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International Journal of Colorectal... Dec 2023Some gut bacteria can produce enzymes (collagenases) that can break down collagen in the intestinal wall. This could be a part of the pathophysiology of anastomotic... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
Some gut bacteria can produce enzymes (collagenases) that can break down collagen in the intestinal wall. This could be a part of the pathophysiology of anastomotic leakage (AL). This systematic review aimed to investigate if such bacteria were present more frequently in AL patients versus non-AL patients following colorectal surgery.
METHODS
This systematic review was reported according to the PRISMA and AMSTAR guidelines. Before the literature search, a study protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42022363454). We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane CENTRAL on April 9, 2023, for randomized and observational human studies of AL following colorectal surgery with information on gastrointestinal bacteria. The primary outcome was bacteria with the potential to produce collagenase. The risk of bias was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, as all studies were observational.
RESULTS
We included 15 studies, with a total of 52,945 patients, of which 1,747 had AL, and bacteriological information from feces, mucosa, the resected specimen, or drain fluid was presented. In 10 of the 15 studies, one or more collagenase-producing bacteria were identified in the patients with AL. Neither the bacteria nor the collagenase production were quantified in any of the studies. The studies varied greatly in terms of sample material, analytical method, and time of collection. Studies using DNA sequencing methods did not report findings of collagenase-producing bacteria.
CONCLUSION
Collagenase-producing bacteria are more common in patients with AL following colorectal surgery than in patients without AL, but the significance is unclear. From the current studies, it is not possible to determine the pathogenicity of the individual gut bacteria.
Topics: Humans; Anastomotic Leak; Colorectal Surgery; Digestive System Surgical Procedures; Collagenases; Bacteria
PubMed: 38038731
DOI: 10.1007/s00384-023-04562-y -
Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology Mar 2024To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASIs) and angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors in preventing the... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Renin-angiotensin System Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitors in Preventing Recurrence After Atrial Fibrillation Ablation.
To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASIs) and angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors in preventing the recurrence of atrial fibrillation after atrial fibrillation ablation, we have written this meta-analysis. We systematically searched randomized controlled trials or cohort studies on RASIs and angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor-sacubitril/valsartan (SV) in preventing the recurrence of atrial fibrillation. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted the data, and assessed the risk of bias in the included studies. Afterward, the meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software. This meta-analysis results showed that the recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation after ablation in subjects using RASIs was lower than that in subjects not using them [relative risk = 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.72-0.99), P = 0.03]; the recurrence rate in subjects using SV was lower than that in subjects using RASIs [RR= 0.50, 95% CI (0.37-0.68), P < 0.00001]. These results show that both the use of RASIs and SV can prevent the recurrence of after atrial fibrillation ablation, among which the use of SV is more effective.
Topics: Humans; Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists; Antihypertensive Agents; Atrial Fibrillation; Biphenyl Compounds; Drug Combinations; Enzyme Inhibitors; Heart Failure; Neprilysin; Receptors, Angiotensin; Renin-Angiotensin System; Stroke Volume; Tetrazoles; Valsartan
PubMed: 38030133
DOI: 10.1097/FJC.0000000000001517 -
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection... 2023The presence of host collagenases in the degradation of the protein matrix at later stages of carious dentin lesions development, as well as the potential involvement of... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION AND AIM
The presence of host collagenases in the degradation of the protein matrix at later stages of carious dentin lesions development, as well as the potential involvement of bacterial collagenases, have been suggested but lack conclusive evidence. This study aims to conduct a systematic review to comprehensively assess the profile of host and bacterial-derived collagenolytic proteases in both root and coronal dentin carious lesions.
METHODS
The search was performed in eight databases and the grey literature. Studies evaluating dentin, extracted teeth, or biofilms from natural caries lesions were included. The methodological quality of studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Synthesis of the results and the certainty of evidence were performed following the Synthesis without Meta-analysis (SWiM) checklist and GRADE approach for narrative synthesis, respectively.
RESULTS
From 935 recovered articles, 18 were included. Although the evidence was very uncertain, it was possible to suggest that 1) MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13, and CT-B may be increased in carious dentin when compared to sound dentin; 2) there is no difference in MMP-2 presence, while MMP-13 may be increased in root when compared to coronal carious dentin; 3) there is no difference of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression/activity before and after cavity sealing; 4) MMP-8 may be increased in the dentin before cavity sealing compared to dentin after cavity sealing; 5) there is no difference of MMP-20 in irradiated vs. non-irradiated carious dentin. MMP-20 probably reduces in carious outer dentin when compared to carious inner dentin (moderate certainty). Genes encoding bacterial collagenolytic proteases and protein-degrading bacteria were detected in coronal and root carious lesions.
CONCLUSION
Trends in the direction of the effect were observed for some collagenolytic proteases in carious dentin, which may represent a potential target for the development of new treatments. (Protocol register-PROSPERO: CRD42020213141).
Topics: Humans; Matrix Metalloproteinase 2; Matrix Metalloproteinase 9; Dentin; Matrix Metalloproteinase 13; Peptide Hydrolases; Matrix Metalloproteinase 20; Collagenases; Bacteria; Dental Caries
PubMed: 38029242
DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1278754 -
Medicine Nov 2023Changes in circulating pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) have been observed in women with a placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). However, no consensus has been... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Changes in circulating pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) have been observed in women with a placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). However, no consensus has been reached according to the previous studies. Our study investigated the relationship between circulating PAPP-A and PAS risk through a systematic review and meta-analysis.
METHODS
Studies comparing the circulating level of PAPP-A between pregnant women with and without PAS were obtained by searching the Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang databases from the inception of the databases until February 12, 2023. Heterogeneity was considered in the pooling of results via a random-effects model.
RESULTS
Eight observational studies were obtained for the meta-analysis, which included 243 pregnant women with PAS and 1599 pregnant women without PAS. For all these women, the first-trimester circulating level of PAPP-A was measured by immunoassay and reported as multiples of the median (MoM) values. The pooled results showed that compared to those who did not develop PAS, women with PAS had significantly higher first-trimester serum level PAPP-A (mean difference: 0.43 MoM, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.30 to 0.56, P < .001; I2 = 32%). Furthermore, a high first-trimester serum PAPP-A level was related to a high PAS risk (odds ratio: 2.89, 95% CI: 2.13 to 3.92, P < .001; I2 = 0%). Sensitivity analysis which excluded one study at a time, also obtained similar results (p all < 0.05).
CONCLUSION
Pregnant women with a high serum PAPP-A level in the first trimester may be at an increased risk for PAS.
Topics: Humans; Female; Pregnancy; Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A; Placenta Accreta; Pregnancy Trimester, First
PubMed: 38013313
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000034473 -
International Journal of Surgery... Feb 2024Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is a potential treatment for cancer pain. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness and safety of BTX-A in the treatment of pain after... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
The application and therapeutic effect of botulinum toxin type a (BTX-A) in the treatment of patients with pain after cancer treatment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BACKGROUND
Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is a potential treatment for cancer pain. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness and safety of BTX-A in the treatment of pain after cancer treatment.
PATIENTS AND METHODS
Systematic searches of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases were conducted. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of BTX-A compared with either placebo or active treatment in patients with pain after cancer treatment were included. The outcomes included pain intensity, quality of life, and adverse events.
RESULTS
This systematic review included four studies of which two were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with a placebo, BTX-A injection in patients with pain after cancer treatment had a clinically meaningful reduction in self-reported pain post-treatment [mean difference=-1.79 (95% CI: -2.14--1.43), P <0.00001, I ²=0%].
CONCLUSION
This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that BTX-A is safe and effective for pain relief in patients with pain after cancer treatment.
Topics: Humans; Botulinum Toxins, Type A; Quality of Life; Pain; Neoplasms; Pain Management; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 37994715
DOI: 10.1097/JS9.0000000000000916 -
International Journal of Molecular... Oct 2023Recently, advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have allowed a more thorough understanding of tumorigenesis in aggressive PitNETs (pituitary neuroendocrine... (Review)
Review
Recently, advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have allowed a more thorough understanding of tumorigenesis in aggressive PitNETs (pituitary neuroendocrine tumors) through the identification of specific essential genes, crucial molecular pathways, regulators, and effects of the tumoral microenvironment. Target therapies have been developed to cure oncology patients refractory to traditional treatments, introducing the concept of precision medicine. Preliminary data on PitNETs are derived from preclinical studies conducted on cell cultures, animal models, and a few case reports or small case series. This study comprehensively reviews the principal pathways involved in aggressive PitNETs, describing the potential target therapies. A search was conducted on Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science for English papers published between 1 January 2004, and 15 June 2023. 254 were selected, and the topics related to aggressive PitNETs were recorded and discussed in detail: epigenetic aspects, membrane proteins and receptors, metalloprotease, molecular pathways, PPRK, and the immune microenvironment. A comprehensive comprehension of the molecular mechanisms linked to PitNETs' aggressiveness and invasiveness is crucial. Despite promising preliminary findings, additional research and clinical trials are necessary to confirm the indications and effectiveness of target therapies for PitNETs.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Pituitary Neoplasms; Pituitary Gland; Neuroendocrine Tumors; Aggression; Tumor Microenvironment
PubMed: 37958702
DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115719 -
Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive &... Jan 2024
Topics: Humans; Botulinum Toxins, Type A; Body Image; Neuromuscular Agents
PubMed: 37952434
DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.10.136 -
European Journal of Pain (London,... Mar 2024Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder characterized by the presence of trigger points. Among the treatment options, botulinum toxin... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder characterized by the presence of trigger points. Among the treatment options, botulinum toxin injections have been investigated. The aim of this paper was to provide a synthesis of the evidence on intramuscular botulinum toxin injections for upper back MPS.
DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT
A systematic review of the literature was performed on the PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane Library, using the following formula: ("botulinum") AND ("musculoskeletal") AND ("upper back pain") OR ("myofascial pain").
RESULTS
Ten studies involving 651 patients were included. Patients in the control groups received placebo (saline solution) injections, anaesthetic injections + dry needling or anaesthetic injections. The analysis of the trials revealed modest methodological quality: one "Good quality" study, one "Fair" and the other "Poor". No major complications or serious adverse events were reported. Results provided conflicting evidence and did not demonstrate the superiority of botulinum toxin over comparators. Most of the included trials were characterized by a small sample size, weak power analysis, different clinical scores used and non-comparable follow-up periods. Even if there is no conclusive evidence, the favourable safety profile and the positive results of some secondary endpoints suggest a potentially beneficial action in pain control and quality of life.
CONCLUSION
The currently available studies show conflicting results. Their overall low methodological quality does not allow for solid evidence of superiority over other comparison treatments. Further insights are needed to properly profile patients who could benefit more from this peculiar injective approach.
SIGNIFICANCE
The randomized controlled trials included in this review compared using botulinum toxin to treat upper back MPS with placebo or active treatments (e.g., dry needling or anaesthetics) showing mixed results overall. Despite the lack of clear evidence of superiority, our study suggests that the use of botulinum toxin should not be discouraged. Its safety profile and encouraging results in pain control, motor recovery and disability reduction make it an interesting treatment, particularly in the subset of patients with moderate to severe chronic pain and active trigger points. To support the safety and efficacy of botulinum toxin, further high-quality studies are needed.
Topics: Humans; Botulinum Toxins, Type A; Injections, Intramuscular; Quality of Life; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Myofascial Pain Syndromes; Fibromyalgia; Back Pain; Anesthetics
PubMed: 37950343
DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2198 -
International Urogynecology Journal Jan 2024To our knowledge, there are no evidence-based recommendations regarding the optimal prophylactic antibiotic regimen for intradetrusor onabotulinum toxin type A (BTX)... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS
To our knowledge, there are no evidence-based recommendations regarding the optimal prophylactic antibiotic regimen for intradetrusor onabotulinum toxin type A (BTX) injections. This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed at investigating the optimal prophylactic antibiotic regimen to decrease urinary tract infection (UTI) in patients undergoing BTX for overactive bladder syndrome (OAB).
METHODS
A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science was conducted from inception through 30 June 2022. All randomized controlled trials and prospective trials with > 20 subjects undergoing BTX injections for OAB in adults that described prophylactic antibiotic regimens were included. Meta-analysis performed to assess UTI rates in patients with idiopathic OAB using the inverse variance method for pooling.
RESULTS
A total of 27 studies (9 randomized controlled trials, 18 prospective) were included, representing 2,100 patients (69% women) with 19 studies of idiopathic OAB patients only, 6 of neurogenic only, and 2 including both. No studies directly compared antibiotic regimens for the prevention of UTI. Included studies favor the use of antibiotics in patients with idiopathic OAB and favor continuing antibiotics for 2-3 days after the procedure for prevention of UTI. Given the heterogeneity of the data, direct comparisons of antibiotic type or duration could not be performed. Meta-analysis found a 10% UTI rate at 4 weeks and 15% at 12 weeks post-injection.
CONCLUSIONS
Although there are insufficient data to support the use of a specific antibiotic regimen, available studies favor the use of prophylactic antibiotics for 2-3 days in idiopathic OAB patients undergoing BTX injection. Future trials are needed to determine the optimal regimens to prevent UTI in patients undergoing BTX for OAB.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Female; Male; Antibiotic Prophylaxis; Prospective Studies; Botulinum Toxins, Type A; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Urinary Tract Infections; Urinary Bladder, Overactive
PubMed: 37938397
DOI: 10.1007/s00192-023-05665-4 -
Medicine Oct 2023Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of several chronic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis (PD). RA... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of several chronic diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis (PD). RA patients with periodontitis (RA-PD) are associated with elevated inflammatory burden due to increased production of proinflammatory cytokines. Controlling upregulated MMPs activity in these patients may have potential therapeutic effects. Therefore, aim of this study is to address the focused question: "Do RA subjects with concurrent PD have different levels of MMPs in comparison to RA alone, PD alone and HC subjects?"
METHODS
The systematic review was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A search from 4 electronic databases (EMBASE, Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane library) and manual search was performed from inception to July 2023. Quality assessment of each article was done using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analyses derived results were summarized as standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals.
RESULTS
A total of 879 articles were extracted. Following screening and full text assessment, 9 studies were included. MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-8, MMP-9, and MMP-13 were consistently elevated in RA-PD subjects. MMP-8 levels were found to be higher in RA-PD subjects compared with RA alone, PD alone, and HC in 3 studies reporting GCF levels (SMD = 1.2; Z = 2.07; P = .04) and 2 studies reporting serum levels (SMD = 0.87; Z = 4.53; P < .00001).
CONCLUSION
RA-PD group showed significantly higher MMP levels in their serum and GCF compared with HC, RA, and PD alone individuals. MMP-8 may serve as a reliable biomarker in the diagnosis and management of RA-PD subjects.
Topics: Humans; Matrix Metalloproteinase 8; Periodontitis; Arthritis, Rheumatoid; Cytokines; Biomarkers; Matrix Metalloproteinase 3
PubMed: 37832126
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000035340