Articles tagged with Gastroenterology
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Early use of biologic drugs in children with moderate to severe Crohn's disease achieves higher clinical remission rates and normal growth velocity compared to standard treatment. Researchers found that anti-TNF-α therapy is more effective at achieving remission than immunomodulatory drugs.
The new guidelines recommend using anti-TNF-α biologic agents to induce remission in patients with moderately severe Crohn's disease. The guidelines also provide recommendations for maintenance of remission, including the use of thiopurines or anti-TNF-α drugs.
Recent studies published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology investigate the association between diverticulosis, constipation, vitamin D levels, and risk of acute diverticulitis. The research provides new perspectives on the condition, challenging common beliefs and offering potential therapeutic strategies.
Researchers found that the risk of developing diverticulitis from diverticulosis is significantly lower than previously thought, with only 1% over seven years. Younger patients diagnosed with diverticulosis are more likely to progress to diverticulitis.
A study published in Medical Care found that high-volume ERCP providers had lower failure rates and hospitalization rates compared to low-volume providers. The authors suggest establishing quality improvement guidelines and credentialing processes to improve patient outcomes.
The American Gastroenterological Association has expanded its corporate grant with Covidien to advance gastroenterology research and improve patient outcomes. The AGA-Covidien Research and Development Pilot Award in Technology will provide funding for innovative devices, diagnostic tools, and technologies.
The AGA Clinical Decision Tool for the Screening and Evaluation of Hepatitis C will aid gastroenterologists in managing HCV-positive patients. The tool provides an evidence-based approach to initial evaluation of HCV-positive patients, helping to address the growing burden of chronic HCV infection.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that high-calorie diets, regardless of sugar type, contribute to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The study revealed comparable effects of fructose and glucose on the liver, highlighting calorie intake as a key factor in liver disease progression.
A meta-analysis of 16 high-quality studies found that coffee consumption reduces the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by about 40%, with 3 cups per day showing a 50% reduction. Chronic infections with hepatitis B and C viruses are the main causes of liver cancer.
A new study found that danoprevir added to the current treatment regimen for patients with hepatitis C leads to high rates of remission and a well-tolerated safety profile. The drug demonstrated an 85% sustained virologic response rate, making it a potential breakthrough in treating this serious liver disease.
PENTAX Medical will provide substantial funding over three years to stimulate innovation in gastroenterology, advancing science and practice. The partnership supports the AGA Institute's development of essential programming to promote innovation and technology in digestive diseases.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment for most patients with dysplastic Barrett's esophagus. The procedure led to complete eradication of dysplasia in 91% of patients, while intestinal metaplasia was eradicated in 78%, and recurrent metaplasia occurred in 13%.
A 22-year study of 88,902 participants found that colonoscopy reduced death from colorectal cancer by up to 40% compared to sigmoidoscopy. The study suggests that colonoscopy is the most effective screening method for preventing colorectal cancer.
A study published in Gastroenterology found that carbonation can trick the brain into perceiving artificially sweetened drinks as just as sweet as regular ones. This effect may facilitate weight loss by making low-calorie drinks more palatable, but it also increases sugar and food consumption.
Boston Scientific will provide a $600,000 unrestricted grant over three years to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Research and Technology Initiative. This funding will support research in technology, innovation, and education in gastroenterology and hepatology.
A new study suggests a hybrid screening strategy that combines annual or biennial fecal immunological tests with a single colonoscopy at age 66 may reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality while lowering costs. This approach can deliver health benefits comparable to current strategies, making it an attractive alternative.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that probiotic Saccharomuces boulardii does not prevent clinical relapse in patients with Crohn's disease. The one-year follow-up period showed similar rates of relapse between patients treated with S. boulardii or placebo.
A Phase 2 study found eluxadoline to be effective in decreasing abdominal pain and improving stool consistency without significant constipation risk. Symptom relief and quality of life scores increased over time, suggesting potential for a safe and effective treatment option.
Teduglutide improves intestinal absorption, reducing parenteral nutrition dependency and IV-fluid requirements. Patients with short-bowel syndrome experience significant relief from debilitating symptoms, achieving enhanced quality of life.
A new study published in Gastroenterology reveals a significant increase in drug-induced liver injury cases worldwide. The most common culprits were antibiotics like amoxicillin-clavulante, immunosuppressants such as azathioprine and biologics like infliximab.
A study at MassGeneral Hospital found significant disparities in the use of specialty services among African-American and Hispanic children with autism. Minority children were less likely to receive subspecialty care or procedures related to gastrointestinal issues, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
The AGA Research Foundation and Horizon Pharma awarded fellow and student abstract prizes to outstanding young researchers presenting at Digestive Disease Week. This year's winners include Jana G. Al Hashash, James D. Canavan, and Anne E. Powell, who received $1,000 awards each.
A new study found that screening only high-risk patients for celiac disease is more cost-effective than universal screening, preventing bone loss and fractures in patients with undiagnosed or subclinical disease. The strategy also reduces unnecessary endoscopic evaluations of healthy individuals.
The AGA recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to gastroenterology through its esteemed recognition awards. The 2013 awardees include Dr. Chung Owyang, who received the Julius Friedenwald Medal for his lifelong contributions to the field of gastroenterology.
A new smartphone application has been shown to significantly improve colonoscopy preparation by providing personalized guidance and reminders for patients. The study found that 84% of individuals who used the app received a good score on the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale, compared to 56% of those who did not use the app.
The American Gastroenterological Association has announced the inaugural AGA Investing in the Future Student Research Fellowship Award recipients, supporting underrepresented minority students in digestive disease and nutrition research. The program aims to stimulate an interest in gastroenterological research and provide students with...
The AGA's 13th annual special issue focuses on the pancreas, presenting a variety of topics related to exocrine function, endocrine regulation, and clinical manifestations. Key findings highlight the importance of innovative treatments for patients with pancreatic diseases.
A study reports that flexible endoscopic treatment of Zenker's diverticulum using a soft diverticuloscope achieves clinical remission in the majority of cases. The technique demonstrates long-term efficacy and has a lower risk of adverse events compared to open surgery or other endoscopic stapling techniques.
A study found that patients taking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) antagonists are at risk of developing acute liver injury, with most cases involving autoimmunity or hepatocellular injury. The condition is typically resolved after discontinuing the drug, but some patients may experience recurrence.
Research found pregnant women with mid to high levels of anti-tTG antibodies are at risk for having reduced fetal weight and birth weight. Fetuses of women with positive anti-tTG weighed 16 grams less during the second trimester, while those with intermediate anti-tTG levels were 53 grams lighter.
Researchers identified a specific profile of patients suffering from acute-on-chronic liver failure syndrome, characterized by high mortality rates and organ malfunctions. The study provides new diagnostic criteria for the condition, which is associated with cirrhosis and can be linked to patient age and medical history.
Researchers are working to improve study design and sample collection to better understand the composition and effects of the gut microbiota. The American Gastroenterological Association hosted a World Summit on Gut Microbiota For Health, where experts discussed future research directions.
Functional bowel disorders affect 50% of patients consulting a gastroenterologist. Recent research suggests that gut microbiota plays a significant role in these conditions. The AGA reports on the latest findings and potential therapeutic avenues.
Fecal microbiota transplantation has been shown to be highly effective in treating recurrent Clostridium difficile infections, with over 90% of patients being cured within a short period. The treatment offers a rapidly acting alternative to standard antibiotic treatments.
A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that injecting botulinum toxin A (Botox) into the stomach does not cause weight loss. The Mayo Clinic researchers used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to compare the effects of BTA to placebo.
Children born prematurely are at increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic exposure to acid reflux. The study found that being small for gestational age or having a short duration of gestation also increases the risk of esophagitis.
Researchers highlight two cases of selenium deficiency causing cardiomyopathy in patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery. The studies emphasize the crucial role of long-term follow-up and compliance with vitamin supplements to prevent nutritional deficiencies and related health complications.
A study suggests that Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of Barrett's Esophagus (BE) in diabetic men, with a twofold increase compared to non-diabetic men. The risk is higher in men due to differences in fat distribution, which may contribute to the association between Type 2 diabetes and BE.
Researchers report on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CH), a little-known but costly effect of marijuana use, characterized by cyclic nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. CH can lead to expensive diagnostic tests and ineffective treatments, with some patients requiring multiple hospital visits and costing up to $30,000 in workups.
A new electrical stimulation treatment has shown promising results in resolving gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. The treatment involves implanting a device that uses low-energy electrical pulses to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, which can help prevent acid reflux.
The study found a significant decrease in mortality rate for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, from 4.69% in 1989 to 2.13% in 2009. The proportion of patients undergoing in-hospital endoscopic therapy increased from 2% to 27%, and hospital stays decreased from 4.5 days to 2.8 days.
Advanced endoscopic tools and techniques, such as POEM for achalasia treatment and pCLE for IBS diagnosis, show promising results. These innovations aim to improve diagnosis and treatment options for gastrointestinal disorders.
The American Gastroenterological Association has launched new iPad apps for its journals, including Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. The apps offer full-text and PDF views, note-taking and bookmarking functionality, and are free to download from the Apple App store.
A new study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that smoking and heavy drinking can lead to an earlier onset of pancreatic cancer. The study analyzed data from 811 patients with pancreatic cancer and found that those who smoked heavily or drank excessively were diagnosed at a younger age than those who did not.
The American Gastroenterological Association and other GI societies have issued updated guidelines for colonoscopy surveillance after screening and polypectomy. These recommendations support previous guidelines, addressing areas such as the need to repeat colonoscopies every 10 years for average-risk patients with a clean exam result.
The study found that RRM2 overexpression is positively correlated with invasive properties of CRC cells. Silencing RRM2 inhibited hyperplasia and invasiveness, indicating its role in CRC progression. Additionally, RRM2 depletion increased UV sensitivity, suggesting a facilitating factor in DNA damage repair.
A study found that only 31.1% of moderate-to-severe IBD patients would qualify for biologic trial participation due to strict inclusion criteria. The study highlights the need for more pragmatic approaches to capture real-world treatment effects.
A large double-blind study found that over 80% of children with moderate to severe Crohn's disease responded to adalimumab within a month. Approximately 34% of patients were in clinical remission after six months, and 28.4% remained in remission after one year.
A Mayo Clinic-led analysis found that approximately 1.8 million Americans suffer from undiagnosed celiac disease, while 1.6 million use a gluten-free diet without medical confirmation. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and testing to accurately diagnose and treat this common condition.
A recent study found that most celiac disease patients do not receive adequate medical follow-up, which can lead to non-compliance with a gluten-free diet. The study suggests that gastroenterologists need to improve communication with patients to ensure timely follow-up care and improve outcomes in celiac disease.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that aspirin use may protect against Barrett's esophagus (BE), the largest known risk factor for esophageal cancer. High-dose aspirin was significantly associated with decreased BE risk, but caution is advised due to potential cardiovascular benefits.
The AGA journals, Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, maintained strong standing with high impact factors in 2011. Both journals received a significant number of citations and had outstanding immediacy indices.
The guidelines provide evidence-based information for diagnosing and managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is rapidly becoming the most common cause of cirrhosis in the US. The condition can lead to liver cancer and failure, emphasizing the need for standardized medical care.
A six-food elimination diet significantly improves symptoms in adult patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, reducing inflammation and improving digestion. The study identified specific food triggers that cause symptoms like heartburn and difficulty swallowing.
A new ethics framework is recommended to manage conflicts of interest in the development of medical guidelines, ensuring expert input without industry influence. The study found that such a framework can help identify and address ethics issues, but further analysis and initiatives are needed.
The Multisociety Sedation Curriculum for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy provides a comprehensive framework for training gastroenterologists in procedure sedation. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of practice and research based on ethical principles, aiming to balance patient comfort with safety.
The American Gastroenterological Association honors outstanding contributions and achievements in gastroenterology through its prestigious recognition awards. The AGA presents several awards, including the Julius Friedenwald Medal, William Beaumont Prize, Distinguished Educator Award, and more.
The American Gastroenterological Association will showcase innovative data and advancements in treating gastrointestinal (GI) disorders during the Digestive Disease Week 2012. The presentation of exciting, cutting-edge information will help physicians diagnose and treat GI disorders more effectively.
This special issue of Gastroenterology focuses on the latest progress made in viral hepatitis research and care, including new diagnostic tools, therapies, and prevention strategies. Classic review articles and expert commentaries address critical unresolved issues and fundamental questions for the future.
A recent study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that GERD-related inflammation may contribute to the development of esophageal cancer. Researchers analyzed data from over 33,000 patients with GERD and found a significant increase in esophageal cancer incidence among those with erosive reflux disease.