Gastroenterology
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Ischemia and reperfusion injury are common causes of oxidative tissue damage associated with many liver diseases and hepatic surgery. The Wnt-β-catenin signaling pathway is an important regulator of hepatic development, regeneration, and carcinogenesis. However, the role of Wnt signaling in the hepatocellular response to ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury has not been determined. ⋯ Cellular redox balance affects Wnt-β-catenin signaling, which protects against hypoxia and I/R injury. These findings might be used to develop strategies for protection of hepatocytes, regeneration of liver, and inhibition of carcinogenesis.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Durability of radiofrequency ablation in Barrett's esophagus with dysplasia.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can eradicate dysplasia and intestinal metaplasia in patients with dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (BE), and reduce rates of esophageal adenocarcinoma. We assessed long-term rates of eradication, durability of neosquamous epithelium, disease progression, and safety of RFA in patients with dysplastic BE. ⋯ In subjects with dysplastic BE, RFA therapy has an acceptable safety profile, is durable, and is associated with a low rate of disease progression, for up to 3 years.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Pregabalin reduces pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis in a randomized, controlled trial.
Pain is a disabling symptom for patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP) and difficult to treat. Evidence from basic science and human studies indicates that pain processing by the central nervous system is abnormal and resembles that observed in patients with neuropathic pain disorders. We investigated whether agents used to treat patients with neuropathic pain are effective in CP. ⋯ In a placebo-controlled trial, pregabalin is an effective adjuvant therapy for pain in patients with CP.