Role of the lncRNA/Wnt signaling pathway in digestive system cancer: a literature review.

The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)/Wingless (Wnt) axis is often dysregulated in digestive system tumors impacting critical cellular processes. Abnormal expression of specific Wnt-related lncRNAs such as LINC01606 (promotes motility), SLCO4A1-AS1 (promotes motility), and SH3BP5-AS1 (induces chemoresistance), plays a crucial role in these malignancies. These lncRNAs are promising targets for cancer diagnosis and therapy, offering new treatment perspectives. The lncRNAs, NEF and GASL1, differentially expressed in plasma show diagnostic potential for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and gastric cancer, respectively. Additionally, Wnt pathway inhibitors like XAV-939 have demonstrated preclinical efficacy, underscoring their therapeutic potential. This review comprehensively analyzes the lncRNA/Wnt axis, highlighting its impact on cell proliferation, motility, and chemoresistance. By elucidating the complex molecular mechanisms of the lncRNA/Wnt axis, we aim to identify potential therapeutic targets for digestive system tumors to pave the way for the development of targeted treatment strategies.

Visceral to subcutaneous fat area ratio predicts severe abdominal adhesions in definitive surgery for anastomotic fistula after small intestine resection.

Abdominal adhesions manifests following abdominal infections triggered by intestinal fistulas. The severity of such adhesions depends on the extent of fiber deposition and peritoneal fibrinolysis following peritoneal injury, which may be influenced by sustained inflammation within the abdominal cavity. In this regard, the visceral-to-subcutaneous fat area (VFA/SFA) ratio has been implicated as a potential marker of inflammation. This study aimed to explore the relationship between VFA/SFA and abdominal adhesions. This multicenter study was conducted across four tertiary institutions and involved patients who had undergone definitive surgery (DS) for intestinal fistula from January 2009 and October 2023. The presence of abdominal adhesions was determined intraoperatively. VFA/SFA was investigated as a potential risk factor for severe adhesions. The study comprised 414 patients with a median age of 50 [interquartile range (IQR) 35-66] years and a median body mass index of 20.0 (IQR 19.2-22.4) kg/m2, including 231 males with a median VFA/SFA of 1.0 (IQR 0.7-1.2) and 183 females a median VFA/SFA of 0.8 (0.6-1.1). VFA/SFA was associated with severe abdominal adhesions in males [odds ratio (OR) = 3.34, 95% CI 1.14-9.80, p = 0.03] and females (OR = 2.99, 95% CI 1.05-8.53, p = 0.04). J-shaped association between VFA/SFA ratio and severe adhesions was revealed in both sex. The increasing trend can be revealed when OR more than 0.8, and 0.6 in males and females respectively. Preoperative VFA/SFA demonstrates predictive value for statues of severe abdominal adhesions in DS for anastomotic fistula after small intestine resection.

Long-term systemic effects of metabolic bariatric surgery: A multidisciplinary perspective.

Background: Obesity is a global health crisis with profound implications on various body systems, contributing to a series of comorbidities. Metabolic Bariatric Surgery (MBS) has emerged as an effective treatment option for severe obesity, with significant weight reduction and potential systemic physiological alterations. Objectives: This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the long-term effects of MBS on a wide array of body systems, including the heart, liver, kidneys, reproductive system, skin, lungs, digestive tract, pancreas, and blood, as well as related cancers of these organs. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in academic databases (PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and Scopus) for observational studies and reviews published between July 2000 and December 2023, investigating the association between MBS and the subsequent function of different organ systems. High-quality studies were prioritized to ensure reliable evidence synthesis. Results: MBS has demonstrated favorable outcomes in reducing cardiovascular disease risk, improving cardiac function, and alleviating heart failure symptoms. It has also been associated with improved respiratory function, remission of obstructive sleep apnea, and reduced cancer incidence and mortality. Additionally, MBS has shown benefits in managing gastrointestinal disorders, enhancing glycemic control, and promoting pancreatic beta-cell regeneration in type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, some methods of MBS are associated with a higher risk of cholelithiasis, GERD, and pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Conclusion: MBS has far-reaching systemic effects beyond weight loss, offering potential long-term benefits for various organ systems and comorbidities associated with obesity. For many patients with severe obesity, the potential benefits of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (MBS) can outweigh the associated risks. However, careful evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional is crucial to determine candidacy and ensure a successful outcome. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the long-term impacts and tailor personalized treatment approaches.

Bowel function, quality of life, and mental health of patients with high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or T1 colorectal cancer after organ-preserving versus organ-resection surgeries: a cross-sectional study at a Chinese tertiary care center.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine the postoperative intestinal functioning, quality of life (QoL), and psychological well-being of patients treated either with organ-preserving surgery (OPS) or organ-resection surgery (ORS) for high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HIN) or T1 colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a single tertiary care center. In total, 175 eligible individuals with T1 CRC or HIN were divided into the OPS (n = 103) or ORS (n = 72) group based on whether the relevant segment of the intestine was preserved or resected. Intestinal function was evaluated using low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) scores. QoL was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ)-C30 and EORTC-QLQ-CR29. Psychological status was evaluated using the Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form and the Self-rating Anxiety and Depression scales. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to minimize the influence of potential confounders. RESULTS: Overall, 130 of 175 patients (74.29%) responded to the questionnaires; 56 and 74 were in the ORS and OPS groups, respectively. Thirty-five patient pairs were successfully matched through PSM. The mild and severe LARS rates were significantly higher in the ORS group than in the OPS group (P < 0.001). The EORTC-QLQ-C30 and EORTC-QLQ-CR29 scores revealed significantly better physical, role, and emotional functioning and an overall improved state of health (with multiple reduced symptom scores) in the OPS group than in the ORS group (P < 0.05). Significantly more patients were depressed in the ORS group than in the OPS group (P = 0.034), whereas anxiety or fear of disease progression did not differ significantly between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: OPS for the treatment of HIN or T1 CRC was found to be more advantageous for patients in terms of improved intestinal function, QoL, and psychological status than was ORS.

Application of network pharmacology in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of digestive system diseases.

With the general improvement in living standards in recent years, people's living habits, including their dietary habits, have changed. More people around the world do not follow a healthy diet, leading to an increase in morbidity and even mortality due to digestive system diseases, which shows an increasing trend every year. The advantage of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in treating digestive system diseases is evident. Consequently, the mechanisms of action of single Chinese herbs and compound Chinese medicines have become the focus of research. The research method of the network pharmacology system was highly consistent with the holistic concept of TCM, and provided a new perspective and theoretical basis for basic research on digestive system diseases. This article summarizes the common databases currently used in research on TCM. It also briefly introduces the basic methods and technologies of network pharmacology studies. It also summarizes the advancements of network pharmacology technology through a comprehensive literature search on PubMed. Based on this analysis, we further explored the role of TCM in treating digestive system diseases, including chronic gastritis, gastric cancer, ulcerative colitis, and liver cirrhosis. This study provides new ideas and references for treating digestive system diseases with TCM in the future and serves as a reference for relevant researchers.

[Clinical Features and Prognosis of Secondary Intestinal Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma].

OBJECTIVE: To explore and analyze the clinical features and prognostic factors of secondary intestinal diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (SI-DLBCL), in order to provide reference for the basic research and clinical diagnosis and treatment of secondary lymphoma of rare sites in the field of hematology. METHODS: The clinical data of 138 patients with SI-DLBCL admitted to Fujian Medical University Union Hospital from June 2011 to June 2022 were collected and sorted, the clinical and pathological features, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis were analyzed. Cox regression risk model was used to conduct univariate and multivariate analysis on the prognostic risk factors. RESULTS: Among the 138 patients with SI-DLBCL included in this study, 85 (61.59%) were male, 53 (38.41%) were female, the median age of onset was 59.5 (16-84) years, the clinical manifestations lacked specificity, the first-line treatment regimen was mainly chemotherapy (67.39%), 94 cases (68.12%) received chemotherapy alone, 40 cases (28.98%) were treated with chemotherapy combined with surgery, and 4 cases (2.90%) were treated with surgery alone. The median follow-up time was 72 (1-148) months. Among the 138 patients with SI-DLBCL, 79 (57.25%) survived, 34 (24.64%) died, 25 cases (18.12%) lost to follow-up, the PFS rates of 1-year, 3-year and 5-year were 57.97%, 49.28% and 32.61%, and the OS rates of 1-year, 3-year and 5-year were 60.14%, 54.35% and 34.06%, respectively. The results of univariate Cox regression analysis showed that age, Lugano stage and IPI score were the influencing factors of OS in SI-DLBCL patients, and age, Lugano stage and IPI score were the influencing factors of PFS in SI-DLBCL patients. The results of multivariate Cox analysis showed that Lugano stage was an independent prognostic factor affecting OS and PFS in SI-DLBCL patients. CONCLUSION: Patients with SI-DLBCL are more common in middle-aged and elderly men, and the early clinical manifestations lack specificity, and the first-line treatment regimen is mainly R-CHOP chemotherapy, and Lugano stage is an independent prognostic factor affecting OS and PFS in SI-DLBCL patients.

Bibliometric analysis of research on digestive system tumors and depression.

Background: Malignant tumors of the digestive system pose a serious threat to human health due to their highly malignant nature. Depression, as the most common psychiatric symptom of digestive system tumors, has attracted much attention regarding its potential relationship with these tumors. A thorough investigation into the connection between digestive system tumors and depression is extremely important for strengthening patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes. Methods: From 2014 to 2023, we conducted a literature search using specific keywords in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) and performed visual analysis of the selected literature using Microsoft Excel, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer software. In this study, we analyzed countries, institutions, authors, journals, and keywords. Results: A total of 384 research articles on the relationship between digestive system tumors and depression were identified. The number of publications showed a gradual increase over time. In terms of disciplinary distribution, Oncology, Health Care Sciences Services, and Medicine General Internal ranked top in terms of publication volume. In terms of geographical distribution, China and the United States were the countries contributing the most publications. Additionally, Maastricht University contributed the most publications. Regarding authors, Beekman, Aartjan T.F. and Dekker, Joost had the highest number of publications, while Zigmond, A.S. had the most citations. It is worth mentioning that Supportive Care in Cancer was the journal with the most publications in this field. In terms of keyword analysis, research mainly focused on mechanisms and treatment strategies related to the relationship between digestive system tumors and depression. Conclusion: The relationship between digestive system tumors and depression has become a new research hotspot in recent years, offering new directions for future research. This research reveals novel perspectives on comprehending the connection between the two, which can guide future research and practice.

A microfluidic model for infantile in vitro digestions: Characterization of lactoferrin digestion.

We present a miniaturized, flow-through model for infantile in vitro digestions, following up on our previously published in vitro digestive system for adults. Microfluidic 'chaotic' mixers were employed as microreactors to help emulate the biochemical processing going on in the infantile stomach and intestine. Simulated digestive fluids were introduced into these micromixers, and the mixtures were incubated for 60 min after both the gastric phase and the intestinal phase. The pH of the infantile stomach was set at 5.3, which is higher than that of adults. This leads to entirely different patterns of digestion for the milk protein, lactoferrin, used in our study as a model compound. It was found that lactoferrin remained undigested as it passed through the gastric phase and reached the intestinal phase intact, unlike in adult digestions. In the intestinal phase, lactoferrin was rapidly digested. Our miniaturized, infantile, in vitro digestive system requires much less labor and chemicals than standard approaches, and shows great potential for future automation.

Status of the oral environment in patients with digestive system tumors during the perioperative period.

BACKGROUND: Surgery is an important treatment modality for patients with digestive system tumors, and perioperative management is crucial for the patients' recovery and quality of life. During the perioperative period, significant changes can occur in the oral environment of patients, such as dry mouth, mucosal ulceration, and oral infections. These issues not only cause discomfort to the patients but may also affect postoperative recovery and treatment outcomes. Therefore, it is essential to investigate and analyze the oral environment during the perioperative period in patients with digestive system tumors. AIM: This study aims to investigate the oral health status in patients with digestive system tumors during the perioperative period and analyze the influencing factors. METHODS: In this retrospective study, a total of 242 patients with digestive system tumors admitted to The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Xinjiang Medical University from September 2021 to June 2023 were selected as the study population (patient group). During the same period, 245 healthy volunteers who received oral examinations were selected as the healthy group. The study compared the oral hygiene environment of the two groups, including the Dental Plaque Index (DI), Calculus Index (CI), and Periodontal Disease Index (PDI). Measurements were taken at admission (T0), 1 hour before surgery (T1), and 3 days after surgery (T2). Based on the PDI index, the patient group was divided into a periodontal disease group (PDI ≥ 3, n = 196) and a periodontal healthy group (PDI < 3, n = 46). The risk factors for the development of periodontal disease in digestive system tumor patients were analyzed, considering variables such as gender, age, BMI, smoking status, alcohol consumption frequency, monthly income, tumor type, oral self-care habits, low-grade inflammation, and nutritional status. RESULTS: The DI, CI and PDI indexes in patient group were higher than those in healthy group (3.23±0.64 vs 1.46±0.43, 1.92±0.46 vs 1.21±0.41, 3.83±0.79 vs 2.65±0.69, all P < 0.05). DI index, CI index and PDI index at T1 and T2 were significantly lower than those at T0 (P < 0.05), and these indices at T2 were slightly higher than T1, but the difference was not statistically significant (all P > 0.05). Multivariate analyses identified high levels of high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein [OR: 15.070 (1.611-140.951)], low levels of hemoglobin [OR: 0.239 (0.058-0.981)], and presence of dental caries [OR: 246.737 (1.160-52464.597)] as risk factors associated with periodontal disease in patients with digestive system tumors. CONCLUSION: It is important to enhance the attention and management of the oral environment during the perioperative period for patients with digestive system tumors.

Malignant recto-jejunal fistula: a rare case report.

Introduction and importance: Malignancy can lead to colo-enteric fistulas. A malignant fistula between the rectum and the jejunum is a rare occurrence. Case presentation: A 60-year-old female suffered from diarrhea, vomiting, and epigastric pain for 4 months. After demonstration of a dilated rectum with heterogeneous collection on ultrasonography, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) along with rectal contrast was done, which showed heterogeneously enhancing asymmetrical circumferential thickening of the proximal rectum, including rectosigmoid junction, collection in the rectum and two recto-jejunal fistulous tracts. Colonoscopy showed ulcero-proliferative growth in the rectum with two fistulous tracts communicating with the jejunum. Biopsy from the growth indicated a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Conservative and palliative treatment was provided. Clinical discussion: Clinical features of colo-enteric fistulas can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. The patient may be asymptomatic in some cases. Options for diagnosis include barium studies, enteroscopy, colonoscopy, CECT, and computed tomography enterography (CTE). Malignant bowel fistula is associated with serious complications resulting in high morbidity and mortality rates. Surgical resection and fistula repair are the mainstay of curative treatment. Conclusion: Long-standing gastrointestinal symptoms like chronic diarrhea in the elderly should be investigated with imaging modalities like CECT. Early detection with imaging can reduce debilitating metabolic and nutritional deficiencies and improve patient's morbidity and mortality.

Efficacy and safety of a novel TKI (anlotinib) for the treatment of advanced digestive system neoplasms: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of anlotinib targeted therapy for the treatment of patients with advanced digestive system neoplasms (DSNs). Methods: Clinical trials were extracted from PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and the Wanfang database up to October 2023. Outcome measures, including therapeutic efficacy, quality of life (QOL) and adverse events, were extracted and evaluated. Results: Twenty trials, including 1,613 advanced DSNs patients, were included. The results indicated that, compared with conventional treatment alone, the combination of anlotinib targeted therapy with conventional treatment significantly improved the patients' 6-months overall survival (OS, OR=1.76, CI=1.53 to 2.02, P<0.00001), overall response (ORR, OR=1.76, CI=1.53 to 2.02, P<0.00001) and disease control rate (DCR, OR=1.51, 95% CI=1.25 to 1.84, P<0.0001). Moreover, the group that received the combined therapy had higher rates of hypertension (P<0.00001), proteinuria (P<0.00001), fatigue (P<0.00001), diarrhea (P<0.00001), hypertriglyceridemia (P=0.02), alanine aminotransfease (ALT)increased (P=0.004), aspartate transaminase (AST) increased (P=0.006), anorexia (P<0.00001), weight loss (P=0.002), abdominal pain (P=0.0006), hypothyroidism (P=0.02), prolonged QT interval (P=0.04). Analyses of other adverse events, such as gastrointestinal reaction, leukopenia, and neutropenia, did not reveal significant differences (P>0.05). Conclusion: The combination of anlotinib targeted therapy and conventional treatment is more effective for DSNs treatment than conventional treatment alone. However, this combined treatment could lead to greater rates of hypertension, albuminuria and hand-foot syndrome. Therefore, the benefits and risks should be considered before treatment.

Correlation between inflammatory cytokines and the likelihood of developing multiple types of digestive system cancers: A Mendelian randomization study.

OBJECTIVE: Inflammatory cytokines have been linked to digestive system cancers, yet their exact causal connection remains uncertain. Consequently, we conducted a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to gauge how inflammatory cytokines are linked to the risk of five prevalent digestive system cancers (DSCs). METHODS: We collected genetic variation data for 41 inflammatory cytokines from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and the results data for five common diseases from the Finnish database. Our primary analytical approach involved employing the inverse-variance weighted, residual sum (IVW) method, complemented by the MR-Egger method, the weighted median method, simple mode analysis, and weighted mode analysis as supplementary analytical techniques. Furthermore, we conducted multiple sensitivity analyses. RESULTS: Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), and interleukin (IL)-18 showed a negative association with the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma. Conversely, TRAIL was inversely linked to the risk of gastric cancer, while IL-16 exhibited a positive correlation with gastric cancer risk. Stem cell factor (SCF) acted as a protective factor against pancreatic cancer. For colorectal cancer, IL-7, IL-9, IL-13, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were identified as risk factors. Notably, our results did not indicate a significant correlation between inflammatory cytokines and the risk of esophageal cancer. CONCLUSION: Our research unveils potential connections between 41 inflammatory cytokines and the risk of five common DSCs through a MR analysis. These associations offer valuable insights that could aid in the development of diagnostic biomarkers and the identification of novel therapeutic targets for DSCs.

Endoscopic assessment of failed fundoplications differs between endoscopists.

BACKGROUND: Despite excellent long-term outcomes, a small proportion of patients who undergo fundoplication with hiatal hernia repair (laparoscopic antireflux surgery [ARS]) for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may require reoperation. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) assessment in patients presenting with symptom recurrence plays a critical role in surgical planning of redo-ARS by confirming failure of the fundoplication and revealing the pattern of failure. We aimed to compare the findings documented by external endoscopists (i.e., outside physicians) to those documented by internal endoscopists (i.e., operating foregut or thoracic surgeons) before redo-ARS. METHODS: After IRB approval, we conducted a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent redo-ARS at a tertiary surgical center between November 2016 and March 2023. Patients with both external and internal EGD reports were included, and findings from the two reports were compared. RESULTS: Of 197 patients who underwent redo-ARS, both preoperative EGD reports were available for 181 (136 [75.1%] women; median age, 61 years [IQR 53-69]; median BMI, 27.9 kg/m2 [IQR 24.9-31.3]). The median time between primary and redo-ARS was 89 months (IQR 38-153), and the median time between external and internal endoscopic evaluation was 5 months (IQR 2-12). Only 38.9% of external reports mentioned a prior fundoplication. Compared to the operating surgeons, external physicians reported a significantly lower proportion of Barrett's esophagus (52.4%, p < .001), slipped fundoplications (28.8%, p < .001), paraesophageal hernias (20.5%, p < .001), disrupted fundoplications (20%, p < .001), intrathoracic fundoplications (0%, p < .001), and twisted fundoplications (0%, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: External endoscopists' reports of failed fundoplications are often incomplete and lack relevant details. Discrepancies between nonsurgical endoscopists and experienced surgeons are likely explained by a lack of training and experience to discern and document fundoplication changes accurately. To reduce this gap, we strongly recommend the adoption of standard definitions describing post-fundoplication endoscopic changes and the inclusion of relevant training within educational programs.

Advancements in NMN biotherapy and research updates in the field of digestive system diseases.

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a crucial intermediate in NAD + synthesis, can rapidly transform into NAD + within the body after ingestion. NMN plays a pivotal role in several important biological processes, including energy metabolism, cellular aging, circadian rhythm regulation, DNA repair, chromatin remodeling, immunity, and inflammation. NMN has emerged as a key focus of research in the fields of biomedicine, health care, and food science. Recent years have witnessed extensive preclinical studies on NMN, offering valuable insights into the pathogenesis of age- and aging-related diseases. Given the sustained global research interest in NMN and the substantial market expectations for the future, here, we comprehensively review the milestones in research on NMN biotherapy over the past 10 years. Additionally, we highlight the current research on NMN in the field of digestive system diseases, identifying existing problems and challenges in the field of NMN research. The overarching aim of this review is to provide references and insights for the further exploration of NMN within the spectrum of digestive system diseases.

Clinicopathological and molecular characterization of extra-appendix goblet cell adenocarcinomas.

Goblet cell adenocarcinoma (GCA) is a distinctive type of endocrine-exocrine mixed tumor, exhibiting intermediate morphological features between neuroendocrine tumor and adenocarcinoma. It predominantly arises in the appendix, but primary extra-appendiceal GCA is extremely rare. Here, we presented six cases of primary extra-appendiceal GCA from 2016 to 2022. Notably, one case was originating in the bladder which was the first report of primary GCA to occur outside the digestive tract. The tumors frequently displayed variable goblet cell morphology, characterized by cytoplasmic mucin accumulation and basally located nucleus. Low-grade components typically exhibited glandular or clustered patterns without prominent fibrotic responses. High-grade components demonstrated cribriform, cluster and single-file arrangement accompanied by marked fibrous reactions. Immunohistochemically, the tumors showed positivity for both neuroendocrine markers（synaptophysin, chromogranin A, CD56 ）and adenoids markers（CDX-2, CK20）. Next-generation sequencing revealed the most prevalent mutated genes within GCAs were TP53. Due to their morphological and immunohistochemical similarities to primary appendiceal GCA counterparts, we propose a distinct category for extra-appendiceal Goblet cell adenocarcinoma.

South Korean first-time mothers' knowledge of digestive health problems in infancy and their utilization of health care facilities for digestive health concerns: a descriptive study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the knowledge level of first-time mothers regarding digestive health issues in infancy and to examine the utilization of healthcare facilities for such problems. METHODS: Data from 119 first-time mothers of infants under 6 months of age were analyzed. Descriptive statistics, t-test, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted using the SPSS software. RESULTS: The average correct response rate for first-time mothers' knowledge of digestive health problems in infancy was 61.9%. The highest correct response rate was observed for infantile colic, while diarrhea had the lowest. Less than 50% of mothers received education on infant digestive health problems across all categories. Among digestive health problems in infancy, diarrhea exhibited the highest rate of healthcare utilization, whereas infantile colic had the lowest. First-time mothers' knowledge of digestive health problems in infancy varied based on maternal age (t=-3.66, p<.001), education level (t=-2.26, p=.026), and planned pregnancy (t=3.24, p=.002). Moreover, mothers who received education on infant digestive health problems demonstrated better overall knowledge of digestive health problems. CONCLUSION: The rate of education regarding digestive health problems during infancy among first-time mothers was < 50%. Furthermore, mothers educated on infant digestive health issues exhibited improved knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary to provide appropriate pre-education to primiparous common gastrointestinal health issues in infants.

Microplastics - A Growing Concern as Carcinogens in Cancer Etiology: Emphasis on Biochemical and Molecular Mechanisms.

In today's world, the widespread presence of microplastics is undeniable, with concentrations found in various environments, including up to 1000 particles per liter in seawater and up to 10 particles per cubic meter in the atmosphere. Originating from diverse sources, both intentional and unintentional, these minuscule fragments, measuring less than 5 mm, pose significant threats to environmental and human health. Recent research has uncovered a concerning link between microplastics and cancer, prompting urgent investigation. Studies demonstrate microplastics can infiltrate cells, disrupt biological processes, and potentially foster carcinogenic environments. From inducing DNA damage and oxidative stress to triggering inflammatory responses and dysregulating cellular pathways, microplastics exhibit a multifaceted capability in contributing to cancer development. Furthermore, microplastics act as carriers for a range of contaminants, compounding their impact on human health. Their accumulation within tissues and organs raises concerns for short and long-term health consequences, including chronic diseases, reproductive issues, and developmental abnormalities. This review explores the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the interaction between microplastics and cellular systems, providing insights into routes of exposure and health effects, with a focus on lung, skin, and digestive system cancers. As we confront this pressing environmental and public health challenge, a deeper understanding of the microplastic-cancer relationship is crucial to safeguarding the well-being of present and future generations.

Progress on the effects and underlying mechanisms of evodiamine in digestive system diseases, and its toxicity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Evodiamine (EVO) is one of the primary components of Evodia rutaecarpa and has been found to have a positive therapeutic effect on various digestive system diseases. However, no systematic review has been conducted on the research progress and mechanisms of EVO in relation to digestive system diseases, and its toxicity. PURPOSE: This study aimed to provide a reference for future research in this field. STUDY DESIGN: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the research progress, mechanisms, and toxicity of EVO in the treatment of digestive system diseases. METHODS: Five electronic databases were utilized to search for relevant experiments. We conducted a comprehensive review and meta-analysis of the pertinent literature following the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). RESULTS: EVO's animal experiments in digestive system diseases primarily focus on colorectal cancer, gastric ulcers, liver cancer, liver fibrosis, ulcerative colitis, colitis-associated cancer, and functional gastrointestinal disorders. EVO also has positive effects on pancreatic cancer, radiation enteritis, gastric cancer, tongue squamous cancer, hepatitis B, oral cancer, and esophageal cancer in vivo. EVO's in cellular experiments primarily focus on SGC7901, HT29, HCT-116, and HepG2 cells. EVO also exhibits positive effects on SW480, LoVo, BGC-823, AGS, COLO-205, MKN45, SMMC-7721, Bel-7402, QGY7-701, PANC-1, SW1990, BxPC-3, HSC4, MC3, HONE1, and CNE1 cells in vitro. The potential common pathways include TGF-ß, PI3K-AKT, Wnt, ErbB, mTOR, MAPK, HIF-1, NOD-like receptor, NF-κB, VEGF, JAK-STAT, AMPK, Toll-like receptor, EGFR, Ras, TNF, AGE-RAGE, Relaxin, FoxO, IL-17, Hippo, and cAMP. The mechanisms of EVO on ulcerative colitis, gastric cancer, and HCT116 cells are still controversial in vivo. EVO may have a bidirectional regulatory effect on functional gastrointestinal disorders through calcium signaling. The mechanisms of EVO on HCT116, HT29, SW480, AGS, COLO-205, and SW1990 cells are still controversial in vitro. The question of whether EVO has obvious toxicity is controversial. CONCLUSION: In both cellular and animal experiments, EVO has demonstrated positive impacts on digestive system diseases. Nevertheless, additional in vivo and in vitro research is required to confirm the beneficial effects and mechanisms of EVO on digestive system diseases, as well as its potential toxicity.

The Role and Function of TRPM8 in the Digestive System.

Transient receptor potential (TRP) melastatin member 8 (TRPM8) is a non-selective cation channel that can be activated by low temperatures (8-26 °C), cooling agents (including menthol analogs such as menthol, icilin, and WS-12), voltage, and extracellular osmotic pressure changes. TRPM8 expression has been identified in the digestive system by several research teams, demonstrating its significant involvement in tissue function and pathologies of the digestive system. Specifically, studies have implicated TRPM8 in various physiological and pathological processes of the esophagus, stomach, colorectal region, liver, and pancreas. This paper aims to comprehensively outline the distinct role of TRPM8 in different organs of the digestive system, offering insights for future mechanistic investigations of TRPM8. Additionally, it presents potential therapeutic targets for treating conditions such as digestive tract inflammation, tumors, sensory and functional disorders, and other related diseases. Furthermore, this paper addresses the limitations of existing studies and highlights the research prospects associated with TRPM8.

Sarcopenia-related traits and 10 digestive system disorders: insight from genetic correlation and Mendelian randomization.

Introduction: Despite observational studies suggest hypotheses indicating a potential link, the precise causal connection between sarcopenia and digestive system illnesses has not been clearly defined. Methods: We first use Linkage Disequilibrium Score Regression (LDSC) testing to determine the genetic correlation of traits associated with sarcopenia and 10 specific gastrointestinal diseases. Subsequently, we performed a set of bidirectional Mendelian Randomization (MR) analyses to gauge the genetic inclination towards sarcopenia-related traits in relation to each gastrointestinal condition, individually, across the FinnGen, UK Biobank, and other extensive collaborative consortia. The analytical outcomes were synthesized using a fixed-effects meta-analytic model. For outcomes indicating substantial causal impacts, mediation MR analyses were executed. Additionally, a battery of sensitivity analyses was conducted to evaluate the study's strength and dependability. Results: Our findings established a strong causal link between appendicular lean mass and gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR = 0.8607; 95% CI: 0.8345-0.8877; p < 0.0001) and a noteworthy correlation with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (OR = 0.7981; 95% CI: 0.7281-0.8749; p < 0.0001), as per the meta-analysis data. We also evaluated the intermediary role of metabolic disorders in the association between appendicular lean mass and the aforementioned diseases. The intermediary effect towards gastroesophageal reflux disease is quantified as 0.0087 (95% CI, 8e-04, 0.0183), accounting for 5.9398% (95% CI, 0.5462, 12.4940%) of the overall effect. For non-alcoholic fatty liver, the intermediary impact is 0.0150 (95% CI, 0.0050, 0.0270), representing 19.7808% (95% CI, 6.5936, 35.6055%) of the total effect. Conclusion: The findings posit that augmenting muscle mass may serve as a preventative strategy against gastroesophageal reflux disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver, highlighting the critical role of metabolic disorder management in reducing the risks of these sarcopenia-related conditions.