Journal of the Chinese Medical Association : JCMA
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The purpose of this study is to reveal the participation of different regulatory cytokines within the process of pseudoexfoliation (PEX). ⋯ Based on our findings local chronic inflammation in the eye is accompanied by the secretion of different profibrotic cytokines (TGF-β, PDGF, EGF, IGF, IL-8) without angiogenesis due to effects of ITAC.
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The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the cross-sectional area (CSA) of flexor digitorum tendons and the thickness of first annular (A1) pulleys between contralateral normal digits and trigger digits (TDs) at positions of finger flexion and extension using a noninvasive ultrasound system. ⋯ Our results suggested that TDs lead to the thicker A1 pulley and larger CSA of the flexor digitorum tendons. The mismatch in volume change between CSA of flexor digitorum tendons and A1 pulley thickness during MCP flexion may lead to the trigger phenomenon.
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Meta Analysis
Use of proton pump inhibitors and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Worldwide, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly used for the treatment of peptic ulcer and gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Recently, concern has arisen over the potential association between PPIs and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of the current study was to evaluate the influence of PPI use on the risk of HCC, through a systematic review and meta-analysis. ⋯ The current meta-analysis has shown that PPI use does not significantly increase the risk of HCC after adjusting for confounding factors. However, further studies are warranted to verify the association between PPIs and HCC in special populations, such as viral or alcoholic liver diseases.