong Kong during the pandemic.

Study design, size, duration

This is a cross-sectional online study examining the sexual behaviors among female adults. The survey was conducted in Hong Kong between July and August 2020, in which the city has been locked down.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Six hundred and two Chinese female adults (mean age = 32±7.09) were recruited through social media and community networks. Respondents completed the Desire Domain of the Female Sexual Function Index and self-reported frequency of sexual behavior before and during the Covid–19 pandemic. T-tests and ANOVAs were used to compare sexual behavior and sexual desire across demographic groups. Linear regression was conducted with sexual behavior and sexual desire as criterion variable and demographic characteristics as predictors.

Main results and the role of chance

Women reported significantly lower frequency of sexual behavior during the Covid–19 pandemic compared to previously (t = 8.25, P &lt; .001). Less often did women feel sexual desire or interest during the pandemic (t = 7.05, P &lt; .001) and a lower degree of sexual desire or interest was reported (t = 11.16, P &lt; .001). During the pandemic, women who were married or cohabitated reported significantly more frequent sexual behavior than did single women with partners (P &lt; .01), while the two groups were comparable in terms of the frequency and intensity of having sexual desire. Linear regression analyses showed a statistically significant reduction in frequency of sexual intercourse during Covid–19 with increasing age (B = -.19, P &lt; .001), and being single with (B = -.26, P &lt; .001) or without partner (B = -.40, P &lt; .001), taking into account all other demographic characteristics. Single women reported significantly less often did they feel sexual desire or interest during Covid–19, while age (B = -.26, P &lt; .001) and being single without a partner (B = -.22, P &lt; .001) predicted significantly lower intensity of sexual desire during Covid–19.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Women with either primary or secondary education level are not adequately represented as recruitment was carried out via community network and social media platform, which are more likely to be more accessible by a population who is more tech-savvy and has more access to email.

Wider implications of the findings: We are still in the middle of the pandemic and there is still paucity of data illustrating its impact on sexual life. Current findings could give insight to stakeholders to develop sexual health counselling services that address the negative effect on sexual intimacy arising from sexual behavioral change.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

P-470 Sex in the time of Covid-19: Examining the sexual behavior and sexual desire of female adults in Hong Kong

Study question

How are sexual behavior and sexual desire of Hong Kong women affected during the Covid-19 pandemic?

Summary answer

The Covid-19 pandemic has a negative impact on the sexual life of adult women, in particular, single women who do not have a live-in partner.

What is known already

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, there have been ongoing debates on whether lockdown measures would do more harm on individuals or families who are already living in fear of virus infection. Some studies have shown that despite social distancing and measures that limit contact and interaction, women, particularly those who are either married or have a stable partner, were found to be sexually more active and reported stronger emotional bonding with their partners during lockdown. This study attempts to examine any significant changes in sexual behavior and sexual desire of adult females in Hong Kong during the pandemic.

Study design, size, duration

This is a cross-sectional online study examining the sexual behaviors among female adults. The survey was conducted in Hong Kong between July and August 2020, in which the city has been locked down.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Six hundred and two Chinese female adults (mean age = 32±7.09) were recruited through social media and community networks. Respondents completed the Desire Domain of the Female Sexual Function Index and self-reported frequency of sexual behavior before and during the Covid-19 pandemic. T-tests and ANOVAs were used to compare sexual behavior and sexual desire across demographic groups. Linear regression was conducted with sexual behavior and sexual desire as criterion variable and demographic characteristics as predictors.

Main results and the role of chance

Women reported significantly lower frequency of sexual behavior during the Covid-19 pandemic compared to previously (t = 8.25, P &lt; .001). Less often did women feel sexual desire or interest during the pandemic (t = 7.05, P &lt; .001) and a lower degree of sexual desire or interest was reported (t = 11.16, P &lt; .001). During the pandemic, women who were married or cohabitated reported significantly more frequent sexual behavior than did single women with partners (P &lt; .01), while the two groups were comparable in terms of the frequency and intensity of having sexual desire. Linear regression analyses showed a statistically significant reduction in frequency of sexual intercourse during Covid-19 with increasing age (B = -.19, P &lt; .001), and being single with (B = -.26, P &lt; .001) or without partner (B = -.40, P &lt; .001), taking into account all other demographic characteristics. Single women reported significantly less often did they feel sexual desire or interest during Covid-19, while age (B = -.26, P &lt; .001) and being single without a partner (B = -.22, P &lt; .001) predicted significantly lower intensity of sexual desire during Covid-19.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Women with either primary or secondary education level are not adequately represented as recruitment was carried out via community network and social media platform, which are more likely to be more accessible by a population who is more tech-savvy and has more access to email.

Wider implications of the findings

We are still in the middle of the pandemic and there is still paucity of data illustrating its impact on sexual life. Current findings could give insight to stakeholders to develop sexual health counselling services that address the negative effect on sexual intimacy arising from sexual behavioral change.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

Outcomes of alveolar segmental 'sandwich' osteotomy with interpositional particulate allograft for severe vertical defects in the anterior maxilla and mandible

The purpose of this study was to report the outcomes of interpositional osteotomy with mineralized allograft in the treatment of alveolar vertical defects in preparation for implant placement. Thirteen defects (11 maxillary and two mandibular) were treated with osteotomy segments ranging in length from two to five missing teeth. The segments were positioned 5-7 mm coronally, with the gap space filled with allograft and then fixated with titanium hardware. Vertical bone augmentation was analyzed by superimposing pre- and post-surgical cone beam computed tomography images and stratified based on the length and number of missing teeth in each edentulous segment. The mean vertical bone gain was 3.7 ± 1.6 mm in the area of greatest vertical defect and the mean length of the transport segment was 20.5 ± 8.1 mm. These segments represented two-, three-, four-, or five-tooth edentulous sites; the mean vertical bone gain for these segments was 1.7 ± 0.5 mm, 3.8 ± 1.0 mm, 4.6 ± 0.9 mm, and 6.7 ± 0.0 mm, respectively. Stability of vertical height gain was found to be directly proportional to the span length of the osteotomy segment, with the largest five-tooth segment achieving the greatest gain. Vertical bone gain in two-tooth segments was minimal, indicating a moderate amount of resorption.

Constraints on Cosmic Strings Using Data from the Third Advanced LIGO-Virgo Observing Run

We search for gravitational-wave signals produced by cosmic strings in the Advanced LIGO and Virgo full O3 dataset. Search results are presented for gravitational waves produced by cosmic string loop features such as cusps, kinks, and, for the first time, kink-kink collisions. A template-based search for short-duration transient signals does not yield a detection. We also use the stochastic gravitational-wave background energy density upper limits derived from the O3 data to constrain the cosmic string tension Gμ as a function of the number of kinks, or the number of cusps, for two cosmic string loop distribution models. Additionally, we develop and test a third model that interpolates between these two models. Our results improve upon the previous LIGO-Virgo constraints on Gμ by 1 to 2 orders of magnitude depending on the model that is tested. In particular, for the one-loop distribution model, we set the most competitive constraints to date: Gμ≲4×10^{-15}. In the case of cosmic strings formed at the end of inflation in the context of grand unified theories, these results challenge simple inflationary models.

Constraints on Cosmic Strings Using Data from the Third Advanced LIGO-Virgo Observing Run

We search for gravitational-wave signals produced by cosmic strings in the Advanced LIGO and Virgo full O3 dataset. Search results are presented for gravitational waves produced by cosmic string loop features such as cusps, kinks, and, for the first time, kink-kink collisions. A template-based search for short-duration transient signals does not yield a detection. We also use the stochastic gravitational-wave background energy density upper limits derived from the O3 data to constrain the cosmic string tension Gμ as a function of the number of kinks, or the number of cusps, for two cosmic string loop distribution models. Additionally, we develop and test a third model that interpolates between these two models. Our results improve upon the previous LIGO-Virgo constraints on Gμ by 1 to 2 orders of magnitude depending on the model that is tested. In particular, for the one-loop distribution model, we set the most competitive constraints to date: Gμ≲4×10^{-15}. In the case of cosmic strings formed at the end of inflation in the context of grand unified theories, these results challenge simple inflationary models.

96 Mixed Adenoneuroendocrine Carcinoma in Crohn's Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review

Introduction

Mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC) is a rare neoplasm with dual adenocarcinomatous and neuroendocrine differentiation. Subgroup analysis demonstrates an increased frequency of both adenocarcinomas and neuroendocrine tumours in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), though the incidence of MANEC is unknown.

Method

A 58-year-old male with a 31-year history of CD presented with small bowel obstruction. After failed conservative management, the patient underwent right hemicolectomy, with subsequent histology demonstrating MANEC.

A literature search was performed to identify further cases of patients with concomitant MANEC and CD.

Results

11 cases were identified. The mean duration of CD before presentation was 19.5 years, and 58% of cases involved the terminal ileum. 60% of cases demonstrated nodal spread and metastatic disease was evident in 25%. 42% of patients with MANEC were initially treated for an exacerbation of CD.

Conclusions

MANEC is a rare tumour of uncertain aetiology. The terminal ileum is commonly affected, with most cases exhibiting a longstanding CD history. Diagnosis is challenging, with symptoms of MANEC mirroring exacerbations of CD. Future research should strive to identify imaging modalities or biochemical markers which aid in distinguishing the two pathologies, preventing futile medical management of MANEC, and reducing the risk of metastatic spread due to delayed diagnosis.

Building 'a compassionate armour': The journey to develop strength and self-compassion in a group treatment for complex post-traumatic stress disorder

OBJECTIVES

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with severe difficulties in emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and shame. For individuals with these difficulties, exposure-based treatment for PTSD symptoms is less effective and can even be harmful. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of change at an individual and group level for individuals completing treatment for complex PTSD.

DESIGN

Constructivist grounded theory was used to develop an explanatory theoretical model of the change process.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 women with a diagnosis of complex PTSD who had completed the group treatment.

RESULTS

The theoretical model captured change as an ongoing journey, which continued after treatment finished. Participants identified three essential aspects of the group that brought about change. The first was the group itself, in which valued relationships were formed. Additionally, participants described two key mechanisms - developing a comprehensive understanding of themselves and their difficulties, and experiencing their emotions and compassion from others.

CONCLUSIONS

The key mechanisms of change were the relationships formed within the group and the need for a deeper understanding of the self in order to reduce shame and prepare for exposure-based treatment. Further support is provided for a phase-based approach to complex PTSD treatment. Psychoeducation alone, however, was not sufficient, and it was also crucial that participants could safely access their emotions and experience compassion from others in order for change to come about.

PRACTITIONER POINTS

Important aspects of treatment for complex PTSD are emphasised to inform professional practice. In particular, the role of relationships is altering self-perceptions through group therapy. Other key elements included participants building an understanding of themselves and their difficulties through psychoeducation, developing compassion for others and themselves, and safely accessing their emotions. This study also builds upon the body of evidence for the benefits of phase-based treatment which addresses shame and emotional regulation prior to exposure therapy.

Genomic Alterations in PIK3CA-Mutated Breast Cancer Result in mTORC1 Activation and Limit the Sensitivity to PI3Kα Inhibitors

PI3Kα inhibitors have shown clinical activity in PIK3CA-mutated estrogen receptor-positive (ER⁺) patients with breast cancer. Using whole genome CRISPR/Cas9 sgRNA knockout screens, we identified and validated several negative regulators of mTORC1 whose loss confers resistance to PI3Kα inhibition. Among the top candidates were TSC1, TSC2, TBC1D7, AKT1S1, STK11, MARK2, PDE7A, DEPDC5, NPRL2, NPRL3, C12orf66, SZT2, and ITFG2. Loss of these genes invariably results in sustained mTOR signaling under pharmacologic inhibition of the PI3K-AKT pathway. Moreover, resistance could be prevented or overcome by mTOR inhibition, confirming the causative role of sustained mTOR activity in limiting the sensitivity to PI3Kα inhibition. Cumulatively, genomic alterations affecting these genes are identified in about 15% of PIK3CA-mutated breast tumors and appear to be mutually exclusive. This study improves our understanding of the role of mTOR signaling restoration in leading to resistance to PI3Kα inhibition and proposes therapeutic strategies to prevent or revert this resistance. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings show that genetic lesions of multiple negative regulators of mTORC1 could limit the efficacy of PI3Kα inhibitors in breast cancer, which may guide patient selection strategies for future clinical trials.

Characteristics and outcomes of patients admitted to adult intensive care units in Hong Kong: a population retrospective cohort study from 2008 to 2018

Background

Globally, mortality rates of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) have decreased over the last two decades. However, evaluations of the temporal trends in the characteristics and outcomes of ICU patients in Asia are limited. The objective of this study was to describe the characteristics and risk adjusted outcomes of all patients admitted to publicly funded ICUs in Hong Kong over a 11-year period. The secondary objective was to validate the predictive performance of Acute Physiology And Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) IV for ICU patients in Hong Kong.

Methods

This was an 11-year population-based retrospective study of all patients admitted to adult general (mixed medical-surgical) intensive care units in Hong Kong public hospitals. ICU patients were identified from a population electronic health record database. Prospectively collected APACHE IV data and clinical outcomes were analysed.

Results

From 1 April 2008 to 31 March 2019, there were a total of 133,858 adult ICU admissions in Hong Kong public hospitals. During this time, annual ICU admissions increased from 11,267 to 14,068, whilst hospital mortality decreased from 19.7 to 14.3%. The APACHE IV standard mortality ratio (SMR) decreased from 0.81 to 0.65 during the same period. Linear regression demonstrated that APACHE IV SMR changed by − 0.15 (95% CI − 0.18 to − 0.11) per year (Pearson’s R = − 0.951, p < 0.001). Observed median ICU length of stay was shorter than that predicted by APACHE IV (1.98 vs. 4.77, p < 0.001). C-statistic for APACHE IV to predict hospital mortality was 0.889 (95% CI 0.887 to 0.891) whilst calibration was limited (Hosmer–Lemeshow test p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Despite relatively modest per capita health expenditure, and a small number of ICU beds per population, Hong Kong consistently provides a high-quality and efficient ICU service. Number of adult ICU admissions has increased, whilst adjusted mortality has decreased over the last decade. Although APACHE IV had good discrimination for hospital mortality, it overestimated hospital mortality of critically ill patients in Hong Kong.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40560-020-00513-9.

Can Male Mice Develop Preference Towards Gentle Stroking by an Experimenter?

Gentle stroking, a type of affective touch that holds hedonic and rewarding value, is critical to our daily inter-individual communication. This positive socio-emotional aspect of touch is conveyed through a subclass of C afferents known as C-Tactile fibers in humans with an analogous system in rodents proposed. Here, we describe a novel tactile conditioned place preference paradigm using mice and demonstrate that gentle stroking by an experimenter is rewarding. In order to investigate the relationship between tactile preference and innate sociability, mice were subjected to the classic three-chambered test of social approach, where mice displayed significant preference towards the experimenter's hand. These findings suggest that gentle stroking evoked by an experimenter can play an important role in reward and preference and establish an affiliative relationship between mice and humans. Future research can potentially use this model to examine fiber type involvement and elucidate the significance of these findings for activation of the reward system.

Association betweenLeft Atrial Appendage function assessed by speckle-tracking echocardiography and the presence ofLeft Atrial Appendage stasis in patients with atrial fibrillation

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the association of LAA left atrial appendage funtion as assessed by speckle-tracking imaging with LAA stasis and thrombus in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

A total of 154 consecutive patients with AF referred for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were prospectively enrolled. Of these, 29 (18.8%) patients had LAA dense spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) and/or thrombus. Besides standard echocardiography we assessed global, basal, middle and apical LAA longitudinal strain (LS) in mid-esophageal TEE views obtained at 0°, 45°, 90° and 135° by using speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE).

Results

Patients were comparable with regard to the clinical data. A subgroup with LAA stasis or thrombus had enlarged LAA size, impaired LAA emptying fraction (LAAEF) and reduced LAA emptying velocity than control group.LAA global and segmental LS were significantly decreased in patients with dense SEC or thrombus. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the LAAEF of 61.5%, the LAA GLS of 8.02%, LAA segmental LS of (basal) 8.07%, (middle) 9.08%, (apical) 8.43% (P&lt;0.0001) were the optimal cutoff values for distinguishing both subgroups. All the LAA strain parameters as well as LAAEF were independently associated with the presence of LAA stasis or thrombus in multivariate analyses, with additional significance over the CHA2DS2-VASc score.

Conclusion

Speckle-tracking echocardiography may be used to describe LAA function during AF, allowing identification of patients with higher risk of LAA stasis or thrombus and providing incremental value over the CH2ADS2-VASc Score.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None