Lancet
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Ulcerative colitis is an established risk factor for colorectal cancer, also known as colitis-associated cancer. Existing colonoscopic-based surveillance has many disadvantages, so a new accurate, efficient, cost-effective screening test is needed. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression and are dysregulated in a range of diseases, including ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer. This study aimed to establish the miRNAs associated with colitis-associated cancer. ⋯ Royal College of Surgeons of England.
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Less than 100 years since it was first transmitted to the human population HIV-1 infects more than 30 million people worldwide and causes almost 2 million AIDS-related deaths every year. Viruses manipulate cellular genes and pathways to benefit their survival, and the study of cell surface proteins downregulated by viruses has provided insights into both viral pathogenesis and crucial aspects of cell biology. We aimed to identify novel cell surface proteins targeted for downregulation by HIV-1. ⋯ Wellcome Trust, Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust, Raymond and Beverly Sackler Foundation.
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Outcome reporting in bariatric surgery needs uniformity. A core outcome set is an agreed minimum set of outcomes reported in all studies of a particular condition, but members of the bariatric multidisciplinary team might value outcomes differently. The aim of this study was to summarise existing outcome reporting in bariatric surgery, to inform the development of a core outcome set, and to compare outcomes selected as important by type of health professional. ⋯ National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), and the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme. This work was also undertaken with the support of the MRC ConDuCT-II Hub (Collaboration and innovation for Difficult and Complex randomised controlled Trials In Invasive procedures, MR/K025643/1).
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HIV/AIDS is the largest global public health problem; about 76 million people have been infected with HIV and 36 million people have already died. Existing antiviral treatment is successful but requires lifelong adherence and mostly targets viral factors. The virus mutates and evades both drugs and the human immune response. Cellular factors are potential therapeutic targets against HIV because the virus must conserve domains that interact with these cellular factors. Unlike many viruses HIV does not encode any helicases but it has been shown to use cellular DDX3. We screened the family of DEAD box helicases to seek other members as possible drug targets. ⋯ Wellcome Trust.
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MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules. Reduced or increased levels of specific miRNAs are observed in colon and other cancers, supporting their role in carcinogenesis. Detection of colorectal polyps is the cornerstone of the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme in the UK. However, uptake of screening nationally remains under 60%. We aimed to see whether circulating plasma miRNAs can be used to screen for patients with colorectal polyps, adenomas, or both. ⋯ Bowel Disease Research Foundation.