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Background: Our study aims to determine the predictors and patterns of relapses after curative colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) resection. Methods: A single-centre, retrospective study of CRLM patients operated between 2010 and 2022 was performed. The site of first recurrence was either hepatic (marginal (≤ 1 cm) or extramarginal), extrahepatic, or both. Factors that predicted relapse patterns and overall survival were determined by multivariable Cox regression analysis with backward elimination of variables. Results: The study consisted of 258 patients, with a similar proportion of synchronous (144; 56%) and metachronous(114; 43%) metastasis. At a 43-month median follow-up, 156 patients (60.4%) developed recurrences with 33 (21.1%) in the liver, 62(24.03%) extra-hepatic recurrences, and 58 (22.48%) having both. Isolated marginal liver relapses were seen in seven (9.89%) liver recurrence patients. The median overall and relapse-free survivals were 38 months (30–54) and 13 months (11–16), respectively. The 3-year liver-relapse-free survival was 54.4% (44.9–60.6). Size of liver metastases > 5 cm (HR 2.06 (1.34–3.17), involved surgical margins (HR 2.16 (1.27–3.68)), and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 1.89 (1.07–3.35)) were predictors of hepatic recurrences. Node positivity of primary (HR 1.61 (1.02–2.56)), presence of baseline extra-hepatic metastases (HR 0.30 (0.18–0.51)), size of liver metastases > 5 cm (HR 2.02 (1.37–2.99)), poorly differentiated histology (HR 2.25 (1.28–3.49)), presence of LVI (HR 2.25 (1.28–3.94)), and adjuvant chemotherapy (HR 2.15 (1.28–3.61)) were predictors of extra-hepatic recurrences. Conclusion: The study found majority relapses occurred at extrahepatic sites whilst isolated marginal recurrences were few. The consistent predictors of recurrence were size and inability to deliver adjuvant therapy. A tailored adjuvant therapy might improve outcomes after liver metastasectomy in colorectal cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 'Textbook Outcome' (TO) represents an effort to define a standardized, composite quality benchmark based on intraoperative and postoperative endpoints. This study aimed to assess the applicability of TO as an outcome measure following liver resection for hepatic neoplasms from a low- to middle-income economy and determine its impact on long-term survival. Based on identified perioperative predictors, we developed and validated a nomogram-based scoring and risk stratification system. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients undergoing curative resections for hepatic neoplasms between 2012 and 2023. Rates of TO were assessed over time and factors associated with achieving a TO were evaluated. Using stepwise regression, a prediction nomogram for achieving TO was established based on perioperative risk factors. Results: Of the 1018 consecutive patients who underwent liver resections, a TO was achieved in 64.9% (661/1018). The factor most responsible for not achieving TO was significant post-hepatectomy liver failure (22%). Realization of TO was independently associated with improved overall and disease-free survival. On logistic regression, American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 2 (p = 0.0002), perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (p = 0.011), major hepatectomy (p = 0.0006), blood loss >1500 mL (p = 0.007), and presence of lymphovascular emboli on pathology (p = 0.026) were associated with the non-realization of TO. These independent risk factors were integrated into a nomogram prediction model with the predictive efficiency for TO (area under the curve 75.21%, 95% confidence interval 70.69–79.72%). Conclusion: TO is a realizable outcome measure and should be adopted. We recommend the use of the nomogram proposed as a convenient tool for patient selection and prognosticating outcomes following hepatectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgery remains debatable in para-aortic lymph node (PALN, station 16b1) metastasis in non-pancreatic periampullary cancer (NPPAC). This study examined the impact of PALN metastasis on outcomes following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) in NPPAC. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with NPPAC who were explored for PD with PALN dissection was performed. Based on the extent of nodal involvement on final histopathology, they were stratified as node-negative (N0), regional node involved (N+) and metastatic PALN (N16+) and their outcomes were compared. Results: Between 2011 and 2022, 153/887 PD patients underwent a PALN dissection, revealing N16+ in 42 patients (27.4%), of whom 32 patients underwent resection. The 3-years overall survival (OS) for patients with N16+ was 28% (95% confidence interval [CI] 13–60%), notably lower than the 67% (95% CI 53–83.5%; p = 0.007) for those without PALN metastasis. Stratified by nodal involvement, the median OS for N+ and N16+ patients was similar (28.4 months and 26.2 months, respectively). The N0 subgroup had a significantly longer 3-years OS of 87.5% (95% CI 79–96.7%; p = 0.0051). Interestingly, 10 patients not offered resection following N16+ identified on frozen section had a median survival of only 9 months. The perioperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing PD with PALN dissection were similar to standard resections. Conclusion: In a select group of patients with NPPAC, PD in isolated PALN metastasis was associated with improved OS. The survival in this group of patients was comparable with regional node-positive patients and significantly better than palliative treatment alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is caused by balanced translocation t(9::22)(q34;q11) resulting in formation of pathogenic BCR-ABL fusion gene. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have revolutionised the treatment of CML. Ongoing treatment with TKI leads to side effects and has financial impact. Teratogenic potential of TKI and growth disturbance also represent an important challenge. Thus, TKI discontinuation in form of treatment free remission (TFR) has emerged as a new and important therapeutic goal. In this retrospective study, we reviewed CML patients who were kept on TFR. Inclusion criteria was patient age ≥ 18 years diagnosed with CML in chronic phase who met the criteria for TFR and opted for same and who were in DMR but stopped TKI for any reason. We analysed the data for baseline characteristics, molecular relapse (MR), survival without molecular relapse (SWMR), TFR duration and factors affecting MR. We included 38 patients in this analysis. Thirty five (92%) patients were treated with imatinib at diagnosis. Median duration of TKI treatment was 135 months. 37 patients (97.5%) achieved DMR on TKI and median time from TKI initiation to DMR was 96 months. Median duration of DMR prior to TKI discontinuation was 41 months. TKI was discontinued after counselling for TFR in 26 patients (68%) while it was discontinued due to intolerance in 10 patients (29%). At median molecular follow up of 25 months, nine patients (23.7%) had molecular relapse. Median SWMR was not reached and 2 year estimated SWMR was 65.2% (95%CI,47.2- 83.2). Of all relapses, 5/9 (55.5%) occurred in the first six months of TFR. On univariate analysis, duration of TKI and duration of DMR were predictive of molecular relapse. On multivariate analysis, none of these factors were found to be significant. This retrospective study suggests that for CML CP patients achieving deep molecular response, discontinuing TKI therapy in real-world settings may be feasible while potentially achieving comparable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retroperitoneal sarcomas are a complex and heterogenous group of tumors. An approach to these tumors should be guided by a clear understanding of the disease biology and anatomical principles, which mandates a dedicated multidisciplinary team approach at all steps of management. We present our experience of evolution as a high-volume sarcoma center with a dedicated multidisciplinary tumor board (the RP clinic) with consequent standardization of surgeries and management protocols. Methods: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database for patients undergoing surgery from January 2011 to June 2023 was performed. Data were divided into the pre-clinic era (2011–2017) and post-clinic era (2018–2023). Survival curves were obtained using the Kaplan–Meier method, and the Chi-square test was used to test significance for categorical variables. Time trends were analyzed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. A p value ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Overall, 254 patients were operated during this period; 36.6% of patients underwent surgeries in the pre-RP clinic era (6 years) and 63.3% in the post-RP clinic era (4.5 years). There was a statistically significant increase in the number of cases being operated per year, from an average of 16.3 in the pre-clinic era to 42.4 in the post-RP clinic era (p = 0.001). The post-RP clinic era also showed a significant increase in compartment and multivisceral resections (49% vs. 18.2%; p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Establishment of a dedicated multidisciplinary tumor board (RP clinic) resulted in standardization of management protocols, resulting in optimal oncological and surgical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we address the critical need for advanced theranostic drug delivery systems by synthesizing and characterizing surface-functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). Acyclovir is an effective antiviral drug with poor water solubility leading to limitations in its administrations and effectivity. Our investigation into the drug-loading capacity of acyclovir reveals that surface-functionalized SPIONs with an average size of 8.1 nm exhibit a notable increase in drug-loading capacity proportional to drug concentration. Specifically, at drug concentrations of 752.21 μg, 1774.32 μg, and 3799.09 μg, we achieved loading efficiencies and capacities of 40.89%, 51.62%, and 50.14% respectively. Alongside, they have high biocompatibility as observed from the hemolysis assay and MTT assay. Moreover, the multifunctionality of these SPIONs extends beyond drug delivery, as they demonstrate high relaxivity suitable for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies at remarkably low concentrations in the micromolar range. Specifically, the relaxivity value (r2) for the said SPIONs was calculated to 10.99 L/mmol−s which is higher than many commercially used iron oxide-based contrast agents. The multifunctional attributes of these SPIONs position them as versatile and easily customisable platform for diverse therapeutic molecules. This study not only underscores the feasibility of utilizing surface-modified SPIONs as efficient carriers for acyclovir or other therapeutic molecules but also paves the way for evaluating the feasibility of next-generation theranostic materials for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical management of colorectal disease and liver metastatectomy can be staged or synchronous. A minimally invasive approach in synchronous resection in the selected group of patients may improve postoperative outcomes. The present study aimed to explore the safety and feasibility of simultaneous liver and colorectal resection for synchronous metastasis by a minimally invasive approach in terms of major morbidity and R0 resection rates. The present study is a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database. All patients who underwent minimally invasive simultaneous resection of colorectal malignancy and liver metastases between January 2020 and April 2023 were included. A total of 39 patients were included in the study. The median age was 54 (23–79) years with 28 male (72%) and 11 female (28%) patients. Rectum (n = 21, 54%) was the most common primary location. The most commonly performed procedures were low anterior resection (n = 12) and parenchymal sparing non-anatomical resection (n = 23, 59%). The median surgery duration was 280 (150–520) min, and the median blood loss was 400 (50–2100) ml. The median hospital stay was 7 (5–18) days. Five (12.6%) patients had major complications. With a median follow-up of 12 months, the 2-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were 84.6% and 37%, respectively. Simultaneous liver and colorectal resection by minimal access approach is feasible in selected groups of patients depending on the extent of hepatectomy, the patient's general condition, and surgical team experience. A minimal access approach leads to faster recovery without compromising on the oncological radicality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) possess intrinsic properties to serve as T2 contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) — a highly sensitive, non-invasive diagnostic tool. In this study, we have evaluated the potential of SPIONs by surface modifying it with generation 4 polyamidoamine dendrimers (G4 PAMAM). SPIONs were characterized using DLS, TEM, FTIR, VSM, and XRD. The dendrimer-coated SPIONs (DC-SPIONs) were characterized using NMR, FTIR, VSM, and XRD and their efficacy was studied using a 3 T clinical MR imager. SPIONs, DC-SPIONs, and dendrimers exhibit significant T2 contrast-enhancing properties while potentially improving interaction with cells. It was concluded that although SPIONs alone exhibit the highest contrast efficacy, the coating with dendrimers improvises their biocompatibility and dispersion in in vitro cells at clinically relevant concentrations ranging from 0.005 to 0.05 mmol/L−1. As expected, concentrations of 0.05 mmol/L−1 exhibited higher contrast-enhancing properties as compared to 0.005 mmol/L−1 but even at ultra-low concentrations, all materials exhibited qualitative and quantitative detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a rare disease entity in India. We aimed at studying the clinical profile of IgG4-RD of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) from our centre, while systematically reviewing data from India. Methods: Retrospective review of IgG4-RD of GIT was done using electronic medical records between January 2013 and July 2022. Literature search was done for studies of IgG4-RD of the GIT reported from India from 2000 till January 2023. Case series, case reports of IgG4-RD of GIT and case reports describing GIT with multi-organ involvement were included in the review. Primary outcome measure was response to treatment. Secondary outcome measure was relapse after remission. Results: Thirty-one patients were included with 71% (22/31) having autoimmune pancreatitis. The diagnosis was achieved on surgical specimen in 35% (11/31) patients. Steroid was given to 64% (20/31) patients with remission achieved in 70% (14/20) patients. Four patients exhibitted response to prolonged course of steroids with maintenance azathioprine. Relapse was seen in four (20%) patients who achieved remission. Of 731 articles screened, 48 studies (four case series and 44 case reports) were included in the literature review. Of 95 patients described, steroids were given to 65.2% (62/95), while surgery was done in 33.6% (32/95). Remission was seen in 96.6% (85/88) with relapse occurring in 11.4% (10/88) patients on follow-up. Conclusion: One-third patients of IgG4-RD of GIT are diagnosed after surgery. Response to steroids is good with relapse occurring in up to 12% patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Outcomes of childhood acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) have exceeded 90% in the era of differentiating agents. In resource-limited settings, early mortality secondary to coagulopathy remains a significant challenge. Differentiation syndrome is a unique complication of APL therapy that requires a high degree of suspicion for timely initiation of therapy. Methods: A retrospective study of children ≤15 y of age with APL diagnosed between January-2013 and June-2019 treated at a tertiary cancer centre was conducted. Patients with a total leukocyte count ≥10,000/µL were risk stratified as high-risk. Treatment included differentiating agents, all-trans retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide along with chemotherapy. Baseline demographics, clinical complications and outcomes were analysed. Results: Out of 90 patients treated, 48 (53%) had high-risk APL and 25 (28%) presented with significant bleeding manifestations. Response to therapy was excellent with 96% of evaluable patients achieving molecular remission by the end of consolidation phase. Differentiation syndrome occurred in 23 (25%) patients of which two expired. Early mortality rate was 5.5% and was due to severe hemorrhage most often at the time of presentation. The 3-y overall survival of the entire cohort was 91% (95% CI: 85–97%). Two of 4 patients with relapse of disease could be salvaged with only differentiating agents followed by autologous transplantation. Conclusions: Long-term outcomes of Indian children with APL are excellent. Timely management of coagulopathy and prompt initiation of differentiating agents along with appropriate cytoreductive measures is critical. Efforts to build academic-community partnerships to ensure timely diagnosis and emergency care in order to reduce early mortality are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical resection stands as the preeminent therapeutic approach for both primary hepatocellular carcinoma and metastatic liver malignancies. Its efficacy is contingent upon the attainment of a comprehensive excision while ensuring a sufficient future liver remnant (FLR). However, post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) remains a significant challenge, particularly in patients with preexisting liver disease. The present study aims to investigate the predictive value of the preoperative indocyanine green retention test at 15 min (ICG-R15) in identifying patients at risk of PHLF following major liver resection. This retrospective review focused on patients who underwent the ICG-R15 test before major liver resection between August 2021 and January 2023. All patients underwent standard preoperative evaluation and staging. Patients with primary or metastatic liver cancer planned for major resection and undergoing ICG-R15 were included in the study. Patients with elevated serum bilirubin (> 3 mg/dl) and those not undergoing liver resection or minor liver resection (< 3 segments) were excluded from the study. PHLF was defined by the International Study Group of Liver Surgery (ISGLS) criteria. Follow-up was performed to identify 90-day morbidity. Using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, we confirmed independent risk parameters that predicted postoperative major complications and severe PHLF. The study included 72 patients who underwent preoperative ICG-R15 testing prior to major liver resection. PHLF occurred in 28 patients (38.9%), with 24 patients (33.3%) classified as severity score B and 3 patients (4.16%) had severity score C. Univariate analysis revealed future liver remnant (FLR), ICG-R15, and blood transfusion as predictors of PHLF. Multivariate analysis confirmed FLR (p = 0.019) and ICG-R15 (p = 0.032) as significant predictors. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis yielded an area under the curve of 0.642 for ICG-R15 in predicting PHLF. An optimal cut-point of 7.5 was determined. Our study highlights the importance of preoperative risk assessment of liver function evaluation using the ICG-R15 test, to predict the risk of PHLF following liver resection. Implementing appropriate interventions, especially in patients with borderline FLR, can improve surgical outcomes and enhance patient safety. Further research and prospective studies are essential to refine risk prediction models and improve rates of PHLF after liver resections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraoperative frozen section (FS) analysis to assess the bile duct margin status is commonly used to assess the completeness of resection during surgery for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA) resection. However, the impact of additional re-section on the long-term outcome after obtaining an initial positive margin remains unclear. Patients diagnosed as pCCA on preoperative imaging and subjected to curative intent surgery from May 2013 to June 2021 with a minimum follow-up of 2 years were included. Intraoperative FS analysis of the proximal bile duct margin was performed in all patients. A positive margin was defined by the presence of invasive cancer. Out of the 62 patients with a preoperative diagnosis of pCCA on imaging, 35 patients were included for final analyses after excluding patients with inoperable disease (on staging laparoscopy or local exploration) and other/benign pathology on the final histopathology report. Out of the 35 patients, patients with postoperative 90-day mortality were excluded from the final survival analysis. FS analysis revealed an initial positive margin in 10 (28.5%) patients. Among 10 patients who underwent re-resection to achieve negative proximal margins, only 5 patients achieved a negative margin (secondary R0). An initial positive margin was associated with poor long-term outcomes. Median disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were 16 and 19.6 months for patients with an initial positive margin, but 36 and 58.2 months for patients with an initial negative margin, respectively (p = 0.012). The median DFS and OS were significantly lower for those with secondary R0 as compared to primary R0 (16 vs. 36 months for DFS, p = 0.117 and 19.6 vs. 58.2 months for OS, p = 0.027, respectively). An intraoperative FS positive proximal hepatic duct margin dictates poor long-term outcomes for patients with resectable pCCA. Additional resection has a questionable benefit on survival, when a secondary negative margin is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a speciality within computer science that deals with creating systems that can replicate the intelligence of a human mind and has problem-solving abilities. AI includes a diverse array of techniques and approaches such as machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, robotics, and expert systems. An electronic literature search was conducted using the databases of "PubMed" and "Google Scholar". The period for the search was from 2000 to June 2023. The search terms included "artificial intelligence", "machine learning", "liver cancers", "liver tumors", "hepatectomy", "perioperative" and their synonyms in various combinations. The search also included all MeSH terms. The extracted articles were further reviewed in a step-wise manner for identification of relevant studies. A total of 148 articles were identified after the initial literature search. Initial review included screening of article titles for relevance and identifying duplicates. Finally, 65 articles were reviewed for this review article. The future of AI in liver cancer planning and management holds immense promise. AI-driven advancements will increasingly enable precise tumour detection, location, and characterisation through enhanced image analysis. ML algorithms will predict patient-specific treatment responses and complications, allowing for tailored therapies. Surgical robots and AI-guided procedures will enhance the precision of liver resections, reducing risks and improving outcomes. AI will also streamline patient monitoring, better hemodynamic management, enabling early detection of recurrence or complications. Moreover, AI will facilitate data-driven research, accelerating the development of novel treatments and therapies. Ultimately, AI's integration will revolutionise liver cancer care, offering personalised, efficient and effective solutions, improving patients' quality of life and survival rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatobiliary surgery has traditionally been performed via an open approach. With the advent of robotic surgery, the minimal access approach in hepatobiliary oncology has gained impetus due to its technical superiority and favorable learning curve over laparoscopy. We present our experience with the Da Vinci Xi system in hepatobiliary oncology. This is a retrospective study from a prospectively maintained database. All patients who underwent surgery between June 2015 and July 2023 for suspected gallbladder cancer and primary or metastatic liver tumors were included. After excluding all inoperables and conversions, a total of 92 patients were included for analysis. There was a conversion rate of 15.6% (17 of 109 patients). Sixty-four (69.6%) patients underwent surgery for gallbladder-related pathologies that included 39 (60.9%) radical cholecystectomies, 24 (37.5%) simple cholecystectomies, and 1 (0.01%) revision cholecystectomy. Twenty-eight patients underwent surgeries for primary or metastatic liver tumors, which included 25 (92.9%) minor and 2 (7.1%) major hepatectomies. Significant morbidity (Clavien–Dindo grade III or more) was seen in 8 (8.6%). There was no postoperative mortality. In the group with gallbladder cancer, the median lymph nodal yield was 7 (2–22) in patients who underwent lymph nodal dissection. The median follow-up was 63.9 (0.49–100.67) (IQR = 37.76) months. The 5-year OS and DFS were 76.4 and 71.3%, respectively. Robotic hepatobiliary surgery is feasible and can be performed safely after adequate training. Patient selection is of utmost importance and is the key to establishing a robust robotic hepatobiliary oncosurgery program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) is a popular treatment modality for the treatment of colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM). The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of HAIC for high-risk resected CRLM delivered using repeated femoral puncture and delivering 5-fluorouracil infusional chemotherapy along with systemic adjuvant chemotherapy. The present study is a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database. All patients who underwent HAIC for colorectal liver metastases between July 2022 and July 2023 were included. A total of 12 patients were included in the study of which 11 completed four sessions as planned. The median age was 47 (29–73) years with nine male (81%) and two female (18%) patients. Rectum (n = 7, 63%) was the most common primary location. All patients received systemic chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil-based regimens prior to HAIC (median 12 cycles). The median number of metastasis was 2 (1–8). Eight patients had metastasis in unilobar distribution (73%). On completion of HAIC treatment, nine patients (64%) were completely disease free with a median follow-up of 8 months. None of the patients experienced any immediate adverse events during or after completion of the procedure. Conventional HAIC comes with various challenges such as unavailability of the agent floxuridine and the specialized HAIC pump. Percutaneous HAIC has a lower chance of infection. The delivery of HAIC using repeated femoral punctures and 5FU chemotherapy was successful in over 90% of the patients making it a feasible option in the treatment of CRLM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) originating from extrahepatic bile duct are an extremely rare entity. They are typically slow growing tumours with malignant potential. Commonly presenting as obstructive jaundice, preoperative clinico-radiologic differentiation between extrahepatic biliary tract neuroendocrine tumours and cholangiocarcinoma is difficult and the final diagnosis is usually established after surgical histopathology and immunohistochemistry examination. R0 resection offers the only curative option with good long-term outcomes for well-differentiated NETs (grade1, grade2, and grade3) while the aggressive poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) needs multimodality approach. We present our experience of management of four cases including three cases of grade II NET and one case of NEC undergoing surgical resection at a single centre with a short review of available literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Locally advanced, inoperable, or metastatic gallbladder cancers (GBC) are treated with either gemcitabine-platinum combinations or gemcitabine alone based on physician discretion. However, the combination of gemcitabine, cisplatin, and nab-paclitaxel (GCNP) has shown increased response rates and prolonged survival in a phase II trial of biliary tract patients. Materials and Methods: Consecutive series of patients diagnosed with locally advanced (liver infiltration > 5 cm, large nodes at porta, abutting duodenum), inoperable, and metastatic biliary tract patients between January 2018 and August 2022 were evaluated for first-line chemotherapy GCNP, in the multidisciplinary joint clinic (MDJC). The primary endpoint was ORR, and the major secondary endpoint was event-free survival (EFS). Results: A total of 142 patients received GCNP during the specified time period. The median age of the cohort was 52 years (range: 21–79), the majority were females (61.3%), and the majority were GB (81.7%). Response rates were available in 137 patients. Complete response, partial response, and stable disease were seen in 9 (6.3%), 87 (61.3%), and 24 (16.9%), respectively, for an ORR of 67.6% and a clinical benefit rate of 84.5%. The median EFS was 9.92 (95% CI, 7.69–12.14) months. Of the 52 patients in whom GCNP was given with NACT intent for locally advanced GBC, 17 patients underwent surgery (34%). Conclusion: Our study indicates that GCNP leads to improved response rates, increased chances of resectability, and possibly better survival in patients with GBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distal biceps tears are uncommon injuries, typically leading to significant loss of elbow flexion and supination strength; surgical repairs restore muscular strength and endurance. The aim of this study was to compare the complication rate of early (< 21 days) vs delayed (> 21 days) repair and the effect of types of incision and fixation methods used in the repair. Methods: A total of 86 cases were retrospectively reviewed, and 66 cases were included in the study after exclusion. Different preoperative and intraoperative variables and postoperative outcome measures were recorded. We analysed the effects of early and delayed repair, types of incision and fixation methods on the complications. Results: 31 had an early, and 35 had delayed distal biceps repair. The mean follow-up was 14.92 weeks. 13.6% had major, and 40.9% had minor complications. No significant difference was noted in complications between the two groups (54.8% vs 54.3%). Higher complications were observed when surgery was done using a single anterior incision compared to 2 anterior incisions (68.8% vs 16.7%, p=0.0002). Overall, higher (76.3% vs 25.9%, p=0.0001) complications were noted in patients where fixation was done using a cortical button & interference screw in comparison to the cortical button alone. Conclusion: No significant difference in complication was noted between early and delayed repair. However, more complications were noted in the single anterior incision compared to the two anterior incision technique. Higher complications were also observed with the cortical button and interference screw fixation method compared to the cortical button alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing multidisciplinary management and emphasis on masterly inactivity for abdominal fibromatosis (AF), the indications for surgery are evolving. This retrospective analysis looked at outcomes following surgery. Two groups of patients who underwent surgery for AF between November 2011 and August 2021 were identified—intra-abdominal fibromatosis (IAF) and abdominal wall fibromatosis (AWF). All treatment-related details and follow-up data were gathered from a database and analyzed. Sixteen patients underwent surgery for IAF. R0 resection (wide margin) was achieved in 13 patients (81.2%). Over a median follow-up period of 51.7 (range 5–103) months, 5 patients developed recurrence (31.2%). The conditional probabilities of OS and DFS at 5 years were 80% (95% CI 58.7–100) and 42.2% (95% CI 20.3–87.8), respectively. Ten patients with AWF underwent surgery. R0 resection was achieved at 70% (7/10). Over a median follow-up period of 54.8 (range 12.9–96.7) months, 2 patients (20%) developed recurrence. The conditional probabilities of OS and DFS at 5 years were 88.9% (95% CI 70.6–100) and 77.8% (95% CI 54.9–87.8), respectively. Surgery has a vital role in the management of AF presenting with progressive/symptomatic lesions, especially when watchful waiting is not an option, and must be considered as one of the first-line active therapy. Timely curative surgery avoids disease progression and its morbidity with acceptable recurrence rates and provides durable remissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outlook of relapsed ALL in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is dismal due to high treatment-related toxicities and inadequate resources. We report our experience of using a locally adapted mitoxantrone-based protocol for non-high risk (HR) relapsed B-ALL (rALL). A retrospective cum prospective study of standard and intermediate risk (SR and IR) rALL patients treated on TMH rALL-18 protocol (adapted from COG/UKALLR3/Int-Re-ALL protocols) between November 2018 and January 2021 was analyzed. The protocol comprising of 7 blocks of multi-agent chemotherapy including mitoxantrone in induction followed by local irradiation and maintenance, underwent serial modifications based on our experience with initial patients. Eighty-two patients (SR rALL, 3; IR rALL, 79) were treated on TMH rALL-18 protocol. Of 321 grade 3/4 reported toxicities, around 43% (138 toxicities) were noted during induction. Induction chemotherapy was outpatient-based; however, 68 patients (82.9%) required supportive care admissions. Twelve out of 19 patients with gram negative bacilli sepsis (included 7 MDRO) died during reinduction. Five remission deaths were seen during block 3 after which cytarabine was dose reduced (3 g to 2 g/m2). Post-reinduction minimal residual disease was negative in 54 (80.6%) out of 67 evaluable patients. At a median follow-up of 24 months (95% CI 22–27), the estimated 2-year event-free and overall survival of the entire cohort was 58% (95% CI 48.1–69.9) and 60.3% (95% CI 50.5–72). Until the time, targeted therapies are freely accessible in LMICs, strengthening supportive care as well as local adaptation of protocols that strike a fine balance between efficacy and tolerability are mandated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Open radical cholecystectomy is the current "gold standard" for the management of gallbladder cancer. In well-selected patients, robotic radical cholecystectomy (RRC) can be a suitable alternative offering immediate postoperative benefits, such as less blood loss, shorter hospital stay, and fewer complications, while being oncologically equivalent. However, it requires a longer learning curve.1 Methods: This video demonstrates the technical equivalence of the robotic approach when performing portal lymphadenectomy (station 8, 12, and 13) with emphasis on retraction techniques to emulate the open approach. In the case presented, a 40-year-old female patient had an intraluminal gallbladder mass with periportal nodes as revealed by computed tomography. Patient underwent a RRC with portal lymphadenectomy, performed on the DaVinci Xi robotic system. The surgery can be divided into five major steps: (1) Station 16b1 node sampling in the inter-aortocaval region; (2) Right portal lymphadenectomy (station 13, 12b, 12p); (3) Left portal lymphadenectomy (station 8a, 8p, 12a, 12p); (4) Anterior portal lymphadenectomy (station 12a, 12b); and (5) Cholecystectomy with liver wedge resection. The technical nuances of each of these steps is compared with its counterpart in the open approach to demonstrate equivalence. The key element in achieving a thorough oncological clearance is to replicate the retraction techniques of the open approach on the robotic platform by using vessel tapes for portal lymphadenectomy. Conclusions: There remains little doubt regarding the feasibility and early postoperative benefits of RRC.2 This video demonstrates the equivalence of a standardized technique of robotic portal lymphadenectomy and liver wedge resection to the open approach. However, prospective studies are needed to further evaluate the long-term benefits of the procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is one of the direct indicators of follicular pool but no standard cutoff has been defined for diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The present study evaluated the serum AMH levels among different PCOS phenotypes and correlated the AMH levels with clinical, hormonal, and metabolic parameters among Indian PCOS women. Mean serum AMH was 12.39 ± 5.3ng/mL in PCOS cohort and 3.83 ± 1.5 ng/mL in non-PCOS cohort (P < 0.01). Out of 608 PCOS women, 273 (44.9%) women belonged to phenotype A, 230 (37.8%) women were phenotype D. Phenotypes C and B were 12.17% and 5.10% respectively. Among those with the highest AMH group (AMH>20ng/ml; 8.05%), majority belonged to phenotype A. Menstrual cycle length, serum testosterone, fasting total cholesterol levels, and follicle number per ovary had positive correlation with serum anti-Mullerian levels (P < 0.05). AMH cutoff for the diagnosis of PCOS was calculated as ≥ 6.06 ng/mL on ROC analysis with sensitivity and specificity of 91.45% and 90.71% respectively. The study shows high serum AMH levels in PCOS are associated with worse clinical, endocrinological, and metabolic parameters. These levels may be used to counsel patients regarding treatment response, help in individualized management and prediction of reproductive and long-term metabolic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy is commonly used in adjuvant treatment of colon cancer as well as in neoadjuvant setting in patients with liver metastases. However oxaliplatin can cause damage to non-tumor bearing liver which presents as sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (SOS). These changes are difficult to differentiate from metastasis clinic-radiologically and manifests as sinusoidal dilatation, peliosis and nodular regenerative hyperplasia. Case: The present study reports the case of a patient with oxaliplatin-induced SOS which mimicked colo-rectal liver metastasis on follow up imaging studies after receiving neoadjuvant oxaliplatin based chemotherapy. After multidisciplinary discussion, patient was planned for simultaneous resection of rectal primary and right hepatectomy for metastasis. Final histopathology revealed no tumour in liver but the liver lesions seen radiologically were actually changes of oxaliplatin induced focal SOS and mimicked metastatic nodules. Conclusion: In patients with colo-rectal cancer having received oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy, SOS may be considered as one of the causes of newly developed liver lesions, and should be subjected to additional radio-pathologic evaluation to prevent overtreatment and avoiding potentially morbid surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Placement of biliary self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) has been effective for palliation of unresectable hilar malignant biliary obstruction. Optimal drainage in hilar obstruction may require placement of multiple stents. Data on multiple SEMS placement in hilar obstruction from India is sparse. Methods: Retrospective review of patients with unresectable malignant hilar obstruction who underwent endoscopic bilateral SEMS insertion from 2017 to 2021 was done. Demographic details, technical success and functional success (decrease in the bilirubin value below 3 mg/dL at four weeks), immediate complications with 30-days mortality, requirement of re-intervention, stent patency and overall survival were studied. Results: Forty-three patients were included (mean age 54.9 years, 51.2% females). Thirty-six patients (83.7%) had carcinoma gallbladder as primary malignancy. Twenty-six patients (60.5%) were metastatic at presentation. Cholangitis was seen in 4/43 (9.3%). On cholangiogram, 26 (60.4%) had Bismuth type II block, 12 (27.8%) had type IIIA/B, 5 (11.6%) had type IV block. Technical success was achieved in 41/43 (95.3%) patients (38, side-by-side SEMS placement; 3, SEMS-within-SEMS in Y fashion). Functional success was achieved in 39 patients (95.1%). No moderate-severe complications were reported. Median post-procedure hospitalization was five days. Median stent patency was 137 days (interquartile range [IQR] 80–214 days). Re-intervention was required in four patients (9.3%) after mean 295.7 days. Median overall survival was 153 days (IQR 108–234 days). Conclusion: Endoscopic bilateral SEMS in complex malignant hilar obstruction has good outcomes in the form of technical success, functional success and stent patency. Survival is dismal despite optimal biliary drainage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chicken feathers derived from poultry waste were employed as an adsorbent in this study to get rid of fluoride from aqueous solutions. FTIR, XRD, SEM–EDX, and BET analysis were used to characterize the adsorbent. The influence of initial sample pH, a dosage of adsorbent, contact time, and initial fluoride concentration on the capacity of adsorption by modified chicken feathers (MCFs) was explored in the batch test. The batch adsorption findings show optimized equilibrium at pH 6, dose 6 g/L, and contact time of 60 min. The experimental data were found best suited to the Freundlich adsorption isotherm (R2 = 0.911) among the three isotherms used. The highest adsorption capacity of the sorbents for fluoride was measured using the Langmuir isotherm (Qo = 4.78 mg/g). The pseudo-second-order; PSO model with a more significant correlation (R2 = 0.9809) and sorption capacity of 1.555 mg/g was in good agreement for fluoride uptake than other employed kinetic models according to kinetic statistics. Thermodynamic studies revealed that fluoride adsorption on MCFs was feasible, spontaneous, and endothermic. Highlights: In this study, fluoride from an aqueous solution was successfully removed using Modified Chicken Feathers (MCFs), a new adsorbent. At sample pH 6, the adsorption process reaches equilibrium after 60 min with a dosage of 6 g/L. The adsorbent was characterized using a selection of methods, including FTIR, XRD, SEM–EDX, and BET analysis. Isotherm, kinetic and thermodynamic analysis were used to describe the adsorption process. Desorption and regeneration tests were performed to determine the reusability of the adsorbent. The equilibrium results of three adsorption isotherms (Freundlich, Langmuir, and Temkin) show that MCFs are highly effective in extracting fluoride from aqueous systems, with a monolayer adsorption capacity of 4.78 mg/g according to the Langmuir model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for the sixth most common cancer and ranks third in mortality worldwide with inhomogeneity in terms of resection for advanced-stage disease. Methods: A systematic review of published literature using the PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases from 1995 to 2020 was conducted to identify studies that reported outcomes of resection for solitary HCC > 10 cm, BCLC B/C, and multinodular HCC. Our aim was to assess overall survival for resection, identify poor prognostic factors, and to compare it to trans-arterial chemotherapy (TACE) where data was available. Results: Eighty-nine articles were included after a complete database search in the systematic review as per our predefined criteria. Analysis revealed a 5-year overall survival of 33.5% for resection of HCC > 10 cm, 41.7% for BCLC B, 23.3% for BCLC C, and 36.6% for multinodular HCC. Peri-operative mortality ranged from 0 to 6.9%. Studies comparing resection versus TACE for BCLC B/C had a survival of 40% versus 17%, respectively. Conclusion: Our systematic review justifies hepatic resection wherever feasible for hepatocellular carcinomas > 10 cm, BCLC B, BCLC C, and multinodular tumors. In addition, we identified and proposed an algorithm with five poor prognostic criteria in this group of patients who may benefit from adjuvant TACE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Most studies identifying risk factors for post-hepatectomy biliary leaks (PHBLs) have relatively small proportions of major hepatectomies. A simplified predictive score to identify high risk patients is necessary in order to investigate the efficacy of mitigation strategies. Methods: A retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of liver resections from a high-volume cancer center was performed. Multivariate regression was utilized for identification of risk factors and development of the predictive score. Results: A total of 862 patients underwent a curative hepatic resection over 10 years, of whom 146 (16.9%) developed a biliary leak; 85 (9.86%), 52 (6.03%), and 9 (1.04%) patients had a grade A, B, and C leak respectively. A biliary-enteric anastomosis [OR 5.1 (95% CI 2.45–10.58); p < 0.001], a central [OR 4.33 (95% CI 1.25–14.95); p = 0.021] or an extended hepatectomy [OR 4.29 (95% CI 1.52–12.12); p = 0.006], liver steatosis [OR 2.28 (95% CI 1.09–4.77); p = 0.027], and blood loss of ≥ 2000 mL [OR 2.219 (95% CI 1.15–4.27); p = 0.017] were identified as independent predictors of a clinically significant biliary leak and were assigned 1 point each to develop the biliary leak score. Clinically significant biliary leaks were seen in 11 (2.79%), 20 (6.38%), 19 (15.4%), 9 (56.3%), and 1 (100%) patients with scores of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion: A biliary-enteric anastomosis, a central or extended hepatectomy, liver steatosis, and blood loss ≥ 2L combined result in a simple predictive score for clinically significant biliary leaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze diagnostic performance of F-18 FDG PET/CT in recurrent adenocarcinoma gallbladder (GBC) and to establish its possible impact on post-recurrence survival. Method: FDG PET/CT studies of suspected recurrent GBC were retrospectively analyzed alongside tumor markers serum CEA and CA 19-9. Abnormal FDG-avid lesions and abnormal morphological lesions were considered positive for recurrence, and were categorized as isolated abdominal wall recurrence, loco-regional recurrence, and distant metastatic disease. Histopathology, definite progression on imaging and positive response to treatment was considered as reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and accuracy were used as diagnostic performance parameters. Post-recurrence survival was calculated whenever appropriate follow-up was available, based on the abovementioned categories of sites of recurrence using survival curves and log-rank test. Results: Out of 117 PET/CT studies, 93 (79.5%) were positive and 24 (20.5%) were negative for recurrence. 86 out of 93 were true positive and 23 of 24 were true negative. PET/CT demonstrated sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of 98.8%, 76.7%, 92.5%, 95.8% and 93.1%, respectively. Diagnostic performance of PET/CT was significantly better than combination tumor markers. Of 66 cases with available follow-up, isolated abdominal wall (port/scar site) recurrence and loco-regional recurrence demonstrated significantly higher post-recurrence survival as compared to distant metastasis; median survival being 39, 25 and 12 months, respectively. Conclusion: F-18 FDG PET/CT has better diagnostic performance than tumor markers combination. Isolated abdominal wall (port/scar site) recurrence and loco-regional recurrence on PET/CT demonstrated better survival than non-regional metastatic disease. These results suggest a possible role of PET/CT as a surveillance modality, as well as a guide to therapeutic decision-making in cases of recurrent GBC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The data on the prognostic significance of red cell distribution width (RDW) in gallbladder cancers is sparse, especially in the potentially resectable cohort of patients. The aim was to assess the prognostic significance of RDW in gallbladder cancer patients undergoing surgery. Methods: Retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database of gallbladder cancer patients undergoing surgery at a tertiary cancer institute from 2010 till 2018. Baseline values were collected. Patients were grouped as per the median RDW value and compared. Survival analysis was done using the Kaplan Meier method. Results: A total of 605 patients were included. The median follow up period was 23 months (range: 6–120 months). The median value of RDW was 14. Comparison between RDW > 14 and RDW < 14 groups showed no difference in outcomes. RDW did not predict overall survival or recurrences. However, in combined stages II and III, a statistically significant improvement in OS and DFS (p < 0.001) was noted in the RDW < 14 group. Conclusion: RDW did not predict recurrence or survival in potentially resectable gallbladder cancer patients. However, in the subset of stages II and III in combination, lower RDW value was associated with better outcomes. More prospective studies are needed to conclusively establish the prognostic value of RDW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Macroscopic portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) is considered a negative prognostic factor in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. There is divergent opinion regarding management of these patients worldwide. We aimed to evaluate the clinical profile, predictors, prognostic features, and survival of patients of HCC with PVTT. Methods: Treatment-naïve HCC patients with and without PVTT were analyzed retrospectively using a prospectively accrued dataset. Patients with PVTT were further divided as per treatment groups for survival analysis. Results: Of 508 patients, 46.1% had radiological evidence of PVTT at presentation. On logistic regression, serum albumin (odds ratio [OR]=0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]= 0.44–0.96; p= 0.031); international normalized ratio (OR = 3.78,95% CI = 1.42–10.00; p=0.008); alpha-feto protein >400 ng/mL (OR=3.58, 95%CI = 2.00–6.40; p <0.001); size of largest tumor nodule >5 cm (OR =6.37, 95%CI =2.03–19.99; p =0.002); and male gender (OR =1.84, 95%CI = 1.01–3.33; p = 0.045) were independent predictors for PVTT. Patients with PVTT amenable to aggressive therapies had significantly better median overall survival (in months) as compared to those receiving sorafenib or best supportive care only (13.1, 3.9, and 1.8 respectively, p<0.0001). Treatment modality received (p<0.001) and extrahepatic metastasis (p=0.006) were independent predictors of mortality in these patients. Conclusion: Size of largest tumor nodule >5 cm and alpha-fetoprotein >400 ng/mL are strongly associated with the presence of PVTT in patients with HCC. A multidisciplinary approach may identify a subgroup of patients who can be offered aggressive therapies like surgery and/or locoregional therapy with significant survival benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retroperitoneal sarcomas are heterogeneous tumours with variable disease biology and outcomes. The prognosis is primarily related to tumour histology and grade as well as the ability to achieve margin negative resection. Surgery involves compartment or contiguous organ resection to achieve the above goal. Careful utilization of neoadjuvant and adjuvant strategies like radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy can lead to improvement in margin status, thereby contributing to better local control and possibly reducing systemic dissemination. Use of targeted therapies has paved newer pathways of treatment integration centred on molecular and genetic targets. The aim of this review is to update the reader on all aspects of retroperitoneal sarcoma management including emphasis on pertinent and landmark trials in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main aim of the study is to model speed and to determine the capacity of six-lane divided urban arterials by developing speed models. The various midblock sections are selected such that there is no influence of side frictions like pedestrian, on-street parking, etc. Speed-flow data was gathered at six midblock sections of urban arterial roads and extracted for every 5-min interval. The speed–flow relationship as observed from field data replicates the parabolic relationship between two parameters, and hence it may be hypothesized that the speed–density data would follow a linear relationship. Traffic density has been measured by using the basic relationships among speed, flow, and density. This linear speed-density relationship for heterogeneous traffic situations has been used, and efforts are put on to develop simultaneous speed equations for various vehicle categories. These equations are solved by developing a MATLAB software program, and variation in speed with traffic composition and traffic volume on the road has been explained. Simultaneous equations are used to develop the speed-flow plot and capacity of the midblock sections as 5892 PCU/hr for one direction of flow. The study outcomes are useful to estimate the capacity of midblock sections using volume as input data. Once the speed is dropped to a congestion level, the section reaches a congested state, and traffic operations become chaotic. The congestion mitigation measures may be employed by rerouting existing traffic to reduce the congestion on the urban roadway network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inferior vena cava (IVC) leiomyosarcomas (LMS) are a rare group of retroperitoneal tumors. R0 surgical resection is the only curative modality of treatment. IVC resection for retroperitoneal sarcoma is a complex surgery with no definitive guidelines for reconstruction. Methods: Retrospective review of all patients who underwent surgical resection of primary leiomyosarcoma of the IVC requiring resection from 2010 to 2020 at our tertiary care center was performed. Results: Among 24 patients who required IVC resection for LMS, only 7 (29%) required reconstruction of IVC. According to Clavien-Dindo classification, there was one grade 3 or more morbidity and 1 post-operative mortality. Seventeen patients underwent R0 resection whereas 7 patients had R1 resection on final histopathology. At a median follow-up of 25 months (range 8–91 months), the median OS was 40 months with median DFS of 28 months. Two patients presented with local recurrence while 13 patients developed systemic recurrence on follow-up. Conclusion: Careful preoperative multidisciplinary planning can make IVC resection without reconstruction feasible with acceptable perioperative morbidity, mortality, and oncological outcomes for IVC LMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant cell wall acts as a primary barrier for microbial pathogens during infection. A cell wall-degrading enzyme thus may be a crucial virulence factor, as it may aid the pathogen in successful host invasion. Nine genes coding for feruloyl esterases (Fae), likely involved in plant cell wall degradation, have been annotated in the genome of the cereal-blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae. However, role of any Fae in pathogenicity of M. oryzae remains hitherto under explored. Here, we identified FAE1 gene (MGG_08737) that was significantly upregulated during host penetration and subsequent colonisation stages of infection. Accordingly, while deletion of FAE1 in M. oryzae did not affect the vegetative growth and asexual development, the fae1Δ mutant showed significantly reduced pathogenesis on rice plants, mainly due to impaired host invasion and colonisation. Very few (< 10%) fae1Δ appressoria that formed the primary invasive hyphae failed to elaborate from the first invaded cell to the neighbouring plant cells. Interestingly, exogenously added glucose, as a simple carbon source, or ferulic acid, a product of the Fae activity, significantly supported the invasive growth of the fae1Δ mutant. We show that the Fae1-based feruloyl esterase activity, by targeting the plant cell wall, plays an important role in accumulating ferulic acid and/or sugar molecules, as a likely energy source, to enable host invasion and colonisation by M. oryzae. Given its role in plant cell wall digestion and host colonisation, M. oryzae Fae1 could be a potential candidate for a novel antifungal strategy and a biotechnological application in biofuel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Developmental dysplasia of hip joint (DDH) is a dynamic progressive pathology which can tilt either way. The term strictly applies to primary dysplasia, where etiology is not clearly known. Secondary dysplasia can be due multiple causes, such as neuromuscular disorders, connective tissue disorders or skeletal syndromes. Methods: The etiology being multifactorial, it needs a multidisciplinary team to address the issue at hand. The management starts antenatally with a detailed history of any risk factors and a dedicated ultrasound of the foetus, since forewarned is forearmed. At birth, a paediatrician having a keen sense of DDH will perform Barlow's or Ortolani's manoeuvre and can be the first one to sound the alarm in the event of positive findings. How and when a Radiologist needs to step in will depend on inter-departmental discussions between the paediatrician and the orthopedician. Results: In the presence of positive clinical screening tests, and non-availability of ultrasound, a preliminary X ray pelvis AP view including both hip joints should be the requisitioned in a child of any age, particularly, if belonging to the high-risk group. If ultrasound is available, a screening exam till 6 months of age is recommended to rule out DDH. Discussions: India is known for its vast numbers and little babies with occult diseases are the first to bear the brunt of conditions which have very few symptoms to start with. DDH is one such condition which most unfortunately expresses itself as a symptom only when it's too late, i.e., most often when the child begins to walk. Ultrasound is the modality of choice in neonates; however, since India is a country of modest means, in majority of the regions, radiographs still remain the first line of investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a lack of consensus on the ideal time interval and therapeutic value of revision surgery in patients with incidental gallbladder cancer (iGBC) in the context of multimodality management. Patients and Methods: Retrospective analysis of an institutional database of patients with iGBC who underwent surgery from January 2010 to December 2019 was performed. Patients who underwent upfront surgery were divided into four time interval groups: A, B, C, and D (< 6 weeks, 6–10 weeks, 10–14 weeks, and > 14 weeks, respectively). Results: A cohort of 517 patients planned for revision surgery was analyzed. Overall, 382 (73.9%) patients underwent upfront surgery while 135 (26.1%) were given neoadjuvant treatment. With median follow-up of 18 months, 2-year overall survival (OS) was 66% and disease-free survival (DFS) was 52.6%, with inferior survival outcomes observed with advancing stage and presence of residual disease on final histopathology. Propensity score-matched analysis after matching for pT stage of cholecystectomy specimen suggested a survival benefit for patients operated between 10 and 14 weeks in terms of OS (p = 0.049) and DFS (p = 0.006). Patients with locally advanced iGBC at presentation had superior OS when operated after neoadjuvant therapy [3-year estimated OS of 59.9% vs 32.3%, respectively (p = 0.001)]. Conclusions: Revision surgery is at best the most accurate staging procedure guiding timely initiation of systemic therapy. Patients with iGBC operated between 10 and 14 weeks after initial cholecystectomy tend to have favorable survival outcomes, although this depends on final disease stage. Revision surgery should also be offered to all patients presenting at any later point of time, if deemed operable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ewing's sarcoma (ES)/primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs) are a rare group of tumors commonly arising from bones, uncommonly from soft tissues, and rarely from abdomen. The aim of the study was to analyze the outcome (recurrence-free survival[RFS]), patient characteristics, role of FDG-PET (fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography) computerized scan, chemotherapy and radiation, and prognostic factors. We retrospectively studied patients diagnosed with abdominal ES/PNET and treated surgically between June 2005 and November 2019. Ten patients were included in the study, with a median age of 36.5 years (19–46 years). The median follow-up was 25 months (3–178 months). The site of origin was the retroperitoneum, small bowel, and abdominal wall in six, two, and two patients, respectively. 70% of patients were treated with induction chemotherapy. R0 resection was achieved in 90% of patients. With chemotherapy, there was significant reduction in tumor size (p = 0.034) with non-significant reduction in SUV max (p = 0.31). The 1- and 2-year RFS were 88.90% and 76.20%, respectively. Pathological peritoneal metastasis and ability to achieve R0 resection were prognostic factors affecting RFS. These patients must be offered multimodality treatment. Induction chemotherapy significantly reduces the tumor size. Pathological peritoneal metastasis and ability to achieving R0 resection significantly affect survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate pituitary volume and iron overload in beta thalassemia major, with the objective of assessing the reliability of this method in predicting hypogonadism. Methods: 3T MRI was used to measure pituitary R2 and T2* in 57 beta thalassemia major patients and 30 controls. Anterior pituitary volume was evaluated by MRI planimetry. Cardiac, hepatic, and pancreatic iron overload were also assessed using MRI T2*. Mean serum ferritin was estimated by sandwich immuno-assay. Short stature was defined as height < 3 rd percentile for age, and clinical hypogonadism defined as absence of secondary sexual characteristics at ages ≥ 13 y for females and ≥ 14 y for males. Results: Short stature was present in 32 patients (56.1%). Of the 47 patients in the pubertal age group, 11(23.4%) had hypogonadism. Serum ferritin correlated positively with pituitary R2 (p = 0.004) and negatively with anterior pituitary volume (p = 0.006), whereas pituitary R2 correlated negatively with cardiac T2* (p = 0.001). Patients with hypogonadism had lower pituitary R2 (p = 0.186), T2* (p = 0.048), and anterior pituitary volumes (p = 0.012) compared to those with normal sexual maturity. Regardless of stature, no significant difference was observed between pituitary R2 (p = 0.267) and T2* (p = 0.451). Mean pituitary R2 in patients (78.99 Hz) was higher than in controls (20.8 Hz) (p = 0.0001). Anterior pituitary volume was lower in patients (264.83 mm3) than in controls (380.87 mm3) (p = 0.0001). A threshold value of 22.85 Hz for pituitary R2 gave a sensitivity of 84.2% and a specificity of 73.3% in distinguishing pituitary iron content of patients from controls, with an area of 0.864 under the ROC curve. Conclusions: 3T MRI is a reliable method to detect pituitary iron overload and predict risk of hypogonadism in beta Thalassemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To study the trends, techniques, outcomes and improvisations of liver resections over the study period. Methods: We analysed prospectively maintained database of patients undergoing liver resections for oncological indications at Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India from June 2010 to October 2016. Results: Five hundred sixteen patients were operated with median age of 55 years and male to female ratio of 1.6:1. Most commonly operated neoplasms were hepatocellular carcinoma (N = 166), cholangiocarcinoma (N = 72) and metastases from colorectal cancer (N = 129). We performed 219 major hepatic resections (≥3 segments) with overall morbidity of 22.9% (N = 118) and mortality of 4.0% (N = 21). Complex hepatectomies were performed in 78 patients. In order to study the time trends, data was divided into pre-liver clinic era and post liver clinic era. Trend analysis showed improvements in complication grade, hospital stay, blood loss, and overall survival status in post liver clinic era. Liver transection in all our patients was carried out without Pringle manoeuvre under normotensive anaesthesia, only 0.7% of our patients had significant transaminitis beyond POD 5. Conclusion: A dedicated multidisciplinary treatment approach along with standardization of liver resections culminates into optimal treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the dire cardiometabolic consequences of the hypercaloric modern 'Western' diet are well known, there is not much information on the health impact of a high sucrose diet not inducing weight gain. Here, we tested the hypothesis that rats reared with intermittent binge access to sucrose in addition to normal chow would develop an inflammatory response in brain. To test this hypothesis, we undertook serial PET/MRI scans with the TSPO ligand [18F]DPA714 in a group of (n=9) rats at baseline and again after voluntarily consuming 5% sucrose solution three days a week for three months. Compared to a control group fed with normal chow (n=9), the sucrose rats indeed showed widespread increases in the availability of cerebral binding sites for the microglial marker, despite normal weight gain compared to the control diet group. Subsequent immunofluorescence staining of the brains confirmed the PET findings, showing a widespread 20% increase in the abundance of IBA-1-positive microglia with characteristic 'semi-activated' morphology in the binge sucrose rats, which had 23% lower density of microglial endpoints and 25% lower mean process length compared to microglia in the control rats with ordinary feeding. GFAP immunofluorescence showed no difference in astroglial coverage in the sucrose rats, except for a slight reduction in hypothalamus. The binge sucrose diet-induced neuroinflammation was associated with a significant elevation of white blood cell counts. Taking these results together, we find that long-term intake of sucrose in a binge paradigm, similar in sucrose content to the contemporary Western diet, triggered a low-grade systemic and central inflammation in non-obese rats. The molecular mechanism of this phenomenon remains to be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multidisciplinary tumour clinics represent the modern state-of-the-art cancer care. However, liver tumour clinics are resource exhaustive and establishing them in resource restricted scenarios is a challenge. We present core concepts in establishing a multidisciplinary tumour clinic, followed by our 5-year experience of multidisciplinary liver tumour clinic from Tata Memorial Hospital Mumbai, India, which represents one of the largest hepatobiliary oncology units in the country. This study provides a roadmap for setting up a multidisciplinary liver tumour clinic and explains the stepwise real-time working of the clinic. The account will act as a blueprint for the establishment of such clinics in the country and abroad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) remains the most curable myeloid leukemia made feasible through effective use of two differentiating agents, all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) with or without chemotherapy (CT). However, early morbidity and mortality remains a problem. With the objective of reducing early death a strategy of sequential induction ATO followed by consolidation ATRA in combination with CT was adopted by our group. The long-term outcomes of patient of APL treated on this sequential approach at our center was analyzed. In this retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database consecutive adult patients with APL irrespective of their Sanz risk group were treated using a protocol of ATO (10 mg IV infusion over 3 h daily for 45 days) in the first phase followed by ATRA (45 mg/m2 for 60 days) in combination with Daunorubicin (60 mg/m2 for 3 days × 3 cycles) in second phase. All patients received maintenance ATRA (45 m/m2 for 15 days every 3 months) for a period of 18 months in phase 3. Patients were monitored for cytogenetic and molecular responses after phase 1 and 2. All patients were followed up for toxicity, event free and overall survival. 131 consecutive patients were treated in this study. At a median follow up of 60 months, 84.81% patients are alive with an overall event free survival (EFS) of 77.82%. Sanz low risk patients fared better (85%) versus intermediate and high-risk patients who had a 76% EFS. Proportion of patients alive at last follow up were 100% in Sanz low risk group and 82% in intermediate and high-risk group. The sequential schedule showed excellent tolerance and toxicity profile when treating newly diagnosed APL. The long-term follow-up data shows comparable if not better survival compared with the published real-world data and this has been consistent across all risk group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]