Multitasking in postanesthesia care unit following nurse interruptions, an analysis of the causes and consequences using classification tree: an observational prospective study

Abstract Background: Postanesthesia Care Unit (PACU) is an environment associated with an important workload which is susceptible to lead to task interruption (TI), leading to task-switching or concurrent multitasking. The objective of the study was to determine the predictors of the reaction of the nurses facing TI and assess those who lead to an alteration of the initial task. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study into the PACU of a university hospital during February 2017. Among 18 nurses, a selected one was observed each day, documenting for each TI the reaction of the nurse (task switching or concurrent multitasking), and the characteristics associated with the TI. We performed classification tree analyses using C5.0 algorithm in order to select the main predictors of the type of multitasking performed and the alteration of the initial task. Results: We observed 1119 TI during 132 hours (8.5 TI/hour). The main reaction was concurrent multitasking (805 TI, 72%). The short duration of the task interruption (one minute or less) was the most important predictor leading to concurrent multitasking. Other predictors of response to TI were the identity of the task interrupter and the number of nurses present. Regarding the consequences of the task switching, long interruption (more than five minutes) was the most important predictor of the alteration of the initial task. Conclusions: By analysing the predictors of the type of multitasking in front of TI, we propose a novel approach to understanding TI, offering new perspective for prevention strategies.

Efficacy analysis of different adjuvant treatments for cervical cancer patients with postoperative intermediate-risk factors / 肿瘤研究与临床

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and adverse reactions of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT) and radiotherapy (RT) alone in the treatment of cervical cancer patients with intermediate-risk factors after operation.Methods:The clinical data of 210 patients with cervical cancer patients after operation in Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital between August 2014 to March 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. The postoperative pathology met the Sedlis standard. All patients were divided into RT alone group (100 cases) and CRT group (110 cases) according to the different adjuvant treatment regimens; and the efficacy and adverse reactions of both groups were also analyzed.Results:The 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate was 82.8%, 81.5%, respectively in RT alone group and CRT group ; 5-year PFS rate was 80.6%, 77.4%, respectively in RT alone group and CRT group; and there were no statistically significant differences in the PFS of both groups ( χ2 = 0.29, P = 0.591). The 3-year overall survival (OS) rate was 88.5%, 86.7%, respectively in RT alone group and CRT group; 5-year OS rate was 86.4%,82.6%, respectively in RT alone group and CRT group; and there were no statistically significant differences in the OS of both groups ( χ2 = 0.59, P = 0.443). The local recurrence rate was 8.0% (8/100) and 9.1% (10/110), respectively in RT alone group and CRT group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2 = 0.08, P = 0.778); the distant metastasis rate was 11.0% (11/100) and 12.7% (14/110), respectively in RT alone group and CRT group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2 = 0.15, P = 0.699); the incidence of bone marrow suppression was 42.0% (42 /100) and 61.8% (68/110), respectively in RT alone group and CRT group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2 = 8.25, P < 0.01). The incidence of gastrointestinal reactions was 23.0% (23/100) and 77.3% (85/110), respectively in RT alone group and CRT group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2 = 49.94, P < 0.01);the incidence of radiation cystitis was 3.0% (3/100) and 3.6% (4/110), respectively in RT alone group and CRT group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2 = 0.06, P = 0.798). The incidence of radiation proctitis was 5.0 %(5/100) and 4.5% (5/110), respectively in RT alone group and CRT group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ2 = 0.02, P = 0.877). Conclusions:For cervical cancer patients with intermediate-risk factors, CRT shows no survival benefit and increases the incidence of adverse reactions compared with RT alone.

Progress of re-treatment of recurrent esophageal cancer after chemoradiotherapy / 肿瘤研究与临床

Esophageal cancer is the most common malignant tumor in the digestive system in China. Because of the hidden clinical symptoms, the disease has reached the local advanced stage once discovered. For patients who have lost the opportunity of surgery, synchronous chemoradiotherapy is recommended, however, the recurrence rate after chemoradiotherapy is still high. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery are commonly used for recurrent patients, but the survival rate of recurrent patients after treatment is not satisfying. In recent years, immunotherapy has been successfully applied in various solid tumors, and its efficacy and safety in the treatment of advanced and recurrent metastatic esophageal cancer have also been recognized in the field of esophageal cancer. This article aims to provide high efficacy and low toxicity treatment methods for patients with recurrent esophageal cancer after chemoradiotherapy through summarizing the relevant literatures of various treatments including immunotherapy.

Research progress on the bone-marrow sparing intensity-modulated radiotherapy for cervical cancer / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

The cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) has been accepted as a standard treatment for most locally advanced cervical cancer. Compared with radiation therapy alone, CCRT can increase tumor control and survival rates, whereas it also can increase the incidence of acute hematological toxicity, which results in the treatment interruption or delay, and may even affect clinical efficacy and prognosis of patients. Therefore, how to reduce the incidence and severity of acute hematological toxicity induced by CCRT is a hot spot of clinical research. Previous studies have demonstrated that the occurrence of hematological toxicity is associated with the volume and dose of irradiated pelvic bone marrow. With the development of modern radiotherapy technology, precise radiotherapy technologies, such as intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), not only guaranteed the enough dose for tumor, but also realized the protection of normal tissues. This article will focus on the feasibility of bone marrow sparing during CCRT for cervical cancer, and summarize the research progress in recent years.

CT radiomics model for predicting progression-free survival of locally advanced cervical cancer after concurrent chemoradiotherapy / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Objective:To construct machine learning models based on CT imaging and clinical parameters for predicting progression-free survival (PFS) of locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) patients after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT).Methods:Clinical data of 167 LACC patients treated with CCRT at Shandong Cancer Hospital from September 2015 to October 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were randomly divided into the training and validation cohorts according to the ratio of 7 vs. 3. Clinical features were selected by univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards model ( P<0.1). Radiomics models and nomograms were constructed by radiomics features which were selected by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression model to predict the 1-, 3- and 5-year PFS. Combined models and nomogram models were developed by selected clinical and radiomics features. The Kaplan Meier-curve, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, C-index and calibration curve were used to evaluate the model performance. Results:A total of 1 409 radiomics features were extracted based on the region of interest (ROI) in CT images. CT radiomics models showed better performance for predicting 1-, 3-and 5-year PFS than the clinical model in the training and validation cohorts. The combined model displayed the optimal performance in predicting 1-, 3-and 5-year PFS in the training cohort [area under the curve (AUC): 0.760, 0.648, 0.661, C-index: 0.740, 0.667, 0.709] and verification cohort (AUC: 0.763, 0.677, 0.648, C-index: 0.748, 0.668, 0.678).Conclusions:Combined model constructed based on CT radiomics and clinical features yield better prediction performance than that based on radiomics or clinical features alone. As an objective image analysis approach, it possesses high prediction efficiency for PFS of LACC patients after CCRT, which can provide reference for clinical decision-making.

Prediction of survival of patients with cervical cancer after concurrent chemoradiotherapy based on clinical and imaging parameters / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Objective:To investigate the value of nomograms based on clinical parameters, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and MRI-derived radiomics in predicting survival of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT).Methods:Clinical data of 423 patients with IB-IVA cervical cancer treated with CCRT at Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University from March 2014 to March 2020 were retrospectively analyzed and randomly divided into the training and validation groups at a ratio of 2∶1 using the simple randomization method. The values of ADC min, ADC mean, ADC max and 3D texture parameters of diffusion weighted imaging (DWI), T 2WI, T 2WI-fat suppression of pre-treatment primary lesions in all patients were measured. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm and logistic regression analysis were used to screen the texture features and calculate radiomics score (Rad-score). Cox regression analysis was employed to construct nomogram models for predicting overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CS) of patients with LACC after CCRT, which were subject to internal and external validation. Results:Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag), external beam radiotherapy dose, ADCmin and Rad-score were the independent prognostic factors for OS and CS of LACC patients after CCRT and constituted predictive models for OS and CS. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of two models in predicting 1-year, 3-year, 5-year OS and CS was 0.906, 0.917, 0.916 and 0.911, 0.918, 0.920, with internally validated consistency indexes (C-indexes) of 0.897 and 0.900. Then, models were brought into the validation group for external validation with AUC of 0.986, 0.942, 0.932 and 0.986, 0.933, 0.926 in predicting 1-year, 3-year, 5-year OS and CS.Conclusion:The nomograms based on clinical parameters, ADC values and MRI-derived radiomics are of high clinical value in predicting OS and CS of patients with LACC after CCRT, which can be used as prognostic markers for patients with cervical cancer to certain extent.

Image fusion-based recurrence patterns and dosimetry after concurrent chemoradiotherapy for thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To analyze the local recurrence patterns after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) through image fusion, and to explore the risk factors of local recurrence and its relationships with dosimetric indices.Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted for 209 thoracic ESCC patients who received radical CCRT in Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University during 2016-2019. For the patients diagnosed as the local recurrence of esophageal lesions, their CT images were fused with the original planning CT images using image registration software to identify the recurrence sites. Through 1∶1 propensity score matching (PSM) of the clinal data of patients with local recurrence (the recurrence group, nbefore = 81, nafter = 62) and those without local recurrence (the recurrence-free group, nbefore = 128, nafter=62), the dose and volume parameters of the treatment plans for the two groups were compared. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted using the Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox regression model to analyze the factors affecting the overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Results:All patients had 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates of 80.9%, 42.6%, and 33.0%, respectively, 1-, 3-, and 5-year PFS rates of 67.9%, 34.0%, and 27.9%, respectively, and 1-, 3-, and 5-year RFS rates of 71.3%, 39.2%, and 30.5%, respectively. T stage, N stage, and radiation dose were independent prognostic factors for the OS, PFS, and RFS ( HR = 1.42-1.87, P < 0.05) of the patients, respectively. Among 68 patients with local recurrence, 62 cases (91.2%) suffered recurrence within the gross tumor volume (GTV). The dose and volume parameters of patients with local recurrence, such as GTV- D95%, clinical target volume (CTV)- D95%, GTV- D50%, CTV- D50%, and planning target volume (PTV)- D50%, GTV- V60, CTV- V60, and PTV- V60, were significantly lower than those of patients free from the local recurrence ( t=1.90-2.15, P < 0.05). Conclusions:Local recurrence of patients with thoracic ESCC after radical CCRT occurs mainly within the GTV. Increasing radiation doses may contribute to their survival benefits. The D50% for each target volume in the radiotherapy plan may be related to local recurrence, and it is necessary to conduct further research.

Relationship between the pelvic bone marrow dose-volume parameters and acute hematologic toxicity in neoadjuvant pelvic intensity-modulated radiotherapy for local advance rectal cancer / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To analyze the correlation between the volume of irradiated pelvic bone marrow and acute hematologic toxicity (HT), in order to provide clinical data to reduce the risk of acute HT and optimize the radiotherapy plan.Methods:From October 2017 to May 2019, 41 LARC patients who received neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) were retrospectively reviewed in our center. All patients were treated with 5-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and the prescription dose delivered to PTV was 45-50.4 Gy in 25-28 fractions. Capecitabine or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) wasadministered daily 5 days a week during radiotherapy. Different HTswere recorded according to National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria Version 5.0 (NCI-CTC.V5.0) based on laboratory tests. The volume of PBM or each site (coxal, sacrum, femoral) receiving more than x Gy refers to as TVx, CVx, SVx, and FVx, respectively. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the association between the volume of irradiated pelvic bone marrow and different HT. Generalized additive model (GAM) and piecewise regression were used to further analyze the possible nonlinear relationship and threshold effect between them. Results:Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that low-dose of irradiated total pelvic bone marrow volume ( TV5) and coxal bone marrow volume ( CV5, CV10) were significantly correlated with Grade ≥2 leukopenia( P<0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between the sacrum bone marrow volume ( SV5, SV10) and Grade ≥2 leukopenia ( P<0.05). A thresholdeffect has been observed between CV10 and Grade ≥2 leukopenia by Generalized additive model (GAM) and piecewise linear regression. The threshold between CV10 and Grade ≥2 leukopenia was 575 ml, OR (95% CI) was 1.85 (1.08, 3.16). Conclusions:In neoadjuvant IMRT of rectal cancer, CV is a better predictor of acute HT induced by CCRT than TV. The irradiated volume of CV associated with acute HT was mainly low-dose levels ( CV5, CV10). The thresholds of our study ( CV10= 575 ml) could be a good reference for the optimization of the radiotherapy plan.

Efficacy and influencing factors of sequential and concurrent chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer in elderly patients / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To explore the efficacy of sequential and concurrent chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the elderly, and to analyze the influencing factors of prognosis and outcome.Methods:The clinical data of 195 elderly patients with advanced NSCLC admitted to Beijing Shijingshan Hospitaland and Beijing Shijitan Hospital from March 2015 to March 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into the concurrent chemoradiotherapy (100 cases) and the sequential chemoradiotherapy (95 cases) according to different chemoradiotherapy regiments. The short-term efficacy, 3-year survival, influencing factors of prognosis and toxic and adverse effects of the two groups were compared.Results:The objective response rate in the concurrent chemoradiotherapy group was significantly higher than that in the sequential chemoradiotherapy group: 61.00%(61/100) vs. 44.21%(42/95), there was statistically difference ( χ2 = 5.51, P<0.05). The 2-year and 3-year survival rate in the concurrent chemoradiotherapy group were 52.00% and 23.00%, which were significantly higher than those in the sequential chemoradiotherapy group: 32.60%, 11.60%, there were statistically differences ( P<0.05). Multivariate analysis results showed that smoking, Karnofsky score<70, TNM stage Ⅲb, short-term efficacy and treatment methods/sequential chemoradiotherapy were independent risk factors ( P<0.05). The incidence of radiation esophagitis, bone marrow suppression and lung function damage in the concurrent chemoradiotherapy group were higher than those in the sequential chemoradiotherapy group: 45.00%(45/100) vs. 27.37% (26/95), 36.00%(36/100) vs. 22.11%(21/95), 48.00%(48/100) vs. 26.32%(25/95), there were statistically differences ( χ2 = 6.54, 4.55, 9.78; P<0.05). Conclusions:Concurrent chemoradiotherapy can improve the short-term efficacy, and improve the 2-year and 3-year survival rates in advanced NSCLC in elderly patients, but the adverse effects are significantly enhanced.

Adjuvant chemotherapy versus adjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy after radical surgery for early-stage cervical cancer: a randomized, non-inferiority, multicenter trial / 医学前沿

We conducted a prospective study to assess the non-inferiority of adjuvant chemotherapy alone versus adjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) as an alternative strategy for patients with early-stage (FIGO 2009 stage IB-IIA) cervical cancer having risk factors after surgery. The condition was assessed in terms of prognosis, adverse effects, and quality of life. This randomized trial involved nine centers across China. Eligible patients were randomized to receive adjuvant chemotherapy or CCRT after surgery. The primary end-point was progression-free survival (PFS). From December 2012 to December 2014, 337 patients were subjected to randomization. Final analysis included 329 patients, including 165 in the adjuvant chemotherapy group and 164 in the adjuvant CCRT group. The median follow-up was 72.1 months. The three-year PFS rates were both 91.9%, and the five-year OS was 90.6% versus 90.0% in adjuvant chemotherapy and CCRT groups, respectively. No significant differences were observed in the PFS or OS between groups. The adjusted HR for PFS was 0.854 (95% confidence interval 0.415-1.757; P = 0.667) favoring adjuvant chemotherapy, excluding the predefined non-inferiority boundary of 1.9. The chemotherapy group showed a tendency toward good quality of life. In comparison with post-operative adjuvant CCRT, adjuvant chemotherapy treatment showed non-inferior efficacy in patients with early-stage cervical cancer having pathological risk factors. Adjuvant chemotherapy alone is a favorable alternative post-operative treatment.

Combined Aerobic and Strength Training Improves Dynamic Stability and can Prevent against Static Stability Decline in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial / O treinamento de força e aeróbio combinado melhora a estabilidade dinâmica e pode prevenir contra o declínio da estabilidade estática em mulheres na pósmenopausa: um ensaio clínico randomizado

Abstract Objective To analyze the effect of combined training (CT) in postural control and gait parameters in postmenopausal women. Methods A parallel-group, randomized, control study was conducted with 16 weeks of combined training (n = 16) versus a non-training control group (n = 12) in postmenopausal women (aged 59.3 ± 8.0). Pre and postintervention assessments included postural control (using an AMTI force platform - Advanced Mechanical Technology, Inc., Watertown, MA, USA) and gait impairments (using baropodometry). In addition, the upper limb strength and abdominal tests, as well as aerobic capacity, assessed functional indicators. Results The CT intervention in postmenopausal women resulted in improved gait (stride length (p = 0.006); speed (p = 0.013); double support time (p = 0.045); and improved postural control (displacement area of postural sway in a normal base of support with eyes open (p = 0.006). Combined training increased functional indicators (abdominal - p = 0.031; aerobic capacity - p = 0.002). Conclusion In conclusion, combined aerobic plus strength training effectively improved gait and balance control in older women. The postmenopausal women from the CT group walked faster and with bigger steps after the intervention than the control group. In addition, they presented decreased postural sway in standing and decreased the percentage of double support time while walking, which means improved static and dynamic balance control and functional indicators.

Resumo Objetivo Analisar o efeito do treinamento combinado (TC) no controle postural e nos parâmetros da marcha em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo controlado randomizado de grupos paralelos com 16 semanas de treinamento combinado (n = 16) versus um grupo controle sem treinamento (n = 12) em mulheres na pós-menopausa (59,3 ± 8,0 anos). As avaliações pré e pós-intervenção incluíram controle postural (usando a plataforma de força AMTI) e deficiências da marcha (usando baropodometria). Além disso, os testes de força de membros superiors e abdominal, bem como a capacidade aeróbica, avaliaram indicadores funcionais. Resultados A intervenção do TC em mulheres na pós-menopausa resultou em melhora da marcha (comprimento da passada (p = 0,006), velocidade (p = 0,013), tempo de apoio duplo (p = 0,045) e controle postural aprimorado (área de deslocamento da oscilação postural em base de apoio normal com olhos abertos (p = 0,006). O TC aumentou os indicadores funcionais (abdominal - p = 0,031; capacidade aeróbia - p = 0,002). Conclusão Em conclusão, o TC de força e aeróbico melhorou efetivamente o controle da marcha e do equilíbrio em mulheres idosas. As mulheres na pós-menopausa do grupo CT caminharam mais rápido e com passos maiores após a intervenção do que o grupo controle. Além disso, elas apresentaram redução da oscilação postural em pé e do percentual de tempo de apoio duplo durante a caminhada, o que significa melhora no controle do equilíbrio estático e dinâmico e dos indicadores funcionais.

Effect of concurrent training in unilateral transtibial amputees using Paralympic athletes as a control group

Abstract Context: Transtibial Amputation (TA) predisposes to a sedentary lifestyle. Objectives: To evaluate the efficiency of a short-term (8-week) Concurrent Training (CT) program in Unilateral Transtibial Amputees (UTA) and to compare it with the physical condition of a group of Paralympic athletes in preparation for the Rio de Janeiro Paralympics. Design: This was a longitudinal, prospective and controlled trial study. Methods: Thirty-four male subjects with UTA and using prostheses for six months or more were selected for this study. They were divided into two groups: Group 1 (G1) - 17 non-athlete and untrained UTA and Group 2 (G2) - 17 paralympic athletes with active UTA in the training phase. G1 was evaluated before and after eight weeks of CT and G2 made a single evaluation for control. All were submitted to anamnesis, clinical evaluation (blood pressure, electrocardiogram, and heart rate) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing on a lower limb cycle ergometer, and isokinetic knee dynamometry. The CT of G1 included resistance exercise and aerobic interval training on a stationary bicycle and G2 followed the training of the Paralympic teams. Results: Patients were retested by the same methods after CT. The two most important central dependent variables (maximal oxygen uptake and muscular strength) increased by 22% and knee extensor and flexor strength by 106% and 97%, respectively. Conclusion: After eight weeks of CT, there was an improvement in general functional condition, muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory performance improving protection against chronic diseases and quality of life.

A study on treatment of locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck with radiation along with cisplatin or gefitinib

Background: Cisplatin based Concurrent chemo-radiation (CTRT) is the corner stone for treatment of locally advanced head and neck carcinoma. Epidermal growth factor receptor(EGFR) expression by squamous cell carcinoma which is associated with cancer development and progression,leads to emergence of anti-EGFR agents as a therapeutic option. In this study we compare cisplatin based CTRT against gefitinib based CTRT in terms of disease control and acute toxicity profile. Material and Methods: Stage III and IV squamous cell carcinoma of Head and neck region (excluding nasopharynx) were randomised into two groups. Control group received conventionally fractionated radiotherapy of 66Gy in 33fractions, over six and half weeks with concurrent weekly cisplatin. Study group received same dose of radiation with concurrent daily oral Gefitinib. All patients were followed up weekly during the treatment and then 6-8 weeks after completion of treatment and thereafter 3 monthly. Results: Overall response rate (complete response + partial response) was comparable for both arms (75% vs 76.2%, p value-0.881). Radiation with cisplatin was associated with significantly higher skin (28.6% vs 15%,p value-0.037) and mucosal (23.8% vs 5%,p-value-0.047) toxicities. Gefitinib containing arm showed significantly higher grade 3 diarrhoea (10% vs 0%, p-value-0.01) and skin rash (6% vs 0%, p -value-<0.001).With a median follow-up of 12.5 months Disease free survival (DFS) was not significantly different between the arms(12 vs 13 months). Conclusion: Gefitinib based CTRT is non-inferior to cisplatin based CTRT for the treatment of locally advanced head and neck carcinoma with acceptable toxicity profile.

A prospective comparative study of concurrent chemoradiation in advanced carcinoma cervix patients with weekly cisplatin vs. weekly cisplatin and paclitaxel

Background: Cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiation is the standard treatment for carcinoma cervix. However, there is a need to explore alternative chemotherapeutic agents to further improve the treatment outcome. In this study, weekly paclitaxel and cisplatin-based chemoradiation was compared with weekly cisplatin-based chemoradiation in terms of disease control and toxicity profile. Materials and Methods: Sixty-four patients with FIGO stage IB2-IIIB squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix were divided (by simple random sampling) into two groups: control arm patients who received radiotherapy (50 Gy in 25 fractions over 5 weeks) with concurrent weekly cisplatin (40 mg/m 2 ) and study arm patients received same radiation dose with weekly cisplatin (30 mg/m2 ) and paclitaxel (40 mg/m2 ). After that, all patients received brachytherapy 21 Gy/three fractions, one fraction/week. All patients were followed up weekly during treatment, then 4–6 weeks after treatment completion, and thereafter monthly for at least 6 months. Results: The overall treatment response (complete+ partial response) was numerically higher in the cisplatin- containing control arm, but not significant (93% vs. 80%, P-value = 0.406). High-grade early rectal (60% vs. 25%, P-value = 0.014) and acute gastrointestinal toxicity (66% vs. 6%, P-value <0.001) were significantly higher in the cisplatin and paclitaxel-containing arm. Hematological, renal, late rectal, and bladder toxicities were also numerically higher in the study arm, but not statistically significant. Conclusion: There was no significant benefit of weekly paclitaxel and cisplatin as an alternative to weekly cisplatin-based chemoradiation in the treatment of carcinoma cervix.

Ejercicio aeróbico versus concurrente sobre la interleucina-6 en pacientes con enfermedad arterial coronaria: Una revisión sistemática / Aerobic Versus Concurrent Exercise on Interleukin-6 in Patients with Coronary Arterial Disease: A Systematic Review

Resumen El ejercicio aeróbico (EA) ha demostrado ser beneficioso para la supervivencia del paciente con enfermedad arterial coronaria (EAC) y la disminución de la interleucina 6 (IL-6). Sin embargo, hay poco evidencia del efecto del entrenamiento concurrente (EC). Propósito: Analizar el efecto del EA versus EC sobre la IL-6 en pacientes con EAC. Metodología: Se desarrolló con base en los acuerdos PRISMA, se realizó una búsqueda de los artículos científicos mediante bases de datos electrónicas. Los términos de búsqueda (frase booleana) fueron los siguientes: ("coronary artery disease" OR ''cardiac disease'' OR "cardiovascular disease") AND (''exercise'' OR ''training'' OR "cardiac rehabilitation") AND ("IL-6" OR "Interleukin-6" OR "inflammatory markers"). Las búsquedas se realizaron entre agosto y diciembre de 2019. Resultados: Se revisaron un total de 2516 estudios, de los cuales se incluyeron 10 estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad. Se analizaron un total de 413 pacientes. Se encontró una mejoría entre un 5% y un 74% con el EA y entre un 2.3% y 58.8% con el EC. Ambas modalidades disminuye significativamente la IL-6, independientemente de la edad, sesiones de entrenamiento semanales y de la etapa inicial de los pacientes con EAC, pero aquellos estudios que utilizaron una alta intensidad o un volumen superior a 30 minutos presentaron mayores beneficios. Conclusión: Tanto el EA como el EC son beneficiosos en la disminución de la IL-6 en pacientes con EAC. Esta revisión sistemática deja la posibilidad de continuar investigando el comportamiento de la alta intensidad en la disminución de la IL-6.

Abstract Aerobic exercise (AE) has been shown to be beneficial for the survival of patients with CAD and the decrease in interleukin 6 (IL-6). However, there is little evidence of the effect of concurrent training (CT). Purpose: To analyze the effect of AE versus CT on IL-6 in patients with CAD. Methodology: It was developed based on the PRISMA agreements; scientific articles were searched through electronic databases. The search terms (Boolean phrase) were the following: ("coronary artery disease" OR '' cardiac disease '' OR "cardiovascular disease") AND ('' exercise '' OR '' training '' OR "cardiac rehabilitation") AND ("IL-6" OR "Interleukin-6" OR "inflammatory markers") NOT ("animals" OR "rat"). The searches were conducted between August and December 2019. Results: A total of 2516 studies were reviewed, of which 10 studies that met the eligibility criteria were included. A total of 413 patients were analyzed. An improvement was found between 5% and 74% with the AE and between 2.3% and 58.8% with the CT. Both modalities significantly decrease IL-6, regardless of age, weekly training sessions, and the initial stage of patients with CAD; however, those studies that used a high intensity or a volume greater than 30 minutes showed greater benefits. Conclusion: Both EA and CT are beneficial in reducing IL-6 in patients with CAD. This systematic review leaves the possibility of continuing to investigate the behavior of high intensity in the decrease of IL-6.

Resumo O exercício aeróbio (EA) demonstrou beneficiar a sobrevivência dos pacientes com doença arterial coronária (DAC) e diminuir a interleucina 6 (IL-6). No entanto, há poucas evidências do efeito do treino simultâneo (TC). Objetivo: Analisar o efeito da EA versus TC na IL-6 em pacientes com DAC. Metodologia: Com base nos acordos PRISMA, foi realizada uma pesquisa de artigos científicos utilizando bases de dados eletrônicas. Os termos de busca (frase booleana) foram os seguintes: (''doença arterial coronária'' OU ''doença cardíaca'' OU ''doença cardiovascular'') E (''exercício'' OU ''treinamento'' OU ''reabilitação cardíaca'') E (''IL-6'' OU ''Interleucina-6'' OU ''marcadores inflamatórios''). As pesquisas foram realizadas entre agosto e dezembro de 2019. Resultados: Um total de 2516 estudos foram revistos, dos quais foram incluídos 10 estudos que preenchiam os critérios de elegibilidade. Foram analisados um total de 413 pacientes. A melhoria foi encontrada entre 5% e 74% com a EA e entre 2,3% e 58,8% com o TC. Ambas as modalidades diminuíram significativamente a IL-6, independentemente da idade, das sessões semanais de treinamento e do estágio inicial dos pacientes com DAC, mas os estudos que utilizaram alta intensidade ou volume superior a 30 minutos tiveram maiores benefícios. Conclusão: Tanto a EA como a TC são benéficas para a redução da IL-6 em pacientes com DAC. Esta revisão sistemática deixa espaço para uma investigação mais aprofundada sobre o comportamento de baixa intensidade da IL-6.

Effects of different levels of exercise intensity on nutritional status and fatigue in patients with esophageal cancer during concurrent chemoradiotherapy / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To analyze applications of different level of exercise intensity in patients with esophageal cancer during concurrent chemoradiotherapy.Methods:By convenient sampling method, a total of 120 patients with esophageal cancer during concurrent chemoradiotherapy were adopted in Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Sciences from April 2019 to October 2020, they were assigned to control group, primary degree group, intermediate degree group and advanced degree group according to the random number table method, with 30 patients in each group. All patients were given routine concurrent chemoradiotherapy nursing care, based on this, the primary degree group average walk were 5 000 - 7 499 steps/d, intermediate degree group were 7 500 - 9 999 steps/d, advanced degree group were 10 000 - 12 499 steps/d, besides, the control group did not require the amount of walking. Before and three, six weeks after therapy, the intervention effect was assessed by Scored Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), BMI, serum total protein, albumin as well as the Revised Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS-R).Results:After six months of therapy, the scores of PG-SGA were (4.31 ± 1.47) and (4.15 ± 1.46) in the intermediate degree group and advanced degree group, lower than in the primary degree group and control group (5.46 ± 1.88) and (5.96 ± 1.91), the differences were statistically significant ( t values were 2.57-3.98, all P<0.05); the levels of serum total protein and albumin were (54.45 ± 10.58), (33.72 ± 7.19) and (55.19 ± 9.82), (34.00 ± 6.52) g/L in the intermediate degree group and advanced degree group, higher than in the primary degree group and control group (49.11 ± 7.71), (29.61 ± 6.21) and (48.04 ± 8.40), (30.04 ± 6.13) g/L, the differences were statistically significant ( t values were 2.19-2.88, all P<0.05). After three and six months of therapy, the scores of PFS-R were (3.41 ± 0.57), (4.62 ± 0.73) in the intermediate degree group, lower than in the primary degree group, advanced degree group and control group (4.25 ± 0.89), (5.43 ± 0.69), (4.19 ± 0.79), (6.11 ± 0.93) and (4.14 ± 0.59), (5.39 ± 0.79) ( t values were 4.01-8.63, all P<0.05). Conclusions:7 500 - 9 999 steps/d are optimal walking exercise intensity, it can effectively improve the nutritional status and reduce fatigue of patients with esophageal cancer during concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

Safety and efficacy of nimotuzumab combined with IMRT radiotherapy in the treatment of elderly patients with locally advanced cervical cancer / 中华放射医学与防护杂志

Objective:To investigate the safety and efficacy of nimotuzumab combined with IMRT radiotherapy in the treatment of elderly patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC).Methods:A retrospective analysis was conducted for 34 elderly LACC patients treated with nimotuzumab combined with IMRT radiotherapy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy in the Zhangzhou Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University from June 2020 to December 2021. The efficacy and side effects were evaluated one and two years after treatment.Results:Median follow-up time was 13.3 months (6.1-24.3 months). A total of 24 cases of complete response (CR) and eight cases of partial response (PR) were achieved after treatment, with an objective response rate (ORR) of 94.1% (32/34). The tumor diameters were (49.56 ± 19.22) mm before treatment and (19.61 ± 14.59) mm after treatment, with a tumor regression rate (TRR) of 59.22%.The 1- and 2- year progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 84.9% and 84.9%, overall survival (OS) rates 91.8% and 87.2%, respectively, disease-free survival (DFS) rates 91.8% and 87.2%, respectively, and the cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates 95.7% and 90.9%, respectively. The main adverse events included radiation enteritis, leukopenia, hypoproteinemia and anemia.Conclusions:Nimotuzumab combined with IMRT radiotherapy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy is safe and effective in the treatment of LACC.

Efficacy observation of concurrent chemoradiotherapy combined with icotinib in treatment of epidermal growth factor receptor-mutated non-small cell lung cancer / 肿瘤研究与临床

Objective:To investigate the efficacy of concurrent chemoradiotherapy combined with icotinib targeted therapy for patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods:A total of 89 EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients who were admitted to Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital from January 2017 to January 2019 were selected and divided into control group (45 cases) and observation group (44 cases) by random number table method. The control group received cisplatin combined with docetaxel concurrent chemoradiotherapy, the observation group received cisplatin combined with docetaxel concurrent chemoradiotherapy and oral icotinib targeted therapy. The blood coagulation function, immune function and levels of tumor markers were compared between the two groups.Results:There was no statistical difference in blood coagulation function, immune function and levels of tumor markers between the two groups before treatment (all P > 0.05). After treatment, the levels of fibrinogen [(13±4) g/L vs. (16±6) g/L], D-dimer [(1.0±0.8) mg/L vs. (1.4±1.0) mg/L], squamous cell carcinoma antigen [(0.97±0.23) μg/L vs. (1.11±0.21) μg/L], carbohydrate antigen 125 [(21±7) U/ml vs. (35±11) U/ml] and carcinoembryonic antigen [(2.2±0.3) ng/ml vs. (6.0±1.1) ng/ml] in the observation group were lower than those in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant ( t values were 2.84, 2.11, 3.08, 7.40 and 23.08, all P < 0.05). After treatment, the ratios of NK cells [(18±7)% vs. (15±4)%], cytotoxic T cells [(17.2±6.1)% vs. (14.7±3.6)%] and helper T cells [(31.03±0.11)% to (25.88±0.39)%] in the observation group were higher than those in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant ( t values were -2.91, -2.59 and 2.79, all P < 0.05). Conclusions:Concurrent chemoradiotherapy combined with icotinib targeted therapy can better improve the hypercoagulable state and levels of tumor markers in patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC than simple concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and can improve the immune function of patients, which has good therapeutic efficacy.

The safety and efficacy of trimodality treatment for invasive bladder cancer / 中华泌尿外科杂志

Objective:To evaluate the safety and efficacy of trimodality treatment (TMT) which is complete transurethral resection of bladder tumor with concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy for invasive bladder cancer.Methods:From Mar. 2016 to Oct.2021, patients who were indicated of radical cystectomy (RC) but refused were enrolled to TMT treatment prospectively. Inclusive criteria were: ① the patients refused radical surgery; ② male or female, no older than 80 years; ③ no matter the tumor size, the bladder tumor be completely resected by transurethral surgery, and the hydronephrosis be improved after resecting the tumor; ④ the postoperative pathology of urothelial carcinoma; ⑤ recurrent T 1 and high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) or T 2-4a muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC); ⑥ no definitive metastasis in preoperative chest, abdominal CT or MRI; ⑦ hemoglobin ≥100 g/L, white blood cell count ≥4×10 9/L, platelet count ≥100×10 9/L, and normal liver and renal function. The exclusion criteria were: ① tumor invading bladder neck or anterior or posterior urethra; ② bladder contracture or severe urethral stricture; ③ regional lymph node metastasis or distant metastasis by imaging examination; ④ no improvement of hydronephrosis after resection; ⑤ definitive contraindications of radiotherapy or chemotherapy; ⑥ uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease or other severe diseases. After cTURBT, paclitaxel (50 mg/m 2 on Day 1 of each week) combined with cisplatin(20 mg/m 2 on day 1-2 of each week)was administered with concurrent radiotherapy (2 Gy/fraction/day) for 4 weeks. If cystoscopy and/or radiographic detected no recurrence or metastasis, the patients were treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy for 2 and a half weeks (total dose of 64 Gy). The side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy during TMT were observed, the quality of life(QOL)was evaluated by FACT-P scale, and the bladder recurrence, distant metastasis and survival were assessed with imaging and cystoscopy. From March 2016 to October 2021, 79 patients with RC were enrolled, including 67 males and 12 females, aged 44-86 years. The pathology of RC was urothelial carcinoma of the bladder. There was no definitive lymph node or distant metastasis in preoperative imaging. The progress and survival after TMT and RC treatment were followed up and the survival rates were calculated by Kaplan-Meier method. Results:Of the 30 patients who underwent TMT, including 25 males and 5 females, aged 32-76 years, there were 7 cases of cT 1 (23.3%), 19 cases (63.3%) of cT 2, 2 cases of cT 3 (6.7%)and 2 cases of cT 4(6.7%), respectively. A total of 132 adverse events of all grades of chemoradiotherapy occurred, of which only 4 were grade Ⅳ, with no bowel leakage or death due to complications. The mean scores of negative questions in FACT-P were 3.22±0.67, 1.30±0.63 and 0.87±0.69 before TMT treatment, 6 and 12 months after TMT treatment, respectively. The quality of life was significantly improved( F=129.081, P<0.001), and the rate of bladder preservation was 86.7%(26/30). Two cases underwent salvage RC(6.7%)and 2 cases died of bladder recurrence(6.7%). There were 8, 4 and 2 patients survived 4, 5 and 6 years, respectively. Seven cases (23.3%) had bladder recurrence, 3 cases (10.0%) underwent distant metastasis and 6 patients (20.0%)died after TMT because of the progression. The 1, 2 and 5 year overall survival rates by TMT treatment were 88.89%, 82.96% and 62.77%, respectively. Median follow-up was 19.5(6.8-44.5) months in the TMT group and 35.5(18.8-53.3) months in the RC group ( z=-1.998, P=0.046). Progression-free survival in the TMT and RC group were 66.7% and 80.0%( χ2=1.047, P=0.306), and the overall survival rates were 80.0% and 80.0% ( χ2=0.482, P=0.488) respectively. The difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions:The TMT is a safe and effective alternative for RC, which can improve the quality of life and control the tumor sufficiently.

Bladder-sparing treatment following noninvasive down-staging after transurethral resection of bladder tumor plus systemic chemotherapy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer / 中华泌尿外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the long-term survival and safety in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) who experienced a noninvasive down-staging (≤pT 1)after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) plus systemic chemotherapy and received bladder-sparing treatment. Methods:The records of patients with MIBC who underwent maximal TURBT plus systemic chemotherapy-guided bladder-sparing treatment were reviewed retrospectively from Dec 2013 to Dec 2020. Eventually, 22 patients who achieved noninvasive down-staging underwent conservative management. The total patient cohort contained 10 males and 12 females. A majority of patients had single lesion and stage T2 disease. The median age of the patients was 66 years and the median tumor size was 3.0 cm. All patients underwent maximal TURBT to resect all visible diseases and followed by 3-4 cycles platinum-based systemic chemotherapy. After achieving noninvasive down-staging, 14 patients received concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and the other 8 patients underwent surveillance. Overactive bladder symptom score (OABSS) was used to assess the bladder function after treatment.Results:Twelve patients achieved pT 0 and 10 patients were down-staged to cT a-T 1. At a median follow-up of 36.7 months, 90.9%(20/22) patients retained their bladder function successfully. Among the 14 patients who received concurrent chemoradiotherapy, 4 had grade 3 or 4 adverse events. Among the 8 patients who underwent surveillance, 3 had grade 3 or 4 adverse events after systemic chemotherapy.Nine patients experienced tumor recurrence in the bladder, and 2 patients died of bladder cancer. Seven (31.8%) patients experienced Ⅲ/Ⅳ grade complications. The 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients achieved pT0 were 66.7% and 100.0%, respectively. The 5-year RFS and OS in patients achieved cTa-T1 were 40% and 72%, respectively. The OABSS score of 20 patients who retained their bladder successfully was (1.00±1.03). Conclusions:MIBC patients who achieved noninvasive down-staging might be candidates for the bladder-sparing treatment with maximum TURBT followed by systemic chemotherapy.The patients who achieved pT 0 might have better prognosis with functional bladder.