Vonoprazan Versus Lansoprazole in the Healing and Maintenance Phase of Erosive Esophagitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

Background: Vonoprazan (VPZ), a potassium-competitive acid blocker, has emerged as an alternative to traditional proton-pump inhibitors like Lansoprazole (LPZ) for the treatment of erosive esophagitis (EE). Vonoprazan provides stronger acid suppression compared to PPIs; however, evidence regarding its effectiveness and safety in treating EE remains limited. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of VPZ versus LPZ in the healing and maintenance phases of EE.

Efficacy and Safety of Tenofovir Plus Entecavir Combination Therapy Versus Tenofovir Monotherapy in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Patients With Resistance or Partial Response to Entecavir: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Background And Objectives: Chronic hepatitis B virus remains a significant cause of liver disease in the developing world, leading to sequelae such as hepatocellular carcinoma. While entecavir (ETV) serves as a first-line treatment, its growing resistance rates underscore the need to explore viable alternatives. Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) monotherapy and entecavir plus tenofovir (TDF + ETV) combination therapy are both employed as treatments, but one's efficacy over another is in question.

The current state of pediatric gastroenterology in under-resourced nations.

Background: Pediatric gastroenterology (GI) care in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) faces substantial challenges due to limited healthcare infrastructure, inadequate resources, and a shortage of specialized healthcare professionals. These challenges lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment, exacerbating the morbidity and mortality associated with pediatric GI diseases, which include both infectious conditions like diarrhea and chronic conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and liver diseases.

Aim: The aim of this review is to examine the current state of pediatric GI care in LMICs, identify the key challenges these regions face, and propose strategies to improve healthcare outcomes for children affected by GI disorders.