RESUMEN
In healthy hosts, trillions of microbes colonise the gut and oral cavity in a well-balanced state, maintaining a mutually beneficial relationship. Loss of this balance, termed dysbiosis, is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the roles of microbiota and dysbiosis in CRC treatment remain poorly understood. Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiota has the ability to affect the host response to chemotherapeutic agents by enhancing drug efficacy, promoting chemoresistance and mediating chemotherapy-induced toxicity and side effects via a variety of mechanisms. Several other studies have also proposed manipulation of the microbiota to optimise CRC treatment. In this review, we summarise the current advancement of knowledge on how microbiota and CRC treatments interact with each other and how this interaction may shed some light on the development of personalised microbiota manipulations that improve CRC treatment outcomes.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Ventricular assist devices (VADs) have provided a temporising solution to many individuals with refractory heart failure (HF) while awaiting a suitable donor for heart transplantation which remains the gold standard in treatment. Many of the discussions around VADs involve ongoing morbidity; however, one aspect of VADs that is often overlooked is the utility of their log files. We decided to review the literature for mentions of the clinical utility of VAD log files. METHODS: A keyword search was utilised on PUBMED using the terms 'Ventricular Assist Device' and 'Log files'. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this search only yielded 4 results with further articles being discovered through the bibliography of these publications. RESULTS: The 4 identified articles provided basic information on log files, particularly with reference to the HVAD. Logs can be categorised into three types-data (pump parameters), events (changes in parameters) and alarms (abnormal function). Using a combination of these logs, we can readily identify abnormal pump operation such as the development and progression of pump thrombosis, suction events and gastrointestinal bleeding. However, the research potential of log files was not discussed in these publications, particularly as it pertains to areas such as studying speed modulation and pulsatility in VADs. CONCLUSIONS: VADs are an important staple in the treatment of patients with refractory HF. Log files provide a treasure-trove of information and knowledge that can be utilised for clinical benefit. Furthermore, log files provide an excellent tool for conducting research into device functionality. Current literature on the clinical utility of log files is sparse with much untapped potential.
