Dihadron azimuthal correlations containing a high transverse momentum(pr)trigger particle are sensit-ive to the properties of the nuclear medium created at RHIC through the strong interactions occurring between the tr...Dihadron azimuthal correlations containing a high transverse momentum(pr)trigger particle are sensit-ive to the properties of the nuclear medium created at RHIC through the strong interactions occurring between the traversing parton and the medium,ie.jet-quenching.Previous measurements revealed a strong modification to di-hadron azimuthal correlations in Au+Au collisions with respect to ptp and d+Au collisions.The modification in-creases with the collision centrality,suggesting a path-length or energy density dependence to the je-quenching ef-fect.This paper reports STAR measurements of dihadron azimuthal correlations in mid-central(20%-60%)Au+Au collisions at√^(S)NN=200 GeV as a function of the trigger particle's azimuthal angle relative to the event plane,Ф_(s)=|Ф_(t)-ψ_(Ep)|.The azimuthal correlation is studied as a function of both the trigger and associated particle pr.The subtractions of the combinatorial background and anisotropic flow,assuming Zero Yield At Minimum(ZYAM),are described.The correlation results are first discussed with subtraction of the even harmonic(elliptic and quadrangu-lar)flow backgrounds.The away-side correlation is strongly modifed,and the modification varies withФ_(s),with a double-peak structure for out-of-plane trigger particles.The near-side ridge(long range pseudo-rapidity△_(η)correla-tion)appears to drop with increasingФ_(s)while the jet-like component remains approximately constant.The correla-tion functions are further studied with the subtraction of odd harmonic triangular flow background arising from fluc-tuations.It is found that the triangular flow,while responsible for the majority of the amplitudes,is not sufficient to explain theφs-dependence of the ridge or the away-side double-peak structure.The dropping ridge withФ_(s)could be attributed to aФ_(s)-dependent lliptie anisotropy;however,the physics mechanism of the ridge remains an open ques-tion.Even with aФ_(s)-dependent elliptic flow,the away-side correlation structure is robust.These results,with exte展开更多
Insulinomas,the most common cause of hypoglycemia related to endogenous hyperinsulinism,occur in 1-4 people per million of the general population.Common autonomic symptoms of insulinoma include diaphroresis,tremor,and...Insulinomas,the most common cause of hypoglycemia related to endogenous hyperinsulinism,occur in 1-4 people per million of the general population.Common autonomic symptoms of insulinoma include diaphroresis,tremor,and palpitations,whereas neuroglycopenenic symptoms include confusion,behavioural changes,personality changes,visual disturbances,seizure,and coma.Diagnosis of suspected cases is based on standard endocrine tests,especially the prolonged fasting test.Non-invasive imaging procedures,such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging,are used when a diagnosis of insulinoma has been made to localize the source of pathological insulin secretion.Invasive modalities,such as endoscopic ultrasonography and arterial stimulation venous sampling,are highly accurate in the preoperative localization of insulinomas and have frequently been shown to be superior to noninvasive localization techniques.The range of techniques available for the localization of insulinomas means thatblind resection can be avoided.Intraoperative manual palpation of the pancreas by an experienced surgeon and intraoperative ultrasonography are both sensitive methods with which to finalize the location of insulinomas.A high proportion of patients with insulinomas can be cured with surgery.In patients with malignant insulinomas,an aggressive medical approach,including extended pancreatic resection,liver resection,liver transplantation,chemoembolization,or radiofrequency ablation,is recommended to improve both survival and quality of life.In patients with unresectable or uncontrollable insulinomas,such as malignant insulinoma of the pancreas,several techniques should be considered,including administration of ocreotide and/or continuous glucose monitoring,to prevent hypoglycemic episodes and to improve quality of life.展开更多
There has been a long-standing need for guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars that are based on an understanding of the pathomechanisms that underlie these skin fibrotic diseases....There has been a long-standing need for guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars that are based on an understanding of the pathomechanisms that underlie these skin fibrotic diseases.This is particularly true for clinicians who deal with Asian and African patients because these ethnicities are highly prone to these diseases.By contrast,Caucasians are less likely to develop keloids and hypertrophic scars,and if they do,the scars tend not to be severe.This ethnic disparity also means that countries vary in terms of their differential diagnostic algorithms.The lack of clear treatment guidelines also means that primary care physicians are currently applying a hotchpotch of treatments,with uneven outcomes.To overcome these issues,the Japan Scar Workshop(JSW)has created a tool that allows clinicians to objectively diagnose and distinguish between keloids,hypertrophic scars,and mature scars.This tool is called the JSW Scar Scale(JSS)and it involves scoring the risk factors of the individual patients and the affected areas.The tool is simple and easy to use.As a result,even physicians who are not accustomed to keloids and hypertrophic scars can easily diagnose them and judge their severity.The JSW has also established a committee that,in cooperation with outside experts in various fields,has prepared a Consensus Document on keloid and hypertrophic scar treatment guidelines.These guidelines are simple and will allow even inexperienced clinicians to choose the most appropriate treatment strategy.The Consensus Document is provided in this article.It describes(1)the diagnostic algorithm for pathological scars and how to differentiate them from clinically similar benign and malignant tumors,(2)the general treatment algorithms for keloids and hypertrophic scars at different medical facilities,(3)the rationale behind each treatment for keloids and hypertrophic scars,and(4)the body site-specific treatment protocols for these scars.We believe that this Consensus Document will be helpful for physi展开更多
The number of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases(NAFLD) including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH), has been increasing. NASH causes cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) and is one of the most se...The number of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases(NAFLD) including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH), has been increasing. NASH causes cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) and is one of the most serious health problems in the world. The mechanism through which NASH progresses is still largely unknown. Activation of caspases, Bcl-2 family proteins, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase-induced hepatocyte apoptosis plays a role in the activation of NAFLD/NASH. Apoptotic hepatocytes stimulate immune cells and hepatic stellate cells toward the progression of fibrosis in the liver through the production of inflammasomes and cytokines. Abnormalities in glucose and lipid metabolism as well as microbiota accelerate these processes. The production of reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress is also involved. Cell death, including apoptosis, seems very important in the progression of NAFLD and NASH. Recently, inhibitors of apoptosis have been developed as drugs for the treatment of NASH and may prevent cirrhosis and HCC. Increased hepatocyte apoptosis may distinguish NASH from NAFLD, and the improvement of apoptosis could play a role in controlling the development of NASH. In this review, the association between apoptosis and NAFLD/NASH are discussed. This review could provide their knowledge, which plays a role in seeing the patients with NAFLD/NASH in daily clinical practice.展开更多
Aim： To evaluate the relationship between testicular function and testicular volume measured by using Prader orchidometry and ultrasonography （US） to determine the critical testicular volume indicating normal testi...Aim： To evaluate the relationship between testicular function and testicular volume measured by using Prader orchidometry and ultrasonography （US） to determine the critical testicular volume indicating normal testicular function by each method. Methods： Total testicular volume （right plus left testicular volume） was measured in 794 testes in 397 men with infertility （mean age, 35.6 years） using a Prader orchidometer and also by ultrasonography. Ultrasonographic testicular volumes were calculated as length x width x height x 0.71. To evaluate volume-function relationships, patients were divided into 10 groups representing 5-mL increments of total testicular volume by each method from below 10 mL to 50 mL or more. Results： Mean total testicular volume based on Prader orchidometry and US were 36.8 mL and 26.3 mL, respectively. Semen volume, sperm density, total sperm count, total motile sperm count, and serum FSH, LH, and testosterone all correlated significantly with total testicular volume measured by either method. Mean sperm density was in the oligozoospermic range in patients with total testicular volume below 35 mL by orchidometry or below 20 mL by ultrasonography. Mean total sperm count was subnormal in patients with total testicular volume below 30 mL by orchidometry or under 20 mL by ultrasonography. Conclusion： Testicular volume measured by either ultrasonography or Prader orchidometry correlated significantly with testicular function. However, critical total testicular volume indicating normal or nearly normal testicular function was 30 mL to 35 mL using Prader orchidometer and 20 mL using ultrasonography. Prader orchidometry morphometrically and functionally overestimated the testicular volume in comparison to US. （Asian JAndro12008 Mar; 10： 319-324）展开更多
AIM:To determine the effectiveness of pancreatic duct(PD) stent placement for the prevention of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) in high risk patients.METHODS:Authors conducted a...AIM:To determine the effectiveness of pancreatic duct(PD) stent placement for the prevention of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) in high risk patients.METHODS:Authors conducted a single-blind,randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a pancreatic spontaneous dislodgement stent against post-ERCP pancreatitis,including rates of spontaneous dislodgement and complications.Authors defined high risk patients as having any of the following:sphincter of Oddi dysfunction,difficult cannulation,prior history of post-ERCP pancreatitis,pre-cut sphincterotomy,pancreatic ductal biopsy,pancreatic sphincterotomy,intraductal ultrasonography,or a procedure time of more than 30 min.Patients were randomized to a stent group(n = 60) or to a non-stent group(n = 60).An abdominal radiograph was obtained daily to assessspontaneous stent dislodgement.Post-ERCP pancreatitis was diagnosed according to consensus criteria.RESULTS:The mean age(± standard deviation) was 67.4 ± 13.8 years and the male:female ratio was 68:52.In the stent group,the mean age was 66 ± 13 years and the male:female ratio was 33:27,and in the non-stent group,the mean age was 68 ± 14 years and the male:female ratio was 35:25.There were no significant differences between groups with respect to age,gender,final diagnosis,or type of endoscopic intervention.The frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis in PD stent and non-stent groups was 1.7%(1/60) and 13.3%(8/60),respectively.The severity of pancreatitis was mild in all cases.The frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis in the stent group was significantly lower than in the non-stent group(P = 0.032,Fisher's exact test).The rate of hyperamylasemia were 30%(18/60) and 38.3%(23 of 60) in the stent and non-stent groups,respectively(P = 0.05,χ2 test).The placement of a PD stent was successful in all 60 patients.The rate of spontaneous dislodgement by the third day was 96.7%(58/60),and the median(range) time to dislodgement was 2.1(2-3) d.The rates of stent migration,hemorrhag展开更多
Scars are the final result of the four processes that constitute cutaneous wound healing,namely,coagulation,inflammation,proliferation,and remodeling.Permanent scars are produced if the wounds reach the reticular derm...Scars are the final result of the four processes that constitute cutaneous wound healing,namely,coagulation,inflammation,proliferation,and remodeling.Permanent scars are produced if the wounds reach the reticular dermis.The nature of these scars depends on the four wound healing processes.If the remodeling process is excessive,collagen degradation exceeds collagen synthesis and atrophic scars are produced.If the inflammation phase is prolonged and/or more potent for some reason,inflammatory/pathological scars such as keloids or hypertrophic scars can arise.If these pathological scars are located on joints or mobile regions,scar contractures can develop.When used with the appropriate timing and when selected on the basis of individual factors,surgical techniques can improve mature scars.This review paper focuses on the surgical techniques that are used to improve mature scars,burn scars,and scar contractures.Those methods include z-plasties,w-plasties,split-thickness skin grafting,full-thickness skin grafting,local flaps(including the square flap method and the propeller flap),and expanded flaps,distant flaps,regional flaps,and free flaps.展开更多
A 58-year-old man presented with the chief complaint of abdominal bloating and was incidentally found to have a liver tumor.As diagnostic imaging studies could not rule out malignancy,the patient underwent partial res...A 58-year-old man presented with the chief complaint of abdominal bloating and was incidentally found to have a liver tumor.As diagnostic imaging studies could not rule out malignancy,the patient underwent partial resection of segment 3 of the liver.The lesion pathologically showed eosinophilic proliferation,in addition to immunohistochemical positivity for human melanoma black 45 and Melan-A,thereby leading to the diagnosis of a hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumor(PEComa).A PEComa arising from the liver is relatively rare.Moreover,the name ‘PEComa' has not yet been widely recognized,and the same disease entity has been called epithelioid angiomyolipoma(EAML),further diminishing the recognition of PEComa.In addition,PEComa imaging findings mimic those of malignant liver tumors,and clinically,this tumor tends to enlarge.Therefore,a PEComa is difficult to diagnose.We conducted a systematic review of PEComa and EAML cases and discuss the results,including findings useful for differentiating perivascular epithelioid cell tumors from malignant liver tumors.展开更多
BACKGROUND The risk of gastric cancer increases in patients with Helicobacter pylori-associated chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG).X-ray examination can evaluate the condition of the stomach,and it can be used for gastri...BACKGROUND The risk of gastric cancer increases in patients with Helicobacter pylori-associated chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG).X-ray examination can evaluate the condition of the stomach,and it can be used for gastric cancer mass screening.However,skilled doctors for interpretation of X-ray examination are decreasing due to the diverse of inspections.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of stomach regions that are automatically estimated by a deep learning-based model for CAG detection.METHODS We used 815 gastric X-ray images(GXIs)obtained from 815 subjects.The ground truth of this study was the diagnostic results in X-ray and endoscopic examinations.For a part of GXIs for training,the stomach regions are manually annotated.A model for automatic estimation of the stomach regions is trained with the GXIs.For the rest of them,the stomach regions are automatically estimated.Finally,a model for automatic CAG detection is trained with all GXIs for training.RESULTS In the case that the stomach regions were manually annotated for only 10 GXIs and 30 GXIs,the harmonic mean of sensitivity and specificity of CAG detection were 0.955±0.002 and 0.963±0.004,respectively.CONCLUSION By estimating stomach regions automatically,our method contributes to the reduction of the workload of manual annotation and the accurate detection of the CAG.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the predictors of proximal kidney tubular dysfunction(PKTD)induced by adefovir dipivoxil(ADV)treatment for chronic hepatitis B.METHODS:Seventy-nine patients(age at the evaluation of PKTD:56.9±1...AIM:To investigate the predictors of proximal kidney tubular dysfunction(PKTD)induced by adefovir dipivoxil(ADV)treatment for chronic hepatitis B.METHODS:Seventy-nine patients(age at the evaluation of PKTD:56.9±10.7 years)with chronic hepatitis B undergoing long-term oral antiviral nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment were consecutively recruited.PKTD was defined by the presence of at least two of the following five abnormalities:phosphate diabetes,nondiabetic glucosuria,metabolic acidosis,β2-microglobulinuria,or renal hypouricemia.The single-nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)in the SLC22A6 gene encoding human organic anion transporter 1(h OAT1)and ABCC2 encoding multidrug resistance protein 2(MRP2)were analyzed using the Taq Man Allelic Discrimination Demonstration Kit.RESULTS:Nine(30.0%)of the 30 ADV-treated patients were diagnosed with PKTD,while no patients without ADV developed PKTD(P<0.001).Three patients with ADV were diagnosed with symptomatic osteomalacia.Among the patients who took ADV,those with PKTD were of higher age at initiation,had significantly longer treatment duration,and had a significantly lower body mass index than those without PKTD.The incidence of PKTD dramatically increased after 96 mo from the start of ADV administration.In contrast,the SNPs were not correlated with PKTD.Logistic regression analysis extracted older age at initiation(OR=5.0,95%CI:1.1-23.4;P=0.040)and longer treatment duration(OR=3.2,95%CI:1.2-8.6;P=0.020)as significant factors associated with PKTD.CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that the tubular function of the kidney of older patients undergoing longterm ADV treatment should be carefully evaluated.展开更多
Dimethyl ether (DME) is a clean and economical alternative fuel which can beproduced from natural gas through synthesis gas. The properties of DME are very similar to those ofLP gas. DME can be used for various fields...Dimethyl ether (DME) is a clean and economical alternative fuel which can beproduced from natural gas through synthesis gas. The properties of DME are very similar to those ofLP gas. DME can be used for various fields as a fuel such as power generation, transportation, homeheating and cooking, etc. It contains no sulfur or nitrogen. It is not corrosive to any metal andnot harmful to human body. An innovative process of direct synthesis of DME from synthesis gas hasbeen developed. Newly developed catalyst in a slurry phase reactor gave a high conversion and highselectivity of DME production. One and half year pilot scale plant (5 tons per day) testing, whichwas supported by METI, had successfully finished with about 400 tons DME production.展开更多
In this paper, the actual exchange rate policy conducted by the Chinese government after the Chinese exchange rate system reform on 21 July 2005 is investigated. Also, the long-run effect is investigated, including th...In this paper, the actual exchange rate policy conducted by the Chinese government after the Chinese exchange rate system reform on 21 July 2005 is investigated. Also, the long-run effect is investigated, including the Balassa-Samuelson effect on the Chinese yuan. It was found that the Chinese government generated a statistically significant but small change in exchange rate policy during the sample period until 25 January 2006. It was not identified that the Chinese monetary authority is adopting the currency basket system because the change is too small in the economic sense. It is indicated that the Chinese government should take account of the productivity growth of countries composing the currency basket in order to operate a currency basket regime.展开更多
The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is increasing as human longevity increases. The objective biomarkers that enable the staging and early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases are eagerly anticipated. It h...The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is increasing as human longevity increases. The objective biomarkers that enable the staging and early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases are eagerly anticipated. It has recently become possible to determine pathological changes in the brain without autopsy with the advancement of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging techniques. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging is a robust tool used to evaluate brain microstructural complexity and integrity, axonal order, density, and myelination via the micron-scale displacement of water molecules diffusing in tissues. Diffusion tensor imaging, a type of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging technique is widely utilized in clinical and research settings;however, it has several limitations. To overcome these limitations, cutting-edge diffusion magnetic resonance imaging techniques, such as diffusional kurtosis imaging, neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging, and free water imaging, have been recently proposed and applied to evaluate the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases. This review focused on the main applications, findings, and future directions of advanced diffusion magnetic resonance imaging techniques in patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, the first and second most common neurodegenerative diseases, respectively.展开更多
AIM: To investigate our learning curves of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in rats and the most important factor for successful surgery. METHODS: We describe the surgical procedures for our rat OLT model, and d...AIM: To investigate our learning curves of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in rats and the most important factor for successful surgery. METHODS: We describe the surgical procedures for our rat OLT model, and determined the operator learning curves. The various factors that contributed to successful surgery were determined. The most important surgical factors were evaluated between successful and unsuccessful surgeries.RESULTS: Learning curve data indicated that 50 cases were required for operator training to start a study. Operative time, blood loss, warm ischemic time, anhepatic phase, unstable systemic hemodynamic state, and body temperature after surgery significantly affected surgery success by univariate analysis, while the anhepatic phase was the most critical factor for success by multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: OLT in rats is the only liver transplantation model that provides clinically relevant and reliable results. Shortened anhepatic phase is key to success in this model.展开更多
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of esomeprazole-based triple therapy compared with lansoprazole therapy as first-line eradication therapy for patients with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in usual post-market...AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of esomeprazole-based triple therapy compared with lansoprazole therapy as first-line eradication therapy for patients with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in usual post-marketing use in Japan, where the clarithromycin (CAM) resistance rate is 30%.展开更多
Objective： To induce adipocyte differentiation in vitro by adipose-derived stromal cells （ASCs） harvested from transgenic mice with green fluorescent protein （GFP） and assess the possibility of constructing adipo...Objective： To induce adipocyte differentiation in vitro by adipose-derived stromal cells （ASCs） harvested from transgenic mice with green fluorescent protein （GFP） and assess the possibility of constructing adipose tissues via attachment of ASCs to type I collagen scaffolds. Methods： Inguinal fat pads from GFP transgenic mice were digested by enzymes for isolation of ASCs （primary culture ）. After expansion to three passages of ASCs, the cells were incubated in an adipogenic medium for two weeks, and the adipocyte differentiation by ASCs in vitro was assessed by morphological observation and Off Red O staining. Then they were attached to collagen scaffolds and co-cultured for 12 hours, followed by hypodermic implantation to the dorsal skin of nude mice for 2 months. The newly-formed tissues were detected by HE staining. Results： The cultured primary stem cells were fibroblast-like and showed active proliferation. After being incubated in an adipocyte differentiation medium, the lipid droplets in the cytoplasm accumulated gradually and finally developed into mature adipocytes, which showed positive in Oil Red O staining. A 0.5-cm^3 new tissue clot was found under the dorsal skin of the nude mice and it was confirmed as mature adipose tissues by fluorescent observation and HE staining. Conclusions： ASCs can successfully differentiate adipose tissues into mature adipocytes, which exhibit an adipocyte-like morphology and express as intracytoplasmic lipid droplets. It is an efficient model of adipose tissues engineered with ASCs and type I collagen scaffolds.展开更多
基金Supported in part by the Offices of NP and HEP within the U.S.DOE Office of Sciencethe U.S.NSF+18 种基金the Sloan Foundationthe DFG cluster of excellence‘Origin and Structure of the Universe’of Germany,CNRS/IN2P3STFC and EPSRC of the United KingdomFAPESP CNPq of Brazil,Ministry of Ed.Sci.of the Russian FederationNNSFCCASMoSTMoE of ChinaGA and MSMT of the Czech RepublicFOM and NWO of the NetherlandsDAEDSTCSIR of IndiaPolish Ministry of Sci.Higher Ed.,Korea Research Foundation,Ministry of Sci.,Ed.Sports of the Rep.Of CroatiaRussian Ministry of Sci.and TechRos-Atom of Russia。
文摘Dihadron azimuthal correlations containing a high transverse momentum(pr)trigger particle are sensit-ive to the properties of the nuclear medium created at RHIC through the strong interactions occurring between the traversing parton and the medium,ie.jet-quenching.Previous measurements revealed a strong modification to di-hadron azimuthal correlations in Au+Au collisions with respect to ptp and d+Au collisions.The modification in-creases with the collision centrality,suggesting a path-length or energy density dependence to the je-quenching ef-fect.This paper reports STAR measurements of dihadron azimuthal correlations in mid-central(20%-60%)Au+Au collisions at√^(S)NN=200 GeV as a function of the trigger particle's azimuthal angle relative to the event plane,Ф_(s)=|Ф_(t)-ψ_(Ep)|.The azimuthal correlation is studied as a function of both the trigger and associated particle pr.The subtractions of the combinatorial background and anisotropic flow,assuming Zero Yield At Minimum(ZYAM),are described.The correlation results are first discussed with subtraction of the even harmonic(elliptic and quadrangu-lar)flow backgrounds.The away-side correlation is strongly modifed,and the modification varies withФ_(s),with a double-peak structure for out-of-plane trigger particles.The near-side ridge(long range pseudo-rapidity△_(η)correla-tion)appears to drop with increasingФ_(s)while the jet-like component remains approximately constant.The correla-tion functions are further studied with the subtraction of odd harmonic triangular flow background arising from fluc-tuations.It is found that the triangular flow,while responsible for the majority of the amplitudes,is not sufficient to explain theφs-dependence of the ridge or the away-side double-peak structure.The dropping ridge withФ_(s)could be attributed to aФ_(s)-dependent lliptie anisotropy;however,the physics mechanism of the ridge remains an open ques-tion.Even with aФ_(s)-dependent elliptic flow,the away-side correlation structure is robust.These results,with exte
基金Supported by Kochi Organization for Medical Reformation and Renewal Fundthe support of SatoshiIto and Kazuhiro Hanazaki(Kochi Medical School)
文摘Insulinomas,the most common cause of hypoglycemia related to endogenous hyperinsulinism,occur in 1-4 people per million of the general population.Common autonomic symptoms of insulinoma include diaphroresis,tremor,and palpitations,whereas neuroglycopenenic symptoms include confusion,behavioural changes,personality changes,visual disturbances,seizure,and coma.Diagnosis of suspected cases is based on standard endocrine tests,especially the prolonged fasting test.Non-invasive imaging procedures,such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging,are used when a diagnosis of insulinoma has been made to localize the source of pathological insulin secretion.Invasive modalities,such as endoscopic ultrasonography and arterial stimulation venous sampling,are highly accurate in the preoperative localization of insulinomas and have frequently been shown to be superior to noninvasive localization techniques.The range of techniques available for the localization of insulinomas means thatblind resection can be avoided.Intraoperative manual palpation of the pancreas by an experienced surgeon and intraoperative ultrasonography are both sensitive methods with which to finalize the location of insulinomas.A high proportion of patients with insulinomas can be cured with surgery.In patients with malignant insulinomas,an aggressive medical approach,including extended pancreatic resection,liver resection,liver transplantation,chemoembolization,or radiofrequency ablation,is recommended to improve both survival and quality of life.In patients with unresectable or uncontrollable insulinomas,such as malignant insulinoma of the pancreas,several techniques should be considered,including administration of ocreotide and/or continuous glucose monitoring,to prevent hypoglycemic episodes and to improve quality of life.
文摘There has been a long-standing need for guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scars that are based on an understanding of the pathomechanisms that underlie these skin fibrotic diseases.This is particularly true for clinicians who deal with Asian and African patients because these ethnicities are highly prone to these diseases.By contrast,Caucasians are less likely to develop keloids and hypertrophic scars,and if they do,the scars tend not to be severe.This ethnic disparity also means that countries vary in terms of their differential diagnostic algorithms.The lack of clear treatment guidelines also means that primary care physicians are currently applying a hotchpotch of treatments,with uneven outcomes.To overcome these issues,the Japan Scar Workshop(JSW)has created a tool that allows clinicians to objectively diagnose and distinguish between keloids,hypertrophic scars,and mature scars.This tool is called the JSW Scar Scale(JSS)and it involves scoring the risk factors of the individual patients and the affected areas.The tool is simple and easy to use.As a result,even physicians who are not accustomed to keloids and hypertrophic scars can easily diagnose them and judge their severity.The JSW has also established a committee that,in cooperation with outside experts in various fields,has prepared a Consensus Document on keloid and hypertrophic scar treatment guidelines.These guidelines are simple and will allow even inexperienced clinicians to choose the most appropriate treatment strategy.The Consensus Document is provided in this article.It describes(1)the diagnostic algorithm for pathological scars and how to differentiate them from clinically similar benign and malignant tumors,(2)the general treatment algorithms for keloids and hypertrophic scars at different medical facilities,(3)the rationale behind each treatment for keloids and hypertrophic scars,and(4)the body site-specific treatment protocols for these scars.We believe that this Consensus Document will be helpful for physi
文摘The number of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases(NAFLD) including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH), has been increasing. NASH causes cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC) and is one of the most serious health problems in the world. The mechanism through which NASH progresses is still largely unknown. Activation of caspases, Bcl-2 family proteins, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase-induced hepatocyte apoptosis plays a role in the activation of NAFLD/NASH. Apoptotic hepatocytes stimulate immune cells and hepatic stellate cells toward the progression of fibrosis in the liver through the production of inflammasomes and cytokines. Abnormalities in glucose and lipid metabolism as well as microbiota accelerate these processes. The production of reactive oxygen species, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress is also involved. Cell death, including apoptosis, seems very important in the progression of NAFLD and NASH. Recently, inhibitors of apoptosis have been developed as drugs for the treatment of NASH and may prevent cirrhosis and HCC. Increased hepatocyte apoptosis may distinguish NASH from NAFLD, and the improvement of apoptosis could play a role in controlling the development of NASH. In this review, the association between apoptosis and NAFLD/NASH are discussed. This review could provide their knowledge, which plays a role in seeing the patients with NAFLD/NASH in daily clinical practice.
文摘Aim： To evaluate the relationship between testicular function and testicular volume measured by using Prader orchidometry and ultrasonography （US） to determine the critical testicular volume indicating normal testicular function by each method. Methods： Total testicular volume （right plus left testicular volume） was measured in 794 testes in 397 men with infertility （mean age, 35.6 years） using a Prader orchidometer and also by ultrasonography. Ultrasonographic testicular volumes were calculated as length x width x height x 0.71. To evaluate volume-function relationships, patients were divided into 10 groups representing 5-mL increments of total testicular volume by each method from below 10 mL to 50 mL or more. Results： Mean total testicular volume based on Prader orchidometry and US were 36.8 mL and 26.3 mL, respectively. Semen volume, sperm density, total sperm count, total motile sperm count, and serum FSH, LH, and testosterone all correlated significantly with total testicular volume measured by either method. Mean sperm density was in the oligozoospermic range in patients with total testicular volume below 35 mL by orchidometry or below 20 mL by ultrasonography. Mean total sperm count was subnormal in patients with total testicular volume below 30 mL by orchidometry or under 20 mL by ultrasonography. Conclusion： Testicular volume measured by either ultrasonography or Prader orchidometry correlated significantly with testicular function. However, critical total testicular volume indicating normal or nearly normal testicular function was 30 mL to 35 mL using Prader orchidometer and 20 mL using ultrasonography. Prader orchidometry morphometrically and functionally overestimated the testicular volume in comparison to US. （Asian JAndro12008 Mar; 10： 319-324）
文摘AIM:To determine the effectiveness of pancreatic duct(PD) stent placement for the prevention of pancreatitis after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP) in high risk patients.METHODS:Authors conducted a single-blind,randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a pancreatic spontaneous dislodgement stent against post-ERCP pancreatitis,including rates of spontaneous dislodgement and complications.Authors defined high risk patients as having any of the following:sphincter of Oddi dysfunction,difficult cannulation,prior history of post-ERCP pancreatitis,pre-cut sphincterotomy,pancreatic ductal biopsy,pancreatic sphincterotomy,intraductal ultrasonography,or a procedure time of more than 30 min.Patients were randomized to a stent group(n = 60) or to a non-stent group(n = 60).An abdominal radiograph was obtained daily to assessspontaneous stent dislodgement.Post-ERCP pancreatitis was diagnosed according to consensus criteria.RESULTS:The mean age(± standard deviation) was 67.4 ± 13.8 years and the male:female ratio was 68:52.In the stent group,the mean age was 66 ± 13 years and the male:female ratio was 33:27,and in the non-stent group,the mean age was 68 ± 14 years and the male:female ratio was 35:25.There were no significant differences between groups with respect to age,gender,final diagnosis,or type of endoscopic intervention.The frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis in PD stent and non-stent groups was 1.7%(1/60) and 13.3%(8/60),respectively.The severity of pancreatitis was mild in all cases.The frequency of post-ERCP pancreatitis in the stent group was significantly lower than in the non-stent group(P = 0.032,Fisher's exact test).The rate of hyperamylasemia were 30%(18/60) and 38.3%(23 of 60) in the stent and non-stent groups,respectively(P = 0.05,χ2 test).The placement of a PD stent was successful in all 60 patients.The rate of spontaneous dislodgement by the third day was 96.7%(58/60),and the median(range) time to dislodgement was 2.1(2-3) d.The rates of stent migration,hemorrhag
文摘Scars are the final result of the four processes that constitute cutaneous wound healing,namely,coagulation,inflammation,proliferation,and remodeling.Permanent scars are produced if the wounds reach the reticular dermis.The nature of these scars depends on the four wound healing processes.If the remodeling process is excessive,collagen degradation exceeds collagen synthesis and atrophic scars are produced.If the inflammation phase is prolonged and/or more potent for some reason,inflammatory/pathological scars such as keloids or hypertrophic scars can arise.If these pathological scars are located on joints or mobile regions,scar contractures can develop.When used with the appropriate timing and when selected on the basis of individual factors,surgical techniques can improve mature scars.This review paper focuses on the surgical techniques that are used to improve mature scars,burn scars,and scar contractures.Those methods include z-plasties,w-plasties,split-thickness skin grafting,full-thickness skin grafting,local flaps(including the square flap method and the propeller flap),and expanded flaps,distant flaps,regional flaps,and free flaps.
文摘A 58-year-old man presented with the chief complaint of abdominal bloating and was incidentally found to have a liver tumor.As diagnostic imaging studies could not rule out malignancy,the patient underwent partial resection of segment 3 of the liver.The lesion pathologically showed eosinophilic proliferation,in addition to immunohistochemical positivity for human melanoma black 45 and Melan-A,thereby leading to the diagnosis of a hepatic perivascular epithelioid cell tumor(PEComa).A PEComa arising from the liver is relatively rare.Moreover,the name ‘PEComa' has not yet been widely recognized,and the same disease entity has been called epithelioid angiomyolipoma(EAML),further diminishing the recognition of PEComa.In addition,PEComa imaging findings mimic those of malignant liver tumors,and clinically,this tumor tends to enlarge.Therefore,a PEComa is difficult to diagnose.We conducted a systematic review of PEComa and EAML cases and discuss the results,including findings useful for differentiating perivascular epithelioid cell tumors from malignant liver tumors.
文摘BACKGROUND The risk of gastric cancer increases in patients with Helicobacter pylori-associated chronic atrophic gastritis(CAG).X-ray examination can evaluate the condition of the stomach,and it can be used for gastric cancer mass screening.However,skilled doctors for interpretation of X-ray examination are decreasing due to the diverse of inspections.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of stomach regions that are automatically estimated by a deep learning-based model for CAG detection.METHODS We used 815 gastric X-ray images(GXIs)obtained from 815 subjects.The ground truth of this study was the diagnostic results in X-ray and endoscopic examinations.For a part of GXIs for training,the stomach regions are manually annotated.A model for automatic estimation of the stomach regions is trained with the GXIs.For the rest of them,the stomach regions are automatically estimated.Finally,a model for automatic CAG detection is trained with all GXIs for training.RESULTS In the case that the stomach regions were manually annotated for only 10 GXIs and 30 GXIs,the harmonic mean of sensitivity and specificity of CAG detection were 0.955±0.002 and 0.963±0.004,respectively.CONCLUSION By estimating stomach regions automatically,our method contributes to the reduction of the workload of manual annotation and the accurate detection of the CAG.
基金Supported by(In part)Grant-in-Aid for Comprehensive Research from the Ministry of Education,Culture,Sports,Science and Technology of Japan
文摘AIM:To investigate the predictors of proximal kidney tubular dysfunction(PKTD)induced by adefovir dipivoxil(ADV)treatment for chronic hepatitis B.METHODS:Seventy-nine patients(age at the evaluation of PKTD:56.9±10.7 years)with chronic hepatitis B undergoing long-term oral antiviral nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment were consecutively recruited.PKTD was defined by the presence of at least two of the following five abnormalities:phosphate diabetes,nondiabetic glucosuria,metabolic acidosis,β2-microglobulinuria,or renal hypouricemia.The single-nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)in the SLC22A6 gene encoding human organic anion transporter 1(h OAT1)and ABCC2 encoding multidrug resistance protein 2(MRP2)were analyzed using the Taq Man Allelic Discrimination Demonstration Kit.RESULTS:Nine(30.0%)of the 30 ADV-treated patients were diagnosed with PKTD,while no patients without ADV developed PKTD(P<0.001).Three patients with ADV were diagnosed with symptomatic osteomalacia.Among the patients who took ADV,those with PKTD were of higher age at initiation,had significantly longer treatment duration,and had a significantly lower body mass index than those without PKTD.The incidence of PKTD dramatically increased after 96 mo from the start of ADV administration.In contrast,the SNPs were not correlated with PKTD.Logistic regression analysis extracted older age at initiation(OR=5.0,95%CI:1.1-23.4;P=0.040)and longer treatment duration(OR=3.2,95%CI:1.2-8.6;P=0.020)as significant factors associated with PKTD.CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that the tubular function of the kidney of older patients undergoing longterm ADV treatment should be carefully evaluated.
文摘Dimethyl ether (DME) is a clean and economical alternative fuel which can beproduced from natural gas through synthesis gas. The properties of DME are very similar to those ofLP gas. DME can be used for various fields as a fuel such as power generation, transportation, homeheating and cooking, etc. It contains no sulfur or nitrogen. It is not corrosive to any metal andnot harmful to human body. An innovative process of direct synthesis of DME from synthesis gas hasbeen developed. Newly developed catalyst in a slurry phase reactor gave a high conversion and highselectivity of DME production. One and half year pilot scale plant (5 tons per day) testing, whichwas supported by METI, had successfully finished with about 400 tons DME production.
文摘In this paper, the actual exchange rate policy conducted by the Chinese government after the Chinese exchange rate system reform on 21 July 2005 is investigated. Also, the long-run effect is investigated, including the Balassa-Samuelson effect on the Chinese yuan. It was found that the Chinese government generated a statistically significant but small change in exchange rate policy during the sample period until 25 January 2006. It was not identified that the Chinese monetary authority is adopting the currency basket system because the change is too small in the economic sense. It is indicated that the Chinese government should take account of the productivity growth of countries composing the currency basket in order to operate a currency basket regime.
基金supported by research grants from the program for Brain/MINDS Beyond program from the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development(AMED)under Grant Number JP18dm0307024(to KK)MEXT-Supported Program for the Private University Research Branding Project+1 种基金ImPACT Program of Council for Science,Technology and Innovation(Cabinet Office,Government of Japan)JSPS KAKENHI Grant Number JP16K10327(to KK)
文摘The prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases is increasing as human longevity increases. The objective biomarkers that enable the staging and early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases are eagerly anticipated. It has recently become possible to determine pathological changes in the brain without autopsy with the advancement of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging techniques. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging is a robust tool used to evaluate brain microstructural complexity and integrity, axonal order, density, and myelination via the micron-scale displacement of water molecules diffusing in tissues. Diffusion tensor imaging, a type of diffusion magnetic resonance imaging technique is widely utilized in clinical and research settings;however, it has several limitations. To overcome these limitations, cutting-edge diffusion magnetic resonance imaging techniques, such as diffusional kurtosis imaging, neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging, and free water imaging, have been recently proposed and applied to evaluate the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases. This review focused on the main applications, findings, and future directions of advanced diffusion magnetic resonance imaging techniques in patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, the first and second most common neurodegenerative diseases, respectively.
基金Supported by The work at the Mayo Clinic, Florida was sup-ported by grants to Nguyen JH from the Deason Foundation, San-dra and Eugene Davenport, Mayo Clinic CD CRT-II, and NIH R01NS051646-01A2the work in Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine was supported by grants of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, No. C20591523 the Uehara Memorial Foundation, No. 200940051, Tokyo, 171-0033, Japan
文摘AIM: To investigate our learning curves of orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in rats and the most important factor for successful surgery. METHODS: We describe the surgical procedures for our rat OLT model, and determined the operator learning curves. The various factors that contributed to successful surgery were determined. The most important surgical factors were evaluated between successful and unsuccessful surgeries.RESULTS: Learning curve data indicated that 50 cases were required for operator training to start a study. Operative time, blood loss, warm ischemic time, anhepatic phase, unstable systemic hemodynamic state, and body temperature after surgery significantly affected surgery success by univariate analysis, while the anhepatic phase was the most critical factor for success by multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: OLT in rats is the only liver transplantation model that provides clinically relevant and reliable results. Shortened anhepatic phase is key to success in this model.
文摘AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of esomeprazole-based triple therapy compared with lansoprazole therapy as first-line eradication therapy for patients with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in usual post-marketing use in Japan, where the clarithromycin (CAM) resistance rate is 30%.
文摘Objective： To induce adipocyte differentiation in vitro by adipose-derived stromal cells （ASCs） harvested from transgenic mice with green fluorescent protein （GFP） and assess the possibility of constructing adipose tissues via attachment of ASCs to type I collagen scaffolds. Methods： Inguinal fat pads from GFP transgenic mice were digested by enzymes for isolation of ASCs （primary culture ）. After expansion to three passages of ASCs, the cells were incubated in an adipogenic medium for two weeks, and the adipocyte differentiation by ASCs in vitro was assessed by morphological observation and Off Red O staining. Then they were attached to collagen scaffolds and co-cultured for 12 hours, followed by hypodermic implantation to the dorsal skin of nude mice for 2 months. The newly-formed tissues were detected by HE staining. Results： The cultured primary stem cells were fibroblast-like and showed active proliferation. After being incubated in an adipocyte differentiation medium, the lipid droplets in the cytoplasm accumulated gradually and finally developed into mature adipocytes, which showed positive in Oil Red O staining. A 0.5-cm^3 new tissue clot was found under the dorsal skin of the nude mice and it was confirmed as mature adipose tissues by fluorescent observation and HE staining. Conclusions： ASCs can successfully differentiate adipose tissues into mature adipocytes, which exhibit an adipocyte-like morphology and express as intracytoplasmic lipid droplets. It is an efficient model of adipose tissues engineered with ASCs and type I collagen scaffolds.
