Journal of the American College of Surgeons
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In an earlier study, we reported the successful reduction in the use of damage control laparotomy (DCL); however, no change in the relative frequencies of specific indications was observed. In this study, we aimed to use machine learning to help identify the changes in surgical decision making that occurred. ⋯ A machine learning analysis provided novel insights into the changes in decision making achieved by a successful QI intervention and should be considered an adjunct to understanding successful pre- and post-intervention QI studies. The analysis suggested a shift toward using mostly intraoperative factors to determine the use of DCL.
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Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) is a relatively new and demanding technique for rectal cancer treatment. Results from national datasets are absent and comparative data with laparoscopic TME (lapTME) are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the initial TaTME experience in the Netherlands, by comparing outcomes with conventional lapTME. ⋯ This first nationwide study shows early experience with adoption of TaTME in the Netherlands. Considering that current data represent initial TaTME experience, acceptable short-term outcomes were demonstrated when compared with the well-established lapTME.
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A single-dose (150 mg/kg) of valproic acid (VPA) has been shown to decrease brain lesion size and improve neurologic recovery in preclinical models of traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the longer-term (30 days) impact of single-dose VPA treatment after TBI has not been well evaluated. ⋯ Administration of a single dose of VPA (150 mg/kg) can decrease neural apoptosis, inflammation, and degenerative changes, and promote neural plasticity at 30 days after TBI. In addition, VPA acts, in part, via regulation of nuclear factor-κB and IκBα pathways.