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Abstract Background There are two methods of Roux‐en‐Y (RY) reconstruction after gastrectomy: the antecolic route (ACR) and retrocolic route (RCR). There is no evidence to support that the ACR achieves comparable long‐term survival. Methods This was a multi‐center historical cohort study. Patients diagnosed with clinical T3/4a and any N stage who underwent open gastrectomy and R0 resection for gastric adenocarcinoma between January 2006 and December 2012 were enrolled. The primary outcome was the hazard ratio of ACR for overall survival, with adjustment for confounding factors by propensity score matching, and a Cox proportional hazards model. Results A total of 1758 eligible patients were identified from the database. After matching, 410 patients in the ACR and RCR groups were included in the final analysis. The adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) for ACR was 1.148 (0.870–1.492). The five‐year survival rates in the ACR and RCR groups were 74.3% (69.5–78.4) and 77.3% (72.3–81.2), respectively. The short‐term surgical outcomes of the two groups did not differ to a statistically significant extent. Conclusion The route used to lift the jejunum in RY reconstruction did not affect the incidence of long‐term survival or postoperative complications. The ACR and RCR are both acceptable options for RY reconstruction during gastric cancer surgery.

The microservices architecture (MSA) has become widespread across various industries to enhance the maintainability of applications. However, manual migration of monolithic applications to MSAs via microservice decomposition (MSD) can be intricate and may adversely impact the overall maintainability of a system if not executed correctly. To address these challenges, a multi-objective optimization approach can be used to generate optimal solutions, known as Pareto-optimal solutions. However, selecting the optimal MSD solution from the set of Pareto-optimal solutions can be challenging. To mitigate this challenge, we propose a multi-objective MSD method of using reference lines, a mathematical concept used in multi-objective optimization approaches, to efficiently select the best MSD solutions. We also define a set of violations and fix operations on the basis of MSD policies to prevent generating a vast amount of semantically meaningless MSD solutions. The definition of violations and fix operations and the use of reference lines accelerates the generation of MSD solutions. Our proposed method aids information technology architects by streamlining hyperparameter determination, a task deemed intricate for such architects.

The data presented here aim to show how to analyze crack propagation of a novel metallic matrix composite of Ti-6Al-4V reinforced with 1 wt.% nano-yttria-stabilized zirconia processed by laser powder bed fusion technology. The data was acquired via microstructural observations and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analyses after the quasistatic tensile tests at room temperature. The overall crack path configuration based on the fracture surface observation by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was first operated, presenting two main regions: (i) local inclined planes (hereafter denoted as “stair-like”), and (ii) region in accordance with the theoretical mode I fracture plane. Thereafter, a series of EBSD data set on a surface obtained after longitudinal cut off operation on one failed piece was conducted at three distinct positions: (i) in the stair-like configuration region, (ii) in the mode I fracture region, and (iii) in the region where the crack path made his transition between these two mechanisms. Since the EBSD data sets were not prone to any post-processing filtering operation, comparison of the observed mechanism with other Ti-6Al-4V alloy processed by additive manufacturing (AM) technology can be easily carried out.

Abstract Background Laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) is considered a standard treatment for clinical stage I gastric cancer. Nevertheless, LG has some drawbacks, such as motion restriction and difficulties in spatial perception. Robot-assisted gastrectomy (RG) overcomes these drawbacks by using articulated forceps, tremor-filtering capability, and high-resolution three-dimensional imaging, and it is expected to enable more precise and safer procedures than LG for gastric cancer. However, robust evidence based on a large-scale randomized study is lacking. Methods We are performing a randomized controlled phase III study to investigate the superiority of RG over LG for clinical T1-2N0-2 gastric cancer in terms of safety. In total, 1,040 patients are planned to be enrolled from 46 Japanese institutions over 5 years. The primary endpoint is the incidence of postoperative intra-abdominal infectious complications, including anastomotic leakage, pancreatic fistula, and intra-abdominal abscess of Clavien–Dindo (CD) grade ≥ II. The secondary endpoints are the incidence of all CD grade ≥ II and ≥ IIIA postoperative complications, the incidence of CD grade ≥ IIIA postoperative intra-abdominal infectious complications, relapse-free survival, overall survival, the proportion of RG completion, the proportion of LG completion, the proportion of conversion to open surgery, the proportion of operation-related death, and short-term surgical outcomes. The Japan Clinical Oncology Group Protocol Review Committee approved this study protocol in January 2020. Approval from the institutional review board was obtained before starting patient enrollment in each institution. Patient enrollment began in March 2020. We revised the protocol to expand the eligibility criteria to T1-4aN0-3 in July 2022 based on the results of randomized trials of LG demonstrating non-inferiority of LG to open surgery for survival outcomes in advanced gastric cancer. Discussion This is the first multicenter randomized controlled trial to confirm the superiority of RG over LG in terms of safety. This study will demonstrate whether RG is superior for gastric cancer. Trial registration The protocol of JCOG1907 was registered in the UMIN Clinical Trials Registry as UMIN000039825 ( http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index.htm ). Date of Registration: March 16, 2020. Date of First Participant Enrollment: April 1, 2020.

Abstract Background Intensivists target different blood pressure component values to manage intensive care unit (ICU) patients with sepsis. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between individual blood pressure components and organ dysfunction in critically ill septic patients. Methods In this retrospective observational study, we evaluated 77,328 septic patients in 364 ICUs in the eICU Research Institute database. Primary exposure was the lowest cumulative value of each component; mean, systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressure, sustained for at least 120 min during ICU stay. Primary outcome was ICU mortality and secondary outcomes were composite outcomes of acute kidney injury or death and myocardial injury or death during ICU stay. Multivariable logistic regression spline and threshold regression adjusting for potential confounders were conducted to evaluate associations between exposures and outcomes. Sensitivity analysis was conducted in 4211 patients with septic shock. Results Lower values of all blood pressures components were associated with a higher risk of ICU mortality. Estimated change-points for the risk of ICU mortality were 69 mmHg for mean, 100 mmHg for systolic, 60 mmHg for diastolic, and 57 mmHg for pulse pressure. The strength of association between blood pressure components and ICU mortality as determined by slopes of threshold regression were mean (− 0.13), systolic (− 0.11), diastolic (− 0.09), and pulse pressure (− 0.05). Equivalent non-linear associations between blood pressure components and ICU mortality were confirmed in septic shock patients. We observed a similar relationship between blood pressure components and secondary outcomes. Conclusion Blood pressure component association with ICU mortality is the strongest for mean followed by systolic, diastolic, and weakest for pulse pressure. Critical care teams should continue to follow MAP-based resuscitation, though exploratory analysis focusing on blood pressure components in different sepsis phenotypes in critically ill ICU patients is needed.

Abstract Aim To compare the survival outcomes of laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) with those of open total gastrectomy (OTG) in gastric cancer. Methods Using an in‐house database, this single‐center study reviewed clinical data for patients who underwent surgery for gastric adenocarcinoma in 2008–2018. The patients were divided into an LTG group and an OTG group. Results Data for 638 patients were screened. After exclusions, 580 patients (LTG, n = 212; OTG, n = 368) were enrolled. Noting that the OTG group included more advanced tumors, 1:1 propensity score matching was implemented to reduce any selection bias, leaving 326 patients (LTG, n = 163; OTG, n = 163; pStage I/II/III = 147/87/92) for further analysis. The operation time was longer and blood loss was less in the LTG group. The postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the LTG group than in the OTG group (9 d vs 10 d；P = .040). There was no significant difference in the incidence of grade III or worse postoperative complications (8.9% vs 11.0%). Five‐year overall survival was better in the LTG group (84.9% vs 73.5%; P = .0010, log‐rank test), but there was no significant difference in overall survival according to pStage (I, 93.0% vs 89.0%; II, 85.8% vs 77.5%; III, 64.1% vs 52.5%). There was a similar trend in relapse‐free survival. Distribution of recurrence sites was comparable. Conclusion LTG may provide survival outcomes similar to those of OTG when performed by an experienced surgical team. Further evidence is required for final conclusions, especially regarding its efficacy for stage II/III.

Abstract Aim A hiatal hernia (HH) complicates the diagnosis and surgical treatment of gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. This study aimed to investigate the effect of HH on the survival outcomes of GEJ cancer patients. Methods This single‐center study reviewed clinical data of 78 patients with GEJ adenocarcinoma who underwent R0 resection from 2008 to 2017. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether they presented with or without HH: the HH (+) group (n = 46) and the HH (−) group (n = 32). Results Patients in the HH (+) group were older than those in the HH (−) group (69.0 vs 67.5 years, P = .018). Regarding surgical outcomes, intra‐abdominal infectious complications was more common in the HH (+) group than in the HH (−) group (23.9% vs 9.4%, respectively; P = .089), particularly abscess formation (17.4% vs 3.1%, respectively; P = .036). Neither overall survival (OS) nor relapse‐free survival (RFS) differed between the two groups. However, survival rates were significantly worse in a subset of patients with T3‐4 disease (OS: log‐rank, P = .036) (RFS: log‐rank, P = .040) in the HH (+) group. In a multivariate analysis for OS in this cohort, HH was an independent prognostic factor (hazard ratio 3.60; 95% confidence interval 1.06‐11.9, P = .032). Conclusion Hiatal hernia may adversely affect surgical and survival outcomes in patients with GEJ cancer. Thus, surgical strategy must be carefully considered in these patients.

Abstract Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are emerging agents used for the treatment of various malignant tumors. As ICIs are generally used for unresectable malignant tumors, there have been only a few reports of patients who underwent surgery after receiving these drugs. Therefore, it remains unclear how immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affect the postoperative course. Here, we report a patient with advanced gastric cancer who underwent laparoscopic hepatectomy for liver metastases after an objective response with lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab and developed hypothyroidism and hypopituitarism as irAEs in the immediate postoperative period. Case presentation A 73-year-old man had undergone total gastrectomy for pT4aN2M0 gastric cancer followed by adjuvant chemotherapy with S-1 and docetaxel, and developed liver metastases in segments 6 and 7. He was enrolled in phase 2 clinical trial of lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab. He continuously achieved a partial response with the study treatment, and the liver metastases were decreased in size on imaging. The tumors were judged to be resectable and the patient underwent laparoscopic partial hepatectomy for segments 6 and 7. From the 1st postoperative day, the patient continuously presented with fever and general fatigue, and his fasting blood glucose level remained slightly lower than that before the surgery. On the 4th postoperative day, laboratory examination revealed hypothyroidism and hypopituitarism, which were suspected to be irAE caused by lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab after surgery. He received hydrocortisone first, followed by levothyroxine after adrenal insufficiency was recovered. Subsequently, his fever, general fatigue, and any abnormality regarding fasting blood glucose level resolved, and he was discharged on the 12th postoperative day. After discharge, his laboratory data for thyroid and pituitary function remained stable while receiving hydrocortisone and levothyroxine without recurrence of gastric cancer. Conclusion We present a case of laparoscopic hepatectomy after receiving lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab and developed hypothyroidism and hypopituitarism after surgery. Regarding surgery after ICI therapy, it is important to recognize that irAEs might occur in the postoperative period.

Abstract Background Timely recognition of hemodynamic instability in critically ill patients enables increased vigilance and early treatment opportunities. We develop the Hemodynamic Stability Index (HSI), which highlights situational awareness of possible hemodynamic instability occurring at the bedside and to prompt assessment for potential hemodynamic interventions. Methods We used an ensemble of decision trees to obtain a real-time risk score that predicts the initiation of hemodynamic interventions an hour into the future. We developed the model using the eICU Research Institute (eRI) database, based on adult ICU admissions from 2012 to 2016. A total of 208,375 ICU stays met the inclusion criteria, with 32,896 patients (prevalence = 18%) experiencing at least one instability event where they received one of the interventions during their stay. Predictors included vital signs, laboratory measurements, and ventilation settings. Results HSI showed significantly better performance compared to single parameters like systolic blood pressure and shock index (heart rate/systolic blood pressure) and showed good generalization across patient subgroups. HSI AUC was 0.82 and predicted 52% of all hemodynamic interventions with a lead time of 1-h with a specificity of 92%. In addition to predicting future hemodynamic interventions, our model provides confidence intervals and a ranked list of clinical features that contribute to each prediction. Importantly, HSI can use a sparse set of physiologic variables and abstains from making a prediction when the confidence is below an acceptable threshold. Conclusions The HSI algorithm provides a single score that summarizes hemodynamic status in real time using multiple physiologic parameters in patient monitors and electronic medical records (EMR). Importantly, HSI is designed for real-world deployment, demonstrating generalizability, strong performance under different data availability conditions, and providing model explanation in the form of feature importance and prediction confidence.

Abstract Advanced proximal gastric cancer sometimes metastasizes to the splenic hilar lymph nodes (No. 10 LN). Total gastrectomy combined with splenectomy is performed for complete removal of the No. 10 LN and was historically a standard procedure in Japan. However, splenectomy is associated with several disadvantages for patients, such as increased postoperative morbidity, risk of thrombogenic disease, fatal infection from encapsulated bacteria, and the development of other types of cancer in the long term because of loss of immune function. Therefore, splenectomy should only be performed when its estimated oncological effect exceeds such disadvantages. A Japanese randomized controlled trial (JCOG0110) clearly demonstrated that prophylactic splenectomy is not necessary unless the tumor has invaded the greater curvature; thus, splenectomy is no longer routinely performed in Japan. However, several retrospective studies have shown a comparatively high incidence of No. 10 LN metastasis and therapeutic value from LN dissection at that station in the tumors invading the greater curvature. Similar tendencies have also been reported in type 4 or remnant gastric cancer involving the greater curvature. In view of these facts, No. 10 LN dissection is presently recommended for such patients; however, robust evidence is lacking. In recent years, laparoscopic/robotic spleen‐preserving splenic hilar dissection utilizing augmented visualization without pancreatic mobilization has been developed. This procedure is expected to replace prophylactic splenectomy and provide an equal oncological effect with lower morbidity. In Japan, a prospective phase‐II study (JCOG1809) is currently ongoing to investigate the safety and feasibility of this procedure.

Abstract Gastric stump cancer (GSC) has distinct clinicopathological characteristics from primary gastric cancer. However, the detailed molecular and pathological characteristics of GSC remain to be clarified because of its rarity. In this study, a set of tissue microarrays from 89 GSC patients was analysed by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridisation. Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) was expressed in 98.9% of tumour-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) and 6.7% of tumour cells (TCs). Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) was detected in 18 patients (20.2%). Overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 and deficiency of mismatch repair (MMR) protein expression were observed in 5.6% and 1.1% of cases, respectively. Moreover, we used next-generation sequencing to determine the gene mutation profiles of a subset of the 50 most recent patients. The most frequently mutated genes were TP53 (42.0%) followed by SMAD4 (18.0%) and PTEN (16.0%), all of which are tumour suppressor genes. A high frequency of PD-L1 expression in TIICs and a high EBV infection rate suggest immune checkpoint inhibitors for treatment of GSC despite a relatively low frequency of deficient MMR gene expression. Other molecular characteristics such as PTEN and SMAD4 mutations might be considered to develop new treatment strategies.

Abstract Background Hybrid emergency room (ER) systems, consisting of an angiography-computed tomography (CT) machine in a trauma resuscitation room, are reported to be effective for reducing death from exsanguination in trauma patients. We aimed to investigate the cost-effectiveness of a hybrid ER system in severe trauma patients without severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods We conducted a cost-utility analysis comparing the hybrid ER system to the conventional ER system from the perspective of the third-party healthcare payer in Japan. A short-term decision tree and a long-term Markov model using a lifetime time horizon were constructed to estimate quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and associated lifetime healthcare costs. Short-term mortality and healthcare costs were derived from medical records and claims data in a tertiary care hospital with a hybrid ER. Long-term mortality and utilities were extrapolated from the literature. The willingness-to-pay threshold was set at $47,619 per QALY gained and the discount rate was 2%. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted. Results The hybrid ER system was associated with a gain of 1.03 QALYs and an increment of $33,591 lifetime costs compared to the conventional ER system, resulting in an ICER of $32,522 per QALY gained. The ICER was lower than the willingness-to-pay threshold if the odds ratio of 28-day mortality was < 0.66. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that the hybrid ER system was cost-effective with a 79.3% probability. Conclusion The present study suggested that the hybrid ER system is a likely cost-effective strategy for treating severe trauma patients without severe TBI.

Abstract Objective Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is a novel noninvasive technique that offers high‐contrast tomographic imaging with ultrasound‐like resolution at depths of centimeters, enabling visualization of deep small vessels. The aim of this pilot study was to survey the characteristics of deep vessel networks in the mucosa of neoplastic gastrointestinal (GI) lesions using PA imaging. Methods Specimens of patients who had undergone surgical and endoscopic resection for GI lesions were included in this study. The PA/ultrasound imaging system for clinical research is characterized by a technology that can superimpose a PA image over an ultrasound image. Three‐dimensional PA images were acquired for the resected specimen before fixation. The stomach and colon of live pigs were incised, and the walls were scanned from the mucosa. Results A total of 32 specimens (nine esophageal, 12 gastric, 11 colorectal) were scanned. The pathological diagnoses were adenomas (n = 2), intramucosal cancers (n = 14), and invasive cancers (n = 16). The deep vessel networks of all lesions could be visualized. In the intramucosal lesions, the deep vessel network was similar to that of a normal tissue. In invasive cancers, the thick and prominent vessel network was visible in the surface layer of esophageal cancers, infiltrated area of gastric cancers, and surface layer and infiltrated area of colorectal cancers. In the images of living pigs, visualizing the vascular network deeper than the submucosa in both the stomach and large intestine was possible. Conclusion Our study confirmed that the deep vessel networks of neoplastic GI lesions were visible by PA imaging.

Abstract The diagnosis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) using conventional endoscopy is difficult because submucosal tumor (SMT) lesions like GIST are covered by a mucosal layer. Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (NIR-HSI) can obtain optical information from deep inside tissues. However, far less progress has been made in the development of techniques for distinguishing deep lesions like GIST. This study aimed to investigate whether NIR-HSI is suitable for distinguishing deep SMT lesions. In this study, 12 gastric GIST lesions were surgically resected and imaged with an NIR hyperspectral camera from the aspect of the mucosal surface. Thus, the images were obtained ex-vivo. The site of the GIST was defined by a pathologist using the NIR image to prepare training data for normal and GIST regions. A machine learning algorithm, support vector machine, was then used to predict normal and GIST regions. Results were displayed using color-coded regions. Although 7 specimens had a mucosal layer (thickness 0.4–2.5 mm) covering the GIST lesion, NIR-HSI analysis by machine learning showed normal and GIST regions as color-coded areas. The specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy of the results were 73.0%, 91.3%, and 86.1%, respectively. The study suggests that NIR-HSI analysis may potentially help distinguish deep lesions.

Abstract Background The optimal standard reconstruction procedure after distal gastrectomy is controversial. No large‐scale persuasive clinical studies from long‐term perspectives on this topic have yet been conducted. Study design This retrospective multicenter study analyzed a database of 2510 consecutive patients with clinical stage I gastric cancer who underwent distal gastrectomy followed by Billroth‐I (B‐I) or Roux‐en‐Y (R‐Y) anastomosis from 2006 to 2012. After adjusting for 30 potential confounding factors using propensity score matching, we compared the body weight loss and other nutritional status for 5 years as primary outcomes between the two groups. We also investigated surgical outcomes, endoscopic findings, and long‐term survival rates as secondary outcomes. Results After matching the inclusion criteria, 940 patients (470 in each group) were enrolled. There was no marked difference in the body weight loss and other nutritional indicators. The incidence of grade ≥3 postoperative complications (Clavien‐Dindo classification) or the incidence of gallstone formation was not markedly different between the two groups. The postoperative hospital stay after surgery was significantly longer, and the readmission rate was significantly higher in the R‐Y group than in the B‐I group. An endoscopic examination revealed no trends regarding the incidence and severity of gastritis or residual food in the remnant stomach. The 5‐year overall survival rate was 92.6% in the B‐I group and 91.8% in the R‐Y group, with no significant difference (P = .379, log‐rank test). Conclusions Roux‐en‐Y reconstruction may be nearly equal to Billroth‐I with regard to the long‐term nutritional perspectives.

Abstract Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) can be associated with increased survival and neurologic benefits in selected patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). However, there remains insufficient evidence to recommend the routine use of ECPR for patients with OHCA. A novel integrated trauma workflow concept that utilizes a sliding computed tomography (CT) scanner and interventional radiology (IR) system, named a hybrid emergency room system (HERS), allowing emergency therapeutic interventions and CT examination without relocating trauma patients, has recently evolved in Japan. HERS can drastically shorten the ECPR implementation time and more quickly facilitate definitive interventions than the conventional advanced cardiovascular life support workflow. Herein, we discuss our novel workflow concept using HERS on ECPR for patients with OHCA.

Aim The emergence and evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) has generated increasing interest in machine learning applications for health care. Specifically, researchers are grasping the potential of machine learning solutions to enhance the quality of care in emergency medicine. Methods We undertook a narrative review of published works on machine learning applications in emergency medicine and provide a synopsis of recent developments. Results This review describes fundamental concepts of machine learning and presents clinical applications for triage, risk stratification specific to disease, medical imaging, and emergency department operations. Additionally, we consider how machine learning models could contribute to the improvement of causal inference in medicine, and to conclude, we discuss barriers to safe implementation of AI. Conclusion We intend that this review serves as an introduction to AI and machine learning in emergency medicine.

Abstract The acute phase management of patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and polytrauma represents a major challenge. Guidelines for the care of these complex patients are lacking, and worldwide variability in clinical practice has been documented in recent studies. Consequently, the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) decided to organize an international consensus conference regarding the monitoring and management of severe adult TBI polytrauma patients during the first 24 hours after injury. A modified Delphi approach was adopted, with an agreement cut-off of 70%. Forty experts in this field (emergency surgeons, neurosurgeons, and intensivists) participated in the online consensus process. Sixteen recommendations were generated, with the aim of promoting rational care in this difficult setting.

Abstract Background Although tranexamic acid is widely used in patients with haemoptysis, whether it improves mortality has not been well investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of tranexamic acid on in-hospital mortality among patients with haemoptysis. Methods This was a retrospective study using data from the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination inpatient database. We identified all cases of emergency admission due to haemoptysis from July 2010 to March 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: a control group, and a tranexamic acid group (those who received tranexamic acid on the day of admission). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, with secondary outcomes of hospital stay length and total healthcare cost. The data were evaluated using a propensity score matching analysis. Results Among 28,539 included patients, 17,049 patients received tranexamic acid and 11,490 patients did not. Propensity score analysis generated 9933 matched pairs. Compared to the control group, patients in the tranexamic acid group had significantly lower in-hospital mortality (11.5% vs. 9.0%; risk difference, − 2.5%; 95% confidence interval (CI), − 3.5 to − 1.6%), shorter hospital stays (18 ± 24 days vs. 16 ± 18 days; risk difference, − 2.4 days; 95% CI, − 3.1 to − 1.8 days), and lower total healthcare costs ($7573 ± 10,085 vs. $6757 ± 9127; risk difference, $− 816; 95% CI, $− 1109 to − 523). Conclusions Tranexamic acid may reduce in-hospital mortality among patients with haemoptysis requiring emergency admission.

Abstract Background Acute coagulopathy is a well-known predictor of poor outcomes in patients with severe trauma. However, using coagulation and fibrinolytic markers, how one can best predict mortality to find out potential candidates for treatment of coagulopathy remains unclear. This study aimed to determine preferential markers and their optimal cut-off values for mortality prediction. Methods We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients with severe blunt trauma (injury severity score ≥ 16) transferred directly from the scene to emergency departments at two trauma centres in Japan from January 2013 to December 2015. We investigated the impact and optimal cut-off values of initial coagulation (platelet counts, fibrinogen and prothrombin time-international normalised ratio) and a fibrinolytic marker (D-dimer) on 28-day mortality via classification and regression tree (CART) analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed the importance of these markers. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to examine the prediction accuracy for mortality. Results Totally 666 patients with severe blunt trauma were analysed. CART analysis revealed that the initial discriminator was fibrinogen (cut-off, 130 mg/dL) and the second discriminator was D-dimer (cut-off, 110 μg/mL in the lower fibrinogen subgroup; 118 μg/mL in the higher fibrinogen subgroup). The 28-day mortality was 90.0% (lower fibrinogen, higher D-dimer), 27.8% (lower fibrinogen, lower D-dimer), 27.7% (higher fibrinogen, higher D-dimer) and 3.4% (higher fibrinogen, lower D-dimer). Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that fibrinogen levels

Background: Esophageal leiomyomatosis (EL) is a rare benign tumor defined as a diffuse form of marked hypertrophy in the muscular layer of the esophagus. Relapses have been reported as a result of misdiagnoses of other tumors or achalasia, followed by inappropriate surgical intervention. The endoscopic approach is preferred because of its lesser degree of invasiveness and better cosmesis; however, its effectiveness for treatment of EL is unclear because these tumors are bulkier and more extensive than those in other esophageal diseases. Case presentation: We treated an 11-year-old girl who had been experiencing progressive dysphagia, vomiting, and coughing during sleep since the age of 4 years and was correctly diagnosed with EL using computed tomography and endoscopic ultrasonography. She was successfully treated with total minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE), combining thoracoscopy and laparoscopy, in the prone position, without any complications or recurrence of symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of MIE for EL. A review of 84 EL cases (including the present case) revealed a rate of accurate preoperative diagnosis of only 23.8%. Esophagectomy should be employed because the recurrence rate of the non-esophagectomy cases, involving myotomy and tumorectomy, was significantly higher than that of the esophagectomy cases (57.9% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.002). Among 11 relapse cases in the non-esophagectomy cases, esophagectomy was performed in eight. Among the four relapse cases in the esophagectomy group, additional esophagectomy was necessary in three because of insufficient resection of the tumors at the primary esophagectomy. Conclusions: Multimodal imaging contributes to accurate diagnosis and assessment of the extent of the tumors, thus leading to the selection of the appropriate surgical intervention, i.e., radical esophagectomy. Total MIE in the prone position provides excellent exposure of the operative fields; our experience suggests that total MIE is beneficial for EL, as it is for other esophageal tumors. Keywords: Esophageal leiomyomatosis, Minimally invasive esophagectomy, Prone position, Achalasia, Case report, Review of literature

Abstract Background The outcomes of multiple injury patients with concomitant torso hemorrhage and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are very poor. The hybrid emergency room system (HERS) is a trauma management system designed to complete resuscitation, computed tomography (CT), surgery, angioembolization, and intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring all in one trauma resuscitation room without patient transfer. We aimed to review the outcomes of polytrauma patients who underwent concurrent bleeding control and ICP monitoring using the HERS. Methods In this retrospective observational study, we enrolled patients who underwent concurrent bleeding control and ICP monitoring using the HERS between August 2011 and June 2018. Initial data on vital signs, Injury Severity Score (ISS), probability of survival (Ps) calculated by the Trauma and Injury Severity Score (TRISS), intervention type, 28-day mortality, and Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale at 6 months after injury were collected. Continuous variables were expressed as the median (25th and 75th percentiles) and categorical variables as numbers (%). Results Ten patients were included in the analysis. The injury severity of the patients was as high as an ISS of 58 (50–64) and TRISS Ps of 0.15 (0.02–0.36). Seven of the 10 (70%) patients had hemodynamic instability within 30 min from arrival. The recorded durations from arrival to events were CT examination 9 (6–16) min, bleeding control procedure 29 (22–42) min, and neurosurgical intervention 39 (31–53) min. Four of the 10 patients (40%) survived to discharge, and two of them (20%) were able to live independently at 6 months after injury. Conclusions The concurrent performance of bleeding control procedure and ICP monitoring would be feasible in HERS settings among polytrauma patients with exsanguinating hemorrhage and TBI.

Abstract Background Optimising the use of antibiotic agents is a pressing challenge to overcoming the rapid emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant pathogens in intensive care units (ICUs). Although Gram staining may possibly provide immediate information for predicting pathogenic bacteria, Gram stain-guided initial antibiotic treatment is not well established in the ICU setting. We planned the GRam stain-guided Antibiotics ChoicE for Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (GRACE-VAP) trial to investigate whether Gram staining can safely restrict the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics in patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), which is one of the most common hospital-acquired infections in ICUs. Methods/design The GRACE-VAP trial is a multicentre, randomised, open-label parallel-group trial to assess the non-inferiority of Gram stain-guided initial antibiotic treatment to guidelines-based initial antibiotic treatment for the primary endpoint of clinical response rate in patients with VAP. Secondary endpoints include the coverage rates of initial antibiotic therapies, the selected rates of anti-pseudomonal agents and anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (anti-MRSA) agents as initial antibiotic therapies, 28-day all-cause mortality, ICU-free days, ventilator-free days and adverse events. Patients are randomly assigned to receive Gram stain-guided treatment or guidelines-based treatment at a ratio of 1:1. In the Gram stain group, results of Gram staining of endotracheal aspirate are used to guide the selection of antibiotics. In the guidelines group, the combination of an anti-pseudomonal agent and an anti-MRSA agent is administered. A total sample size of 200 was estimated to provide a power of 80% with a one-sided alpha level of 2.5% and a non-inferiority margin of 20%, considering 10% non-evaluable patients. Discussion The GRACE-VAP trial is expected to reveal whether Gram staining can reduce the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics without impairing patient outcomes and thereby provide evidence for an antibiotic selection strategy in patients with VAP. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT03506113. Registered on 29 March 2018. University Hospital Medical Information Network, UMIN000031933. Registered on 26 March 2018.

Abstract Background Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common and serious problem in intensive care units (ICUs). Several studies have suggested that the Gram stain of endotracheal aspirates is a useful method for accurately diagnosing VAP. However, the usefulness of the Gram stain in predicting which microorganisms cause VAP has not been established. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a Gram stain of endotracheal aspirates could be used to determine appropriate initial antimicrobial therapy for VAP. Methods Data on consecutive episodes of microbiologically confirmed VAP were collected from February 2013 to February 2016 in the ICU of a tertiary care hospital in Japan. We constructed two hypothetical empirical antimicrobial treatment algorithms for VAP: a guidelines-based algorithm (GLBA) based on the recommendations of the American Thoracic Society-Infectious Diseases Society of America (ATS-IDSA) guidelines and a Gram stain-based algorithm (GSBA) which limited the choice of initial antimicrobials according to the results of bedside Gram stains. The GLBA and the GSBA were retrospectively reviewed for each VAP episode. The initial coverage rates and the selection of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents were compared between the two algorithms. Results During the study period, 219 suspected VAP episodes were observed and 131 episodes were assessed for analysis. Appropriate antimicrobial coverage rates were not significantly different between the two algorithms (GLBA 95.4% versus GSBA 92.4%; p = 0.134). The number of episodes for which antimethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus agents were selected as an initial treatment was larger in the GLBA than in the GSBA (71.0% versus 31.3%; p

The concept of EndoVascular resuscitation and Trauma Management (EVTM) has recently been proposed to refer to the use of endovascular techniques for resuscitation, haemorrhage control, and definitive trauma management. Although the popularity of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) has been growing, the use of the EVTM or CT imaging is still limited in hemodynamically unstable patients. To overcome the current limitations, the Hybrid Emergency Room System (HERS) was introduced in 2011. HERS consists of an operating table with an angiographic C-arm and a sliding CT scanner system in the resuscitation area, which allows all emergency diagnostic and therapeutic interventions without relocating the patient. This paper deals with current limitations of EVTM and proposes solutions with HERS. In the HERS environment, patients can undergo IR in the resuscitation room, which may expand the indications of IR to include hemodynamically unstable patients. HERS can also reduce CT scanning time to identify unexpected injuries or traumatic brain injury. It also allows prompt neurosurgical intervention simultaneously with haemorrhage control. REBOA is a viable adjunct treatment for refractory haemorrhagic shock but its procedure-related complications must be considered. REBOA can be performed more safely, rapidly, and accurately in HERS, followed by immediate definitive haemostasis. In addition, HERS may safely extend the application of REBOA-CT to identify accurate injury site. HERS may be an ideal EVTM solution for the trinity of surgery, endovascular treatment, and imaging in trauma care. We will continue to explore the most radical and safest EVTM in the HERS environment.

Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models have been recognized as being more suitable for predicting therapeutic efficacy than cell-culture models. However, there are several limitations in applying PDX models in preclinical studies, including their availability—especially for cancers such as gastric cancer—that are not frequently encountered in Western countries. In addition, the differences in morphology between primary, PDX, and tumor cell line-derived xenograft (CDX) models have not been well established. In this study, we aimed to establish a series of gastric cancer PDXs and cell-lines from a relatively large number of gastric cancer patients. We also investigated the clinicopathological factors associated with the establishment of PDX and CDX models, and compared the histology between the primary tumor, PDX, and CDX that originated from the same patient. We engrafted 232 gastric cancer tissues into immune-deficient mice subcutaneously and successfully established 35 gastric cancer PDX models (15.1% success rate). Differentiated type adenocarcinomas (DAs, 19.4%) were more effectively established than poorly differentiated type adenocarcinomas (PDAs, 10.8%). For establishing CDXs, the success rate was less influenced by histological differentiation grade (DA vs. PDA, 12.1% vs. 9.8%). In addition, concordance of histological differentiation grade between primary tumors and PDXs was significant (p < 0.01), while concordance between primary tumors and CDXs was not. Among clinicopathological factors investigated, pathological nodal metastasis status (pN) was significantly associated with the success rate of PDX establishment. Although establishing cell lines from ascites fluid was more efficient (41.2%, 7/17) than resected tissues, it should be noted that all CDXs from ascites fluid had the PDA phenotype. In conclusion, we established 35 PDX and 32 CDX models from 249 gastric cancer patients; among them, 21 PDX/CDX models were established from the same patients. Our findings may provide helpful insights for establishing PDX and CDX models not only from gastric but from other cancer types, as well as select preclinical models for developing new therapeutics.

This paper proposes an innovative CO2 enrichment system for crop production under a controlled greenhouse environment by means of tetra-n-butylammonium bromide (TBAB) + CO2 semi-clathrate hydrate (SC). In this system, CO2 is captured directly from exhaust gas from a combustion heater at night, which can be used for stimulating photosynthesis of crops in greenhouses during daytime. Although the gas capacity of TBAB + CO2 SC is less than that of CO2 gas hydrate, it is shown that TBAB + CO2 SC can store CO2 for CO2 enrichment in crop production even under moderate pressure conditions (

The anomalous or self-preservation of methane hydrate at atmospheric pressure and temperatures below the ice point was investigated to determine whether this phenomenon might have applications in the storage and transportation of natural gas. Particular attention was paid to the effects of dilute electrolytes, as the presence of impurities in water is unavoidable in commercial transportation processes. The presence of electrolytes had a marked effect on the decomposition kinetics of methane hydrate at temperatures between 243 and 269 K. It was also found that chloride and sulfate ions may exhibit greater effects than do sodium and magnesium ions.

Objective: To gain insight into the global practice of robot-assisted minimally invasive gastrectomy (RAMIG) and evaluate perioperative outcomes using an international registry. Background: The techniques and perioperative outcomes of RAMIG for gastric cancer vary substantially in the literature. Methods: Prospectively registered RAMIG cases for gastric cancer ( ≥10 per center) were extracted from 25 centers in Europe, Asia, and South- America. Techniques for resection, reconstruction, anastomosis, and lymphadenectomy were analyzed and related to perioperative surgical and oncological outcomes. Complications were uniformly defined by the Gastrectomy Complications Consensus Group. Results: Between 2020 and 2023, 759 patients underwent total (n= 272), distal (n=465), or proximal (n=22) gastrectomy (RAMIG). After total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y-reconstruction, anastomotic leakage rates were 8% with hand-sewn (n= 9/111) and 6% with linear stapled anastomoses (n= 6/100). After distal gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y (67%) or Billroth-II-reconstruction (31%), anastomotic leakage rates were 3% with linear stapled (n=11/433) and 0% with hand-sewn anastomoses (n=0/ 26). Extent of lymphadenectomy consisted of D1+ (28%), D2 (59%), or D2+ (12%). Median nodal harvest yielded 31 nodes (interquartile range: 21--47) after total and 34 nodes (interquartile range: 24--47) after distal gastrectomy. R0 resection rates were 93% after total and 96% distal gastrectomy. The hospital stay was 9 days after total and distal gastrectomy, and was median 3 days shorter without perianastomotic drains versus routine drain placement. Postoperative 30-day mortality was 1%. Conclusions: This large multicenter study provided a worldwide overview of current RAMIG techniques and their respective perioperative outcomes. These outcomes demonstrated high surgical quality, set a quality standard for RAMIG, and can be considered an international reference for surgical standardization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]