Digestive diseases and sciences
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Genetic signatures may differ by histopathologic and anatomic subtypes of gastric cancer (GC). B-cell translocation gene 1 (BTG1) was identified as one of genes downregulated in GC tissues from our microarray data. ⋯ Altered expression of BTG1 is a potential biomarker for carcinogenesis and progression of GC, particularly for proximal nondiffuse and diffuse GC.
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The onset of acute pancreatitis (AP) is characterized by early protease activation followed by inflammation and organ damage, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. ⋯ Our findings show that HDAC regulates trypsin activation, inflammation, and tissue damage in AP. Thus, targeting HDAC could serve as novel therapeutic approach in the management of severe AP.
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An association between fibromyalgia and hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been previously described. However, the relationship between nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibromyalgia symptoms has not been assessed, though they share several risk factors. ⋯ Fibromyalgia symptoms were significantly associated with HCV and NASH cirrhosis and with psychiatric symptoms. Future work should focus on the underlying pathophysiology and management of widespread pain in patients with cirrhosis.
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Trefoil proteins are believed to have an important role in mucosal protection and repair in the gastrointestinal tract. They are well recognized in Barrett's esophagus and considered a potential biomarker for the condition. Metaplasia occurring in the esophageal remnant after esophagectomy is a human model for the early stages of development of Barrett's esophagus. ⋯ Widespread expression of trefoils in this environment suggests that these proteins have an important role in development of Barrett's metaplasia. TFF3 expression may be absent in the early stages of metaplasia and may represent more established columnar epithelium. Biopsy samples from post-esophagectomy patients provide a valuable resource to study the early stages of Barrett's esophagus.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Effect of Gum Chewing on the Volume and pH of Gastric Contents: A Prospective Randomized Study.
Insufficient fasting prior to endoscopic procedures performed under sedation may result in potential aspiration of gastric contents. Fasting as per ASA guidelines is recommended prior to these procedures. However, the effect of chewing gum on fasting status has been a subject of debate and often leads to procedural delays. ⋯ Although our results show gastric volume in patients chewing gum was statistically higher, clinical relevance of such a small difference is questionable. Thus patients who chewed gum inadvertently prior to procedure should not be denied or delayed administration of sedative and anesthetic medications.