The use of Artificial intelligence(AI)has evolved from its mid-20th century origins to playing a pivotal tool in modern medicine.It leverages digital data and computational hardware for diverse applications,including ...The use of Artificial intelligence(AI)has evolved from its mid-20th century origins to playing a pivotal tool in modern medicine.It leverages digital data and computational hardware for diverse applications,including diagnosis,prognosis,and treatment responses in gastrointestinal and hepatic conditions.AI has had an impact in diagnostic techniques,particularly endoscopy,ultrasound,and histopathology.AI encompasses machine learning,natural language processing,and robotics,with machine learning being central.This involves sophisticated algorithms capable of managing complex datasets,far surpassing traditional statistical methods.These algorithms,both supervised and unsupervised,are integral for interpreting large datasets.In liver diseases,AI's non-invasive diagnostic applications,particularly in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,and its role in characterizing hepatic lesions is promising.AI aids in distinguishing between normal and cirrhotic livers and improves the accuracy of lesion characterization and prognostication of hepatocellular carcinoma.AI enhances lesion identification during endoscopy,showing potential in the diagnosis and management of early-stage esophageal carcinoma.In peptic ulcer disease,AI technologies influence patient management strategies.AI is useful in colonoscopy,particularly in detecting smaller colonic polyps.However,its applicability in nonacademic settings requires further validation.Addressing these issues is vital for harnessing the potential of AI.In conclusion,while AI offers transformative possibilities in gastroenterology,careful integration and balancing of technical possibilities with ethical and practical application,is essential for optimal use.展开更多
BACKGROUND The TGF-β/SMAD3 and VEGFR-1 signaling pathways play important roles in gastric cancer metastasis.SMAD3 phosphorylation is a crucial prognostic marker in gastric cancer.AIM To determine the prognostic value...BACKGROUND The TGF-β/SMAD3 and VEGFR-1 signaling pathways play important roles in gastric cancer metastasis.SMAD3 phosphorylation is a crucial prognostic marker in gastric cancer.AIM To determine the prognostic value and relationship of SMAD3 phospho-isoforms and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer.METHODS This was a single-center observational study which enrolled 98 gastric cancer patients and 82 adjacent normal gastric tissues from patients aged 32-84 years(median age 65)between July 2006 and April 2007.Patients were followed up until death or the study ended(median follow-up duration of 28.5 mo).The samples were used to generate tissue microarrays(TMAs)for immunohistochemical(IHC)staining.The expressions of TGF-β1,pSMAD3C(S423/425),pSMAD3L(S204),and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer(GC)tumor tissue and normal tissue were measured by IHC staining using TMAs obtained from 98 GC patients.Prognosis and survival information of the patients was recorded by Outdo Biotech from May 2007 to July 2015.The relationship between TGF-β1,pSMAD3C(S423/425),pSMAD3L(S204),and VEGFR-1 protein expression levels was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient.The relationship between protein expression levels and clinicopathological parameters was analyzed using the Chi-squared test.A survival curve was generated using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.RESULTS TGFβ-1 and VEGFR-1 expression was significantly upregulated in gastric cancer tissue compared to adjacent noncancerous tissue.The positive expression of phosphorylated isoforms of Smad3 varied depending on the phosphorylation site[pSMAD3C(S423/425):51.0%and pSMAD3L(S204):31.6%].High expression of pSMAD-3L(S204)was significantly correlated with larger tumors(P=0.038)and later N stages(P=0.035).Additionally,high expression of VEGFR-1 was closely correlated with tumor size(P=0.015)and pathological grading(P=0.013).High expression of both pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 was associated with unfavorable outcomes in terms of overall survival(OS).Multivariate analysis indicated that high expression of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 were independent risk factors for prognosis in GC patients.VEGFR-1 protein expression was correlated with TGF-β1(r=0.220,P=0.029),pSMAD3C(S423/425)(r=0.302,P=0.002),and pSMAD3L(S204)(r=0.201,P=0.047),respectively.Simultaneous overexpression of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 was associated with poor OS in gastric cancer patients.CONCLUSION Co-upregulation of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 can serve as a predictive marker for poor gastric cancer prognosis,and pSMAD3L(204)may be involved in enhanced gastric cancer metastasis in a VEGFR-1-dependent manner.展开更多
Purpose: Ranitidine hydrochloride (HCl) remains an important medication for treating acid-peptic ailments such as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The main objective of this Post Marketing Surveillance (PMS) cl...Purpose: Ranitidine hydrochloride (HCl) remains an important medication for treating acid-peptic ailments such as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The main objective of this Post Marketing Surveillance (PMS) clinical study was to test the efficacy and safety of Ranitidine HCl in Indian patients suffering from GERD. Patients and Methods: Data of 2446 patients (1307 males;1121 females) from 21 centers across India were analyzed. Patients received either of the three treatments: Ranitidine HCl 150 mg twice a day (BID) (ARM-A), Ranitidine HCl 300 mg once daily (OD) or BID (ARM-B), and Ranitidine HCl 300 mg OD (ARM-C). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptom Assessment Scale (GSAS) score and Heartburn Severity score were used to assess the drug’s efficacy. The adverse events reported by patients or investigators were analyzed to assess the safety profile of Ranitidine. Results: Of the 2446 subjects screened, 2428 were enrolled. There was a significant reduction in GSAS scores from baseline to the end of the study visit in all three ARMs. The GSAS scores reduced from 2.02 to 0.23 in ARM-A, 2.01 to 0.24 in ARM-B, and 2.07 to 0.26 in ARM-C patients. In ARM A, 72.82% had 24 hours heartburn-free days, and 66.89% had 7 consecutive heartburn-free days, which was more significant than the other two ARMs. 128 (5.27%) patients reported ADRs due to Ranitidine HCl at different doses. The most frequently reported ADR was constipation (17.18%), followed by oliguria (14.06%), cold (13.28%), and dysuria (12.5%). Of 128 ADRs, 113 (88.28%) were mild, and only 11 (8.59%) ADRs were related to the study drug. No severe ADRs were reported during the study. Conclusion: Ranitidine HCl 150/300 mg tablet was found to be an effective and safe H2-receptor antagonist for treating GERD in Indian Patients.展开更多
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastro-intestinal (GI) disorder that considerably reduces the quality of life. It further represents an economic burden on society due to the high consumption of healthcare r...Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastro-intestinal (GI) disorder that considerably reduces the quality of life. It further represents an economic burden on society due to the high consumption of healthcare resources and the non-productivity of IBS patients. The diagnosis of IBS is based on symptom assessment and the Rome Ⅲ criteria. A combination of the Rome Ⅲ criteria, a physical examination, blood tests, gastros-copy and colonoscopy with biopsies is believed to be necessary for diagnosis. Duodenal chromogranin A cell density is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of IBS. The pathogenesis of IBS seems to be multifactorial, with the following factors playing a central role in the pathogenesis of IBS:heritability and genetics, dietary/intestinal microbiota, low-grade inflammation, and disturbances in the neuroendocrine system (NES) of the gut. One hypothesis proposes that the cause of IBS is an altered NES, which would cause abnormal GI motility, secretions and sensation. All of these abnormalities are characteristic of IBS. Alterations in the NES could be the result of one or more of the following:genetic factors, dietary intake, intestinal flora, or lowgrade inflammation. Post-infectious IBS (PI-IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease-associated IBS (IBD-IBS) represent a considerable subset of IBS cases. Patients with PI-and IBD-IBS exhibit low-grade mucosal inflammation, as well as abnormalities in the NES of the gut.展开更多
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that may become intractable when treated with conventional medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and azathioprine. The herbal medicine Q...Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that may become intractable when treated with conventional medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and azathioprine. The herbal medicine Qing Dai has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine to treat UC patients, but there is a lack of published data on the efficacy of Qing Dai in UC treatment. We report several cases of patients with intractable UC who take Qing Dai in a retrospective observational study. Furthermore, we explore the mechanisms of action of Qing Dai. Nine patients with active UC who received conventional medications but wished to receive Qing Dai as an alternative medication were included in our analysis. The UC severity level was determined based on the clinical activity index (CAI). Additionally, 5 of the 9 patients were endoscopically evaluated according to the Matts grading system. Each patient received 2 g/d of Qing Dai orally and continued taking other medications for UC as prescribed. Electron spin resonance was applied to explore the mechanisms of action of Qing Dai. After 4 mo of treatment with Qing Dai, the CAI score decreased from 8.3 ± 2.4 to 2.4 ± 3.4 (mean ± SD; P < 0.001). Similarly, the endoscopic Matts grade decreased from 3.4 ± 0.5 to 2.2 ± 0.8 (P = 0.02). Six of 7 patients who were on prednisolone upon enrollment in the study were able to discontinue this corticosteroid. Electron spin resonance revealed that Qing Dai possesses strong hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. Qing Dai showed significant clinical and endoscopic efficacy in patients who failed to respond to conventional medications. Scavenging of hydroxyl radicals appears to be a potential mechanism through which Qing Dai acts, but the significance of the scavenging ability of Qing Dai with respect to the anti-inflammatory effect in UC patients warrants further investigation.展开更多
Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) is a Gram-negative spiral bacterium that is present in nearly half the world's population. It is the major cause of peptic ulcer disease and a recognized cause of gastric carcinoma. ...Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) is a Gram-negative spiral bacterium that is present in nearly half the world's population. It is the major cause of peptic ulcer disease and a recognized cause of gastric carcinoma. In addition, it is linked to non-ulcer dyspepsia, vitamin B12 deficiency, iron-deficient anemia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura. These conditions are indications for testing and treatment according to current guidelines. An additional indication according to the guidelines is "anyone with a fear of gastric cancer" which results in nearly every infected person being eligible for eradication treatment. There may be beneficial effects of H. pylori in humans, including protection from gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal adenocarcinoma. In addition, universal treatment will be extremely expensive(more than $32 billion in the United States), may expose the patients to adverse effects such as anaphylaxis and Clostridium difficile infection, as well as contributing to antibiotic resistance. There may also be an as yet uncertain effect on the fecal microbiome. There is a need for robust clinical data to assist in decision-making regarding treatment of H. pylori infection.展开更多
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are molecules or ions formed by the incomplete one-electron reduction of oxygen. Ofinterest, it seems that ROS manifest dual roles, cancer promoting or cancer suppressing, in tumorigenesi...Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are molecules or ions formed by the incomplete one-electron reduction of oxygen. Ofinterest, it seems that ROS manifest dual roles, cancer promoting or cancer suppressing, in tumorigenesis. ROS participate simultaneously in two signaling pathways that have inverse functions in tumorigenesis, Ras-Raf-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling and the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway. It is well known that Ras-Raf-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling is related to oncogenesis, while the p38 MAPK pathway contributes to cancer suppression, which involves oncogene-induced senescence, inflammationinduced cellular senescence, replicative senescence, contact inhibition and DNA-damage responses. Thus, ROS may not be an absolute carcinogenic factor or cancer suppressor. The purpose of the present review is to discuss the dual roles of ROS in the pathogenesis of cancer, and the signaling pathway mediating their role in tumorigenesis.展开更多
AIM To examine patient knowledge and factors influencing knowledge about pregnancy in British women with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).METHODS This is a post hoc analysis of a study of female members of Crohn's ...AIM To examine patient knowledge and factors influencing knowledge about pregnancy in British women with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).METHODS This is a post hoc analysis of a study of female members of Crohn's and Colitis United Kingdom, aged 18-45 years who were sent an online questionnaire recording patient demographics, education, employment, marital status, and disease characteristics. Disease related pregnancy knowledge was recorded using Crohn's and colitis pregnancy knowledge score(CCPKnow).RESULTS Of 1324 responders, 776(59%) suffered from Crohn's disease, 496(38%) from ulcerative colitis and 52(4%) from IBD-uncategorised. CCPKnow scores were poor(0-7) in 50.8%, adequate(8-10) in 23.6%, good(11-13) in 17.7% and very good(≥ 14) in 7.8%. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that higher CCPKnow scores were independently associated with higher educational achievement(P < 0.001), younger age at diagnosis(P = 0.003) and having consulted a health care professional about pregnancy and IBD(P = 0.001). CONCLUSION Knowledge was poor in 50%. Speaking with healthcare professionals was a modifiable factor associated with better knowledge. This illustrates the importance of disease related pregnancy展开更多
AIM:Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a potent vasodilator peptide.ADM and nitric oxide (NO) are produced in vascular endothelial cells. Increased ADM level has been linked to hyperdynamic circulation and arterial vasodilatatio...AIM:Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a potent vasodilator peptide.ADM and nitric oxide (NO) are produced in vascular endothelial cells. Increased ADM level has been linked to hyperdynamic circulation and arterial vasodilatation in cirrhotic portal hypertension (CPH). The role of ADM in non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) is unknown, plasma ADM levels were studied in patients with NCPH, compensated and decompensated cirrhosis in order to determine its contribution to portal hypertension (PH) in these groups.METHODS: There were 4 groups of subjects. Group 1consisted of 27 patients (F/M: 12/15) with NCPH due to portal and/or splenic vein thrombosis (mean age: 41±12years), group 2 consisted of 14 patients (F/M: 6/8) with compensated (Child-Pugh A) cirrhosis (mean age: 46±4),group 3 consisted of 16 patients (F/M: 6/10) with decompensated (Child-Pugh C) cirrhosis (mean age: 47±12).Fourteen healthy subjects (F/M: 6/8) (mean age: 44±8) were used as controls in Group 4. ADM level was measured by ELISA. NO was determined as nitrite/nitrate level by chemoluminescence.RESULTS: Adl level in Group 11 (236±61.4 pg/mL) was significantly higher than that in group 2 (108.4±28.3 pg/mL)and group 4 (84.1±31.5 pg/mL) (both P<0.0001) but was lower than that in Group3 (324±93.7 pg/mL) (P=0.002). NO level in group 1 (27±1.4 μmol/L) was significantly higher than that in group 2 (19.8±2.8 μmol/L) and group 4 (16.9±1.6μmol/L) but was lower than that in Group 3 (39±3.6 μmol/L)(for all three P<0.0001). A strong correlation was observed between ADM and NO levels (r=0.827, P<0.0001).CONCLUSION: Adrenomedullin and NO levels were high in both non-cirrhotic and cirrhotic portal hypertension and were closely correlated, Adrenomedullin and NO levels increased proportionally with the severity of cirrhosis, and were significantly higher than those in patients with NCPH.Portal hypertension plays an important role in the increase of ADM and NO. Parenchymal damage in cirrhosis may contribute to the increase in these parameters.展开更多
Background: Enhanced recovery after surgery(ERAS) protocol is a multimodal, multidisciplinary and evidence-based approach to reduce surgical stress and enhance recovery in the postoperative period. This study aimed to...Background: Enhanced recovery after surgery(ERAS) protocol is a multimodal, multidisciplinary and evidence-based approach to reduce surgical stress and enhance recovery in the postoperative period. This study aimed to analyze the outcome of ERAS protocol in patients after pancreaticoduodenectomy(PD). Methods: A total of 50 consecutive patients with pancreatic/periampullary cancer who underwent PD between January 2016 to August 2017 were included in the study. As per the institute ERAS protocol, nasogastric tube(NGT) was removed on postoperative day(POD) 1 if output was less than 200 mL and oral sips were allowed; oral liquids were allowed on POD2; semisolid diet by POD3; abdominal drain was removed on POD 4 if output was less than 100 mL with no evidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula(POPF); normal diet was allowed on POD5. Discharge criteria on POD6 were afebrile, tolerating oral normal diet, pain free and no surgery related complications(defined as per the ISGPS definitions). Results: NGT was removed on POD1 in 45(90%) patients, abdominal drain removed by POD4 in 41(82%) and 43(86%) patients were discharged on POD6. There was no 30-day postoperative mortality. Three(6%) patients had delayed gastric emptying(DGE). None had postoperative hemorrhage and POPF. Readmission rate was 8%. A significant relation was found between the length of hospital stay(LOS) with age( P < 0.05) and a marginal relation between LOS and postoperative albumin( P = 0.05). Conclusions: ERAS protocol can be safely followed in the perioperative care of patients who undergo PD. Early removal of NGT and allowing oral diet restore bowel function early. ERAS decreases the LOS and postoperative complications.展开更多
AIM: To study the role of mitochondrial energy disorder in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury. METHODS: Wistar rats were used in this study. A gastric mucosal injury model was established by giv...AIM: To study the role of mitochondrial energy disorder in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury. METHODS: Wistar rats were used in this study. A gastric mucosal injury model was established by giving the rats alcohol. Gross and microscopic appearance of gastric mucosa and ultrastructure of mitochondria were evaluated. Malondiadehyde (MDA) in gastric mucosa was measured with thiobarbituric acid. Expression of ATP synthase (ATPase) subunits 6 and 8 in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT- PCR). RESULTS:The gastric mucosal lesion index was correlated with the MDA content in gastric mucosa. As the concentration of ethanol was elevated and theexposure time to ethanol was extended, the content of MDA in gastric mucosa increased and the extent of damage aggravated. The ultrastructure of mitochondria was positively related to the ethanol concentration and exposure time. The expression of mtDNA ATPase subunits 6 and 8 mRNA declined with the increasing MDA content in gastric mucosa after gavage with ethanol. CONCLUSION: Ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury is related to oxidative stress, which disturbs energy metabolism of mitochondria and plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury.展开更多
AIM:To reveal the functions of micro RNAs(mi RNAs) with respect to hepatic stellate cells(HSCs) in response to portal hypertension.METHODS:Primary rat HSCs were exposed to static water pressure(10 mm Hg,1 h) and the p...AIM:To reveal the functions of micro RNAs(mi RNAs) with respect to hepatic stellate cells(HSCs) in response to portal hypertension.METHODS:Primary rat HSCs were exposed to static water pressure(10 mm Hg,1 h) and the pressureinduced mi RNA expression profile was detected by next-generation sequencing. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to verify the expression of mi RNAs. A potential target of Mi R-9a-5p was measured by a luciferase reporter assay and Western blot. CCK-8 assay and Transwell assay were used to detect the proliferation and migration of HSCs under pressure.RESULTS:According to the profile,the expression of mi R-9a-5p was further confirmed to be significantly increased after pressure overload in HSCs(3.70 ± 0.61 vs 0.97 ± 0.15,P = 0.0226),which resulted in the proliferation,migration and activation of HSCs. In vivo,the up-regulation of mi R-9a-5p(2.09 ± 0.91 vs 4.27 ± 1.74,P = 0.0025) and the down-regulation of Sirt1(2.41 ± 0.51 vs 1.13 ± 0.11,P = 0.0006) were observed in rat fibrotic liver with portal hypertension. Sirt1 was a potential target gene of mi R-9a-5p. Through restoringthe expression of Sirt1 in mi R-9a-5p transfected HSCs on pressure overload,we found that overexpression of Sirt1 could partially abrogate the mi R-9a-5p mediated suppression of the proliferation,migration and activation of HSCs. CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that during liver fibrosis,portal hypertension may induce the proliferation,migration and activation of HSCs through the up-regulation of mi R-9a-5p,which targets Sirt1.展开更多
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis evolve with a relapsing and remitting course.Determination of inflammatory state is crucial for the assessment of disease activity and for tailoring therapy.However,no simple...Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis evolve with a relapsing and remitting course.Determination of inflammatory state is crucial for the assessment of disease activity and for tailoring therapy.However,no simple diagnostic test for monitoring intestinal inflammation is available.Noninvasive markers give only indirect assessments of disease activity.Histopathological or endoscopical examinations accurately assess inflammatory activity,but they are invasive,time consuming and expensive and therefore are unsuitable for routine use.Imaging procedures are not applicable for ulcerative colitis.The usefulness of ultrasound and Doppler imag-ing in assessing disease activity is still a matter of discussion for Crohn's disease,and an increased interest in computed tomography enterograph (CTE) has been seen,mainly because it can delineate the extent and severity of bowel wall inflammation,besides detecting extraluminal findings.Until now,the available data concerning the accuracy of magnetic resonance enterography in detecting disease activity is less than CTE.Due to this,clinical activity indices are still commonly used for both diseases.展开更多
Wilson’s disease is a rare disorder of copper transport in hepatic cells,and may present as cholestatic liver disease;pancreatitis and cholangitis are rarely associated with Wilsons’s disease.Moreover,cases of Wilso...Wilson’s disease is a rare disorder of copper transport in hepatic cells,and may present as cholestatic liver disease;pancreatitis and cholangitis are rarely associated with Wilsons’s disease.Moreover,cases of Wilson s disease presenting as pigmented gallstone pancreatitis have not been reported in the literature.In the present report,we describe a case of a 37-year-old man who was admitted with jaundice and abdomina pain.The patient was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis,cholangitis,and obstructive jaundice caused by pigmented gallstones that were detected during retrograde cholangiopancreatography.However,because of his long-term jaundice and the presence of pigmented gallstones,the patient underwent further evaluation for Wilson’s disease,which was subsequently confirmed.This patient’s unique presentation exemplifies the overlap in the clinical and laboratory parameters of Wilson’s disease and cholestasis,and the difficulties associated with their differentiation.It suggests thatWilson’s disease should be considered in patients with pancreatitis,cholangitis,and severe protracted jaundice caused by pigmented gallstones.展开更多
AIM To investigate whether mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) from adipose-derived stromal cells(ADSCs) and bone marrow stromal cells(BMSCs) have similar hepatic differentiation potential.METHODS Mouse ADSCs and BMSCs were ...AIM To investigate whether mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) from adipose-derived stromal cells(ADSCs) and bone marrow stromal cells(BMSCs) have similar hepatic differentiation potential.METHODS Mouse ADSCs and BMSCs were isolated and cultured. Their morphological and phenotypic characteristics, as well as their multiple differentiation capacity were compared. A new culture system was established to induce ADSCs and BMSCs into functional hepatocytes. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to identify the induced hepatocytelike cells. CM-Dil-labeled ADSCs and BMSCs were then transplanted into a mouse model of CCl4-induced acute liver failure. fluorescence microscopy was used to track the transplanted MSCs. Liver function was tested by an automatic biochemistry analyzer, and liver tissue histology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin(HE) staining.RESULTS ADSCs and BMSCs shared a similar morphology and multiple differentiation capacity, as well as a similar phenotype(with expression of CD29 and CD90 and no expression of CD11 b or CD45). Morphologically, ADSCs and BMSCs became round and epithelioid following hepatic induction. These two cell types differentiated into hepatocyte-like cells with similar expression of albumin, cytokeratin 18, cytokeratin 19, alpha fetoprotein, and cytochrome P450. fluorescence microscopy revealed that both ADSCs and BMSCs were observed in the mouse liver at different time points. Compared to the control group, both the function of the injured livers and HE staining showed significant improvement in the ADSC-and BMSC-transplanted mice. There was no significant difference between the two MSC groups.CONCLUSION ADSCs share a similar hepatic differentiation capacity and therapeutic effect with BMSCs in an acute liver failure model. ADSCs may represent an ideal seed cell type for cell transplantation or a bio-artificial liver support system.展开更多
Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) in 1983, numerous detection methods for the presence of the bacterium have been developed. Each one of them has been associated with advantages and disadvantages. ...Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) in 1983, numerous detection methods for the presence of the bacterium have been developed. Each one of them has been associated with advantages and disadvantages. Noninvasive tests such as serology, 13 C urea breath test(UBT) and stool antigen tests are usually preferred by the clinicians. Serology has its own limitation especially in endemic areas while 13 C UBT is technically very demanding. The stool antigen detection method, although specific, is usually associated with poor sensitivity. The 13 C UBT is believed to be specific, but with present revelation of the fact that stomach is colonized by many other urease producing bacteria makes it questionable. Histology, culture, rapid urease test and polymerase chain reaction(PCR) are the tests which are carried out on antral biopsies collected by invasive means. Histology has been proposed to be very sensitive and specific but the question is how by simply looking the morphology of the bacteria in the microscope, one can claim that the curved bacterium is exclusively H. pylori. Rapid urease test(RUT), the doctor's test, is also challenged because the presence of other urease producing bacteria in the stomach cannot be denied. Moreover, RUT has been reported with poor sensitivity specially, when density of the bacterium is low. Isolation of H. pylori is essential to investigate its growth requirements, antibiotic susceptibility testing, studying virulence factor to develop vaccine and many more explorations. It has also got several disadvantages i.e., special condition for transporting, media, incubation and few days waiting for the colonies to appear, apart from the speed essentially needed to process the specimens. Till date, majority of the microbiological laboratories in the world are not equipped and trained to isolate such fastidious bacterium. The option left is PCR methods to detect H. pylori 's DNA in gastric mucosa, gastric juice, saliva, dental plaques and environmental specimens. There are speculations for false positivity due to detection of non-pylori Helicobacters due to genetic sharing; and false negativity due to low bacterial counts and presence of PCR inhibitors. However, specimen collection, transportation and processing do not require speed and special conditions. PCR based diagnosis may be considered as gold standard by designing primers extremely specific to H. pylori and targeting at least more than one conserved genes. Similarly specificity of PCR may be improved by use of internal Primers. Further, nested PCR will take care of false negatives by countering the effect of PCR inhibitors and low bacterial counts. Therefore, nested PCR based methods if performed properly, may be proposed as gold standard test.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the effects and mechanism of disruption of focal adhesion kinase(FAK) expression on collagen metabolism in rat hepatic stellate cells(HSC).METHODS:The plasmids expressing FAK short hairpin RNA(shRNA...AIM:To investigate the effects and mechanism of disruption of focal adhesion kinase(FAK) expression on collagen metabolism in rat hepatic stellate cells(HSC).METHODS:The plasmids expressing FAK short hairpin RNA(shRNA) were transfected into HSC-T6 cells,and the level of FAK expression was determined by both real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(QPCR) and Western blotting analysis.The production of type collagen and type collagen in FAK-disrupted cells was analyzed by real-time Q-PCR.The level of collagen metabolism proteins,including matrix metalloproteinases-13(MMP-13) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1(TIMP-1) was also determined by both real-time Q-PCR and Western blotting analysis.RESULTS:The transfection of FAK shRNA plasmids into HSC resulted in disrupted FAK expression.Compared with the HK group,the levels of type collagen and type collagen mRNA transcripts in FAK shRNA plas-mid group were signif icantly decreased(0.69 ± 0.03 vs 1.96 ± 0.15,P = 0.000;0.59 ± 0.07 vs 1.62 ± 0.12,P = 0.020).The production of TIMP-1 in this cell type was also signif icantly reduced at both mRNA and protein levels(0.49 ± 0.02 vs 1.72 ± 0.10,P = 0.005;0.76 ± 0.08 vs 2.31 ± 0.24,P = 0.000).However,the expression of MMP-13 mRNA could be significantly up-regulated by the transfection of FAK shRNA plasmids into HSC(1.74 ± 0.20 vs 1.09 ± 0.09,P = 0.000).CONCLUSION:These data support the hypothesis that shRNA-mediated disruption of FAK expression could attenuate extracellular matrix(ECM) synthesis and promote ECM degradation,making FAK a potential target for novel anti-f ibrosis therapies.展开更多
文摘The use of Artificial intelligence(AI)has evolved from its mid-20th century origins to playing a pivotal tool in modern medicine.It leverages digital data and computational hardware for diverse applications,including diagnosis,prognosis,and treatment responses in gastrointestinal and hepatic conditions.AI has had an impact in diagnostic techniques,particularly endoscopy,ultrasound,and histopathology.AI encompasses machine learning,natural language processing,and robotics,with machine learning being central.This involves sophisticated algorithms capable of managing complex datasets,far surpassing traditional statistical methods.These algorithms,both supervised and unsupervised,are integral for interpreting large datasets.In liver diseases,AI's non-invasive diagnostic applications,particularly in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,and its role in characterizing hepatic lesions is promising.AI aids in distinguishing between normal and cirrhotic livers and improves the accuracy of lesion characterization and prognostication of hepatocellular carcinoma.AI enhances lesion identification during endoscopy,showing potential in the diagnosis and management of early-stage esophageal carcinoma.In peptic ulcer disease,AI technologies influence patient management strategies.AI is useful in colonoscopy,particularly in detecting smaller colonic polyps.However,its applicability in nonacademic settings requires further validation.Addressing these issues is vital for harnessing the potential of AI.In conclusion,while AI offers transformative possibilities in gastroenterology,careful integration and balancing of technical possibilities with ethical and practical application,is essential for optimal use.
基金Supported by National Nature Science Foundation of China,No.82060450,No.82360517,No.81460374,and No.31460304Nature Science Foundation of Jiangxi Province of China,No.20232BAB206086,No.20192BAB205072,No.20203BBGL73206,No.2017BCB23086,No.2017BAB205062,and No.20181BAB205050.
文摘BACKGROUND The TGF-β/SMAD3 and VEGFR-1 signaling pathways play important roles in gastric cancer metastasis.SMAD3 phosphorylation is a crucial prognostic marker in gastric cancer.AIM To determine the prognostic value and relationship of SMAD3 phospho-isoforms and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer.METHODS This was a single-center observational study which enrolled 98 gastric cancer patients and 82 adjacent normal gastric tissues from patients aged 32-84 years(median age 65)between July 2006 and April 2007.Patients were followed up until death or the study ended(median follow-up duration of 28.5 mo).The samples were used to generate tissue microarrays(TMAs)for immunohistochemical(IHC)staining.The expressions of TGF-β1,pSMAD3C(S423/425),pSMAD3L(S204),and VEGFR-1 in gastric cancer(GC)tumor tissue and normal tissue were measured by IHC staining using TMAs obtained from 98 GC patients.Prognosis and survival information of the patients was recorded by Outdo Biotech from May 2007 to July 2015.The relationship between TGF-β1,pSMAD3C(S423/425),pSMAD3L(S204),and VEGFR-1 protein expression levels was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient.The relationship between protein expression levels and clinicopathological parameters was analyzed using the Chi-squared test.A survival curve was generated using the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.RESULTS TGFβ-1 and VEGFR-1 expression was significantly upregulated in gastric cancer tissue compared to adjacent noncancerous tissue.The positive expression of phosphorylated isoforms of Smad3 varied depending on the phosphorylation site[pSMAD3C(S423/425):51.0%and pSMAD3L(S204):31.6%].High expression of pSMAD-3L(S204)was significantly correlated with larger tumors(P=0.038)and later N stages(P=0.035).Additionally,high expression of VEGFR-1 was closely correlated with tumor size(P=0.015)and pathological grading(P=0.013).High expression of both pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 was associated with unfavorable outcomes in terms of overall survival(OS).Multivariate analysis indicated that high expression of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 were independent risk factors for prognosis in GC patients.VEGFR-1 protein expression was correlated with TGF-β1(r=0.220,P=0.029),pSMAD3C(S423/425)(r=0.302,P=0.002),and pSMAD3L(S204)(r=0.201,P=0.047),respectively.Simultaneous overexpression of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 was associated with poor OS in gastric cancer patients.CONCLUSION Co-upregulation of pSMAD3L(S204)and VEGFR-1 can serve as a predictive marker for poor gastric cancer prognosis,and pSMAD3L(204)may be involved in enhanced gastric cancer metastasis in a VEGFR-1-dependent manner.
文摘Purpose: Ranitidine hydrochloride (HCl) remains an important medication for treating acid-peptic ailments such as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The main objective of this Post Marketing Surveillance (PMS) clinical study was to test the efficacy and safety of Ranitidine HCl in Indian patients suffering from GERD. Patients and Methods: Data of 2446 patients (1307 males;1121 females) from 21 centers across India were analyzed. Patients received either of the three treatments: Ranitidine HCl 150 mg twice a day (BID) (ARM-A), Ranitidine HCl 300 mg once daily (OD) or BID (ARM-B), and Ranitidine HCl 300 mg OD (ARM-C). Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptom Assessment Scale (GSAS) score and Heartburn Severity score were used to assess the drug’s efficacy. The adverse events reported by patients or investigators were analyzed to assess the safety profile of Ranitidine. Results: Of the 2446 subjects screened, 2428 were enrolled. There was a significant reduction in GSAS scores from baseline to the end of the study visit in all three ARMs. The GSAS scores reduced from 2.02 to 0.23 in ARM-A, 2.01 to 0.24 in ARM-B, and 2.07 to 0.26 in ARM-C patients. In ARM A, 72.82% had 24 hours heartburn-free days, and 66.89% had 7 consecutive heartburn-free days, which was more significant than the other two ARMs. 128 (5.27%) patients reported ADRs due to Ranitidine HCl at different doses. The most frequently reported ADR was constipation (17.18%), followed by oliguria (14.06%), cold (13.28%), and dysuria (12.5%). Of 128 ADRs, 113 (88.28%) were mild, and only 11 (8.59%) ADRs were related to the study drug. No severe ADRs were reported during the study. Conclusion: Ranitidine HCl 150/300 mg tablet was found to be an effective and safe H2-receptor antagonist for treating GERD in Indian Patients.
文摘Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastro-intestinal (GI) disorder that considerably reduces the quality of life. It further represents an economic burden on society due to the high consumption of healthcare resources and the non-productivity of IBS patients. The diagnosis of IBS is based on symptom assessment and the Rome Ⅲ criteria. A combination of the Rome Ⅲ criteria, a physical examination, blood tests, gastros-copy and colonoscopy with biopsies is believed to be necessary for diagnosis. Duodenal chromogranin A cell density is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of IBS. The pathogenesis of IBS seems to be multifactorial, with the following factors playing a central role in the pathogenesis of IBS:heritability and genetics, dietary/intestinal microbiota, low-grade inflammation, and disturbances in the neuroendocrine system (NES) of the gut. One hypothesis proposes that the cause of IBS is an altered NES, which would cause abnormal GI motility, secretions and sensation. All of these abnormalities are characteristic of IBS. Alterations in the NES could be the result of one or more of the following:genetic factors, dietary intake, intestinal flora, or lowgrade inflammation. Post-infectious IBS (PI-IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease-associated IBS (IBD-IBS) represent a considerable subset of IBS cases. Patients with PI-and IBD-IBS exhibit low-grade mucosal inflammation, as well as abnormalities in the NES of the gut.
基金Supported by grants from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India (to PPM) and the Department of Science & Technology, Government of West Bengal (to AC)
文摘瞄准:在吉伯的症候群(GS ) 在 UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1 (UGT1A1 ) 基因识别变体并且在印度在正常控制之中在 TA 插入和它的影响的印度,以及频率为 TA 插入和 GS 估计在纯合性之间的协会。方法:95 个 GS 盒子和 95 正常控制被选择。肝工作,另外的测试被做。倡导者和 UGT1A1 基因的所有 5 前 ons 被重新定序。对新奇 trinucleotide 插入的功能的评价被做由在 silico 分析并且由估计 UGT1A1,倡导者活动在 Hep G2 由适当构造的酶记者试金执行了房间线。结果:在 GS 病人之中, 80% 为 TA 插入是同型结合的,它比从另外的种族组的报告高好几倍。吝啬的 UCB 水平与仅仅这插入的一个拷贝在个人之中被提高,它不与有二个拷贝的那些显著地不同。在 UGT1A1 基因的许多新 DNA 变体被发现,包括在倡导者的插入在 GS 病人的一个子集(10%) 发现了的 trinucleotide (猫) ,然而并非在正常之中控制。In-silico 分析证明在倡导者和功能的分析的合拢 DNA 的显著变化在 UGT1A1 基因源于这插入的抄写效率显示出 20 褶层减小,显著地从而提高 UCB 水平。结论:GS 的基因传染病学越过种族组是可变的,在 UGT1A1 倡导者变体之中的上位相互作用调制胆红素 glucuronidation。
文摘Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that may become intractable when treated with conventional medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and azathioprine. The herbal medicine Qing Dai has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine to treat UC patients, but there is a lack of published data on the efficacy of Qing Dai in UC treatment. We report several cases of patients with intractable UC who take Qing Dai in a retrospective observational study. Furthermore, we explore the mechanisms of action of Qing Dai. Nine patients with active UC who received conventional medications but wished to receive Qing Dai as an alternative medication were included in our analysis. The UC severity level was determined based on the clinical activity index (CAI). Additionally, 5 of the 9 patients were endoscopically evaluated according to the Matts grading system. Each patient received 2 g/d of Qing Dai orally and continued taking other medications for UC as prescribed. Electron spin resonance was applied to explore the mechanisms of action of Qing Dai. After 4 mo of treatment with Qing Dai, the CAI score decreased from 8.3 ± 2.4 to 2.4 ± 3.4 (mean ± SD; P < 0.001). Similarly, the endoscopic Matts grade decreased from 3.4 ± 0.5 to 2.2 ± 0.8 (P = 0.02). Six of 7 patients who were on prednisolone upon enrollment in the study were able to discontinue this corticosteroid. Electron spin resonance revealed that Qing Dai possesses strong hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. Qing Dai showed significant clinical and endoscopic efficacy in patients who failed to respond to conventional medications. Scavenging of hydroxyl radicals appears to be a potential mechanism through which Qing Dai acts, but the significance of the scavenging ability of Qing Dai with respect to the anti-inflammatory effect in UC patients warrants further investigation.
文摘Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) is a Gram-negative spiral bacterium that is present in nearly half the world's population. It is the major cause of peptic ulcer disease and a recognized cause of gastric carcinoma. In addition, it is linked to non-ulcer dyspepsia, vitamin B12 deficiency, iron-deficient anemia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura. These conditions are indications for testing and treatment according to current guidelines. An additional indication according to the guidelines is "anyone with a fear of gastric cancer" which results in nearly every infected person being eligible for eradication treatment. There may be beneficial effects of H. pylori in humans, including protection from gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal adenocarcinoma. In addition, universal treatment will be extremely expensive(more than $32 billion in the United States), may expose the patients to adverse effects such as anaphylaxis and Clostridium difficile infection, as well as contributing to antibiotic resistance. There may also be an as yet uncertain effect on the fecal microbiome. There is a need for robust clinical data to assist in decision-making regarding treatment of H. pylori infection.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30750013 Key Science Research Project Natural Science Foundation of Xiamen, No. WKZ0501
文摘Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are molecules or ions formed by the incomplete one-electron reduction of oxygen. Ofinterest, it seems that ROS manifest dual roles, cancer promoting or cancer suppressing, in tumorigenesis. ROS participate simultaneously in two signaling pathways that have inverse functions in tumorigenesis, Ras-Raf-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling and the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) pathway. It is well known that Ras-Raf-MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling is related to oncogenesis, while the p38 MAPK pathway contributes to cancer suppression, which involves oncogene-induced senescence, inflammationinduced cellular senescence, replicative senescence, contact inhibition and DNA-damage responses. Thus, ROS may not be an absolute carcinogenic factor or cancer suppressor. The purpose of the present review is to discuss the dual roles of ROS in the pathogenesis of cancer, and the signaling pathway mediating their role in tumorigenesis.
文摘AIM To examine patient knowledge and factors influencing knowledge about pregnancy in British women with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD).METHODS This is a post hoc analysis of a study of female members of Crohn's and Colitis United Kingdom, aged 18-45 years who were sent an online questionnaire recording patient demographics, education, employment, marital status, and disease characteristics. Disease related pregnancy knowledge was recorded using Crohn's and colitis pregnancy knowledge score(CCPKnow).RESULTS Of 1324 responders, 776(59%) suffered from Crohn's disease, 496(38%) from ulcerative colitis and 52(4%) from IBD-uncategorised. CCPKnow scores were poor(0-7) in 50.8%, adequate(8-10) in 23.6%, good(11-13) in 17.7% and very good(≥ 14) in 7.8%. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that higher CCPKnow scores were independently associated with higher educational achievement(P < 0.001), younger age at diagnosis(P = 0.003) and having consulted a health care professional about pregnancy and IBD(P = 0.001). CONCLUSION Knowledge was poor in 50%. Speaking with healthcare professionals was a modifiable factor associated with better knowledge. This illustrates the importance of disease related pregnancy
文摘AIM:Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a potent vasodilator peptide.ADM and nitric oxide (NO) are produced in vascular endothelial cells. Increased ADM level has been linked to hyperdynamic circulation and arterial vasodilatation in cirrhotic portal hypertension (CPH). The role of ADM in non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) is unknown, plasma ADM levels were studied in patients with NCPH, compensated and decompensated cirrhosis in order to determine its contribution to portal hypertension (PH) in these groups.METHODS: There were 4 groups of subjects. Group 1consisted of 27 patients (F/M: 12/15) with NCPH due to portal and/or splenic vein thrombosis (mean age: 41±12years), group 2 consisted of 14 patients (F/M: 6/8) with compensated (Child-Pugh A) cirrhosis (mean age: 46±4),group 3 consisted of 16 patients (F/M: 6/10) with decompensated (Child-Pugh C) cirrhosis (mean age: 47±12).Fourteen healthy subjects (F/M: 6/8) (mean age: 44±8) were used as controls in Group 4. ADM level was measured by ELISA. NO was determined as nitrite/nitrate level by chemoluminescence.RESULTS: Adl level in Group 11 (236±61.4 pg/mL) was significantly higher than that in group 2 (108.4±28.3 pg/mL)and group 4 (84.1±31.5 pg/mL) (both P<0.0001) but was lower than that in Group3 (324±93.7 pg/mL) (P=0.002). NO level in group 1 (27±1.4 μmol/L) was significantly higher than that in group 2 (19.8±2.8 μmol/L) and group 4 (16.9±1.6μmol/L) but was lower than that in Group 3 (39±3.6 μmol/L)(for all three P<0.0001). A strong correlation was observed between ADM and NO levels (r=0.827, P<0.0001).CONCLUSION: Adrenomedullin and NO levels were high in both non-cirrhotic and cirrhotic portal hypertension and were closely correlated, Adrenomedullin and NO levels increased proportionally with the severity of cirrhosis, and were significantly higher than those in patients with NCPH.Portal hypertension plays an important role in the increase of ADM and NO. Parenchymal damage in cirrhosis may contribute to the increase in these parameters.
文摘Background: Enhanced recovery after surgery(ERAS) protocol is a multimodal, multidisciplinary and evidence-based approach to reduce surgical stress and enhance recovery in the postoperative period. This study aimed to analyze the outcome of ERAS protocol in patients after pancreaticoduodenectomy(PD). Methods: A total of 50 consecutive patients with pancreatic/periampullary cancer who underwent PD between January 2016 to August 2017 were included in the study. As per the institute ERAS protocol, nasogastric tube(NGT) was removed on postoperative day(POD) 1 if output was less than 200 mL and oral sips were allowed; oral liquids were allowed on POD2; semisolid diet by POD3; abdominal drain was removed on POD 4 if output was less than 100 mL with no evidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula(POPF); normal diet was allowed on POD5. Discharge criteria on POD6 were afebrile, tolerating oral normal diet, pain free and no surgery related complications(defined as per the ISGPS definitions). Results: NGT was removed on POD1 in 45(90%) patients, abdominal drain removed by POD4 in 41(82%) and 43(86%) patients were discharged on POD6. There was no 30-day postoperative mortality. Three(6%) patients had delayed gastric emptying(DGE). None had postoperative hemorrhage and POPF. Readmission rate was 8%. A significant relation was found between the length of hospital stay(LOS) with age( P < 0.05) and a marginal relation between LOS and postoperative albumin( P = 0.05). Conclusions: ERAS protocol can be safely followed in the perioperative care of patients who undergo PD. Early removal of NGT and allowing oral diet restore bowel function early. ERAS decreases the LOS and postoperative complications.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China, No. 30750013Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province, No. X0650091
文摘AIM: To study the role of mitochondrial energy disorder in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury. METHODS: Wistar rats were used in this study. A gastric mucosal injury model was established by giving the rats alcohol. Gross and microscopic appearance of gastric mucosa and ultrastructure of mitochondria were evaluated. Malondiadehyde (MDA) in gastric mucosa was measured with thiobarbituric acid. Expression of ATP synthase (ATPase) subunits 6 and 8 in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was determined by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT- PCR). RESULTS:The gastric mucosal lesion index was correlated with the MDA content in gastric mucosa. As the concentration of ethanol was elevated and theexposure time to ethanol was extended, the content of MDA in gastric mucosa increased and the extent of damage aggravated. The ultrastructure of mitochondria was positively related to the ethanol concentration and exposure time. The expression of mtDNA ATPase subunits 6 and 8 mRNA declined with the increasing MDA content in gastric mucosa after gavage with ethanol. CONCLUSION: Ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury is related to oxidative stress, which disturbs energy metabolism of mitochondria and plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of ethanol-induced gastric mucosa injury.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.11272342/A0205
文摘AIM:To reveal the functions of micro RNAs(mi RNAs) with respect to hepatic stellate cells(HSCs) in response to portal hypertension.METHODS:Primary rat HSCs were exposed to static water pressure(10 mm Hg,1 h) and the pressureinduced mi RNA expression profile was detected by next-generation sequencing. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to verify the expression of mi RNAs. A potential target of Mi R-9a-5p was measured by a luciferase reporter assay and Western blot. CCK-8 assay and Transwell assay were used to detect the proliferation and migration of HSCs under pressure.RESULTS:According to the profile,the expression of mi R-9a-5p was further confirmed to be significantly increased after pressure overload in HSCs(3.70 ± 0.61 vs 0.97 ± 0.15,P = 0.0226),which resulted in the proliferation,migration and activation of HSCs. In vivo,the up-regulation of mi R-9a-5p(2.09 ± 0.91 vs 4.27 ± 1.74,P = 0.0025) and the down-regulation of Sirt1(2.41 ± 0.51 vs 1.13 ± 0.11,P = 0.0006) were observed in rat fibrotic liver with portal hypertension. Sirt1 was a potential target gene of mi R-9a-5p. Through restoringthe expression of Sirt1 in mi R-9a-5p transfected HSCs on pressure overload,we found that overexpression of Sirt1 could partially abrogate the mi R-9a-5p mediated suppression of the proliferation,migration and activation of HSCs. CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that during liver fibrosis,portal hypertension may induce the proliferation,migration and activation of HSCs through the up-regulation of mi R-9a-5p,which targets Sirt1.
文摘Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis evolve with a relapsing and remitting course.Determination of inflammatory state is crucial for the assessment of disease activity and for tailoring therapy.However,no simple diagnostic test for monitoring intestinal inflammation is available.Noninvasive markers give only indirect assessments of disease activity.Histopathological or endoscopical examinations accurately assess inflammatory activity,but they are invasive,time consuming and expensive and therefore are unsuitable for routine use.Imaging procedures are not applicable for ulcerative colitis.The usefulness of ultrasound and Doppler imag-ing in assessing disease activity is still a matter of discussion for Crohn's disease,and an increased interest in computed tomography enterograph (CTE) has been seen,mainly because it can delineate the extent and severity of bowel wall inflammation,besides detecting extraluminal findings.Until now,the available data concerning the accuracy of magnetic resonance enterography in detecting disease activity is less than CTE.Due to this,clinical activity indices are still commonly used for both diseases.
文摘Wilson’s disease is a rare disorder of copper transport in hepatic cells,and may present as cholestatic liver disease;pancreatitis and cholangitis are rarely associated with Wilsons’s disease.Moreover,cases of Wilson s disease presenting as pigmented gallstone pancreatitis have not been reported in the literature.In the present report,we describe a case of a 37-year-old man who was admitted with jaundice and abdomina pain.The patient was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis,cholangitis,and obstructive jaundice caused by pigmented gallstones that were detected during retrograde cholangiopancreatography.However,because of his long-term jaundice and the presence of pigmented gallstones,the patient underwent further evaluation for Wilson’s disease,which was subsequently confirmed.This patient’s unique presentation exemplifies the overlap in the clinical and laboratory parameters of Wilson’s disease and cholestasis,and the difficulties associated with their differentiation.It suggests thatWilson’s disease should be considered in patients with pancreatitis,cholangitis,and severe protracted jaundice caused by pigmented gallstones.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science foundation of China,No.30900669 and No.81473271Technology Nova Plan of Beijing City,No.2011117China Postdoctoral Science foundation,No.2016T90994
文摘AIM To investigate whether mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) from adipose-derived stromal cells(ADSCs) and bone marrow stromal cells(BMSCs) have similar hepatic differentiation potential.METHODS Mouse ADSCs and BMSCs were isolated and cultured. Their morphological and phenotypic characteristics, as well as their multiple differentiation capacity were compared. A new culture system was established to induce ADSCs and BMSCs into functional hepatocytes. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to identify the induced hepatocytelike cells. CM-Dil-labeled ADSCs and BMSCs were then transplanted into a mouse model of CCl4-induced acute liver failure. fluorescence microscopy was used to track the transplanted MSCs. Liver function was tested by an automatic biochemistry analyzer, and liver tissue histology was observed by hematoxylin and eosin(HE) staining.RESULTS ADSCs and BMSCs shared a similar morphology and multiple differentiation capacity, as well as a similar phenotype(with expression of CD29 and CD90 and no expression of CD11 b or CD45). Morphologically, ADSCs and BMSCs became round and epithelioid following hepatic induction. These two cell types differentiated into hepatocyte-like cells with similar expression of albumin, cytokeratin 18, cytokeratin 19, alpha fetoprotein, and cytochrome P450. fluorescence microscopy revealed that both ADSCs and BMSCs were observed in the mouse liver at different time points. Compared to the control group, both the function of the injured livers and HE staining showed significant improvement in the ADSC-and BMSC-transplanted mice. There was no significant difference between the two MSC groups.CONCLUSION ADSCs share a similar hepatic differentiation capacity and therapeutic effect with BMSCs in an acute liver failure model. ADSCs may represent an ideal seed cell type for cell transplantation or a bio-artificial liver support system.
基金Supported by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research,New Delhi,India in the form of Senior Research Fellowship awarded to Patel SK
文摘Since the discovery of Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) in 1983, numerous detection methods for the presence of the bacterium have been developed. Each one of them has been associated with advantages and disadvantages. Noninvasive tests such as serology, 13 C urea breath test(UBT) and stool antigen tests are usually preferred by the clinicians. Serology has its own limitation especially in endemic areas while 13 C UBT is technically very demanding. The stool antigen detection method, although specific, is usually associated with poor sensitivity. The 13 C UBT is believed to be specific, but with present revelation of the fact that stomach is colonized by many other urease producing bacteria makes it questionable. Histology, culture, rapid urease test and polymerase chain reaction(PCR) are the tests which are carried out on antral biopsies collected by invasive means. Histology has been proposed to be very sensitive and specific but the question is how by simply looking the morphology of the bacteria in the microscope, one can claim that the curved bacterium is exclusively H. pylori. Rapid urease test(RUT), the doctor's test, is also challenged because the presence of other urease producing bacteria in the stomach cannot be denied. Moreover, RUT has been reported with poor sensitivity specially, when density of the bacterium is low. Isolation of H. pylori is essential to investigate its growth requirements, antibiotic susceptibility testing, studying virulence factor to develop vaccine and many more explorations. It has also got several disadvantages i.e., special condition for transporting, media, incubation and few days waiting for the colonies to appear, apart from the speed essentially needed to process the specimens. Till date, majority of the microbiological laboratories in the world are not equipped and trained to isolate such fastidious bacterium. The option left is PCR methods to detect H. pylori 's DNA in gastric mucosa, gastric juice, saliva, dental plaques and environmental specimens. There are speculations for false positivity due to detection of non-pylori Helicobacters due to genetic sharing; and false negativity due to low bacterial counts and presence of PCR inhibitors. However, specimen collection, transportation and processing do not require speed and special conditions. PCR based diagnosis may be considered as gold standard by designing primers extremely specific to H. pylori and targeting at least more than one conserved genes. Similarly specificity of PCR may be improved by use of internal Primers. Further, nested PCR will take care of false negatives by countering the effect of PCR inhibitors and low bacterial counts. Therefore, nested PCR based methods if performed properly, may be proposed as gold standard test.
基金Supported by Grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No 30872513Hebei Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China,No C2008001133 and No C2010000565
文摘AIM:To investigate the effects and mechanism of disruption of focal adhesion kinase(FAK) expression on collagen metabolism in rat hepatic stellate cells(HSC).METHODS:The plasmids expressing FAK short hairpin RNA(shRNA) were transfected into HSC-T6 cells,and the level of FAK expression was determined by both real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(QPCR) and Western blotting analysis.The production of type collagen and type collagen in FAK-disrupted cells was analyzed by real-time Q-PCR.The level of collagen metabolism proteins,including matrix metalloproteinases-13(MMP-13) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1(TIMP-1) was also determined by both real-time Q-PCR and Western blotting analysis.RESULTS:The transfection of FAK shRNA plasmids into HSC resulted in disrupted FAK expression.Compared with the HK group,the levels of type collagen and type collagen mRNA transcripts in FAK shRNA plas-mid group were signif icantly decreased(0.69 ± 0.03 vs 1.96 ± 0.15,P = 0.000;0.59 ± 0.07 vs 1.62 ± 0.12,P = 0.020).The production of TIMP-1 in this cell type was also signif icantly reduced at both mRNA and protein levels(0.49 ± 0.02 vs 1.72 ± 0.10,P = 0.005;0.76 ± 0.08 vs 2.31 ± 0.24,P = 0.000).However,the expression of MMP-13 mRNA could be significantly up-regulated by the transfection of FAK shRNA plasmids into HSC(1.74 ± 0.20 vs 1.09 ± 0.09,P = 0.000).CONCLUSION:These data support the hypothesis that shRNA-mediated disruption of FAK expression could attenuate extracellular matrix(ECM) synthesis and promote ECM degradation,making FAK a potential target for novel anti-f ibrosis therapies.