Search

Follow-up of aneurysms treated with stent-assisted coil embolization has been performed using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) because in time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography, metal artifacts from the stent often affect visualization.To confirm whether ultrashort echo time (TE) MRA may be an alternative for DSA during follow-up.Patients with unruptured aneurysms initially treated with stent-assisted coil embolization between April 2019 and March 2021 were enrolled. After 3 months of treatment, follow-up DSA and ultrashort TE MRA were performed. All images were independently reviewed by neurosurgeons to evaluate in-stent flow and rated from 1 (not visible) to 4 (excellent). Aneurysmal embolization status was assessed as complete obliteration, residual neck, or residual aneurysm. Ultrashort TE MRA findings were classified as evaluative or nonevaluative state based on the presence of metal artifacts. We investigated the types of aneurysms that were evaluative and the agreement between ultrashort TE and DSA.Overall, 89 aneurysms were examined, of which 74% (n = 66) were classified as evaluative on ultrashort TE. Significant differences were observed in size and stent type. Evaluative cases had an aneurysm size of7 mm (P = .0007) and a higher rate of Neuroform Atlas (P = .0006). The rate of agreement between ultrashort TE with evaluative state and DSA was 95%.Ultrashort TE MRA could evaluate an embolization status treated with stenting, and the findings are in excellent agreement with those of DSA. Aneurysms measuring7 mm and treated with Neuroform Atlas are evaluative on ultrashort TE, and DSA might not be necessary.

A 75-year-old female had a history of prior ischemic stroke with aphasia and right hemiplegia. Magnetic resonance angiography showed left internal carotid artery occlusion. She was successfully treated with intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV t-PA) and underwent endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). She was diagnosed with cardioembolic stroke due to the presence of atrial fibrillation and mitral valve stenosis, and warfarin was administered. However, she experienced large vessel occlusion twice within 2 years. Upon further analysis, transesophageal echocardiography revealed a mobile hyperechoic structure on the aortic valve, which was assumed to be an embolic source. Thus, we decided to perform mitral and aortic valve replacement. The excised aortic valve structure was suggested to be an example of Lambl's excrescence, histopathologically. After surgery, the patient had no recurrence for 3 years. Several cases of ischemic stroke associated with Lambl's excrescence have been reported, but definitive guidelines for managing patients with Lambl's excrescence do not currently exist. Surgical intervention for Lambl's excrescence with recurrent ischemic events may be important for preventing further recurrence.

Large intrinsic anomalous Hall effect (AHE) originating in the Berry curvature has attracted growing attention for potential applications. Recently proposed magnetic Weyl semimetal EuCd$_2$Sb$_{\mathrm{2}}$ provides an excellent platform for controlling the intrinsic AHE because it only hosts a Weyl-points related band structure near the Fermi energy. Here we report the fabrication of EuCd$_2$Sb$_{\mathrm{2}}$ single-crystalline films and control of their anomalous Hall effect by film technique. As also analyzed by first-principles calculations of energy-dependent intrinsic anomalous Hall conductivity, the obtained anomalous Hall effect shows a sharp peak as a function of carrier density, demonstrating clear energy dependence of the intrinsic AHE., 13 pages, 4 figures

Description, We observe magnetotransport coupled to noncoplanar spin ordering/fluctuation in a triangular-lattice magnetic semiconductor., While anomalous Hall effect (AHE) has been extensively studied in the past, efforts for realizing large Hall response have been mainly limited within intrinsic mechanism. Lately, however, a theory of extrinsic mechanism has predicted that magnetic scattering by spin cluster can induce large AHE even above magnetic ordering temperature, particularly in magnetic semiconductors with low carrier density, strong exchange coupling, and finite spin chirality. Here, we find out a new magnetic semiconductor EuAs, where Eu2+ ions with large magnetic moments form distorted triangular lattice. In addition to colossal magnetoresistance, EuAs exhibits large AHE with an anomalous Hall angle of 0.13 at temperatures far above antiferromagnetic ordering. As also demonstrated by model calculations, observed AHE can be explained by the spin cluster scattering in a hopping regime. Our findings shed light on magnetic semiconductors hosting topological spin textures, developing a field targeting diluted carriers strongly coupled to noncoplanar spin structures.

Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread worldwide with collateral damage and therefore might affect the behavior of stroke patients with mild symptoms seeking medical attention.Methods: Patients with ischemic stroke who were admitted to hospitals within 7 days of onset were retrospectively registered. The clinical characteristics, including onset-to-door time (ODT), of patients with a transient ischemic attack (TIA)/mild stroke (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score of ≤ 3 on admission) or moderate/severe stroke were compared between those admitted from April 2019 to March 2020 (pre-COVID-19 period) and from April to September 2020 (COVID-19 period). Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with the ODT.Results: Of 1,100 patients (732 men, median age, 73 years), 754 were admitted during the pre-COVID-19 period, and 346 were admitted during the COVID-19 period. The number and proportion of patients with TIA/minor stroke were 464 (61.5%) in the pre-COVID-19 period and 216 (62.4%) during the COVID-19 period. Among patients with TIA/mild stroke, the ODT was longer in patients admitted during the COVID-19 period compared with that of the pre-COVID-19 period (median 864 min vs. 508 min, p = 0.003). Multivariable analysis revealed the COVID-19 period of admission was associated with longer ODT (standardized partial regression coefficient 0.09, p = 0.003) after adjustment for age, sex, route of arrival, NIHSS score on admission, and the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and wake-up stroke. No significant change in the ODT was seen in patients with moderate/severe stroke.Conclusions: The COVID-19 epidemic might increase the ODT of patients with TIA/mild stroke.

Olaparib, an anticancer drug, requires daily administration, frequently causing nausea. Elucidation of the influential factors for nausea is important for continuing treatment. We retrospectively examined 23 patients who received olaparib treatment and were divided into nausea and no-nausea groups, according to antiemetic prescriptions during treatment. We compared the patients' background and laboratory values between the 2 groups. Nine patients developed nausea and 14 did not, with mean body weights at treatment initiation of 49.9±9.8 kg and 60.0±13.9 kg, respectively. Body weights were significantly lower in the nausea than in the no-nausea group. Four weeks after olaparib administration, the logarithmic difference in the fluctuation of the neutrophil count was -0.145±0.154 and 0.095±0.242, while the fluctuation of the lymphocyte count was -0.169±0.053 and -0.060±0.110 in the nausea and no-nausea groups, respectively, with the former significantly lower than the latter. The treatment period for the nausea group was significantly longer than that for the no-nausea group. Since olaparib is administrated as a flat dose, the dose per body weight increased in underweight patients. Thus, being underweight might have impacted the efficacy of olaparib, including the development of side effects such as nausea and hematotoxicity.

Objectives To study the promotive effect of salt-induced hypertension on crystal deposition and urolithiasis using a salt-sensitive rat hypertension model. Methods Hyperoxaluria and hypercalciuria were induced in male Dahl salt-sensitive rats with administration of ethylene glycol and alfacalcidol. Hypertension was induced by a high-salt diet. Eplerenone, a selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, was given. Blood and urine were collected to evaluate renal function, electrolytes and the blood renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Renal calcium content was also evaluated. Histological examination, transcriptome analysis with DNA microarray and semiquantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction were carried out. Results A high-salt diet increased crystal deposition in Dahl salt-sensitive rats with hypertension, and eplerenone administration significantly suppressed it. The mRNA expression profile was associated with crystal formation, growth, adhesion and cellular injury, and it was regulated in the group exposed to a high-salt diet and ethylene glycol. Conclusions A high-salt diet has a promotive effect on salt-sensitive hypertension and urolithiasis. This promotive effect can be prevented by eplerenone administration. Hence, salt-sensitive hypertension has promotive effects on crystal deposition in Dahl salt-sensitive rats.

We present a study on magnetotransport in films of the topological Dirac semimetal Cd$_{3}$As$_{2}$ doped with Sb grown by molecular beam epitaxy. In our weak antilocalization analysis, we find a significant enhancement of the spin-orbit scattering rate, indicating that Sb doping leads to a strong increase of the pristine band-inversion energy. We discuss possible origins of this large enhancement by comparing Sb-doped Cd$_{3}$As$_{2}$ with other compound semiconductors. Sb-doped Cd$_{3}$As$_{2}$ will be a suitable system for further investigations and functionalization of topological Dirac semimetals., 16 pages, 4 figures

We present a study on magnetotransport in films of the topological Dirac semimetal ${\mathrm{Cd}}_{3}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$ doped with Sb grown by molecular beam epitaxy. In our weak antilocalization analysis, we find a significant enhancement of the spin-orbit scattering rate, indicating that Sb doping leads to a strong increase of the pristine band-inversion energy. We discuss possible origins of this large enhancement by comparing Sb-doped ${\mathrm{Cd}}_{3}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$ with other compound semiconductors. Sb-doped ${\mathrm{Cd}}_{3}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$ will be a suitable system for further investigations and functionalization of topological Dirac semimetals.

Background: Hypoalbuminemia may occur in patients with gastric cancer because of reduced food intake and gastric dysfunction. Cisplatin that is used in the treatment of gastric cancer not only has gastrointestinal side effects but also has a high serum protein-bound fraction, which causes alteration in pharmacokinetics, especially reduction of serum albumin concentration that may increase the risk of cisplatin-induced neutropenia. Hence, alteration of serum albumin concentration poses a major safety issue during anticancer therapy. We examined whether fluctuations in serum albumin concentration is a risk factor for predicting the development of severe neutropenia.Methods: This retrospective study included patients with gastric cancer undergoing cisplatin plus S-1 combination therapy to analyze their serum albumin concentration and the frequency of grade 3–4 neutropenia. We then investigated the relationship between the serum albumin concentration before cisplatin administration in the treatment course during which the neutrophil count reached nadir and the neutrophil count fluctuation after cisplatin administration.Results: Grades 3–4 and 0–2 neutropenia developed in 24 and 48 patients, with a mean serum albumin concentration of 3.60 ± 0.54 and 3.77 ± 0.51 g/dL, respectively, before chemotherapy (P = 0.23). During chemotherapy when the neutrophil count reached nadir, the serum albumin concentration levels before cisplatin administration were 3.39 ± 0.60 and 3.85 ± 0.59 g/dL, respectively; the grade 3–4 neutropenia group had a significantly lower concentration of serum albumin than the grade 0–2 neutropenia group (P = 0.006). Lower serum albumin concentrations before cisplatin administration were significantly correlated with a decrease in neutrophil count after cisplatin administration (r = 0.463, P < 0.001). According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, patients with serum albumin concentrations below 3.25 g/dL before cisplatin administration exhibited a significantly higher incidence of grade 3–4 neutropenia (odds ratio: 4.33). Conclusions: The risk of cisplatin-induced neutropenia is significantly high in patients with hypoalbuminemia. Thus, serum albumin concentration should be evaluated before cisplatin administration to anticipate the development of severe neutropenia.

Objectives To examine the effects of the selective xanthine oxidase inhibitor febuxostat on the expression of inflammation-related genes involved in stone formation. Methods Madin-Darby canine kidney cells were exposed to febuxostat, followed by calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals. Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 messenger ribonucleic acid expression levels were determined by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis. Deoxyribonucleic acid microarray analysis was utilized to evaluate gene expression. Results Calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals activated monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 messenger ribonucleic acid expression in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Febuxostat suppressed monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression. The expression levels of a group of inflammatory genes, including interleukin-8 and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10, which are downstream of reactive oxygen species, fluctuated similarly to the observed monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 fluctuations and were reduced by febuxostat pretreatment. Conclusions Febuxostat exerts preventive effects against reactive oxygen species production and oxidative stress, and might represent a potential treatment for calcium oxalate stones. In the present study, febuxostat downregulated the calcium oxalate monohydrate crystal-induced monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 messenger ribonucleic acid expression.

In patients with prostate cancer high serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) at diagnosis was generally regarded as a strong impression of advanced disease with distant metastasis and poor prognosis. (Objective) We reported a retrospective study of prognostic factor and Overall survival (OS) in patients with prostate specific antigen (PSA) level of greater than 100 ng/ml (PSA≥100 ng/ml). (Subjects and methods) Between January 2002 and December 2015, 60 patients were diagnosed prostate cancer with PSA≥100 ng/ml and performed hormonal monotherapy at Kanazawa Medical University hospital. We evaluated initial PSA level, Gleason score, Gleason Grading Group, clinical stage, site of metastasis, PSA nadir level, Time to PSA nadir (TTN), serum Hemoglobin (Hb) level, serum C-Reactive Protein (CRP) level, serum Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) level, serum Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) level, clinical passage and survival time. (Results) The median age of the patients was 73 years old (54-90) and the initial PSA levels ranged from 100 ng/ml to 15,823 ng/ml (median 390).Prognostic factors of overall survival were site of metastasis, Gleason score, Gleason Grading Group, PSA nadir level, TTN, serum CRP level, serum LDH level and serum ALP level at the diagnosis. In multivariate analysis serum LDH level remained an independent predictor of OS.

We report an above-room-temperature ferromagnetic state realized in a proximitized Dirac semimetal, which is fabricated by growing typical Dirac semimetal Cd$_3$As$_2$ films on a ferromagnetic garnet with strong perpendicular magnetization. Observed anomalous Hall conductivity with substantially large Hall angles is found to be almost proportional to magnetization and opposite in sign to it. Theoretical calculations based on first-principles electronic structure also demonstrate that the Fermi-level dependent anomalous Hall conductivity reflects the Berry curvature originating in the split Weyl nodes. The present Dirac-semimetal/ferromagnetic-insulator heterostructure will provide a novel platform for exploring Weyl-node transport phenomena and spintronic functions lately proposed for topological semimetals., 15 pages, 4 figures

Rapid progress of quantum transport study in topological Dirac semimetal, including observations of quantum Hall effect in two-dimensional (2D) Cd$_{\mathrm{3}}$As$_{\mathrm{2}}$ samples, has uncovered even more interesting quantum transport properties in high-quality and three-dimensional (3D) samples. However, such 3D Cd$_{\mathrm{3}}$As$_{\mathrm{2}}$ films with low carrier density and high electron mobility have been hardly obtained. Here we report the growth and characterization of 3D thick Cd$_{\mathrm{3}}$As$_{\mathrm{2}}$ films adopting molecular beam epitaxy. The highest electron mobility ($\mu$ = 3 $\times$ 10$^{4}$ cm$^{2}$/Vs) among the reported film samples has been achieved at a low carrier density ($\textit{n} = 5$ $\times$ 10$^{16}$ cm$^{-3}$). In the magnetotransport measurement, Hall plateau-like structures are commonly observed in spite of the 3D thick films ($\textit{t} = 120$ nm). On the other hand, field angle dependence of the plateau-like structures and corresponding Shubunikov-de Haas oscillations rather shows a 3D feature, suggesting the appearance of unconventional magnetic orbit, also distinct from the one described by the semiclassical Weyl-orbit equation., Comment: 11 pages, 3 figures + supplementary 6 pages, 3 figures

Hypoalbuminemia is often observed in patients receiving chemotherapy for gastric cancer. The risk of hematologic toxicity is increased by the pharmacokinetic alteration of paclitaxel(PTX)owing to high serum protein binding in patients with hypoalbuminemia. Here, we examined the relationshipbetween the frequency of GradeB3 neutropenia and serum albumin concentration in 30 patients receiving PTX monotherapy, and 29 patients receiving PTX plus ramucirumab(RAM)combination therapy-a second-line treatment for advanced/recurrent gastric cancer. The number of patients who developed GradeB3 neutropenia was 8(27%)and 14(48%)of those who received monotherapy and combination therapy, respectively, with mean serum albumin concentrations of 3.31 g/dL and 3.15 g/dL, respectively. Serum albumin concentrations were significantly lower in the GradeB3 neutropenia group than in the non-GradeB3 neutropenia group in both regimens. When the serum albumin concentration of patients receiving PTX or PTX plus RAM was below the cut-off values of 3.75 g/dL and 3.45 g/dL, respectively, the odds ratio of GradeB3 neutropenia was 12.25 and 7.33, respectively. Hypoalbuminemia was associated with the development of chemotherapy-induced GradeB3 neutropenia, in patients with gastric cancer treated with either PTX monotherapy or PTX plus RAM combination therapy. Therefore, not only neutrophils but also serum albumin concentration should be monitored during chemotherapy.

Unconventional surface states protected by non-trivial bulk orders are sources of various exotic quantum transport in topological materials. One prominent example is the unique magnetic orbit, so-called Weyl orbit, in topological semimetals where two spatially separated surface Fermi-arcs are interconnected across the bulk. The recent observation of quantum Hall states in Dirac semimetal Cd3As2 bulks have drawn attention to the novel quantization phenomena possibly evolving from the Weyl orbit. Here we report surface quantum oscillation and its evolution into quantum Hall states in Cd3As2 thin film samples, where bulk dimensionality, Fermi energy, and band topology are systematically controlled. We reveal essential involvement of bulk states in the quantized surface transport and the resultant quantum Hall degeneracy depending on the bulk occupation. Our demonstration of surface transport controlled in film samples also paves a way for engineering Fermi-arc-mediated transport in topological semimetals., 18 pages, 4 figures

Prophylaxis using pegfilgrastim is recommended to prevent cabazitaxel-induced neutropenia. We observed GradeB3 neutropenia in a patient after administration of cabazitaxel, despite prophylaxis using pegfilgrastim. To identify the risk factors associated with GradeB3 neutropenia, we retrospectively investigated the records of 10 patients who received prophylaxis with pegfilgrastim after administration of cabazitaxel. They were divided into GradeB3 neutropenia and non-GradeB3 neutropenia groups, and we compared the background data and laboratory values between the 2 groups. A univariate analysis revealed that hypoalbuminemia was significantly observed in patients with cabazitaxel-induced GradeB3 neutropenia. The incidence of GradeB3 neutropenia was significantly high in patients with serum albumin levels3.6 g/dL. Cabazitaxel has a high rate of protein binding; moreover, serum albumin levels3.6 g/dL might be associated with high concentrations of unbound cabazitaxel, and thus an increase in the incidence of GradeB3 neutropenia. Therefore, hypoalbuminemia at the time of administration of cabazitaxel may be a risk factor related to the development of GradeB3 neutropenia.

Objective To identify XK pathologic mutations in 6 patients with suspected McLeod syndrome (MLS) and a possible interaction between the chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc)- and MLS-responsible proteins: chorein and XK protein. Methods Erythrocyte membrane proteins from patients with suspected MLS and patients with ChAc, ChAc mutant carriers, and normal controls were analyzed by XK and chorein immunoblotting. We performed mutation analysis and XK immunoblotting to molecularly diagnose the patients with suspected MLS. Lysates of cultured cells were co-immunoprecipitated with anti-XK and anti-chorein antibodies. Results All suspected MLS cases were molecularly diagnosed with MLS, and novel mutations were identified. The average onset age was 46.8 ± 8 years, which was older than that of the patients with ChAc. The immunoblot analysis revealed remarkably reduced chorein immunoreactivity in all patients with MLS. The immunoprecipitation analysis indicated a direct or indirect chorein-XK interaction. Conclusions In this study, XK pathogenic mutations were identified in all 6 MLS cases, including novel mutations. Chorein immunoreactions were significantly reduced in MLS erythrocyte membranes. In addition, we demonstrated a possible interaction between the chorein and XK protein via molecular analysis. The reduction in chorein expression is similar to that between Kell antigens and XK protein, although the chorein-XK interaction is a possibly noncovalent binding unlike the covalent Kell-XK complex. Our results suggest that reduced chorein levels following lack of XK protein are possibly associated with molecular pathogenesis in MLS.

Hypomagnesemia caused by panitumumab can often lead to severe adverse effects, such as arrhythmia. However, the risk factors are still controversial. To clarify the risk factors and time to onset of panitumumab-induced hypomagnesemia, we retrospectively investigated the records of 30 patients who had received panitumumab. They were divided into Grade B2 hypomagnesemia and non-Grade B2 hypomagnesemia groups, according to their serum magnesium levels, and we compared patients' backgrounds, laboratory values, and concomitant drugs between the 2 groups. Univariate analysis revealed that hypocalcemia and non-administration of an oral magnesium preparation were significantly associated with Grade B2 hypomagnesemia induced by panitumumab. Incipient grade 1 hypocalcemia was observed after incipient Grade 1 hypomagnesemia in both groups. The occurrence of these complications was significant in the Grade B2 hypomagnesemia group. Thereafter, in all patients of the Grade B2 hypomagnesemia group that exhibited both complications, hypomagnesemia developed to Grade 2 or higher. The development of Grade 3 and Grade 4 hypomagnesemia without the development of Grade 2 hypomagnesemia was observed in 2 patients each. Thus, aggravation of hypomagnesemia can be expected upon the administration of panitumumab, and therefore, not only serum magnesium levels, but also serum calcium levels need to be monitored.

Excessive intake of glucose and fructose in beverages and foods containing high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) plays a significant role in the progression of lifestyle-related diseases (LSRD). Glyceraldehyde-derived advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which have been designated as toxic AGEs (TAGE), are involved in LSRD progression. Understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of TAGE on gene expression in the kidneys remains limited. In this study, DNA microarray analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to investigate whether HFCS-consuming Wister rats generated increased intracellular serum TAGE levels, as well as the potential role of TAGE in liver and kidney dysfunction. HFCS consumption resulted in significant accumulation of TAGE in the serum and liver of rats, and induced changes in gene expression in the kidneys without TAGE accumulation or upregulation of receptor for AGEs (RAGE) upregulation. Changes in specific gene expression profiles in the kidney were more correlated with TAGE levels in the liver tissue than in the serum. These findings suggest a direct or indirect interaction may be present between the liver and kidneys that does not involve serum TAGE or RAGE. The involvement of internal signal transduction factors such as exosomes or cytokines without IL-1&beta, and TNF-&alpha, is suggested to contribute to the observed changes in kidney gene expression.

The newly discovered topological Dirac semimetals host the possibilities of various topological phase transitions through the control of spin-orbit coupling as well as symmetries and dimensionalities. Here, we report a magnetotransport study of high-mobility (${\mathrm{Cd}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}{\mathrm{Zn}}_{x}{)}_{3}{\mathrm{As}}_{2}$ films, where the topological Dirac semimetal phase can be turned into a trivial insulator via chemical substitution. By high-field measurements with a Hall-bar geometry, magnetoresistance components ascribed to the chiral charge pumping have been distinguished from other extrinsic effects. The negative magnetoresistance exhibits a clear suppression upon Zn doping, reflecting decreasing Berry curvature of the band structure as the topological phase transition is induced by reducing the spin-orbit

The recent discovery of topological Dirac semimetals (DSM) has provoked intense curiosity not only on Weyl physics in solids, but also on topological phase transitions originating from DSM. One example is controlling the dimensionality to realize two-dimensional quantum phases such as quantum Hall and quantum spin Hall states. For investigating these phases, the Fermi level is a key controlling parameter. From this perspective, we report here the carrier-density control of quantum Hall states realized in thin films of DSM Cd3As2. Chemical doping of Zn combined with electrostatic gating has enabled us to tune the carrier density over a wide range and continuously even across the charge neutrality point. Comprehensive analyses of the gate-tuned quantum transport have revealed Landau level formation from linearly dispersed sub-bands and its contribution to the quantum Hall states. Our achievements pave the way also for investigating the low energy physics near the Dirac points of DSM.

A 92-year-old female with a history of asthma and chronic heart failure presented with left lumber back pain. Physical examination revealed knocking tenderness at the left costal-vertebral angle. Laboratory test results were within normal limits. Abdominal CT showed a left hydroureteronephrosis and an obstruction in the left distal ureter with herniation into the sciatic foramen. A ureteral stent was inserted into the left ureter and was removed after 2 months. She has not complained of pain or showed symptoms since the removal. Our case suggests that doctors consider the possibility of ureterosciatic hernias when examining older patients complaining of lower back pain.

Cd3As2 has long been known as a high-mobility semiconductor. The recent finding of a topological semimetal state in this compound has demanded growth of epitaxial films with high crystallinity and controlled thickness. Here we report the structural characterisation of Cd3As2 films grown on SrTiO3 substrates by solid-phase epitaxy at high temperatures up to 600 C by employing optimised capping layers and substrates. The As triangular lattice is epitaxially stacked on the Ti square lattice of the (001) SrTiO3 substrate, producing (112)-oriented Cd3As2 films exhibiting high crystallinity with a rocking-curve width of 0.02 and a high electron mobility exceeding 30,000 cm2/Vs. The systematic characterisation of films annealed at various temperatures allowed us to identify two-step crystallisation processes in which out-of-plane and subsequently in-plane directions occur with increasing annealing temperature. Our findings on the high-temperature crystallisation process of Cd3As2 enable a unique approach for fabricating high-quality Cd3As2 films and elucidating quantum transport by back gating through the SrTiO3 substrate., 10 pages, 4 figures

We report a retrospective study on the efficacy, adverse events and the factors for continuous docetaxel (DOC) therapy for patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Between April 2007 and April 2015, 37 CRPC patients were treated with DOC therapy at Kanazawa Medical University Hospital. DOC was administered every 3 weeks at 70 mg/m2. Prostatic specific antigen (PSA) level, adverse events, cycles of DOC therapy, survival time and clinical passage were examined. Fifteen patients showed a decrease in PSA level of 50% or more, 9 patients showed less than 50% decrease in PSA level and 13 patients showed no decrease in PSA level. Adverse effect of grade 3 consisted of neutropenia in 29.7% and leukocytopenia in 10.8%. The median number of treatment cycles was 11.7 courses. The patients were divided into two groups ; the first group comprised of 26 patients who received short-term DOC therapy (≤10 cycles) and the second group comprised of 11 patients who received long-term DOC therapy (≥11 cycles). The 1-year survival rate was 59 and 100% for the short-term and long-term groups, respectively. Long-term treatment was related to pretreatment PSA nadir, time to progression of CRPC and serum lactate dehydrogenase level.

A well known semiconductor Cd3As2 has reentered the spotlight due to its unique electronic structure and quantum transport phenomena as a topological Dirac semimetal. For elucidating and controlling its topological quantum state, high-quality Cd3As2 thin films have been highly desired. Here we report the development of an elaborate growth technique of high-crystallinity and high-mobility Cd3As2 films with controlled thicknesses and the observation of quantum Hall effect dependent on the film thickness. With decreasing the film thickness to 10 nm, the quantum Hall states exhibit variations such as a change in the spin degeneracy reflecting the Dirac dispersion with a large Fermi velocity. Details of the electronic structure including subband splitting and gap opening are identified from the quantum transport depending on the confinement thickness, suggesting the presence of a two-dimensional topological insulating phase. The demonstration of quantum Hall states in our high-quality Cd3As2 films paves a road to study quantum transport and device application in topological Dirac semimetal and its derivative phases., 24 pages, 4 figures + supplementary 13 pages, 13 figures

(Objective) Bone metastasis symptoms are complications that greatly reduce the quality of life (QOL) of cancer patients. We report a retrospective study on the efficacy of radiation therapy for patients with bone metastasis in urinary organ cancer. (Subjects and methods) Subjects are comprised of 17 patients; total irradiated areas consist of 25 sites. There are 5 patients diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma, 1 patient with bladder cancer and 11 patients with prostatic cancer. All of them have undergone radiation therapy for bone metastasis in urinary organ cancer between April 2007 and March 2014 in the Department of Urology, Kanazawa Medical University. The mean age of the patients was 66.7 years old. We looked at irradiated areas, exposure dose and changes of symptom in all patients. (Results) Irradiated areas are thoracolumbar vertebrae (14 sites), cranial base (2 sites), pubic bone (1 site), ilium bone (2 sites), sacral bone (1 site), rib bone (1 site) and hip joint (1 site). The mean exposure dose of one area is 37.5 Gy (13.5-60). 19 irradiated sites which were previously reported to have sharp pain have gained improvement at 16 sites. These 16 sites have comparatively lesser pain or no pain. 8 cases in acknowledgment of walk difficulty, it was with 7 cases walking alone possibility again. (Conclusion) This study showed that radiation therapy have significant improvement in terms of symptoms and QOL for the patients with bone metastasis in urinary organ cancer.

A 37 year-old primipara women was referred for management of a large solid tumor found in the neck of her fetus, showing the trachea to be compressed by the mass, and intubation through the ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) was planned. After the mother was anesthetized using a Fentanyl with Isofluorane, the head and left arm of the baby were delivered through a standard lower segment cesarean section, and the baby was intubated with a 3.0 mm tracheal tube before clamping and dividing the umbilical cord, then transferred to a resuscitation table. Time from partial delivery to transfer was 9 min, and the baby weighed 3300 g and quickly achieved acceptable oxygen saturations. A tracheostomy and biopsy of the mass were performed on day 1, and Rhabdomyosarcoma was diagnosed. Multiagent chemotherapy was commenced without any reduction in size (82 × 80 × 70 mm), and radical resection was performed 8 weeks after EXIT. Preoperatively, arterial feeders to the mass arising mainly from the right external carotid artery, were selectively embolized, and surgical excision was performed. After additional chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the child is doing well without recurrence after 3 years of follow-up.

ObjectiveTo identify XK pathologic mutations in 6 patients with suspected McLeod syndrome (MLS) and a possible interaction between the chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc)- and MLS-responsible proteins: chorein and XK protein.MethodsErythrocyte membrane proteins from patients with suspected MLS and patients with ChAc, ChAc mutant carriers, and normal controls were analyzed by XK and chorein immunoblotting. We performed mutation analysis and XK immunoblotting to molecularly diagnose the patients with suspected MLS. Lysates of cultured cells were co-immunoprecipitated with anti-XK and anti-chorein antibodies.ResultsAll suspected MLS cases were molecularly diagnosed with MLS, and novel mutations were identified. The average onset age was 46.8 ± 8 years, which was older than that of the patients with ChAc. The immunoblot analysis revealed remarkably reduced chorein immunoreactivity in all patients with MLS. The immunoprecipitation analysis indicated a direct or indirect chorein-XK interaction.ConclusionsIn this study, XK pathogenic mutations were identified in all 6 MLS cases, including novel mutations. Chorein immunoreactions were significantly reduced in MLS erythrocyte membranes. In addition, we demonstrated a possible interaction between the chorein and XK protein via molecular analysis. The reduction in chorein expression is similar to that between Kell antigens and XK protein, although the chorein-XK interaction is a possibly noncovalent binding unlike the covalent Kell-XK complex. Our results suggest that reduced chorein levels following lack of XK protein are possibly associated with molecular pathogenesis in MLS.

Surgical intestinal disorders (SID), such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), focal intestinal perforation (FIP), and meconium-related ileus (MRI), are serious morbidities in extremely low birth weight (ELBW, birth weight

OBJECTIVE To compare rates of a composite outcome of mortality or major morbidity in very-preterm/very low birth weight infants between 8 members of the International Network for Evaluating Outcomes. STUDY DESIGN We included 58 004 infants born weighing

To examine possible blood-brain barrier (BBB) transport interactions between oxycodone and adjuvant analgesics, we firstly screened various candidates in vitro using [(3)H]pyrilamine, a substrate of the oxycodone transporter, as a probe drug. The uptake of [(3)H]pyrilamine by conditionally immortalized rat brain capillary endothelial cells (TR-BBB13) was inhibited by antidepressants (amitriptyline, imipramine, clomipramine, amoxapine, and fluvoxamine), antiarrhythmics (mexiletine, lidocaine, and flecainide), and ketamine. On the other hand, antiepileptics (carbamazepine, phenytoin, and clonazepam) and corticosteroids (dexamethasone and prednisolone) did not inhibit [(3)H]pyrilamine uptake, with the exception of sodium valproate. The uptake of oxycodone was significantly inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner by amitriptyline, fluvoxamine and mexiletine with K(i) values of 13, 65, and 44 microM, respectively. These K(i) values are 5-300 times greater than the human therapeutic plasma concentrations. Finally, we evaluated in vivo interaction between oxycodone and amitriptyline in mice. Antinociceptive effects of oxycodone were increased by coadministration of amitriptyline. The oxycodone concentrations in plasma and brain were not changed by coadministration of amitriptyline. Overall, the results suggest that several adjuvant analgesics may interact with the BBB transport of oxycodone at relatively high concentrations. However, it is unlikely that there would be any significant interaction at therapeutically or pharmacologically relevant concentrations.

Proteome analysis of membrane proteins by two-dimentional electrophoresis (2-DE) is still insufficient due to the problem of membrane proteins solubilization. Additionally, nucleic acids and lipids are known to interfere with the profile on 2-DE, and removal of these substances is often required. In this study, three reagents from Bio-X Inc. were used to remove these interfering substances from protein. Prior to loading, samples were treated with the reagents for 30-60 min at 30°C. Pretreatment with the reagents led to high-resolution separations of proteins. Here, we describe how sample pretreatment using the reagents improved proteomic maps of proteins extracted from Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To remove lipids enhanced the solubility and separation of membrane proteins from cells.

Sepsis caused by group B streptococcus has been well controlled with aminobenzylpenicillin, but the incidence of Escherichia coli sepsis has increased in proportion. E. coli is a Gram-negative bacillus associated with poor prognosis due to the release of endotoxins. Conventional treatment with antibiotics alone may not be sufficient because the inflammatory response exacerbates the unstable hemodynamic status. Polymyxin B hemoperfusion has been established as a treatment option for septic shock in adults. Polymyxin B hemoperfusion adsorbs endotoxins and cannabinoids such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol. Reported herein is a case of severe septic shock induced by E. coli. The concomitant use of polymyxin B hemoperfusion rapidly reduced the requirement for catecholamines and the patient was discharged without short-term neurological or respiratory sequelae. It is suggested that polymyxin B hemoperfusion might be an innovative therapy for severe sepsis, and could improve outcome.

Sepsis caused by group B streptococcus has been well controlled with aminobenzylpenicillin, but the incidence of Escherichia coli sepsis has increased in proportion. E. coli is a Gram-negative bacillus associated with poor prognosis due to the release of endotoxins. Conventional treatment with antibiotics alone may not be sufficient because the inflammatory response exacerbates the unstable hemodynamic status. Polymyxin B hemoperfusion has been established as a treatment option for septic shock in adults. Polymyxin B hemoperfusion adsorbs endotoxins and cannabinoids such as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol. Reported herein is a case of severe septic shock induced by E. coli. The concomitant use of polymyxin B hemoperfusion rapidly reduced the requirement for catecholamines and the patient was discharged without short-term neurological or respiratory sequelae. It is suggested that polymyxin B hemoperfusion might be an innovative therapy for severe sepsis, and could improve outcome.