Autoimmune pancreatitis:Cornerstones and future perspectives

Autoimmune pancreatitis(AIP)is an autoimmune subtype of chronic pancreatitis resulting from the aberrant immune response against the pancreas,leading to inflammation and fibrosis.Although AIP is rare,its incidence is increasing and is often misdiagnosed as other pancreatic diseases.AIP is commonly classified into two types.Type 1 AIP(AIP-1)is typically associated with elevated serum immunoglobulin G4(IgG4)levels and systemic manifestations,while type 2 AIP is typically a more localized form of the disease,and may coexist with other autoimmune disorders,especially inflammatory bowel diseases.Additionally,there is emerging recognition of a third type(type 3 AIP),which refers to immunotherapy-triggered AIP,although this classification is still gaining acceptance in medical literature.The clinical manifestations of AIP mainly include painless jaundice and weight loss.Elevated serum IgG4 levels are particularly characteristic of AIP-1.Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical,laboratory,radiological,and histological findings,given the similarity of AIP symptoms to other pancreatic disorders.The mainstay of treatment for AIP is steroid therapy,which is effective in most cases.Severe cases might require additional imm-unosuppressive agents.This review aims to summarize the current knowledge of AIP,encompassing its epidemiology,etiology,clinical presentation,diagnosis,and treatment options.We also address the challenges and controversies in diagnosing and treating AIP,such as distinguishing it from pancreatic cancer and managing long-term treatment,highlighting the need for increased awareness and knowledge of this complex disease.

Fat management in upper blepharoplasty:Addition or subtraction blepharoplasties,how and when

BACKGROUND As one of the most common aesthetic surgical procedures carried out today,blepharoplasty should be in the repertoire of every plastic surgeon.The term blepharoplasty encompasses a wide range of techniques and options that must be tailored to the specific defect and patient one has to treat.A sound knowledge of the upper and lower eyelids’anatomy is essential for proper surgical execution.Trends have shifted towards more conservative methods(especially of the fat compartment)and sometimes in combination with augmentation techniques,helping to reach a rejuvenated appearance.AIM To present an overview of the surgical techniques considered for upper lid blepharoplasty and fat pad management,in addition to information on how a surgeon may approach the best treatment for his patient based on current publications in literature.METHODS We searched the literature published between 2013,to 2023 using Medline and Reference Citation Analysis.The database was searched using the keywords“upper blepharoplasty”AND“fat”.Papers without full text/abstracts and reviews were excluded.The search strategy followed the PRISMA.The American Society of Plastic Surgeons guidelines for Therapeutic Studies checklist was used to assess all articles.Two authors individually reviewed each article and rated them for importance and relevance to the topic.A consensus was sought and the most relevant studies.RESULTS After the application of the selection criteria used in our review,13 publications were found to address upper lid blepharoplasty specifically.Three of these studies were reviews and three were retrospective studies.Five publications were comparative studies and a further two were clinical trials.CONCLUSION The tendency of modern surgery is to be conservative,by removing adipose tissue only if strictly necessary and restoring the volume of the upper eyelid in a concept of beauty that espouses a"full"sight.There is no gold standard technique to achieve younger and enhanced eyelids.Long-term prospective comparative studies are fundamental in understanding which path is the best to follow.

Fat or fillers:The dilemma in eyelid surgery

The aging of the periocular region has always aroused great interest.A fresh,young,and attractive sight determined an ever-greater attention to surgical and non-surgical techniques to obtain this result.In particular,the change in the concept of a young look,considered then“full”,led to the increasing use of surgical(fat grafting)or medical(hyaluronic acid)filling techniques.Eyelid rejuvenation became increasingly popular in the field of cosmetic treatments,with a focus on achieving a youthful and refreshed appearance.Among the various techniques available,the choice between using fat grafting or fillers presented a clinical dilemma.In particular,what surgery considered of fundamental importance was a long-lasting result over time.On the other hand,aesthetic medicine considered it fundamental not to have to resort to invasive treatments.But what was the reality?Was there one path better than the other,and above all,was there a better path for patients?The minireview aims to explore the physiopathology,diagnosis,treatment options,prognosis,and future studies regarding this dilemma.We analyzed the literature produced in the last 20 years comparing the two techniques.Current literature reveals advancements in biomaterials,stem cell research and tissue engineering held promise for further enhancing the field of eyelid rejuvenation.The choice between fat grafting and fillers in eyelid cosmetic treatments presented a clinical dilemma.Understanding physiopathology,accurately diagnosing eyelid aging,exploring treatment options,assessing prognosis,and conducting future studies were essential for providing optimal care to patients seeking eyelid rejuvenation.

Advancements in Barrett's esophagus detection:The role of artificial intelligence and its implications

Artificial intelligence(AI)is making significant strides in revolutionizing the detection of Barrett's esophagus(BE),a precursor to esophageal adenocarcinoma.In the research article by Tsai et al,researchers utilized endoscopic images to train an AI model,challenging the traditional distinction between endoscopic and histological BE.This approach yielded remarkable results,with the AI system achieving an accuracy of 94.37%,sensitivity of 94.29%,and specificity of 94.44%.The study's extensive dataset enhances the AI model's practicality,offering valuable support to endoscopists by minimizing unnecessary biopsies.However,questions about the applicability to different endoscopic systems remain.The study underscores the potential of AI in BE detection while highlighting the need for further research to assess its adaptability to diverse clinical settings.

Dexamethasone and N-acetylcysteine before transarterial chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma:A Western perspective

Post-embolization syndrome(PES)is the most common complication in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with transarterial chemoembolization.Many strategies have been evaluated to reduce the incidence of PES,but no standard prevention guidelines currently exist.In a single-center,placebo-controlled trial,Simasingha et al evaluated the prophylactic administration of a combination of dexamethasone and N-acetylcysteine and documented a significant reduction in the incidence of PES(from 80%to 6%),of post-procedural liver decompensation(from 14%to 0%),and a shorter hospital stay(4 days vs 6 days),alongside an acceptable safety profile.The results of this study raise several controversial points regarding their applicability in the Western world.In the West,there is a greater and increasing prevalence of metabolic and alcoholic etiologies of liver cirrhosis,so a not negligible number of patients with type II diabetes or hypertension would be excluded from high-dosage dexamethasone prophylaxis.Furthermore,in the West,there is a preferred use of drug-eluting beads loaded with doxorubicin,which are associated with a lower incidence of PES.A study on prophylaxis with dexamethasone and/or N-acetylcysteine in a Western population is hopefully awaited.

Influence of sarcopenia and frailty in the management of elderly patients with acute appendicitis

In developed countries,the average life expectancy has been increasing and is now well over 80 years.Increased life expectancy is associated with an increased number of emergency surgical procedures performed in later age groups.Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical diseases,with a lifetime risk of 8%.A growing incidence of acute appendicitis has been registered in the elderly population and in the oldest groups(>80 years).Among patients>50-year-old who present to the emergency department for acute abdominal pain,15%have acute appendicitis.In these patients,emergency surgery for acute appendicitis is challenging,and some important aspects must be considered.In the elderly,surgical treatment outcomes are influenced by sarcopenia.Sarcopenia must be considered a precursor of frailty,a risk factor for physical function decline.Sarcopenia has a negative impact on both elective and emergency surgery regarding mortality and morbidity.Aside from morbidity and mortality,the most crucial outcomes for older patients requiring emergency surgery are reduction in function decline and preoperative physical function maintenance.Therefore,prediction of function decline is critical.In emergency surgery,preoperative interventions are difficult to implement because of the narrow time window before surgery.In this editorial,we highlight the unique aspects of acute appendicitis in elderly patients and the influence of sarcopenia and frailty on the results of surgical treatment.

Advancing perioperative optimization in Crohn's disease surgery with machine learning predictions

This editorial offers commentary on the article which aimed to forecast the likelihood of short-term major postoperative complications(Clavien-Dindo grade≥III),including anastomotic fistula,intra-abdominal sepsis,bleeding,and intestinal obstruction within 30 days,as well as prolonged hospital stays follow-ing ileocecal resection in patients with Crohn’s disease(CD).This prediction re-lied on a machine learning(ML)model trained on a cohort that integrated a no-mogram predictive model derived from logistic regression analysis and a random forest(RF)model.Both the nomogram and RF showed good performance,with the RF model demonstrating superior predictive ability.Key variables identified as potentially critical include a preoperative CD activity index≥220,low preope-rative serum albumin levels,and prolonged operation duration.Applying ML ap-proaches to predict surgical recurrence have the potential to enhance patient risk stratification and facilitate the development of preoperative optimization strate-gies,ultimately aiming to improve post-surgical outcomes.However,there is still room for improvement,particularly by the inclusion of additional relevant clinical parameters,consideration of medical therapies,and potentially integrating mole-cular biomarkers in future research efforts.

“OMINO”: A Modern Approach to Postural Standing Reeducation through Breathing Techniques

Postural problems are very common, which is why plenty of Techniques have been created to solve them: Mezieres Technique (including muscle chains), RPG (Global Postural Re-Education, including pelvic diaphragm), Pilates Method (including core muscles), Bobath Concept (including COG, center of gravity) and Yoga. In this work, I show a new way of treating and solving postural problems. I am basing this physiotherapy approach on a new Image I created. Every patient can use it for every correction and change in posture. I called the new Image: “OMINO (little man)”. “Postural Card” could be a good work to make “OMINO” possible. “OMINO” is immediately understandable and, using “OMINO POCKET INSTRUCTIONS”, it can be easily done. Contribution of paper: • Trunk is a vital element for any kind of rehabilitation;• “Core stability” is the key to activating the trunk. • Doing “OMINO” means working on “core stability”;• “OMINO” makes rehabilitation simple for the patient.

Advancing prognostic understanding in hepatocellular carcinoma through the integration of genomic instability and lncRNA signatures: GILncSig model

The recently published study by Duan et al introduces a promising method that combines genomic instability and long non-coding RNAs to improve the prognostic evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC),a deadly cancer associated with considerable morbidity and mortality.This editorial aims to analyze the methodology,key findings,and broader implications of the study within the fields of gastroenterology and oncological surgery,highlighting the shift towards precision medicine in the management of HCC.

Prevalence of Occupational Injury and Knowledge of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Accessibility among Healthcare Workers in Mogadishu, Somalia

Introduction: Healthcare workers in Mogadishu, Somalia face significant occupational injury risks, particularly needle stick injuries, with 61.1% reporting incidents. This poses a serious threat to their health, leading to infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Despite the high prevalence of injuries, awareness of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) accessibility is relatively high, with 84.0% of respondents aware of it. However, there are gaps in knowledge and implementation, as evidenced by variations in availability of PEP. Improving workplace safety measures, providing comprehensive training on injury prevention and PEP protocols, and ensuring consistent availability of PEP in healthcare facilities are crucial steps to safeguard the well-being of healthcare workers in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among hospital workers in Mogadishu, Somalia, focusing on professionals from various healthcare facilities. The study targeted nurses, doctors, laboratory personnel, and pharmacists. Purposive sampling was employed, resulting in a sample size of 383 calculated using Fisher’s sample size formula. Data were collected using coded questionnaires entered into Microsoft Excel 2019 and analyzed with SPSS software to generate frequencies and proportions, presented through frequency tables and pie figures. Results: The study in Mogadishu, Somalia, examined the prevalence of occupational injuries and knowledge of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) accessibility among healthcare workers. Findings indicate a high prevalence of injuries, with 61.1% reporting incidents, predominantly needle stick injuries (60.6%). Despite the majority seeking prompt medical attention (72.0%), work-related illnesses affected 53.2% of respondents, notably work-related stress (59.5%). While most received training on injury and illness prevention (68.9%), gaps exist in PEP awareness, with 16.0% unaware of it. Nonetheless, 84.0% were aware, predominantly through health facilities (52.0%). Availability of PEP was reported by 71.3% in healthcare facilities, with variations in shift availability. The majority reported guidelines for PEP use (55.7%). Efforts are needed to bolster PEP awareness and ensure consistent availability in healthcare facilities to safeguard worker health. Conclusion: High prevalence of occupational injuries among healthcare workers, with needle stick injuries being the most common (60.6%). Despite this, 84.0% of respondents were aware of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), primarily learning about it from health facilities (52.0%). While 71.3% reported the availability of PEP in their facility, 28.7% noted its unavailability. These results emphasize the need for improved education and accessibility of PEP to mitigate occupational injury risks.

Frequency of and reasons behind non-listing in adult patients referred for liver transplantation: Results from a retrospective study

BACKGROUND Few studies have evaluated the frequency of and the reasons behind the refusal of listing liver transplantation candidates.AIM To assess the ineligibility rate for liver transplantation and its motivations.METHODS A single-center retrospective study was conducted on adult patients which entailed a formal multidisciplinary assessment for liver transplantation eligibility.The predictors for listing were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.RESULTS In our center,314 patients underwent multidisciplinary work-up before liver transplantation enlisting over a three-year period.The most frequent reasons for transplant evaluation were decompensated cirrhosis(51.6%)and hepatocellular carcinoma(35.7%).The non-listing rate was 53.8%and the transplant rate was 34.4%for the whole cohort.Two hundred and five motivations for ineligibility were collected.The most common contraindications were psychological(9.3%),cardiovascular(6.8%),and surgical(5.9%).Inappropriate or premature referral accounted for 76(37.1%)cases.On multivariable analysis,a referral from another hospital(OR:2.113;95%CI:1.259–3.548)served as an independent predictor of non-listing.CONCLUSION A non-listing decision occurred in half of our cohort and was based on an inappropriate or premature referral in one case out of three.The referral from another hospital was taken as a strong predictor of non-listing.

Challenges and advancing strategies of endoscopic submucosal dissection for early gastric cancer:The puzzle of eCura C1

In this editorial,we explore the challenges of managing noncurative resections in early gastric cancer after endoscopic submucosal dissection(ESD),starting from the consideration recently made by Zhu et al.Specifically,we evaluate the management of eCura C1 lesions,where decisions regarding further interventions are pivotal yet contentious.Collaboration among endoscopists,surgeons,and pathologists is underscored to refine risk assessment and personalize therapeutic management.Recent advancements in ESD techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration offer opportunities for outcome optimization in managing eCura C1 lesions.Moreover,despite needing further clinical validation,molecular biomarkers have emerged as promising tools for enhancing prognostication.This manuscript highlights the ongoing research attempts to define treatment paradigms effectively and evaluates the potential of emerging options,ultimately aiming to improve patient care and outcomes in this complex clinical scenario.

Whole-eye transplantation: Current challenges and future perspectives

Whole-eye transplantation emerges as a frontier in ophthalmology,promising a transformative approach to irreversible blindness.Despite advancements,formidable challenges persist.Preservation of donor eye viability post-enucleation necessitates meticulous surgical techniques to optimize retinal integrity and ganglion cell survival.Overcoming the inhibitory milieu of the central nervous system for successful optic nerve regeneration remains elusive,prompting the exploration of neurotrophic support and immunomodulatory interventions.Immunological tolerance,paramount for graft acceptance,confronts the distinc-tive immunogenicity of ocular tissues,driving research into targeted immunosup-pression strategies.Ethical and legal considerations underscore the necessity for stringent standards and ethical frameworks.Interdisciplinary collaboration and ongoing research endeavors are imperative to navigate these complexities.Biomaterials,stem cell therapies,and precision immunomodulation represent promising avenues in this pursuit.Ultimately,the aim of this review is to critically assess the current landscape of whole-eye transplantation,elucidating the challenges and advancements while delineating future directions for research and clinical practice.Through concerted efforts,whole-eye transplantation stands to revolu-tionize ophthalmic care,offering hope for restored vision and enhanced quality of life for those afflicted with blindness.

Bariatric surgery and long-term nutritional issues

Bariatric surgery is recognized as a highly effective therapy for obesity since it accomplishes sustained weight loss, reduction of obesity-related comorbidities and mortality, and improvement of quality of life. Overall, bariatric surgery is associated with a 42% reduction of the cardiovascular risk and 30% reduction of all-cause mortality. This review focuses on some nutritional consequences that can occur in bariatric patients that could potentially hinder the clinical benefits of this therapeutic option. All bariatric procedures, to variable degrees, alter the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract; this alteration makes these patients more susceptible to developing nutritional complications, namely, deficiencies of macro-and micro-nutrients, which could lead to disabling diseases such as anemia, osteoporosis, protein malnutrition. Of note is the evidence that most obese patients present a number of nutritional deficits already prior to surgery, the most important being vitamin D and iron deficiencies. This finding prompts the need for a complete nutritional assessment and, eventually, an adequate correction of pre-existing deficits before surgery. Another critical issue that follows bariatric surgery is post-operative weight regain, which is commonly associated with the relapse of obesity-related comorbidities. Nu-tritional complications associated with bariatric surgery can be prevented by life-long nutritional monitoring with the administration of multivitamins and mineral supplements according to the patient's needs.

Rethinking the Barcelona clinic liver cancer guidelines:Intermediate stage and Child-Pugh B patients are suitable for surgery?

According to Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer recommendations,intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinomas(stage B)are excluded from liver resection and are referred to palliative treatment.Moreover,Child-Pugh B patients are not usually candidates for liver resection.However,many hepatobiliary centers in the world manage patients with intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma or Child-Pugh B cirrhosis with liver resection,maintaining that hepatic resection is not contraindicated in selected patients with non–early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma and without normal liver function.Several studies demonstrate that resection provides the best survival benefit for selected patients in very early/early and even in intermediate stages of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer classification,and this treatment gives good results in the setting of multinodular,large tumors in patients with portal hypertension and/or Child-Pugh B cirrhosis.In this review we explore this controversial topic,and we show through the literature analysis how liver resection may improve the short-and long-term survival rate of carefully selected Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B and Child-Pugh B hepatocellular carcinoma patients.However,other large clinical studies are needed to clarify which patients with intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma are most likely to benefit from liver resection.

Cytokines,synaptic plasticity and network dynamics:a matter of balance

The modern view of the immune system as a sensitizing and modulating machinery of the central nervous system is now well recognized.However,the specific mechanisms underlying this fine crosstalk have yet to be fully disentangled.To control cognitive function and behavior,the two systems are engaged in a subtle interacting act.In this scenario,a dual action of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the modulation of brain network connections is emerging.Pro-inflammatory cytokines are indeed required to express physiological plasticity in the hippocampal network while being detrimental when over-expressed during uncontrolled inflammatory processes.In this dynamic equilibrium,synaptic functioning and the performance of neural networks are ensured by maintaining an appropriate balance between pro-and anti-inflammatory molecules in the central nervous system microenvironment.

Autoimmune liver diseases and SARS-CoV-2

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2),causing coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19),can trigger autoimmunity in genetically predisposed individuals through hyperstimulation of immune response and molecular mimicry.Here we summarise the current knowledge about autoimmune liver diseases(AILDs)and SARS-CoV-2,focusing on:(1)The risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and the course of COVID-19 in patients affected by AILDs;(2)the role of SARS-CoV-2 in inducing liver damage and triggering AILDs;and(3)the ability of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 to induce autoimmune responses in the liver.Data derived from the literature suggest that patients with AILDs do not carry an increased risk of SARS-Cov-2 infection but may develop a more severe course of COVID-19 if on treatment with steroids or thiopurine.Although SARSCoV-2 infection can lead to the development of several autoimmune diseases,few reports correlate it to the appearance of de novo manifestation of immunemediated liver diseases such as autoimmune hepatitis(AIH),primary biliary cholangitis(PBC)or AIH/PBC overlap syndrome.Different case series of an AIHlike syndrome with a good prognosis after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination have been described.Although the causal link between SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and AIH cannot be definitively established,these reports suggest that this association could be more than coincidental.

Paradoxical association between dyspepsia and autoimmune chronic atrophic gastritis:Insights into mechanisms,pathophysiology,and treatment options

BACKGROUND Autoimmune gastritis(AIG)is a progressive,chronic,immune-mediated inflammatory disease characterized by the destruction of gastric parietal cells leading to hypo/anacidity and loss of intrinsic factor.Gastrointestinal symptoms such as dyspepsia and early satiety are very common,being second in terms of frequency only to anemia,which is the most typical feature of AIG.AIM To address both well-established and more innovative information and knowledge about this challenging disorder.METHODS An extensive bibliographical search was performed in PubMed to identify guidelines and primary literature(retrospective and prospective studies,systematic reviews,case series)published in the last 10 years.RESULTS A total of 125 records were reviewed and 80 were defined as fulfilling the criteria.CONCLUSION AIG can cause a range of clinical manifestations,including dyspepsia.The pathophysiology of dyspepsia in AIG is complex and involves changes in acid secretion,gastric motility,hormone signaling,and gut microbiota,among other factors.Managing dyspeptic symptoms of AIG is challenging and there are no specific therapies targeting dyspepsia in AIG.While proton pump inhibitors are commonly used to treat dyspepsia and gastroesophageal reflux disease,they may not be appropriate for AIG.Prokinetic agents,antidepressant drugs,and non-pharmacological treatments may be of help,even if not adequately evidence-based supported.A multidisciplinary approach for the management of dyspepsia in AIG is recommended,and further research is needed to develop and validate more effective therapies for dyspepsia.

Atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease:An integrative review focusing on therapeutic implications of this relationship

The incidence of both atrial fibrillation(AF)and coronary artery disease(CAD)increases with advancing age.They share common risk factors and very often coexist.Evidence points to an intricate relationship between atrial tissue excitability and neuronal remodeling with ischemia at the microcirculatory level.In this review,we delineated this complex relationship,identified a common theme between the two,and discussed how the knowledge of this relationship translates into a positive and meaningful impact in patient management.Recent research indicates a high prevalence of CAD among AF patients undergoing coronary angiography.Further,the incidence of AF is much higher in those suffering from CAD compared to age-matched adults without CAD underlying this reciprocal relationship.CAD adversely affects AF by promoting progression via re-entry and increasing excitability of atrial tissue as a result of ischemia and electrical inhomogeneity.AF in turn accelerates atherosclerosis via endothelial dysfunctional and inflammation and together with enhanced thrombogenicity and hypercoagulability contribute to micro and macrothrombi throughout cardiovascular system.In a nutshell,the two form a vicious cycle wherein one disease promotes the other.Most AF recommendations focuses on rate/rhythm control and prevention of thromboembolism.Very few studies have discussed the importance of unmasking coexistent CAD and how the treatment of underlying ischemia will impact the burden of AF in these patients.Inflammation and endothelial dysfunction remain central to both disease processes and form a handsome therapeutic target in the management of the two diseases.The relationship between AF and CAD is complex and much more than mere coincidence.The two diseases share common risk factor and pathophysiology.Hence,it is impractical to treat them in isolation.Accordingly,we share the implications of managing underlying ischemia and inflammation to positively impact and improve quality of life among AF patients.

Designs andmethodologies to recreate in vitro human gutmicrobiota models

The human gut microbiota is widely considered to be a metabolic organ hidden within our bodies,playing a crucial role in the host’s physiology.Several factors affect its composition,so a wide variety of microbes residing in the gut are present in the world population.Individual excessive imbalances in microbial composition are often associated with human disorders and pathologies,and new investigative strategies to gain insight into these pathologies and define pharmaceutical therapies for their treatment are needed.In vitro models of the human gut microbiota are commonly used to study microbial fermentation patterns,community composition,and host-microbe interactions.Bioreactors and microfluidic devices have been designed to culture microorganisms from the human gut microbiota in a dynamic environment in the presence or absence of eukaryotic cells to interact with.In this review,we will describe the overall elements required to create a functioning,reproducible,and accurate in vitro culture of the human gut microbiota.In addition,we will analyze some of the devices currently used to study fermentation processes and relationships between the human gut microbiota and host eukaryotic cells.