Tocilizumab and COVID-19: A meta-analysis of 2120 patients with severe disease and implications for clinical trial methodologies

Background/aim: Since the outbreak of the COVID-19, numerous therapies to counteract this severe disease have emerged. The benefits of Tocilizumab for severely infected COVID-19 patients and the methodologies of ongoing clinical trials are explored.Materials and methods: A systematic search adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Central, medRxiv, and bioRxiv using the following keywords: “Tocilizumab,” “Actemra,” “COVID-19.” An additional subsearch was conducted on Clinicaltrials.gov to locate ongoing tocilizumab trials.Results: A total of 13 studies were included in the meta-analysis comprising 2120 patients. The treatment group had lower mortality compared to the control group (OR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.26 to 0.69, P = 0.0005, I2 = 55%). A descriptive analysis of 50 registered trials was conducted.Conclusion: This review meta-analyzed the therapeutic benefits of tocilizumab in COVID-19 patients with severe disease for mortality, mechanical ventilation, and the characteristics of COVID-19 registered trials

Racial and socioeconomic disparities in triple-negative breast cancer treatment

Introduction: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) continues to be a significant concern, especially among minority populations, where treatment disparities are notably pronounced. Addressing these disparities, especially among African American women and other minorities, is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare.Areas covered: This review delves into the continuum of TNBC treatment, noting that the standard of care, previously restricted to chemotherapy, has now expanded due to emerging clinical trial results. With advances like PARP inhibitors, immunotherapy, and antibody-drug conjugates, a more personalized treatment approach is on the horizon. The review highlights innovative interventions tailored for minorities, such as utilizing technology like text messaging, smartphone apps, and targeted radio programming, coupled with church-based behavioral interventions.Expert opinion: Addressing TNBC treatment disparities demands a multifaceted approach, blending advanced medical treatments with culturally sensitive community outreach. The potential of technology, especially in the realm of promoting health awareness, is yet to be fully harnessed. As the field progresses, understanding and integrating the socio-economic, biological, and access-related challenges faced by minorities will be pivotal for achieving health equity in TNBC care

Predictive biomarkers for colorectal cancer: A state-of-the-art systematic review

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a substantial health burden, with early detection paramount for improved prognosis. This study aims to evaluate potential CRC biomarkers and detection techniques. Materials and methods: This systematic review, reported in adherence to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, collates the latest research on potential biomarkers and detection/prognosis methods for CRC, spanning the last decade. Results: Out of the 38 included studies, diverse biomarkers and detection methods emerged, with DNA methylation markers like SFRP2 and SDC2, microRNAs including miR-1290, miR-506, and miR-4316, and serum and plasma markers such as NTS levels and U2 snRNA fragments standing out. Methylated cfDNA and m5C methylation alteration in immune cells of the blood, along with circular RNA, showed promise as diagnostic markers. Meanwhile, techniques involving extracellular vesicles and lateral flow immunoassays exhibited potential for swift and effective CRC screening. Discussion: Our state-of-the-art review identifies potential biomarkers, including SFRP2, SDC2, miR-1290, miR-506, miR-4316, and U2 snRNA fragments, with significant potential in enhancing CRC detection. However, comprehensive validation studies and a rigorous evaluation of clinical utility and cost-effectiveness remain necessary before integration into routine clinical practice. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for continued research into biomarkers and detection methods to improve patient outcome

A Comparison of Hysterosalpingographic Results in Individuals Experiencing Primary and Secondary Infertility: A Prospective Approach

Introduction: In order to examine the uterine and fallopian tubes in women suffering from infertility, Hysterosalpingography (HSG) technique is commonly used in process of different investigations. The technique is used to assess any blockages in the tubes or normal morphology of the uterus. This study aims to compare the HSG results in a study population having primary and secondary infertility. Materials and Methods: We conceded a one-year prospective study at Islamabad Diagnostic Center in Islamabad, Pakistan after getting institutional review board approval. The study duration was from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. Sample size was calculated using online software “Raosoft” which estimated it to 242. All the patients who gave informed consent and having primary and secondary infertility were enrolled. Demographics of the patients including age, duration of infertility, and the presence of tubal and uterine abnormalities, were collected by reviewing clinical notes and X-ray findings. Results: Among 242 enrolled patients with infertility, the ratio of primary infertility was 70.27% (n=170) and that of secondary infertility was 29.75% (n=72). In both the groups, fallopian tube blockage was observed as a major abnormality that affected 20.00% (n=34/170) of patients with primary infertility and 30.55% (n=22/72) of patients with secondary infertility. Unilateral tube blockage was observed in 26.47% (n=9/34) whereas, bilateral blockage was observed in 29.41% (n=10/34) patients with primary infertility. 23.52% (n=8/34) of patients got affected with Bilateral hydrosalpinx, whereas unilateral loculated spill was perceived in 8.82% (n=3/34) of. In patients with uterine congenital abnormalities, 5.88% (n=2/34) had a bicornuate uterus, 2.94% (n=1/34) had a unicornuate uterus, and 2.94% (n=1/34) had uterine didelphys. Conclusion: In order to examine the uterine and fallopian tubes in women suffering from infertility, Hysterosalpingography (HSG) technique is commonly used. The technique is used to assess any blockages in the tubes or normal morphology of the uterus. In this study, fallopian tube abnormalities were most predominant among barren women. So, taking deterrent actions and efficiently management of pelvic infections are indispensable in plummeting the manifestation of infertility resultant of the tubal issues. Keywords: Hysterosalpingography, Infertility, Subfertility, Tubal blockage   &nbsp

Predictive biomarkers for colorectal cancer: a state-of-the-art systematic review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a substantial health burden, with early detection paramount for improved prognosis. This study aims to evaluate potential CRC biomarkers and detection techniques. This systematic review, reported in adherence to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, collates the latest research on potential biomarkers and detection/prognosis methods for CRC, spanning the last decade. Out of the 38 included studies, diverse biomarkers and detection methods emerged, with DNA methylation markers like SFRP2 and SDC2, microRNAs including miR-1290, miR-506, and miR-4316, and serum and plasma markers such as NTS levels and U2 snRNA fragments standing out. Methylated cfDNA and m5C methylation alteration in immune cells of the blood, along with circular RNA, showed promise as diagnostic markers. Meanwhile, techniques involving extracellular vesicles and lateral flow immunoassays exhibited potential for swift and effective CRC screening. Our state-of-the-art review identifies potential biomarkers, including SFRP2, SDC2, miR-1290, miR-506, miR-4316, and U2 snRNA fragments, with significant potential in enhancing CRC detection. However, comprehensive validation studies and a rigorous evaluation of clinical utility and cost-effectiveness remain necessary before integration into routine clinical practice. The findings emphasize the need for continued research into biomarkers and detection methods to improve patient outcomes. This state-of-the-art systematic review evaluated potential biomarkers for colorectal cancer (CRC) and synthesized 38 studies. Several biomarkers showed promise for CRC detection, including SFRP2 and SDC2 methylation biomarkers, chiroptical spectroscopy, m6A RNA levels, miR-1290, miR-506, miR-4316, NTS levels, and U2 snRNA fragments. EVs and LFIA were useful for screening.</p