Citations

AbstractObjectivesThis needs assessment aimed to improve understanding of flexible endoscopic intubation training and practice in emergency medicine (EM), providing insights to educators and practice leaders seeking to improve education and practices.MethodsWe conducted a multicenter, mixed‐methods needs assessment of emergency physicians (EPs) incorporating focus groups and a survey. Focus groups comprised community EPs, academic EPs, and resident EPs. We analyzed focus group transcripts using grounded theory, qualitatively describing EM endoscopic intubation. The qualitative analysis shaped our survey instrument, which we deployed in cross‐sectional fashion. We report survey data with descriptive statistics.ResultsFocus groups with 13 EPs identified three themes: indications for use of endoscopic intubation, factors impacting a physician's decision to endoscopically intubate, and attaining and maintaining endoscopic intubation competency. Of 257 surveyed EPs (33% response rate), 79% had received endoscopic intubation training during residency, though 82% had performed this procedure 10 or fewer times in their career. Despite 97% acknowledging the necessity of competency, only 23% felt highly confident in their ability to perform endoscopic intubation. Participants (93%) reported scarce opportunities to perform the procedure and identified factors believed to facilitate competency acquisition and maintenance, including opportunities to perform endoscopic intubation in practice (98%), local champions (93%), and performing nasopharyngoscopy (87%).ConclusionsWhile most EPs acknowledged the importance of competency in endoscopic intubation, they reported scarce procedural opportunities and commonly expressed low confidence. Further research is needed on this topic, and we propose avenues to enhance education and practices related to endoscopic intubation. These include development of robust procedural curricula, support of local champions, and incorporating nasopharyngoscopy into EM practice.

Abstract Introduction Geriatric emergency department (ED) guidelines emphasize timely identification of delirium. This article updates previous diagnostic accuracy systematic reviews of history, physical examination, laboratory testing, and ED screening instruments for the diagnosis of delirium as well as test–treatment thresholds for ED delirium screening. Methods We conducted a systematic review to quantify the diagnostic accuracy of approaches to identify delirium. Studies were included if they described adults aged 60 or older evaluated in the ED setting with an index test for delirium compared with an acceptable criterion standard for delirium. Data were extracted and studies were reviewed for risk of bias. When appropriate, we conducted a meta‐analysis and estimated delirium screening thresholds. Results Full‐text review was performed on 55 studies and 27 were included in the current analysis. No studies were identified exploring the accuracy of findings on history or laboratory analysis. While two studies reported clinicians accurately rule in delirium, clinician gestalt is inadequate to rule out delirium. We report meta‐analysis on three studies that quantified the accuracy of the 4 A's Test (4AT) to rule in (pooled positive likelihood ratio [LR+] 7.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.7–20.7) and rule out (pooled negative likelihood ratio [LR−] 0.18, 95% CI 0.09–0.34) delirium. We also conducted meta‐analysis of two studies that quantified the accuracy of the Abbreviated Mental Test‐4 (AMT‐4) and found that the pooled LR+ (4.3, 95% CI 2.4–7.8) was lower than that observed for the 4AT, but the pooled LR− (0.22, 95% CI 0.05–1) was similar. Based on one study the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM‐ICU) is the superior instrument to rule in delirium. The calculated test threshold is 2% and the treatment threshold is 11%. Conclusions The quantitative accuracy of history and physical examination to identify ED delirium is virtually unexplored. The 4AT has the largest quantity of ED‐based research. Other screening instruments may more accurately rule in or rule out delirium. If the goal is to rule in delirium then the CAM‐ICU or brief CAM or modified CAM for the ED are superior instruments, although the accuracy of these screening tools are based on single‐center studies. To rule out delirium, the Delirium Triage Screen is superior based on one single‐center study.

Abstract The IFIH1 gene, encoding melanoma differentiation‐associated protein 5 (MDA5), is an indispensable innate immune regulator involved in the early detection of viral infections. Previous studies described MDA5 dysregulation in weakened immunological responses, and increased susceptibility to microbial infections and autoimmune disorders. Monoallelic gain‐of‐function of the IFIH1 gene has been associated with multisystem disorders, namely Aicardi–Goutieres and Singleton–Merten syndromes, while biallelic loss causes immunodeficiency. In this study, nine patients suffering from recurrent infections, inflammatory diseases, severe COVID‐19 or multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) were identified with putative loss‐of‐function IFIH1 variants by whole‐exome sequencing. All patients revealed signs of lymphopaenia and an increase in inflammatory markers, including CRP, amyloid A, ferritin and IL‐6. One patient with a pathogenic homozygous variant c.2807+1G>A was the most severe case showing immunodeficiency and glomerulonephritis. The c.1641+1G>C variant was identified in the heterozygous state in patients suffering from periodic fever, COVID‐19 or MIS‐C, while the c.2016delA variant was identified in two patients with inflammatory bowel disease or MIS‐C. There was a significant association between IFIH1 monoallelic loss of function and susceptibility to infections in males. Expression analysis showed that PBMCs of one patient with a c.2016delA variant had a significant decrease in ISG15 , IFNA and IFNG transcript levels, compared to normal PBMCs, upon stimulation with Poly(I:C), suggesting that MDA5 receptor truncation disrupts the immune response. Our findings accentuate the implication of rare monogenic IFIH1 loss‐of‐function variants in altering the immune response, and severely predisposing patients to inflammatory and infectious diseases, including SARS‐CoV‐2‐related disorders.

AbstractBackgroundThe G2019S leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene mutation is an important and commonly found genetic determinant of Parkinson's disease (PD). The neuropathological findings associated with this mutation have thus far been varied but are most often associated with Lewy body (LB) pathology.ObjectiveDescribe a case of clinical Parkinson's disease with levodopa responsiveness found to have LRRK2 mutations and the absence of Lewy bodies.MethodWe present an 89‐year‐old man with a 10‐year history of slowly progressive parkinsonism suspected to be secondary to Parkinson's disease.ResultsNeuropathological evaluation revealed nigral degeneration without Lewy bodies or Lewy neurites, but there were frequent tau‐immunopositive neurites and astrocytes in the putamen and substantia nigra, neocortical glial tau positive astrocytes associated with aging‐related tau astrogliopathy (ARTAG), as well as neurofibrillary tangles, beta amyloid plaques, and amyloid angiopathy typical of advanced Alzheimer's disease. G2019S LRRK2 homozygous mutations were found.ConclusionThis case illustrates that levodopa‐responsive clinical PD caused by G2019S LRRK2 mutations can occur without Lewy bodies.

INTRODUCTION: Several methods exist for diagnosis of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), including pooling on speculum exam, nitrazine test, arborization under microscopy, immunoassay, and amnio-dye test. Diagnostic accuracy is particularly important for PPROM because a missed diagnosis may result in life-threatening maternal and fetal consequences. We present a novel method for evaluating PPROM in equivocal cases using a menstrual cup. METHODS: Written informed consent was obtained for submission of a case report. A 36-year-old G6P5005 at 29 2/7 weeks presented with leakage of fluid. She was found to have negative pooling on speculum exam, negative arborization on microscopy, a maximum vertical pocket (MVP) of 4.0 cm, and a negative urinalysis. She was discharged with precautions and returned 2 days later with persistent symptoms. Workup again showed no pooling, no arborization, and a normal MVP. The patient suggested using a menstrual cup to capture her intermittent leakage of fluid. She wore a menstrual cup for 30 minutes in triage. A sample of the fluid tested positive for arborization. She was admitted to labor and delivery for latency antibiotics, betamethasone, and fetal and maternal monitoring. CONCLUSION: Preterm premature rupture of membranes can occur without overt vaginal pooling due to small volume leakage. Conventional testing is less sensitive when pooling is absent. In these cases, a menstrual cup may help facilitate diagnosis and avoid invasive tests such as the amnio-dye test. Care must be taken to use a clean menstrual cup without gel, limit the duration of menstrual cup use to avoid infection, and to distinguish arborization of amniotic fluid from that of cervical mucus.

INTRODUCTION: Although hysterectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in the United States, preoperative patient counseling regarding removal or preservation of the cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries during benign hysterectomy is far from standardized. We aimed to understand patients' preexisting values, beliefs, and preferences regarding removal or preservation of the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes at the time of benign hysterectomy. METHODS: We performed a qualitative study using semistructured interview of patients referred for benign hysterectomy with a minimally invasive gynecologic surgery division. Participants were recruited according to prespecified diversity axes. The interview guide was informed by literature review, expert stakeholders, and pilot testing. Telephone interviews occurred prior to their scheduled consultation with a surgeon. Responses were analyzed for themes using Rapid and Rigorous Data Qualitative Analysis. IRB approval was obtained. RESULTS: Age of participants (n=13) ranged from 24 to 60. Participants reported their race as non-Hispanic White (n=6), non-Hispanic Black (n=3), Hispanic (n=2), and multiracial or another race (n=2). Participants reported use of commercial insurance (n=8), Medicaid/Medicare (n=2), or self-pay/financial assistance (n=3). Identified themes included knowledge, decision making, treatment goals, short- and long-term consequences, fertility, identity, and lack of concern. Many participants expressed lacking necessary knowledge of the risks and benefits of removing the cervix and adnexa. Treatment goals included symptom relief and definitive treatment. Long-term consequences included concerns about menopause and future cancer. CONCLUSION: Prior to counseling, many patients express some degree of lack of knowledge, desire to remove most or all pelvic structures, and no attachment to their reproductive organs. Many patients expressed making decisions based on how organ removal will relieve current symptoms and long-term consequences, rather than immediate surgical risk, which can inform patient-centered counseling by their surgeon.

INTRODUCTION: Since the early 20th century, surgical practices on prophylactic oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy have fluctuated. This study aims to assess how current gynecologic surgeons are counseling patients on ovary-sparing benign hysterectomies and assess any gaps in provider knowledge. METHODS: Institutional review board exception was obtained. A survey was piloted and underwent several rounds of editing before being sent to members of American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) in April 2023. The questionnaire evaluated preoperative counseling on risks and benefits of ovary-sparing hysterectomy for benign indications and surgical practices for when to perform bilateral salpingectomy and oophorectomy. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: The survey was sent out by email to 6,622 AAGL members, 3,576 opened the email, and 520 completed surveys (14% response rate). Approximately one-half (58%) completed subspeciality training. Most counsel patients on the benefits of ovarian conservation including the prevention of osteoporosis (88%), early onset menopause (87%), cardiovascular disease (84%), and dementia (52%). Fifty percent recommend routine bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy at time of hysterectomy starting at age 61, whereas 38% recommend this be performed at age 51–55 years. CONCLUSION: Gynecologic surgeons are counseling patients on the risks and benefits of ovarian conservation. How frequently ovary-sparing hysterectomies are offered and the age at which bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is recommended vary by provider. Additional high-quality studies are needed to further understand the optimal timing of oophorectomy at time of benign hysterectomy, and there is also a need for provider education to minimize discrepancy in practice patterns.

PURPOSE To report the results of OPAL (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03574779 ) cohort A, a single-arm substudy of niraparib plus dostarlimab and bevacizumab for the treatment of advanced, platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). METHODS Participants with PROC who received 1-2 previous lines of therapy were treated with niraparib (200 or 300 mg once daily), dostarlimab (500 mg once every 3 weeks for four 21-day cycles, followed by 1,000 mg once every 6 weeks), and bevacizumab (15 mg/kg once every 3 weeks). The primary end point was investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR) per RECIST v1.1. Safety was also assessed. Exploratory biomarker end points included evaluation of changes in the tumor molecular profile and microenvironment using baseline and on-treatment tumor samples. RESULTS Of 41 enrolled participants (median age, 66.0 years [range, 37-83 years]), 9.8% had tumors that were BRCA-mutated, 19.5% were homologous recombination (HR)–deficient, and 17.1% were HR repair (HRR)–mutated. As of the cutoff date, all participants discontinued treatment. The ORR was 17.1% (80% CI, 9.8 to 27.0), including one complete response (2.4%); the disease control rate was 73.2% (80% CI, 62.3 to 82.2). Two participants withdrew before first postbaseline scan because of adverse events (AEs). Grade ≥3 treatment-emergent AEs were reported in 92.7% of participants, with the most common being hypertension (26.8%). Response was not correlated with BRCA, HRR, HR deficiency (HRD), or PD-L1 status. Changes suggesting immune activation were observed in on-treatment samples after triplet therapy. CONCLUSION Results demonstrated modest activity of niraparib, dostarlimab, and bevacizumab in participants with PROC, many of whom had prognostic factors for poor treatment response. Most participants with response were bevacizumab-naïve. No association was found with HRD, BRCA, or PD-L1 status. AEs were consistent with previous monotherapy reports, except that hypertension was reported more frequently.

Purpose: There are multiple frameworks for goal writing that are applicable to the practice of speech-language pathology. Motor-based speech disorders are a subset of speech sound disorders that are thought to require specific elements of intervention that are typically not addressed in the traditional frameworks used in the clinical setting. The purpose of this tutorial is to review general approaches of goal writing and suggest additional elements that may be used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of treatment for childhood motor speech disorders, specifically childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Method: Existing models of goal writing were reviewed to ascertain elements common to most of these models. A basic framework was chosen and modified to include behaviors, conditions, and approaches to goal measurement tailored to the clinical needs of children with CAS. A resource for clinical decision making for children with CAS was developed to inform goal writing at the onset of treatment and adaptations that occur over the course of treatment. Case studies are presented to demonstrate how the presented framework can be applied to writing goals for motor-based treatment for two different children with CAS. Discussion: Children with CAS require a specialized approach to intervention, which requires goals to reflect the unique clinical needs of this population. This tutorial offers resources that use the best available research evidence and current understanding of effective treatment practices for CAS to guide clinical decision making for motor-based intervention and goal writing. This tutorial is intended to guide treatment planning across varied settings to facilitate progress and optimize treatment outcomes for children with CAS.