Search

Purpose To describe our initial experience with use of microspheres in transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) for unruptured sporadic renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs). Materials and methods Seven consecutive patients with seven unruptured sporadic renal AMLs, 6 females and 1 male, with a median age of 45 years (range, 30–69 years), underwent TAE using microspheres between November 2016 and February 2020. We evaluated the technical success rate, complications related to the procedure, clinical success rate, and the shrinkage rate of renal AML. Technical success was defined as the completion of TAE. Clinical success was defined as presence of shrinkage of the renal AML after TAE. Results In all patients, TAE using microspheres was accomplished and technical success rate was 100% (7/7). Three patients exhibited slight pain, but it improved with only observation, and the minor complication rate was 43% (3/7) and major complication rate was 0% (0/7). After the TAE, shrinkage of renal AML was confirmed in 6 of 7 patients, and clinical success rate was 86% (6/7). The median of shrinkage rate was 47% (range, 26–83%) with a median follow-up period of 19 months (range, 4–30 months). Conclusion TAE using microspheres appears to be effective and safe for unruptured sporadic renal AMLs.

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) using the triaxial system with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) for acute arterial bleeding in comparison to TAE using the triaxial system with gelatin sponges (GS) and/or coils. Material and methods Between October 2013 and November 2018, 95 patients with acute arterial bleeding underwent emergency TAE using the triaxial system. Six patients underwent multiple TAEs and thus, 104 TAEs using the triaxial system were performed. In 26 of the 104 cases, TAE were performed with NBCA (NBCA group), and in the remaining 78 cases, TAE were performed with GS and/or coils (control group). Results Hemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy more often occurred in the NBCA group. Procedure time was shorter in the NBCA group. The technical success rate was 100% in both groups (p > 0.99). The clinical success rate in the NBCA and control groups was 92% and 96%, respectively (p = 0.6). There was one minor complication (4%, 1/26) of liver dysfunction in a patient of the NBCA group, but no complication in the control group (p = 0.26). Conclusion TAE using the triaxial system with NBCA may be useful for acute arterial bleeding, especially in patients with hemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy.

Background This study was designed to investigate the incidence and types of pancreatic injury, risk factors, and time-course changes in computed tomographic findings following total aortic arch replacement with moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest. Methods Medical records of patients who underwent total arch replacement between January 2006 and August 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. A comparison study between the patients with (group P) and without pancreatic injury (group N) was conducted to elucidate the impact of pancreatic injury. Follow-up computed tomography of the patients in group P was reviewed to investigate time-course changes of the pancreatic injury. Results Of 353 patients, 14 (4.0%) had subclinical pancreatic injury. Computed tomographic findings were consistent with acute pancreatitis in all patients, of whom eight patients had interstitial edematous pancreatitis, whereas six patients had necrotizing pancreatitis. Although walled-off necrosis occurred in three patients, none of them required drainage. In-hospital mortality was 7.1% and 4.4% in groups P and N, respectively ( p = 0.98). The 5-year actuarial survival rates were 77.9% and 81.0% in groups P and N, respectively ( p = 0.51). Multivariate analysis revealed that pancreatic injury was associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( p = 0.03). Conclusions This study highlighted that silent pancreatic injury after aortic arch surgery is underrecognized. Potential arterial sclerosis of the pancreatic circulation seems to be related to pancreatic injury.

In a fuel handling system of sodium-cooled fast reactors (SFRs), it is necessary to remove the sodium remaining on spent fuel assemblies (FAs) before storing them in a spent fuel water pool...

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of bronchial artery embolization (BAE) using a gelatin sponge for hemoptysis from pulmonary aspergilloma and compare them with treatment outcomes for hemoptysis from other diseases. Fifty-two patients underwent BAE using a gelatin sponge. The etiology of hemoptysis was pulmonary aspergilloma in 8 (PA group) and other diseases in 44 (control group). The technical success rate, clinical success rate, hemoptysis-free rate, and complication rate were compared between the PA group and control group. Technical success was defined as the complete cessation of the targeted feeding artery as confirmed by digital subtraction angiography, and clinical success as the cessation of hemoptysis within 24 h of BAE. Recurrent hemoptysis was defined as a single or multiple episodes of hemoptysis causing > 30 ml of bleeding per day. Technical and clinical success rates were 100% in both groups. Hemoptysis-free rates were 85% at 6 months and 72% at 12–60 months in the control group, and 38% at 6–12 months and 25% thereafter in the PA group (P = 0.0009). No complications were observed following BAE in any case in the two groups. BAE using a gelatin sponge may not be effective for hemoptysis from pulmonary aspergilloma.

Introduction: Transcatheter arterial embolization is the first-line treatment for visceral artery pseudoaneurysms (VAPAs); however, the intraprocedural rupture of pseudoaneurysms is an important complication. The present study was performed to evaluate the safety of embolization for VAPAs, including the incidence of intraprocedural rupture. Methods: Among 56 consecutive patients with 57 VAPAs who underwent treatment between April 2009 and October 2020, 46 patients with 47 VAPAs underwent embolization. Complications related to embolization including intraprocedural rupture, the technical success rate, and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Complications that required extended hospitalization, an advanced level of care, or resulted in permanent adverse sequelae or death were classified as major complications, while the remainder were considered to be minor. Technical success was defined as the completion of embolization. Results: The intraprocedural rupture of pseudoaneurysms occurred in 3 out of 47 VAPAs treated with embolization (6%) and resulted in minor complications. One liver abscess requiring drainage was regarded as a major complication (2%). Focal infarction after embolization was observed as a minor complication in 20 cases. Complications occurred in 24 out of 47 cases (51%), comprising one major complication (2%) and 23 minor complications (48%). The technical success rate was 100% (47/47). Fifty-three out of 56 patients (95%) were alive in a median follow-up period of 18 months (range: 2 days-137 months). Conclusions: Embolization is safe and useful for the treatment of VAPAs; however, the intraprocedural rupture of pseudoaneurysms may occur, and, thus, care is needed during this procedure.

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety and usefulness of performing computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsies of pulmonary lesions that arise after radiotherapy. Seventeen patients (14 males and 3 females; median age: 69 years, range: 48-84 years) underwent CT-guided biopsies of pulmonary lesions that occurred in lung regions that had previously been treated with radiotherapy. Three patients underwent CT-guided biopsies twice, and thus, the total number of procedures was 20. We reviewed the subjects' medical records and images, and evaluated the rate for obtaining pathological diagnosis with the biopsy sample, subsequent clinical course, and complications associated with the procedure. In 19 of 20 procedures (95%), the CT-guided biopsy resulted in a pathological diagnosis being obtained. In 14 procedures, the pathological results were consistent with the patients' clinical courses. In the remaining 5 procedures, the lesions were pathologically diagnosed as benign, but they increased in size thereafter; so the lesions were considered to be clinically malignant. The results were considered to represent sampling errors. There were 3 minor complications (slight pneumothorax which did not require drainage) (3/20, 15%), and there were no major complications. In conclusion, performing CT-guided biopsies of pulmonary lesions that arise after radiotherapy appears to be feasible, safe and useful.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) using the triaxial system with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) for acute arterial bleeding in comparison to TAE using the triaxial system with gelatin sponges (GS) and/or coils.Between October 2013 and November 2018, 95 patients with acute arterial bleeding underwent emergency TAE using the triaxial system. Six patients underwent multiple TAEs and thus, 104 TAEs using the triaxial system were performed. In 26 of the 104 cases, TAE were performed with NBCA (NBCA group), and in the remaining 78 cases, TAE were performed with GS and/or coils (control group).Hemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy more often occurred in the NBCA group. Procedure time was shorter in the NBCA group. The technical success rate was 100% in both groups (TAE using the triaxial system with NBCA may be useful for acute arterial bleeding, especially in patients with hemorrhagic shock and coagulopathy.

Background A triple-coaxial (triaxial) system, which consists of a small microcatheter, a large microcatheter, and a 4-Fr. catheter, has been reported to allow super-selective catheterization. A 1.6-Fr. microcatheter has recently become available as the small microcatheter for the triaxial system, in addition to 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils that may be introduced into the 1.6-Fr. microcatheter. Purpose The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils in embolization through the 1.6-Fr. microcatheter of the triaxial system. Material and Methods Between November 2015 and October 2019, 19 embolizations were performed on 18 patients, 9 males and 9 females with a median age of 77 years (range, 41–88 years), using 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils through the 1.6-Fr. microcatheter of the triaxial system. The technical success rate, clinical success rate, and complications associated with the procedure were assessed. Technical success was defined as the successful delivery and placement of 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils, and clinical success as the immediate postembolic complete cessation of blood flow confirmed by digital subtraction angiography. Results Eighty-four 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils were delivered and 19 arteries were successfully embolized. The median number of 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils was 4 (range, 1–12). The technical success rate was 100% (84/84) and the clinical success rate was also 100% (19/19). There were no complications associated with the procedures. Conclusion The use of 0.014-in. pushable bare platinum coils in super-selective embolization through the 1.6-Fr. microcatheter of the triaxial system appears to be feasible and safe.

Aim To evaluate the incidence and condition of necrotic tumor excretion into the biliary system in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) >5 cm treated with conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Methods Eighty-three patients who underwent TACE for newly developed HCC >5 cm without an intraductal tumor thrombus and were followed-up by computed tomography for longer than 6 months were eligible. According to the location, the maximum tumors were divided into central (in contact with the left or right hepatic duct, n = 39) or peripheral (not in contact with them, n = 44). When high-density material in the biliary system that was not seen on pretreatment computed tomography was identified, it was determined as excreted necrotic tumor tissue containing iodized oil. The incidence, interval between TACE and occurrence of the necrotic tumor excretion, and clinical course were evaluated. Results Tumor excretion into the biliary system was identified in nine (10.8%) patients with a central tumor (mean diameter, 85.0 ± 29.6 mm) 28–433 days (mean, 219.3 ± 128.2) after the initial TACE. In one patient, the necrotic tumor cast caused cholangitis 1203 days after the initial TACE, and was endoscopically removed. Infection of the embolized tumor developed in two cases and percutaneous drainage was carried out 105 and 158 days later, respectively. Conclusions Excretion of necrotic tumors into the biliary system after TACE was not rare in patients with centrally located HCC >5 cm. The detached tumor rarely caused symptoms and the communication between the tumor and bile duct caused the infection of tumors.

Purpose: A steerable triaxial system consisting of a small microcatheter, a high-flow steerable microcatheter, and a 4-Fr. catheter is currently used in clinical settings. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the steerable triaxial system for challenging catheterization.Material and methods: Sixteen patients underwent an interventional procedure with the steerable triaxial system. Medical records and images of the procedures were reviewed, and the technical success rate, clinical success rate, and complications related to the procedures were evaluated. Technical success was defined as successful catheterization to the target artery using the steerable triaxial system, and clinical success as completion of the aimed procedure.Results: Catheterization to the target artery was successfully performed with the steerable triaxial system in 14 out of 16 patients, but was unsuccessful in two. Therefore, the technical success rate was 88% (14/16). The procedure was successfully accomplished in the 14 technical success patients. Thus, the clinical success rate was 88% (14/16). There were no complications related to the procedures.Conclusions: The steerable triaxial system has potential as a useful and safe technique for challenging catheterization.

AIM To evaluate the performance of novel virtual parenchymal perfusion (VPP) software in conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (cTACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS VPP was retrospectively applied to 43 hepatocellular carcinomas treated with cTACE. The virtual embolized area (VEA) was estimated after positioning a virtual injection point on images of non-selective cone-beam computed tomography during hepatic arteriography, at the same position in superselective cTACE. The real embolized area (REA) was defined as the area where iodized oil was retained on 1-week computed tomography after cTACE. Three dimensions across the tumor (maximum [a] and minimum [b] in the axial and craniocaudal [c]) directions, and the volume of the VEA and REA were compared using linear regression analysis. It was also evaluated whether an adequate safety margin ≥5 mm could be predicted by VPP. RESULTS The mean lengths of a, b, and c of the VEA and REA were 54.6 ± 15.9 mm (range 24.9-91.0 mm) and 55.0 ± 15.7 mm (range 23.9-92.8 mm; r = 0.9448, P

Studies on the suppression of the reactivity of sodium itself have been performed on the basis of the concept of suspended nanoparticles in liquid sodium (sodium nanofluid). According to the theoretical and experimental results of studies for sodium nanofluid, velocity and heat of sodium nanofluid reaction with water (sodium nanofluid/water reaction) are lower than those of the pure sodium/water reaction. The analytical model for the peak temperature of a sodium nanofluid/water reaction jet has been developed by the authors in consideration of these suppression effects. In this paper, the prediction method for mitigation effects on damage of adjacent tubes in steam generator tube rupture (SGTR) accidents is developed by applying this analytical model for the peak temperature of the reaction jet. On the assumption that the sodium nanofluid is used for the secondary coolant of sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR), mitigation effects under the design basis accident (DBA) condition and the design extension condition (DEC) of SGTR are estimated by using this method. The results indicate a clear possibility to reduce the number of damaged tubes and to suppress the pressure generated in SGTR accidents by using sodium nanofluid as the secondary coolant.

Aim To retrospectively evaluate the detectability of tumor recurrence with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after superselective conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (cTACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods The detectability of tumor recurrence with CT and gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI obtained within 30 days (mean, 16.9 ± 10.1) were compared in 38 patients with recurrent HCC after superselective cTACE. Tumor recurrence was divided into local and distant recurrence. Local recurrence was also divided into intratumoral and peritumoral recurrence. Results Tumor recurrence (maximum diameter, 19.7 ± 10.1 mm) was demonstrated by images 12.4 ± 11.7 months after cTACE. CT could depict 16 (76.2%) of 21 intratumoral recurrences in 12 patients and 14 (53.8%) of 26 peritumoral recurrences in 11, as well as 39 (55.7%) of 70 distant recurrences in 15 (75%) of 20 patients. Arterial phase MRI could depict 20 (95.2%) of 21 intratumoral recurrences in 14 patients and all 26 (100%) peritumoral recurrences in 21, as well as 60 (85.7%) distant recurrences in all 20 (100%) patients. The detectability of tumor recurrence with MRI was significantly higher than that with CT (P = 0.00549). On MRI, pseudolesions were observed in five (13.2%) patients and artifacts in the arterial phase in five (13.2%). Regarding the diagnostic performance, CT was superior to MRI in two (5.3%) patients and MRI was superior to CT in 19 (50%). They were almost equal in 17 (44.7%). Conclusion The detectability of tumor recurrence after superselective cTACE with gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI was superior to that of CT.

Background Preoperative transcatheter arterial embolization for hypervascular bone and soft tissue tumors plays an important role in reducing intraoperative blood loss (IBL). Purpose To evaluate the use of a gelatin sponge in preoperative transcatheter arterial embolization for hypervascular bone and soft tissue tumors in the pelvis or extremities. Material and Methods Thirty-seven patients (21 men, 16 women; median age, 61 years; age range, 23–79 years) underwent preoperative transcatheter arterial embolization between April 2004 and January 2015. Medical records and images were reviewed, and the technical success rate, clinical success rate, and complications were evaluated. Technical success was defined as a devascularization rate of 75% or higher, and clinical success was defined as intraoperative blood loss (IBL) Results Tumor sizes were in the range of 2.0–13.0 cm (median, 5.0 cm). The devascularization rate was decreased by >75% at follow-up angiography in all cases, and the technical success rate was 100 % (37/37). The median IBL was 491 mL (range, 30–3800 mL), and the clinical success rate was 89% (33/37). The minor complication of local pain was observed in 13 out of 37 cases (35%) during or after embolization, but was controllable by an analgesic. Conclusion Preoperative transarterial embolization using a gelatin sponge appears to be feasible and safe, and may contribute to decreasing IBL.

We report the usefulness of dual-phase cone-beam computed tomography during angiography (CBCTA) and automated tumour-feeder detection software (AFD) in transarterial embolization (TAE) for three consecutive cases of obscure arterial bleeding in the abdomen. Two patients presented with lower gastrointestinal bleeding and one showed bleeding into the pancreatic pseudocyst. Superior mesenteric or common hepatic angiography did not demonstrate extravasation, but dual-phase CBCTA and AFD could identify extravasation and an access route to the bleeding point. TAE with gelatin sponge particles and a microcoil was successfully performed under AFD guidance in all patients without any complication, and haemostasis could be achieved.

Ultrasonic Doppler velocimetry (UDV) with a titanium-tipped transducer has been successfully demonstrated for measuring a velocity profile of molten lead–lithium eutectic alloy (PbLi) with a concentration of oxygen and moisture lower than 1 ppm. In contrast, it is found that UDV does not work for PbLi flows in a more oxygen-rich environment. This paper presents UDV measurements of PbLi flows at different levels of ambient oxygen concentration, and then discusses the measurement deterioration, based on a thermodynamic consideration of oxides formation in molten PbLi. In summary, it can be concluded that in an oxygen-rich environment, titanium oxidation occurs and consequently deteriorates the acoustic coupling between the transducer tip and the molten PbLi.

To evaluate the incidence and condition of necrotic tumor excretion into the biliary system in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)5 cm treated with conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE).Eighty-three patients who underwent TACE for newly developed HCC5 cm without an intraductal tumor thrombus and were followed-up by computed tomography for longer than 6 months were eligible. According to the location, the maximum tumors were divided into central (in contact with the left or right hepatic duct, n = 39) or peripheral (not in contact with them, n = 44). When high-density material in the biliary system that was not seen on pretreatment computed tomography was identified, it was determined as excreted necrotic tumor tissue containing iodized oil. The incidence, interval between TACE and occurrence of the necrotic tumor excretion, and clinical course were evaluated.Tumor excretion into the biliary system was identified in nine (10.8%) patients with a central tumor (mean diameter, 85.0 ± 29.6 mm) 28-433 days (mean, 219.3 ± 128.2) after the initial TACE. In one patient, the necrotic tumor cast caused cholangitis 1203 days after the initial TACE, and was endoscopically removed. Infection of the embolized tumor developed in two cases and percutaneous drainage was carried out 105 and 158 days later, respectively.Excretion of necrotic tumors into the biliary system after TACE was not rare in patients with centrally located HCC5 cm. The detached tumor rarely caused symptoms and the communication between the tumor and bile duct caused the infection of tumors.

To evaluate the performance of novel virtual parenchymal perfusion (VPP) software in conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (cTACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma.VPP was retrospectively applied to 43 hepatocellular carcinomas treated with cTACE. The virtual embolized area (VEA) was estimated after positioning a virtual injection point on images of non-selective cone-beam computed tomography during hepatic arteriography, at the same position in superselective cTACE. The real embolized area (REA) was defined as the area where iodized oil was retained on 1-week computed tomography after cTACE. Three dimensions across the tumor (maximum [a] and minimum [b] in the axial and craniocaudal [c]) directions, and the volume of the VEA and REA were compared using linear regression analysis. It was also evaluated whether an adequate safety margin ≥5 mm could be predicted by VPP.The mean lengths of a, b, and c of the VEA and REA were 54.6 ± 15.9 mm (range 24.9-91.0 mm) and 55.0 ± 15.7 mm (range 23.9-92.8 mm; r = 0.9448, P 0.001), 35.4 ± 11.7 mm (range 16.1-66.0 mm) and 35.4 ± 13.2 mm (range 12.2-69.2 mm; r = 0.9369, P 0.001), and 42.1 ± 11.6 mm (range 25.0-75.7 mm) and 42.9 ± 11.7 mm (range 25.7-78.7 mm; r = 0.9092, P 0.001), respectively. The mean volume of the VEA and REA was 71.8 ± 44.8 mL and 75.5 ± 46.9 mL, respectively (r = 0.9913, P 0.0001). VPP showed no safety margins in seven tumors, including all three actually embolized without safety margins.The VEA estimated using VPP showed a good correlation with the REA of cTACE.

Liquid sodium is used as coolant in fast reactors (FRs), because of its high thermal conductivity and wide temperature range of liquid phase. It has superior thermal medium properties but its chemical reactivity with water and oxygen is very high. Hence, FR plants have to take safety measures regarding these reactions. To develop FR systems for practical use, a better physical and chemical understanding of reaction phenomena and more mechanistic analyses for accidents are desired. Oxidation in the early stage of sodium combustion is especially important regarding the aspect of reaction continuity. The purpose of this study is to understand the sodium reaction precisely in order to apply the knowledge of the sodium reaction to promoting further safety of FRs. In the authors' previous study, it was recognized that dendritic oxide had an important role in the sodium oxidation reaction such as supplying unreacted sodium to the reaction interface. In this study, a mechanistic model for supplying sodium through...

Measurements of the contact angles at the different temperatures of a molten lead–lithium eutectic alloy (PbLi) droplet on a silicon carbide (SiC) wall are needed for the research and development both of a magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) and an inertia confinement fusion (ICF) blankets. PbLi coolant/breeder flows in the coolant channel, which is made of the SiC walls, and will experience a flow slip at the wall, called as a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) slip flow. The ICF blanket adopts a molten PbLi film flow along the first wall made of SiC. The PbLi contact angle database is necessary as the thermal property for numerically predicting the behavior of the flowing molten PbLi film. This study attempts the measurement of the contact angles between the molten PbLi and the various SiC surfaces. For example, in order to examine the initial PbLi wettability, we measured the contact angles of a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) SiC, a nano-infiltration and transient eutectic-phase (NITE) SiC/SiC composites, and a NITE SiC in an inert atmosphere. We obtained the contact angle database of the molten PbLi, varying the temperature of PbLi from 250 to 400 °C, on a surface-polished as well as an unpolished SiC.

Rationale and Objectives Evaluation of contrast enhancement of pulmonary lesions with ground-glass attenuation (GGA) is difficult with conventional techniques but might be possible using contrast-mapping images (CMIs) obtained by dual-energy computed tomography. To address this issue, a phantom study was conducted, and this technique was then applied to clinical cases. Materials and Methods Phantoms made of agarose gel and those made of hollow resin clay, containing various concentrations of iodine or calcium, were used to simulate soft tissue and GGA, respectively. They were scanned using a dual-energy computed tomographic scanner, and the relationship between iodine concentration and calculated iodine value on CMIs was examined. The influence of calcium was also evaluated. In addition, contrast enhancement of 24 GGA lesions was evaluated on CMIs. Results There was a good correlation between iodine value and iodine concentration in the soft-tissue models ( r 2 = 0.996). In the GGA models, the former tended to exceed the latter when default parameters for calculating CMIs were used, but this could be corrected by modifying the parameters ( r 2 = 0.998). The iodine value increased with calcium concentration in both models. On CMIs, contrast enhancement was visible in 22 adenocarcinomas but not in a pulmonary hemorrhage and an inflammatory change. Conclusions Dual-energy computed tomography can evaluate contrast enhancement of GGA lesions.

Objective: To investigate the utility of fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging for diagnosing multiple system atrophy-parkinsonism (MSA-P). Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 49 subjects (19 with MSA-P including 11 with early-stage disease, 15 with Parkinson’s disease and 15 matched controls) in order to compare the diagnostic value of FLAIR imaging to detect a hyperintense putaminal rim (HPR) with that of T2-weighted (T2W) imaging. Results: Compared with T2W imaging, FLAIR imaging detected HPR more conspicuously in the 19 MSA-P patients (p = 0.01); this trend was also observed in 11 early-stage MSA-P patients (p = 0.01). Furthermore, FLAIR imaging tended to increase sensitivity of detecting HPR compared with T2W imaging (all patients: 89 vs. 58%, p = 0.07; early-stage patients: 100 vs. 55%, p = 0.06). Conclusions: FLAIR imaging might be more useful for detecting HPR in MSA-P patients, even though they are at an early stage.

Aim We evaluated the performance of automated tumor-feeder detection (AFD) software using cone-beam computed tomography technology in identifying tumor-feeders of extrahepatic collaterals. Methods AFD was prospectively used in superselective transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or embolization (TAE) of extrahepatic collaterals for 29 hepatocellular carcinomas and one liver metastasis (mean tumor diameter ± standard deviation, 28 ± 15.6 mm) in 25 patients. The detectability of extrahepatic tumor-feeders with non-selective digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and AFD was evaluated and compared using a χ2-test. Tumor response of target lesions in each patient at 2–3 months after treatment was evaluated using the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. Complications were also evaluated. Results Of 46 tumor-feeders, non-selective DSA and AFD could identify 26 and 44, respectively (P

We report the first genome-wide identification and characterization of alternative splicing in human gene transcripts based on analysis of the full-length cDNAs. Applying both manual and computational analyses for 56 419 completely sequenced and precisely annotated full-length cDNAs selected for the H-Invitational human transcriptome annotation meetings, we identified 6877 alternative splicing genes with 18 297 different alternative splicing variants. A total of 37 670 exons were involved in these alternative splicing events. The encoded protein sequences were affected in 6005 of the 6877 genes. Notably, alternative splicing affected protein motifs in 3015 genes, subcellular localizations in 2982 genes and transmembrane domains in 1348 genes. We also identified interesting patterns of alternative splicing, in which two distinct genes seemed to be bridged, nested or having overlapping protein coding sequences (CDSs) of different reading frames (multiple CDS). In these cases, completely unrelated proteins are encoded by a single locus. Genome-wide annotations of alternative splicing, relying on full-length cDNAs, should lay firm groundwork for exploring in detail the diversification of protein function, which is mediated by the fast expanding universe of alternative splicing variants.

We demonstrate a simple and rapid method for SNP typing, allele frequency determination, and trace mutant analysis that works with even an inexpensive detection system. This method is based on microchip electrophoresis of tagged probes incorporated with one-colored ddNTP (METPOC). The assay uses dye terminator incorporation into a pair of probes of different lengths specific to wild- and mutant-type targets, respectively. They are hybridized to the targets prior to ddNTP-Cy-5 incorporation, which occurs only for a matched probe-target duplex. Because the extension reactions for the two probes are carried out simultaneously in one tube and the products from both probes are analyzed in one channel by one-color fluorescence detection, an accurate comparative analysis of SNPs is possible. SNP typing as well as allele frequency determination in the range above 0.1% can easily be carried out using a commercial microchip electrophoresis system in a few minutes.

To identify additional genes targeted for microsatellite instability (MSI), we search for human genes which contain mononucleotide repeats in their coding region, selected 7 genes (RAD50, DNA‐PKcs, FLASH, Apaf‐1, XPG, CtIP, and MLSN1), and analyzed frameshift mutations in them. Here we report that 60% (3 out of 5) of human colorectal cancer cell lines exhibiting a high frequency of MSI (MSI‐H) and 46% (6 out of 13) of MSI‐H primary colorectal tumors had mutations in the (A)9 repeat of RAD50 recombinational repair gene. In contrast, no frameshift mutations were found in any of the 5 MSI‐negative colorectal cancer cell lines, 8 colorectal tumors exhibiting a low frequency of MSI (MSI‐L), or 28 MSI‐negative colorectal tumors. No mutations were found in the mononucleotide repeats of 6 other genes, even in MSI‐H cancers. These results suggest that RAD50 frameshift mutations may play a role in the tumorigenesis of MSI‐H colorectal cancers.

新規な界面活性剤であるリンゴ酸モノラウリルアミドについて, 皮膚洗浄剤としての応用を研究した。水酸化カリウムで中和したリンゴ酸モノラウリルアミドK (以下リンゴ酸アミドと略) は, すすぎ時にカルシウム塩を形成して優れたさっぱり感を発現する。また, 洗浄後の皮膚のつっぱり感はラウリン酸K>POE (3) ラウリルエーテル硫酸Na>ラウロイルグルタミン酸K>N-ラウロイル-N-メチル-βアラニンK≥リンゴ酸アミドの順に弱い。リンゴ酸アミドの皮膚残留量はラウリン酸Kに比べ1/10であり, 角質層内部への浸透性も低い。さらに, リンゴ酸アミドはいわゆる選択洗浄性を有する界面活性剤であり, 天然保湿因子 (NMF) の溶出量も少ない。リンゴ酸アミドは製剤を処方する上で必須となる他の界面活性剤との併用においても, リンゴ酸アミドの特長を発現する。たとえば, ラウリルジメチルアミノ酢酸ベタインのようなすすぎ時にぬめり感をもつ界面活性剤と混合しても, ぬめり感を抑制しリンゴ酸アミド特有のさっぱりとしたすすぎ感触が得られる。皮膚残留量が比較的多く, つっぱり感の強いラウリン酸Kにリンゴ酸アミドを添加すると, ラウリン酸Kの皮膚残留量は減少し, つっぱり感は弱くなった。リンゴ酸アミドはこのような特長をもつ有用な皮膚洗浄基剤である。

This paper describes the trends of automotive fuel qualities in Japan. It was found that most gasoline properties, such as Research Octane Number (RON) , Motor Octane Number (MON) and Distillation Temperature, remained almost constant. Although ASTM Cetane Index, Kineamitc Viscosity and 90% Distillation Temperature (T90) of diesel fuels increased, the other diesel fuel properties remained almost constant. Finally, we evaluated Japanese automotive fuel properties by comparing them with the fuel quality recommendations of the World-Wide Fuel Charter.

This article shortly explains about the Database center for life science in Japan.

Interaction between a cationic fluorocarbon surfactant, bis(2-hydroxyethyl)(2-hydroxy-3-perfluorooctylpropyl)-methylammonium chloride (DEFUMAC) and sodium dodecyl poly(oxyethylene)sulfate (SDEnS, n = 3, 5, 8) in dilute aqueous solutions has been investigated by means of surface tension, fluorescence probing, solubilization, and static and dynamic light scattering measurements. The same systems in concentrated aqueous solutions have been characterized from the phase diagram. In the concentrated solution no crystals are formed at any molar fraction in the DEFUMAC-SDE8S system, whereas precipitation of crystals is observed over wide regions in the DEFUMAC-SDE3S or SDE5S systems. On the other hand, in the dilute solution, the mixed critical micelle concentration (CMC), the surface tension at the CMC, an interaction parameter β (from regular solution theory), the apparent aggregation number and the diffusion coefficient of the mixed micelles all depend on the oxyethylene chain length of SDEnS. These characteristics change markedly with decreasing value of n. This is predominantly due to the strong electrostatic attractive interaction between the surfactants in spite of the mutual phobicity of hydrocarbon and fluorocarbon chains.

Nuclear fusion reactors are a promising candidate of the future power source. Magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) blankets adopt high-temperature liquid metals (LM) such as the lead-lithium eutectic alloy (PbLi), as a coolant/tritium breeder. Developments of the LM-MCF blankets require comprehensive understanding of the high-temperature LM flows under the influence of the plasma-confining magnetic field. A high-temperature ultrasonic Doppler velocimetry (HT-UDV) has been developed as a flow diagnostic technique to acquire local velocity profiles of the opaque, high-temperature LM flow. This paper describes HT-UDV technique that has been successfully applied to measure velocity profiles of PbLi flows. The impact of tracer particles is investigated to determine requirements for HT-UDV measurement of PbLi flows. The HT-UDV system is tested on a PbLi flow driven by a rotating-disk in an inert atmosphere. We find that a sufficient amount of particles contained in the molten PbLi are required to successfully measure PbLi velocity profiles by HT-UDV. An X-ray diffraction analysis is performed to identify those particles in PbLi, and indicates that those particles were made of the lead mono-oxide (PbO). Since the specific densities of PbLi and PbO are close to each other, the PbO particles are expected to be well-dispersed in the bulk of molten PbLi. We conclude that the excellent dispersion of PbO particles enables the HT-UDV to obtain reliable velocity profiles for operation times of around 12 h.

A contact angle database of a molten lead–lithium eutectic alloy (PbLi) droplet on a silicon carbide (SiC) is basic information for research and development both of magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) and inertia confinement fusion (ICF) blankets. PbLi coolant/breeder flows in the coolant channel made of the SiC walls will experience a flow slip at the wall, called as a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) slip flow. An ICF blanket adopts a molten PbLi film flow along the SiC first wall. The PbLi contact angle database is necessary for numerically predicting the molten PbLi film flow behaviors. The present study is attempted to measure the contact angles formed between the molten PbLi and the various SiC surfaces, e.g. a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) SiC and a nano-infiltration and transient eutectic-phase (NITE) SiC/SiC composite in an inert atmosphere in order to examine an initial PbLi wettability. As the results, the molten PbLi contact angle database is obtained, which covers the PbLi temperature from 250 to 400°C on the surface-polished and unpolished SiC, respectively.

Evaluation of contrast enhancement of pulmonary lesions with ground-glass attenuation (GGA) is difficult with conventional techniques but might be possible using contrast-mapping images (CMIs) obtained by dual-energy computed tomography. To address this issue, a phantom study was conducted, and this technique was then applied to clinical cases.Phantoms made of agarose gel and those made of hollow resin clay, containing various concentrations of iodine or calcium, were used to simulate soft tissue and GGA, respectively. They were scanned using a dual-energy computed tomographic scanner, and the relationship between iodine concentration and calculated iodine value on CMIs was examined. The influence of calcium was also evaluated. In addition, contrast enhancement of 24 GGA lesions was evaluated on CMIs.There was a good correlation between iodine value and iodine concentration in the soft-tissue models (r(2) = 0.996). In the GGA models, the former tended to exceed the latter when default parameters for calculating CMIs were used, but this could be corrected by modifying the parameters (r(2) = 0.998). The iodine value increased with calcium concentration in both models. On CMIs, contrast enhancement was visible in 22 adenocarcinomas but not in a pulmonary hemorrhage and an inflammatory change.Dual-energy computed tomography can evaluate contrast enhancement of GGA lesions.

hMLH1 is involved in DNA mismatch repair and its defects cause hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) as well as other types of cancer. A defective DNA mismatch repair system results in genetic instability, also referred to as microsatellite instability (MSI), which is a good indicator of HNPCC. Using in silico analysis of oligo-capping cDNA sequences, we initially identified a splicing (variant type 2) whose second exon is 5 bp shorter than that of a genuine hMLH1 transcript (variant type 1) and a transcript using alternative promoter (variant type 3) whose transcription starts about 300 bases downstream of variant type 1. We then compared the expression level of variant types 1 and 3 among six colorectal cancer cell lines using real-time PCR. As a result, we found that the cell lines that completely suppress the expression of variant type 1 by hypermethylation expressed variant type 3 to a certain extent. This result suggests that the expression of variant types 1 and 3 did not completely follow the same transcription mechanism. We also found that the cell lines showing MSI to be positive either expressed variant type 3 more than type 1 or expressed only variant type 3. These results showed the potential applicability of mRNA expression analysis to molecular diagnostic tests of MSI-positive cancer types.

We encountered 6 rare cases of acute-onset unilateral psychogenic hearing loss in adults. All were women in their 20s and 30s. Three cases had severe hearing impairment characterized by hearing loss at every frequency; 2 cases had profound hearing impairment, and 1 case had low-frequency hearing impairment. Of the 6 cases, 3 had a history of hearing loss, and 1 had a history of psychogenic visual disturbance. All 6 cases were initially diagnosed as having idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss; all subsequently received steroid therapy. Three cases were not diagnosed as being psychogenic in origin until otoacoustic emissions and auditory brain responses were performed. Although the presence of distinctive clinical features (age, gender, and past history) is important for suspecting psychogenic hearing loss, objective audiological tests such as otoacoustic emissions are essential for diagnosing some cases. Compared to the existing reports of similar cases, our cases had a poorer prognosis (only 2 cases were cured).

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a recently discovered systemic condition, in which various organ manifestations are linked by a similar histological appearance. Our knowledge of this condition is still fragmented, as most studies have examined only a few dozen patients or focused on a particular organ manifestation. This study was conducted to learn the demography and patient characteristics of IgG4-RD using a large cohort. A total of 235 consecutive patients with IgG4-RD, diagnosed in 8 general hospitals in the same medical district, were identified by searching the institutions’ radiology database. Inclusion criteria were histology-proven IgG4-RD according to the Pathology Consensus Statement and/or definitive type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis meeting the International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria. Clinical notes and images of selected patients were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were adults (M/F = 4/1). The median age was 67 years (range 35–86). Nine tenths were diagnosed in their 50s to 70s. Among 486 manifestations identified in total, the most common was pancreatitis diagnosed in 142 patients (60%), followed by sialadenitis (34%), tubulointerstitial nephritis (23%), dacryoadenitis (23%), and periaortitis (20%). The majority of patients (95%) had at least 1 of the 5 most common manifestations. Male and female patients differed in their organ manifestations (periaortitis more common in males and sialodacryoadenitis more common in females). Serum IgG4 (normal ≤135 mg/dL) was elevated to >135 mg/dL in 208 patients (88%) and >270 mg/dL in 167 (71%). The IgG4 value was significantly higher in patients with multiorgan involvement than in those with a single manifestation (median 629 mg/dL vs 299 mg/dL, P 10% in 194 (89%). Corticosteroids were effective, but the relapse rate was estimated to be 24% in the study period (median 37 months). During the follow-up, 15 malignant diseases were diagnosed in 13 patients (6%). This figure is similar to the incidence (12.9 cancers) expected from the Japanese nationwide study for cancer epidemiology (standardized incidence ratio 1.16). In conclusion, this reliable dataset could improve the characterization of IgG4-RD, particularly its unique demography and the frequency of each organ manifestation.