Journal of thoracic disease
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Lung cancer is a disease with a dismal prognosis and is the biggest cause of cancer deaths in many countries. Nonetheless, rapid technological developments in genome science promise more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Since the Human Genome Project, scientific advances have revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of human cancers, including thoracic cancers. ⋯ In addition, ongoing optimization of bioinformatics strategies for data analysis and interpretation are critical, especially for the differentiation between driver and passenger mutations. Moreover, broader deployment of these and future generations of platforms, coupled with an increasing bioinformatics workforce with access to highly sophisticated technologies, could see many of these discoveries translated to the clinic at a rapid pace. We look forward to these advances making a difference for the many patients we treat in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world.
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The last decade has seen significant advances in our understanding of lung cancer biology and management. Identification of key driver events in lung carcinogenesis has contributed to the development of targeted lung cancer therapies, heralding the era of personalised medicine for lung cancer. ⋯ This has triggered the review and development of the first structured classification of lung cancer in small biopsy/cytology specimens and a new classification of lung adenocarcinoma from the IASLC/ATS/ERS. These have enhanced the clinical relevance of pathological diagnosis, and emphasise the role of the modern surgical pathologist as an integral member of the multidisciplinary team, playing a crucial role in clinical trials and determining appropriate and timely management for patients with lung cancer.
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Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening infection, and has poor prognosis in aged patients. The objective of this study was to compare the potential of admission N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (proBNP) levels and scoring models [CURB-65, Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI), and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores] to predict outcomes for aged patients with CAP admitted to Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and to explore the prognostic factors. ⋯ PSI scores was the best indicator in predicting different clinical outcomes of aged patients with CAP among the proBNP and three scoring systems. Systolic blood pressure might be as a protective factor for prognosis while PSI and APACHE II scores as risk factors for prognosis of aged patients with CAP.