Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
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Aminoglycoside- and cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, which is a significant issue owing to the widespread use of these drugs in clinical practice, involves the entry of aminoglycosides and cisplatin into the endolymph and hair cells via specific channels or transporters, followed by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and hair cells apoptosis. Current strategies focalize primarily on interference with downstream ROS effects; however, recent evidence has demonstrated that inhibiting the uptake of aminoglycosides and cisplatin by hair cells is another promising strategy for tackling the upstream drug uptake pathway. With advances in structural biology, the conformations of certain aminoglycoside and cisplatin channels and transporters, such as the mechanoelectrical transduction channel and organic cation transporter-2, have been largely elucidated. ⋯ This review focuses on the strategies for inhibiting ototoxic drugs uptake by auditory hair cells and provides potential targets for recent developments in the field of otoprotection. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of these proteins could help identify the molecules that inhibit the uptake of aminoglycosides and cisplatin by hair cells. Integrating upstream drug uptake pathway targets and MD simulations may help dissect molecular mechanisms and develop novel otoprotective strategies for aminoglycoside- and cisplatin-induced ototoxicity.
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To determine the feasibility and safety of ultrasound-guided totally implantable venous access port (TIVAP) implantation via the posterior approach of the internal jugular vein (IJV). ⋯ Ultrasound-guided TIVAP implantation via the posterior approach of the IJV is feasible, safe, and effective, with a low rate of intraoperative and postoperative complications. Not only was the curvature of the catheter device smooth, but patients were satisfied with the comfort and cosmetic appearance. Additionally, we could reduce the possible complications of pinching and kinking of the catheter by using this approach. Therefore, further large-sample, prospective, and randomized controlled trials are warranted.
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Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in developed countries. With recent advances in equipment and knowledge, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is widely accepted for the treatment of endometrial cancer. This study had the largest number of cases to date in Taiwan, comparing outcomes between MIS and laparotomy staging surgery using real-world data with long-term follow-up. ⋯ Using real-world data with long-term follow-up, we could confirm excellent PFS and OS in selective patients with clinical stage 1 endometrial carcinoma who received MIS, and the surgical time, hospital day, and blood loss were also less.
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Substance abuse is a considerable medical issue worldwide, yet current surveillance systems in Taiwan offer limited insights into the clinical characteristics and outcomes of substance abuse patients. This study aimed to delineate the epidemiology of emergency department visits related to substance abuse at a hospital in Taiwan and to identify factors predictive of severe complications or mortality. ⋯ In Taiwan, benzodiazepines emerged as the most prevalent substance of abuse among emergency department visitors, and a significant proportion of these patients experienced severe outcomes. Continuous monitoring of severe outcome predictors is essential for enhanced understanding and management.
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The cryoablation efficacy of semisolid freezing nitrogen ethanol composite (FNEC) has been demonstrated. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of adjuvant FNEC-assisted cryoablation in different bone cavity types by assessing the perioperative complication rates. ⋯ All bone cavity types had a low incidence of perioperative complications after treatment with adjuvant FNEC-assisted cryoablation. Semisolid FNEC-assisted cryoablation is a feasible alternative to overcome the liquid spill potential in bone cavities resulting from tumor resection and intralesional curettage.