The influence of AKT isoforms on radiation sensitivity and DNA repair in colon cancer cell lines.

In response to ionizing radiation, several signaling cascades in the cell are activated to repair the DNA breaks, prevent apoptosis, and keep the cells proliferating. AKT is important for survival and proliferation and may also be an activating factor for DNA-PKcs and MRE11, which are essential proteins in the DNA repair process. AKT (PKB) is hyperactivated in several cancers and is associated with resistance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in electrocautery smoke during peritonectomy procedures.

Objective: This study identified and quantified polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in electrocautery smoke during 40 peritonectomy procedures and investigated any correlations and/or differences between levels of PAHs and perioperative variables.

Methods: PAHs were measured in personal and stationary sampling by 40 mm Millipore cassettes, for adsorption of both gaseous and particle-bound PAHs. Results.

Peritonectomy with high voltage electrocautery generates higher levels of ultrafine smoke particles.

Background: To adequately perform peritonectomy, the use of an electrocautery device at a high voltage is recommended. The aim of this study was to analyse the amount of airborne and ultrafine particles (UFP) generated during peritonectomy and to compare this with standard colon and rectal cancer surgery (CRC).

Method: UFP was measured approximately 2-3 cm from the breathing area of the surgeon (personal sampling) and 3 m from where the electrocautery smoke was generated (stationary sampling) from 14 consecutive peritonectomy procedures and 11 standard CRC resections.