Stem cell-based therapies are emerging as a promising treatment for diabetes by differentiating these cells into insulin-producing cells (IPCs). However, using growth factors for differentiation has always been challenging. Physical differentiation of stem cells presents a promising approach to reduce reliance on chemical growth factors. One method of physical cell differentiation is cell imprinting. This study aimed to physically induce the differentiation of rat adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rADSCs) into β-like cells using the cell-imprinting technique. For this purpose, RIN-5F cells were used to transfer their geometry and cell-specific topographies to a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate. After cell imprinting, the rADSCs were seeded on the substrate, and their differentiation into β-like cells was evaluated after 14 and 21 days by assessing insulin production using dithizone staining and ELISA, as well as real-time PCR and immunocytochemistry (ICC) for expression analysis of the genes effective in cell differentiation into β-like cells, including PDX1, NKX6.1, NGN3, and insulin. The results of dithizone staining and ELISA confirmed insulin secretion by differentiated cells compared to stem cells (p ≤ 0.05). Real-time PCR and ICC results showed that after 21 days, the differentiated cells expressed key β-cell genes significantly more than stem cells (p ≤ 0.05).

Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health burden due to its high incidence, mortality, and therapy resistance. Drug repurposing offers a promising approach to identify new treatments using approved drugs with known safety profiles. This study evaluates the potential of targeting dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2) in CRC using domperidone and fluphenazine decanoate. Methods DRD2 expression and genetic alterations in CRC were analyzed using Human Protein Atlas and cBioPortal databases. Overexpression in HT-29 cells was confirmed by qPCR relative to normal HDF cells. Molecular docking and 45 ns molecular dynamics simulations assessed the binding and stability of domperidone and fluphenazine decanoate with DRD2. Cytotoxicity was evaluated via MTT assay in HT-29 and HDF cells. HT-29 cells treated at IC₅₀ concentrations were further analyzed by qPCR for apoptosis, survival, and migration-related gene expression. Results DRD2 was markedly overexpressed approximately 40-fold in HT-29 cells versus HDF, as confirmed by bioinformatics and qPCR. Molecular docking indicated strong binding of both compounds, while molecular dynamics simulations showed greater stability for fluphenazine decanoate, with lower RMSF and SASA. Domperidone exhibited higher cytotoxicity in HT-29 cells (IC₅₀ = 23.89 μg/mL) but also substantial toxicity in HDF (IC₅₀ = 21.08 μg/mL), whereas fluphenazine decanoate showed a markedly improved safety profile (IC₅₀ = 789.3 μg/mL in HDF). Gene expression analysis revealed distinct responses: fluphenazine decanoate upregulated BAX and BCL2 and downregulated CASP3, while domperidone induced modest BAX with minimal effect on BCL2. Both compounds moderately downregulated BIRC5, and fluphenazine decanoate additionally upregulated MMP9. Conclusion Despite higher cytotoxicity, domperidone's toxicity to normal cells limits its potential. Fluphenazine decanoate showed better stability, safety, and regulated gene responses, supporting its promise as a repurposed DRD2-targeted therapy in CRC.

Background: Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a complementary treatment used to improve liver enzyme tests and reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of two UDCA formulations: Cholicray (R) (a newly-developed generic drug, manufactured by Reyhaneh Pharmaceutical Co.) and Ursophar (R) (a standard drug, manufactured by Koushan Pharmed Co.), in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is one of the most prevalent chronic liver disorders. Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, phase Ha clinical trial, a total of 73 patients with ultrasound-confirmed grade II NAFLD who presented to Baqiyatallah Clinic were enrolled after obtaining informed consent. Patients were randomly allocated in blocks to receive either Cholicray (R) or Ursophar (R). By the end of the study, 55 patients (28 in the Cholicray (R) group and 27 in the Ursophar (R) group) completed the full 3-month treatment course and were included in the final analysis. Changes in liver enzymes, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as well as any adverse events (dermatological, gastrointestinal, ocular, renal, pulmonary, neurological systems), were recorded and compared before and after treatment. Results: The findings indicated that both Cholicray (R) and Ursophar (R) reduced the levels of liver enzyme markers. The reduction in ALT levels was statistically significant in both groups (P = 0.001 and P = 0.004 for Ursophar (R) and Cholicray (R), respectively). Additionally, there were no statistically significant differences in mean changes and adverse effects reported before and after treatment between the groups. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrated that Cholicray (R), similar to the standard treatment Ursophar (R), has beneficial effects on liver enzyme biomarkers (LEBs) and does not induce significant adverse effects. However; our results are preliminary and require validation through larger, more comprehensive studies.

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have revolutionized hepatitis C (HCV) treatment, yet their high cost necessitates rigorous economic evaluation. Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) and Grazoprevir/Elbasvir (GZR/EBR) are two key, highly effective DAA regimens, but their comparative cost-effectiveness across different healthcare settings remains unclear. This study aims to systematically review and qualitatively synthesize the economic evidence for GLE/PIB and GZR/EBR, comparing them with each other and other relevant HCV treatments. A systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library for full economic evaluation studies published up to September 2025. The quality of included studies was assessed using the CHEERS checklist. Due to significant heterogeneity in study contexts, populations, and methodologies, a qualitative narrative synthesis was performed, and quantitative pooling of economic outcomes was avoided. A total of 20 economic evaluation studies were included. Both GLE/PIB and GZR/EBR were consistently found to be cost-effective or dominant strategies when compared to older interferon-based therapies. However, the five head-to-head studies comparing GLE/PIB and GZR/EBR yielded conflicting results: GLE/PIB was the economically preferred option in settings like Japan and Brazil, whereas GZR/EBR was favored in analyses from China and Hong Kong. This variability appears to be primarily driven by differences in local drug acquisition prices. Neither GLE/PIB nor GZR/EBR can be considered universally more cost-effective than the other. Both regimens represent valuable advancements over previous standards of care, but the optimal economic choice between them is highly context-dependent. These findings underscore the necessity of using local, setting-specific economic evaluations to inform clinical guidelines and reimbursement policies.

Cancer drug resistance, encompassing both acquired and intrinsic chemoresistance, remains a significant challenge in the clinical management of tumors. While advancements in drug discovery and the development of various small molecules and anti-cancer compounds have improved patient responses to chemotherapy, the frequent and prolonged use of these drugs continues to pose a high risk of developing chemoresistance. Therefore, understanding the primary mechanisms underlying drug resistance is crucial. Wnt proteins, as secreted signaling molecules, play a pivotal role in transmitting signals from the cell surface to the nucleus. Aberrant expression of Wnt proteins has been observed in a variety of solid and hematological tumors, where they contribute to key processes such as proliferation, metastasis, stemness, and immune evasion, often acting in an oncogenic manner. Notably, the role of the Wnt signaling pathway in modulating chemotherapy response in human cancers has garnered significant attention. This review focuses on the involvement of Wnt signaling and its related molecular pathways in drug resistance, highlighting their associations with cancer hallmarks, stemness, and tumorigenesis linked to chemoresistance. Additionally, the overexpression of Wnt proteins has been shown to accelerate cancer drug resistance, with regulation mediated by non-coding RNAs. Elevated Wnt activity reduces cell death in cancers, particularly by affecting mechanisms like apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis. Furthermore, pharmacological compounds and small molecules have demonstrated the potential to modulate Wnt signaling in cancer therapy. Given its impact, Wnt expression can also serve as a prognostic marker and a factor influencing survival outcomes in human cancers.

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a frequent and aggressive digestive system cancer with a very poor prognosis. The best chance for recovery lies in early surgical removal of the tumor. Unfortunately, because PC often develops without noticeable symptoms, diagnosis is frequently delayed. Limited treatment options, the metastasis potential of pancreatic cancer cells, and its generally poor prognosis mean that patients are often diagnosed late, significantly reducing the effectiveness of treatment. Consequently, there's a critical need for new biomarkers and technologies to improve early detection through screening. Recently, the liquid biopsy has developed as a powerful means for detecting and monitoring cancer at the molecular level. Its advantages include the ease and non-invasive nature of sample collection and its ability to reflect the dynamic changes within a tumor. Platelets, the second most numerous type of blood cell, offer a particularly promising source for liquid biopsy. It is known that cancer affects various aspects of platelets, including their number, size, activation state, and the proteins and RNA they contain. However, the full implications of these changes for cancer detection have not yet been fully integrated into routine clinical practice. Platelets have a unique ability to captivate nucleic acids and proteins from their surroundings, and they alter their transcriptome in response to external signals. This leads to the development of tumor-educated platelets (TEPs). Liquid biopsies that utilize TEP biomarkers hold considerable potential for screening, early detection, prognosis, guiding personalized treatment strategies, ongoing monitoring of the disease, and predicting recurrence. Encouraging results from preclinical studies have highlighted the potential of platelets as a novel liquid biopsy source for a wide range of cancers. This review will explore the potential of using platelets as a liquid biopsy method, specifically for pancreatic cancer.

Aims:This study aimed to examine the changes in gene expression profiles of the bladder cancer cell line (HTB-9) after exposure with nanoliposomes (NLs) containing antisense miR-21, antisense miR-373, or a combination of both antisense miR-21 and antisense miR-373 oligonucleotides. Methods:The sequence of miR-21 and miR-373 was obtained from the NCBI, and the optimal corresponding antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) were selected and synthesized using the Oligowalk online server. After encapsulating the ASOs in liposomes and characterizing them, the liposomal ASOs were incubated with the target cells for 24 h at 37 °C. Following incubation, total RNA was extracted, and cDNA was synthesized. The expression levels of miR-21, miR-373, and eight additional core genes (STK38L: Serine/threonine-protein kinase 38-like; PCDH19: Protocadherin-19; YOD1: Ubiquitin thioesterase OTU1; PRDM11: PR domain-containing protein 11; CROT: Peroxisomal carnitine O-octanoyltransferase; LATS2: Serine/threonine-protein kinase; ZNF845: Zinc finger protein 845; ZC3H6: Zinc finger CCCH domain-containing protein 6) were then analyzed using quantitative Reverse Transcriptase - PCR (qRT-PCR). Results:ASOmiR-21 (AUCUCAUGGCAACACCAGU) and ASOmiR-373 (AAGUGCUUCGAUUUUGGGG) nucleotides were used in this study, respectively. Data analysis revealed that the expression levels of miR-21 and miR-373 were significantly reduced in HTB-9 cells exposed to nanoliposomal ASOs (NL-ASOs) with sizes ranging from 100 ± 5 to 260 ± 10 nm, compared to the control groups. Furthermore, HTB-9 cells exposed simultaneously to both liposomal ASOs (NL-ASOmiR-21+ASOmiR-373) exhibited a greater reduction in miR-21 and miR-373 expression. Additionally, all studied genes (STK38L, PCDH19, YOD1, PRDM11, CROT, LATS2, ZNF845, ZC3H6) showed significant decreases in expression in HTB-9 cells exposed to NL-ASOs across all experimental designs. Conclusions:The results demonstrated that miR-21 and miR-373 play crucial roles in gene expression and that their inhibition can significantly impact the expression profile of a gene network in bladder cancer. Therefore, to regulate the expression of a gene network in bladder cancer, we can use antimir technology as an effective strategy.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. Around 1.8 million people were diagnosed with CRC in 2018, and 881,000 died. The limitations of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as the uncertainty of CRC-specific therapies, encourage the development of alternative CRC prevention, treatment, and control measures. Probiotics are being studied as a strategy for preventing and treating CRC due to their potential health benefits. Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) shows promise in reducing tumor growth and cancer cell survival in CRC, according to recent studies. Due to the varying efficiency of probiotics depending on the specific strain, substantial research has been conducted on the L. casei strains to explore their potential anticancer effects in CRC. In this study, we aimed to conduct a systematic review of exploring the various mechanisms of L. casei strains to facilitate the development of effective probiotic supplements to complement standard CRC therapy. We conducted a meticulous search on Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Initial research resulted in 433 records, from which 412 papers were excluded by reason. The remaining 21 papers were categorized into four topics. These papers discuss several mechanisms involved in anticancer properties against CRC, including apoptosis induction and antiproliferation activity, immunomodulation, gut microbiome, intestinal barrier function modulation, and detoxifying carcinogens. Our findings suggest that using the potential strains of L. casei in combination therapy and targeted therapy, along with conventional drugs, could be a promising approach against CRC.

Immunotoxins are genetically engineered recombinant proteins consisting of a targeting moiety, such as an antibody, and a cytotoxic toxin moiety of microbial origin. Pseudomonas exotoxin A and diphtheria toxin (DT) have been abundantly used in immunotoxins, with the latter applied as the toxin moiety of the FDA-approved drug Denileukin diftitox (ONTAK®). However, the use of immunotoxins provokes an adverse immune response in the host body against the toxin moiety, limiting their efficacy. In silico approaches have received increasing attention in protein engineering. In this study, the epitopes responsible for immunogenicity were identified through multiple platforms. By subtracting conserved and ligand-binding residues, K33, T111, and E112 were identified as common epitopes across all platforms. Substitution analysis evaluated alternative residues regarding their impact on protein stability, considering 19 different amino acid substitutions. Among the mutants explored, the T111A-E112G mutant exhibited the most destabilizing substitution for DT, thereby reducing immunogenicity. Finally, a 3D model of the mutant was generated and verified. The model was then docked with its native ligand NADH, and the complex's molecular behavior was simulated using molecular dynamics.

Background:Recently, there has been a growing amount of data suggesting the significance of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in controlling cellular biological processes and influencing the progression of cancer. Changes in the methylation of promoter regions in these lncRNA genes can interfere with their expression and functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the methylation status of SEPT9 and LINC00473 genes in plasma for the non-invasive early detection of polyps. Materials and Methods:In this study, 27 individuals with low-risk polyps (LRP), 27 with high-risk polyps (HRP), and 26 healthy controls were enrolled. The quantitative methylation levels of specific sites in SEPT9 and LINC00473 genes were examined in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) extracted from the plasma of all participants using a methylation-quantification endonuclease-resistant DNA (MethyQESD) method. Results:Increased methylation percentages of both SEPT9 and LINC00473 (LINC00473_1 and LINC00473_2) were observed in individuals with LRP and HRP. The combination of SEPT9 and LINC00473_2 improved the diagnostic power and significance (AUC = 0.822; 95% CI: 0.696 to 0.912, P < 0.001) with sensitivity of 69% (95% CI: 49-85%) and specificity of 96% (95 CI: 80-99%) for LRP. A combination of SEPT9 and LINC00473_1 showed an AUC of 0.925 (95% CI: 0.826 to 0.978, P < 0.001) with a sensitivity of 88% (95% CI: 72-97%) and specificity of 96% (95 CI: 80-99%) for HRP. Conclusions:LINC00473 can enhance the specificity of SEPT9 methylation-specific detection of precancerous lesions. The combined detection of SEPT9 and LINC00473 offers a simple and accurate screening tool for polyp detection, showing promise for the early non-invasive detection of CRC and associated precancerous lesions.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Advanced disease often proves resistant to conventional therapies, thereby driving the intensive search for targeted therapies. Glypican-3 (GPC3), a well-validated, signature tumor antigen in HCC, has emerged as an attractive therapeutic target with high potential for precision oncology. Current research strategies for developing novel GPC3-targeted therapeutics are highly diverse, encompassing cellular immunotherapies (e.g., CAR-T and NK cell therapies), antibody-based agents, immunotoxins, peptide vaccines, gene therapies, and nanoparticle-mediated drug delivery systems. Despite promising preclinical and clinical developments, the clinical translation of GPC3-targeted therapies is limited by challenges such as inadequate tumor penetration, immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and heterogeneous antigen expression. Consequently, recent research has increasingly shifted toward combination strategies. A growing body of experimental and early clinical data indicates that GPC3-targeted agents synergize effectively with a broad range of co-treatments, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, antiangiogenics, immune modulators, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and local therapies to enhance antitumoral efficacy. In this review, we examine the potential of these multimodal strategies to develop more effective therapeutic approaches for HCC. Future studies should therefore focus on optimizing these combination regimens by incorporating personalized treatment strategies to achieve durable clinical outcomes.

Background & Objective:Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, recently recognized as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is a key factor in the development of chronic liver disease and the progression of liver fibrosis. It plays a significant role in increasing the risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Given the rapid developments in this field, keeping information up-to-date is essential to prevent misconceptions and ineffective decision-making. This study employs a scientometric approach to review scientific literature and analyze recent findings, offering a comprehensive overview of the current state of research in this field. Methods:In this approach, we explored data related to publication metrics, public perceptions, scientific conference, mobile apps, AI tools, and new medications. This was done using a set of keywords, including "Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease," "Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease," "Mobile application," and "Artificial intelligence." Results and Conclusion:This research highlights significant scientific advances in the field of MASLD, including major scientific meetings, highly cited publications, and the latest FDA-approved therapies. In addition, it examines emerging digital tools and public search frameworks, providing a structured picture of recent developments. These findings provide a comprehensive view of the dynamic MASLD research landscape and emphasize the roles of AI, mobile apps, and emerging therapies in its management.

Background Autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) are increasing and common forms of chronic liver disease (CLD) with different clinical responses and characteristics which can result in cirrhosis. This study aimed to investigate the natural history and characteristics of AILD in an Iranian population. Methods Patients with AILD [Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH), Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) and Overlap Syndrome (OS)] referred to Middle East Liver Diseases (MELD) center, Tehran, Iran, between January 2002 and December 2022 were included in this retrospective cohort study. The main features of natural history (the trends of liver functional tests (LFT), Auto-Antibodies, response to treatment and cirrhotic status) along with demographic data were studied. Results Two hundred sixty-five patients (160 (60.4%) AIH, 37 (14.0%) PBC, 20 (7.5%) PSC, 48 (18.1%) overlap syndrome) with a median follow-up time of 5 years (IQR 4 to 8 years) were included. Baseline laboratory tests revealed that patients with AIH exhibit elevated transaminase levels. However, patients suffering from PBC and PSC displayed increased alkaline phosphatase levels. Conversely, in overlap syndrome patients, both transaminases and alkaline phosphatase were observed at high levels. Autoantibodies represented themselves as important diagnostic markers for the AIH and PBC but not for PSC. The complete response occurred in 112 (70%) of and 28 (58.4%) patients with AIH and overlap syndrome respectively and 21 patients 11 (6.9%) of AIH and 10 (20.8%) of overlap syndrome) were non-responders. Other patients in these two categories were considered as insufficient responders. On the other side, 32 (91.9%) and 8 (40%) of patients with PBC and PSC biochemically responded to Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA). Unpredictably, cirrhosis regression was observed in some AIH and PBC patients. Conclusion Appropriate medication management for AILD patients may leads to regression from cirrhosis and improvement of manifestations; while discontinuation of medication may cause relapses. However, patient suffering from PSC showed limited response to treatment.

Liver diseases are a significant global health issue, characterized by elevated levels of disorder and death. The substantial impact of ageing on liver diseases and their prognosis is evident. Multiple processes are involved in the ageing process, which ultimately leads to functional deterioration of this organ. The process of liver ageing not only renders the liver more susceptible to diseases but also compromises the integrity of other organs due to the liver’s critical function in metabolism regulation. A growing body of research suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant role in the majority of pathophysiological pathways. They regulate gene expression through a variety of interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs), messenger RNAs (mRNAs), DNA, or proteins. LncRNAs exert a major influence on the progression of age-related liver diseases through the regulation of cell proliferation, necrosis, apoptosis, senescence, and metabolic reprogramming. A concise overview of the current understanding of lncRNAs and their potential impact on the development of age-related liver diseases will be provided in this mini-review.

Background: Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are currently under investigation as a potential therapeutic option for COVID-19. Clinical trials are examining their efficacy in lowering mortality rates and the requirement for mechanical ventilation (MV). It is necessary to conduct a thorough examination of current randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in order to provide more definitive evidence on their effectiveness for COVID-19 patients. This metaanalysis aims to analyze RCT results on the impact of three mAbs (Anakinra, Sarilumab, Tocilizumab) on COVID19 patient outcomes. Method: The meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible RCTs were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of three mAbs in treating patients with COVID-19. These trials were identified by searching various databases up to April 1, 2024. In total, this meta-analysis incorporated 19 trials with a total of 8097 patients. Pooled relative risk and studies' heterogeneity were assessed by statistical analysis, which involved the use of fixed effects models and subgroup analysis. Result: The administration of mAbs (Tocilizumab, Sarilumab, and Anakinra) showed various results in the management of COVID-19 patients. While the overall pooled data did not reveal a significant reduction in the need for MV, the study found that the use of mAbs was associated with a decreased risk of clinical worsening (pooled relative risk: 0.75, 95 % CI [0.59, 0.94], p = 0.01) and an increased probability of discharging COVID-19 patients by day 28 or 29 (pooled relative risk: 1.17, 95 % CI [1.10, 1.26]). Notably, the subgroup analysis revealed that Tocilizumab had a significant effect in reducing the risk of clinical worsening compared to Sarilumab. Additionally, the analysis of mortality outcomes indicated that the administration of mAbs had the potential to decrease the overall risk of mortality over time (pooled RR: 0.90, 95 % CI [0.83, 0.97], p = 0.01). Conclusion: In summary, our meta-analysis suggests that mAbs, particularly Tocilizumab, may play a valuable role in managing COVID-19 by reducing the risk of clinical worsening, improving hospital discharge rates, and decreasing mortality.

Background Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a rod-shaped, gram-negative, microaerophilic bacterium that can be identified by gram staining. Its relationship with cancer is significant since it is involved in approximately 80% of gastric cancers and 5.5% of all malignant cancers. Two lines of treatment have been defined for H. pylori, but almost 40% of patients do not respond to the first line. Recent trials have investigated oral Immunotherapy as a new treatment method. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the potential effects of oral Immunotherapy on eradication rate of H. pylori in human studies. Methods The systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched online databases, including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science (ISI). Our search strategy was limited to English articles and studies on human populations that use oral immunotherapy for H. pylori. Results The total number of primary research records in different databases was 2775. After removing duplicate articles (n = 870), we excluded 1829 for reasons including non-human studies, irrelevance to our study objective, non-English language, or lack of information. Of the remaining 76 articles, only seven had sufficient information, and the rest were excluded. The studies were divided into two groups: those that used bovine antibody and those that used immunoglobulin Y to eradicate H. pylori. Conclusion In the group of Immunoglobulin Y, three out of four studies suggest that using Immunoglobulin Y for the treatment of H. pylori infection is significant. However, the group using bovine antibody for the treatment of H. pylori infection has various results, as two out of three studies concluded that bovine antibody therapy is not significant.

Background:Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates. Liquid biopsies, specifically analyzing circulating tumor-educated platelets (TEPs), have emerged as a promising tool for early CRC detection and monitoring treatment efficacy. This study investigated the expression levels of two specific circRNAs, hsa_circ_0004771 and hsa_circ_0019120, in the platelets of patients with CRC, advanced polyps, and healthy controls. Methods:Blood samples were obtained from 25 individuals with CRC, 25 individuals with advanced polyps, and 25 healthy controls. Platelet-derived total RNA was extracted, and expression analysis was conducted using reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Differential expression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed using GraphPad Prism. Results:Both circRNAs were found to be upregulated in platelets from individuals with advanced polyps and CRC compared to healthy individuals. However, the upregulation was statistically significant only for hsa_circ_0004771 in CRC patients (p-value = 0.0036) and for hsa_circ_0019120 in both advanced polyp (p-value = 0.0175) and CRC patients (p-value = 0.0356). The combined analysis of both circRNAs achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.8348 (95% CI: 0.7131 to 0.9565) with a sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 80% (p-value = 0.0002). Conclusions:This study showed that hsa_circ_0004771 and hsa_circ_0019120 dysregulated in both CRC and polyps and have potential as a novel diagnostic biomarker of CRC.

Background Patients who have been infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) are susceptible to developing liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The objective of this systematic review was to comprehensively scrutinize the existing evidence concerning the association between host genetic polymorphisms and HBV-associated LC. Methods We searched databases of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for relevant articles published from building databases to 25 October 2023. Result We detected 104 relevant articles, relating to 84 individuals genes. Nine genes had the strong evidence of correlation, including IL-10, IL-18, IL-1B, TGF- β, TLR3, STAT4, IL-1RN, Tim3, and IFN receptors. A positive correlation was found for 33 genes but this data had not yet been replicated, 11 genes had limited or mixed evidence of a correlation, and 34 genes indicated no correlation. IL-10 and IL-18 had the most evidence of correlation. There was a notable amount of diversity in both the design and method of studies and data quality. Conclusion IL-10 and IL-18 had the most evidence of correlation. There was a notable amount of diversity in both the design and method of studies and data quality. It is of necessary to take into account the fundamental mechanism behind these associations and discern those that are confounded by the coexistence of other LC/HCC risk factors and response to therapy. These results are expected to guide future studies on the genetic susceptibility of HBV-related LC/HCC.

Background: Vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a relatively new bariatric procedure with lower morbidity and mortality than other weight loss surgeries. The predictive values of preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy for detecting histopathological abnormalities prior to sleeve gastrectomy have not been clearly described. This study aimed to determine the negative predictive value of preoperative endoscopic biopsies for detecting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and other pathological findings. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined 102 patients who underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy from January 2023 to November 2023. Preoperative histopathology of esophagogastroduodenoscopy specimens was compared to postoperative ones for H. pylori infection, gastritis, atrophy, and metaplasia. Moreover, gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms were postoperatively followed for 6 months. Results: The negative predictive value of preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy for detecting H. pylori infection, gastritis, metaplasia and atrophy were 95 %, 79 %, 93 %, and 98 %, respectively. In an overall view, for all pathologies, the negative predictive value was 53.4 %. Moderate gastritis and focal metaplasia were significantly underdiagnosed preoperatively (p < 0.001). H. pylori infection and focal metaplasia were significantly more prevalent in females after surgery (p < 0.001). H. pylori infection and gastritis were positively correlated with increased postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Preoperative endoscopy has a high negative predictive value for detecting H. pylori infection, atrophy, and metaplasia but has suboptimal values for gastritis.

Background: Duct to mucosa Pancreatico-gastrostomy (DMPG) is a method for reconstruction of pancreatic mass following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD). There are still controversies about the benefits of this surgical technique compared to the old ones. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of DMPG reconstruction following PD operation. Method: Through a prospective observational setting, 164 patients, undergoing PD surgery, with diagnosed pancreatic head or peri-ampullary cancer, were enrolled. A pylorus-preserving PD and DMPG were done for all patients to reconstruct the pancreatic mass. Patients were followed up to a mean of 21.06±14.12 months. Demographic data, risk factors, tumoral staging, and postoperative follow-up data were collected for the analytic study. Results: The mean survival of the patients was 21.06±14.23 months after surgery. DGE (delayed gastric emptying) (34.75%), pancreatic fistula (21.34%), bile duct fistula (7.31%), and hemorrhage (5.5%) were recorded as the most important complication in patients. Some post-operative complications were significantly observed in patients with diabetes mellitus (pancreatic fistula, increased amylase, and DGE), Smokers (bile duct fistula, hemorrhage, and increased Amylase), and the elders (bile duct fistula) (p-value 0.05). Conclusions: Although our results indicate that DMPG reconstruction is a safe technique, our findings did not confirm the priority of this method over the older techniques.