The value of MRCP in children with biliary symptomatology - an essential adjunct for safe cholecystectomy.

SUMMARY: Congenital abnormalities of the biliary system are a consideration in children with biliary symptomatology. The preoperative diagnosis rate is still not satisfactory, despite progresses made in imaging technology, with the potential of biliary tract injury if surgery is indicated. The double gallbladder is a rare developmental abnormality of the biliary tract with several anatomical variations. This abnormality was accurately delineated in a 7-year-old child by MRI/MRCP, allowing the ductal anatomy to be accurately identified and safe laparoscopic cholecystectomies to be performed.

Circ_0000515 drives the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating MAPK10.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the expression pattern and clinical significance of circ_0000515 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as well as the molecular mechanism. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty HCC patients were recruited, and their cancer tissues and adjacent normal ones were collected for detecting the differential expression of circ_0000515. The relationship between circ_0000515 and clinical parameters in HCC patients was analyzed. Circ_0000515 knockdown model was generated by lentivirus transfection in Hep3B and MHCC88H cells that were highly expressed with circ_0000515. Regulatory effects of circ_0000515 on phenotypes of Hep3B and MHCC88H cells were examined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and transwell assay. Target gene of circ_0000515 was verified by Dual-Luciferase reporter assay, and its involvement in HCC progression was detected by rescue experiments. In vivo xenograft model was generated in nude mice aiming to elucidate the role of circ_0000515 in regulating HCC growth. RESULTS: Circ_0000515 was highly expressed in HCC tissues and cell lines. High level of circ_0000515 predicted advanced stage, high incidence of lymphatic metastasis, and low disease-free survival and overall survival in HCC. Knockdown of circ_0000515 attenuated proliferative and migratory abilities in Hep3B and MHCC88H cells. MAPK10, as the target gene binding circ_0000515, was negatively regulated by circ_0000515. Rescue experiments and in vivo xenograft model both indicated that circ_0000515 aggravated the malignant progression of HCC by targeting MAPK10. CONCLUSIONS: Circ_0000515 is upregulated in HCC tissues and cell lines. It can be used for predicting tumor staging, lymphatic metastasis, and prognosis in HCC. Circ_0000515 aggravates the malignant progression of HCC by downregulating MAPK10.

Prediction of prostate cancer aggressiveness with a combination of radiomics and machine learning-based analysis of dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI.

AIM: To investigate whether the combination of radiomics and automatic machine learning-based classification of original images from multiphase dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can predict prostate cancer (PCa) aggressiveness before biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty consecutive biopsy-confirmed PCa patients were included. Biopsy was performed within 4 weeks after the DCE-MRI examinations. According to the time-signal-intensity curve, lesion segmentation was performed on the first and on the strongest phase of the enhancement on the original DCE-MRI images, and 1,029 quantitative radiomics features were calculated automatically from each lesion, wherein there were three datasets available (Dataset-F, Dataset-S and Dataset-FS). The variance threshold method, select k-best method and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm were used to reduce the feature dimensions. Five machine learning approaches leveraging cross-validation were employed, and the clinical value of each model was evaluated by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Correlation analysis was performed between the features of the machine learning model that achieved the best classification performance and the Gleason score (GS) of the PCa lesion. RESULTS: Eight, four, and 16 features were selected as optimal subsets in Dataset-F, -S and -FS, respectively. Among all three datasets, logistic regression (LR)-based analysis with Dataset-FS had the highest predication efficacy (AUC=0.93). Ten features in Dataset-FS showed significantly positively correlation with GS. The model performance of Dataset-F was generally better than that in Dataset-S. CONCLUSIONS: A combination of radiomics and machine learning-analysis based analysis of the union of the first and strongest phases of original DCE-MRI images can predict PCa aggressiveness non-invasively, accurately, and automatically.

[The expression and role of PLUNC, TLR2 and NF-κB in nasal polyps].

Objective:To investigate the expression of palate, lung, nasal epithelium clone (PLUNC), Tolllike receptor 2 (TLR-2) and nuclear factor-Kappa B (NF-κB) in nasal polyps tissues and normal inferior turbinate mucosa. To analysethe correlation of their expression and to provide a new treatment of nasal polyps.Method:The specimens were divided into two groups: nasal polyps tissues group (n = 46) and normal inferior turbinate mucosa group (n = 19). EOS and others inflammatory cells was detected by HE staining. performing immunohistochemistry, we investigated the expression and distribution of PLUNC, TLR2 and NF-κB. Meanwhile we evaluated the positive expression and correlation of PLUNC, TLR2 and NF-κB between experimental group and control group. All data were processed by using SPSS 21.0 software.Result:EOS infiltration was significantly higher than the control group (P< 0.05). The expression level of PLUNC in experimental group is significantly lower, there is a statistical significance (P< 0. 05). The expression of TLR2 and NF-κB in experimental group is obviously higher than the control group, with statistical significance (P< 0.05). Spearman correlation analysia showed that PLUNC in experimental group is negatively correlated with TLR2 and NF-κB (r= －0.675, r= －0.550, P< 0.05). TLR2 is positively correlated with NF-κB (r= 0.540, P< 0.05). EOS infiltration degree positive correlation with TLR2 and NF-κB exist (r= 0.417, r= 0.470, P< 0.05), degree negative correlation with PLUNC exist (r= －0.859, P< 0.05).Conclusion:PLUNC expression in nasal polyps is lower than the normal inferior turbinate group. TLR2 and NF-κB expression in nasal polyps are higher than the normal inferior turbinate group.suggesting that the formation of nasal nolyps may be associated with lower natural immunity and the existing of infectious agents.

Association between IL18-607C/A and -137G/C polymorphisms and susceptibility to non-small cell lung cancer in a Chinese population.

Lung cancer is one of the main causes of cancer-related mortality in males and females worldwide. A pleiotropic effect has been observed in the interleukin 18 gene (IL18); its effects include the activation of natural killer cell cytotoxicity and the promotion of the Th1 immune response through the alteration of the expression of interferon-γ and TNF-α in humans. IL18 is therefore involved in the elimination of tumor cells in the human body. We recruited 357 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 414 controls to evaluate the correlation between two genetic variations (IL18-607C/A and IL18-137G/C) and the pathogenesis of NSCLC. We used polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism to genotype IL18-607C/A and IL18-137G/C. Statistical analysis revealed that individuals harboring the AA genotype of IL18-607C/A had an increased risk of NSCLC compared to those harboring the CC genotype (OR = 2.20, 95%CI = 1.30-3.74). Individuals expressing the A allele of IL18-607C/A had an elevated risk of developing NSCLC compared to those expressing the C allele (OR = 1.31, 95%CI = 1.06-1.62). In summary, our analysis shows that the IL18-607C/A genetic variation is related to the risk of NSCLC, whereas the IL18-137G/C variation is not. Therefore, the IL18-607C/A variation is related to the pathogenesis of NSCLC in the Chinese population studied.

[The effect and injury to the airways of different sputum aspiration pressure in a rat model of mucus hypersecretion].

OBJECTIVE: To explore the optimal pressure of sputum aspiration to ensure the effectiveness and safety of clinical operation. METHODS: We established a rabbit model of airway mucus hypersecretion by aerosol acrolein inhalation, and the animals were divided into 4 groups randomly with different sputum aspiration pressure as follows: group A -75 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa), group B -150 mmHg, group C -225 mmHg, group D -300 mmHg. Sputum aspiration efficiency and tracheal mucosal damage degree were evaluated by sputum volume, oxygen saturation changes, the pathological sections of tracheal mucosa and the expressions of IL-1ß and TNF-α in airway secretion. RESULTS: The sputum suction volume of group A, B, C, D were (2.72±0.24), (4.81±0.32), (5.03±0.37) and (6.29±0.51) ml, respectively, which was significantly higher in group D, but lower in group A, as compared to other groups (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between B and C groups. The maximal SpO2 decrease of C and D groups [(18.1±5.2)% and(32.4±8.4)%]were significantly higher than those in A and B groups [(4.4±1.7)% and (6.3±2.9)%], and group D was significantly more than group C, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between A and B groups. HE staining of tracheal mucosa in C and D groups showed that the inflammatory cell infiltration and mucosal damage were more serious than A and B groups, but the airway mucosal damage of group A was the least. CONCLUSION: The pressure of -150 mmHg was more effective with high oxygen saturation and less airway injury, which may be suitable for clinical sputum aspiration.

Application of retrograde dissection method for isolation of bone marrow cells from rat femurs and tibiae.

Currently, there is no practical and efficient method for the isolation of bone marrow cells (BMCs) from rat femurs and tibiae. Here, we attempted to develop a rapid, simple, effective, and non-contaminating method for the isolation of BMCs from rat femurs and tibiae. Rat femurs and tibiae were dissected from the ankle to the hip joint; subsequently, a three-step "locate-slide-twist" procedure was performed using scissors and forceps to remove the femurs and tibiae completely, from the surrounding musculature. The bones were flushed with phosphate-buffered saline to harvest BMCs. The femurs and tibiae were dissected in 1.8 ± 0.6 min, and the BMC suspension preparation time was 13.1 ± 2.3 min. The bone marrow cavities did not incur any fractures or injuries during the isolation. Culture of harvested BMCs for 72 h led to a significant increase in cell number from 4.4 ± 0.3 x 106 to 6.9 ± 0.7 x 10(6) (P < 0.01) with no significant decrease in viability (98.1 ± 0.6% vs 96.2 ± 1.1%; P > 0.05). Microscopic examination of the isolated BMCs after the 72-h incubation period revealed the no-microbial or muscle cell contamination. Furthermore, flow cytometry revealed that cultured BMCs (72-h culture) grew well. Here, we have reported a rapid, simple, effective, and non-contaminating method for the isolation of BMCs from rat femurs and tibiae by using retrograde dissection. This method can be used to harvest a large number of viable BMCs without the risk of contamination from muscle and connective tissues.

[The effect of liraglutide in combination with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells treatment on glucose metabolism and ß cell function in type 2 diabetes mellitus].

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of liraglutide (LIRA) in combination of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs) in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODS: Eligibility criteria for subjects includes: type 2 diabetes mellitus with more than 10 years duration; having been treated with secretagogues, metformin and insulin in combination with LIRA for at least 6 months; poor glycemic control [glycosylated hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) 7%-10%]. Totally, twelve patients were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups: the group A (LIRA group, n=6) and the group B (LIRA+ hUC-MSCs group, n=6). The hUC-MSCs were transplanted through infusing of 1×10(6) cells /kg via pancreatic artery directed by interventional radiology on the first day, and followed by infusing 1×10(6) cells /kg through peripheral vein on the eighth, the fifteenth and the twenty-second day sequentially. The control subjects were infused with saline. Both groups were treated with LIRA for 24 weeks at the same period. Fasting plasma glucose(FPG), 2h postprandial plasma glucose(2hPG) and HbA1c were measured. A 75 g oral glucose tolerance test(OGTT)was performed. The early phase of C peptide(CP) secretion function(ΔCP30/ΔG30), the total amount of C peptide secretion function(AUCCP180)and Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were calculated. RESULTS: (1) The baseline FPG, 2hPG, HbA1c, ΔCP30/ΔG30, AUCCP180 and HOMA-IR were comparable between the two groups(P>0.05). (2) Compared with subjects in group A, FPG, 2hPG and HbA1c levels were significantly decreased in subjects in group B [(8.33±0.99) mmol/L vs (6.64±0.79)mmol/L, (13.85±0.86) mmol/L vs (8.65±1.12) mmol/L, (7.82±0.31)% vs (6.82±0.53)%, P<0.05]. (3) Compared with group A, ΔCP30/ΔG30 and AUCCP180 were significantly increased, and HOMA-IR was significantly decreased in group B(0.22±0.13 vs 0.70±0.38, 12.52±5.30 vs 21.16±3.17, 9.46±4.88 vs 4.30±2.68, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: LIRA treatment in combination with hUC-MSCs improves glucose metabolism and the ß cell function in type 2 diabetic patients. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01954147).

[A case report of myoepithelial carcinoma in the nasal septum].

Summary To explore the clinical features and treatment methods of myoepithelial carcinoma in the nasal septum.Myoepithelial carcinoma occurs in malignant epithelial tumors of the parotid region,from the nasal septum is more rare.The clinical feature of myoepithelial carcinoma in the nasal septum was atypical .The patients is mainly characterized by nasal obstruction,CT of tumor invasion nasal septum,on the right of the sinuses and lamina papyracea; pathology examination showed CK,S-100 protein and vimentin were positive,eventually,diagnosed with nasal septum myoepithelial carcinoma.

Upregulation of HO-1 with Haemin Alleviates LPS-Stimulated Pro-inflammatory Responses Through Downregulation of p38 Signalling Pathways in Rat Liver.

Haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays an important role in inflammatory disease development and progression. Whether it has an anti-inflammatory role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced liver injury remains unclear. To investigate the functional role of HO-1 in protecting liver tissue against inflammatory response stimulated by LPS in rat and the mechanism by which it achieves this protective effect, LPS-stimulated inflammatory models were established. In pretreatment of rats with HO-1 activator (haemin) or inhibitor (zinc protoporphyrin-9, ZnPP, a specific inhibitor of HO) before LPS stimulation, we evaluated the pathological changes by haematoxylin-eosin staining. The mRNA expression and secretion of IL-1ß and IL-6 in rat liver were analysed using the real-time PCR and ELISA. Real-time PCR and Western blot were also used to evaluate the expression of HO-1, p38 and p-p38 in liver. Liver CO contents were sensitized to the expression of HO-1. Induction of HO-1 by haemin remarkably inhibited the expression of p38, and addition of ZnPP increased this expression. Our results demonstrate that HO-1 is an anti-inflammation factor in LPS-stimulated liver, which regulate the inflammatory response through downregulation of p38 signalling pathways in rat liver.

Acidity measurement of iron ore powders using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy with partial least squares regression.

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with partial least squares regression (PLSR) has been applied to measuring the acidity of iron ore, which can be defined by the concentrations of oxides: CaO, MgO, Al2O3, and SiO2. With the conventional internal standard calibration, it is difficult to establish the calibration curves of CaO, MgO, Al2O3, and SiO2 in iron ore due to the serious matrix effects. PLSR is effective to address this problem due to its excellent performance in compensating the matrix effects. In this work, fifty samples were used to construct the PLSR calibration models for the above-mentioned oxides. These calibration models were validated by the 10-fold cross-validation method with the minimum root-mean-square errors (RMSE). Another ten samples were used as a test set. The acidities were calculated according to the estimated concentrations of CaO, MgO, Al2O3, and SiO2 using the PLSR models. The average relative error (ARE) and RMSE of the acidity achieved 3.65% and 0.0048, respectively, for the test samples.

Molecular cloning, sequence analysis, and function of the intestinal epithelial stem cell marker Bmi1 in pig intestinal epithelial cells.

In the present work, we cloned the full-length cDNA of the pig Bmi1 gene (BMI1 polycomb ring finger oncogene), which has been indicated as an intestinal epithelial stem cell (IESC) marker in other mammals. This paper provides the first report of the function of Bmi1 in pig intestinal epithelial cells and a brief description of its underlying mechanism. Rapid amplification of cDNA ends technology was used to clone the complete pig Bmi1 sequence, and a Bmi1-pcDNA3.1 vector was constructed for transfection into an intestinal porcine epithelial cell line (IPEC-1). The proliferation ability of the cells was estimated using the MTT assay and the EdU incorporation method at different time points after seeding. Cell cycle information was detected by flow cytometry. The mRNA abundances of cell cycle-related genes were also measured. The results indicated that the pig Bmi1 cDNA is 3,193 bp in length and consists of a 981 bp open reading frame, a 256 bp 5´ untranslated region (UTR), and a 1,956 bp 3' UTR. The transcript contains no signal peptides, and there are no transmembrane regions in the pig Bmi1 coded protein, which has a total of 326 AA. The overexpression of the pig Bmi1 in the IPEC-1 cells led to increased cell proliferation and a lower percentage of cells in the G1 and S phases (P < 0.05), along with a higher percentage of cells in the G2 phase (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the gene expression levels of PCNA, Cyclin D1, Cyclin D2, Cyclin B, CDK1, and CDK2 were all elevated (P < 0.05) by Bmi1 overexpression, while the gene expression levels of Cyclin A2 and p21 showed little difference (P > 0.05). Our data suggested that pig Bmi1 can increase the proliferation of IPEC-1 cells by promoting the G1/S transition and the overall cell cycle process.

Relationships between biochemical and physiological changes induced by exercise in postmyocardial infarction patients.

AIM: AIM of the study was to examine the relationships between biochemical and physiological changes induced by exercise in postmyocardial infarction patients (PMIP) during the early stages of cardiac rehabilitation. METHODS: Forty-nine male non-blockade recent PMIP, aged 63.8 ± 4.7 years, performed a graded exercise test on a motorised treadmill until volitional cessation or reaching any of the American College of Sports Medicine criteria. Blood pressure and rate-pressure product (RPP) were recorded every three minutes. A 12-lead electrocardiogram was monitored continuously and heart rate (HR) was taken from this. Blood samples were obtained by two methods; those used for testing blood lactate (BL) were taken from an already warmed finger tip before and during exercise, and the others used for enzymatic analysis based on lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme 1 (LDH-1), creatine kinase (CK) and creatine kinase polypeptide sub-unit MB (CK-MB) were collected by venipuncture from the antecubital vein pre and immediate post exercise test. RESULTS: Highly significant correlations existed between exercise-induced changes in HR, RPP, BL and ST segment level with increased enzymes activity in serum, and 73.1% to 90.1% of the variance in percentage increase of the enzyme activity could be predicted from the variance in percentage increase of HR during exercise. However, the mechanism of these relationships may differ. CONCLUSION: Since the rise in serum enzymes during submaximal exercise is primarily attributed to changes in membrane permeability in fatigued muscle, these relationships provide useful guidance to health professionals obtaining biochemical information about muscle fatigue.

The chemokine CXCL6 restricts human trophoblast cell migration and invasion by suppressing MMP-2 activity in the first trimester.

STUDY QUESTION: Can the chemokine CXCL6 affect trophoblast cell migration and invasion in human first-trimester placenta? SUMMARY ANSWER: Chemokine CXCL6 inhibits trophoblast cell migration and invasion by suppressing matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 activity in human first-trimester placenta. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY: Several chemokines including CXCL8, CXCL12, CXCL14, CXCL16, CX3CL1, CCL14 and CCL4 can promote or inhibit trophoblast cell migration and invasion in human first-trimester placenta. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION: We used the trophoblast cell line HTR8/SVneo cells, primary trophoblast cells and villi explants to investigate the effect of rhCXCL6 on trophoblast cell migration and invasion. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS: First, the CXCL6 RNA transcript level was detected in HTR8/SVneo cells derived from human first-trimester, second-trimester and third-trimester placenta by RT-PCR. Protein expression of CXCL6 and its receptors was tested in first-trimester placenta by immunohistochemistry. Secreted CXCL6 protein was detected in HTR8/SVneo cell supernatants by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Secondly, the effect of rhCXCL6 on HTR8/SVneo cell proliferation was assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Thirdly, the effect of rhCXCL6 on cell migration and invasion of HTR8/SVneo cells, primary trophoblast cells and villi explants was tested by transwell migration and invasion assays, respectively. Last, MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in the supernatants of HTR8/SVneo and primary trophoblast cells treated by rhCXCL6 in the invasion assay was assessed by gelatin zymography. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE: Abundance of the CXCL6 RNA transcript increased with pregnancy development. CXCL6 and its receptor were expressed in several cells at the human maternal-fetal interface. RhCXCL6 inhibited trophoblast cell migration and invasion by suppressing MMP-2 activity. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION: These experiments are only in vitro. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS: According to the literature, CXCL6 could promote tumour cell migration and invasion by accelerating MMP-9 activity. However, CXCL6 inhibited trophoblast cell migration and invasion by suppressing MMP-2 activity in human first-trimester interface. These data suggest that strict regulation of CXCL6 is required for normal migration and invasion of cells, such as those involved at the maternal-fetal interface.

Expression of pigment epithelium-derived factor in human cutaneous appendages.

BACKGROUND: Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a 50-kDa glycoprotein and a member of the serine protease inhibitor gene family, is well known as a potent endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis. However, the expression of PEDF in human cutaneous appendages has not yet been determined. AIM: To investigate the expression of PEDF in human cutaneous appendages. METHODS: Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expression of PEDF in human cutaneous appendages. Reverse transcriptase PCR, western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence were used to determine the mRNA and protein expression of PEDF on cells of the outer root sheath (ORS). A wound-healing assay was used to determine the effect of different concentrations of PEDF on the migration of ORS cells. RESULTS: PEDF was expressed in the hair follicle (including epidermal matrix, inner root sheath, ORS and fibrous root sheath), sebaceous glands and eccrine sweat glands. Both protein and RNA expression of PEDF was detected, and expression was localized to both cytoplasm and nucleus of ORS cells. Both interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-17 at 25 ng/mL upregulated the expression of PEDF of ORS cells, with IL-4 having the greater effect. PEDF 50 ng/mL decreased migration of ORS cells. CONCLUSIONS: PEDF is expressed in human cutaneous appendages and may play a modulatory role in the physiology of ORS cells.

Temsirolimus combined with sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma: a phase I dose-finding trial with pharmacokinetic and biomarker correlates.

BACKGROUND: Based upon preclinical evidence for improved antitumor activity in combination, this phase I study investigated the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), safety, activity, pharmacokinetics (PK), and biomarkers of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor, temsirolimus, combined with sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with incurable HCC and Child Pugh score ≤B7 were treated with sorafenib plus temsirolimus by 3 + 3 design. The dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) interval was 28 days. The response was assessed every two cycles. PK of temsirolimus was measured in a cohort at MTD. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients were enrolled. The MTD was temsirolimus 10 mg weekly plus sorafenib 200 mg twice daily. Among 18 patients at MTD, DLT included grade 3 hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) and grade 3 thrombocytopenia. Grade 3 or 4 related adverse events at MTD included hypophosphatemia (33%), infection (22%), thrombocytopenia (17%), HFSR (11%), and fatigue (11%). With sorafenib, temsirolimus clearance was more rapid (P < 0.05). Two patients (8%) had a confirmed partial response (PR); 15 (60%) had stable disease (SD). Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) declined ≥50% in 60% assessable patients. CONCLUSION: The MTD of sorafenib plus temsirolimus in HCC was lower than in other tumor types. HCC-specific phase I studies are necessary. The observed efficacy warrants further study.

The role of colour Doppler sonography in the diagnosis of lower limb Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome.

AIM: To investigate the accuracy of colour Doppler sonography as compared to phlebography in patients with Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome (KTS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: From September 2004 to May 2012, 59 consecutive patients seen in Shandong medical imaging research institute with a clinical suggestion of KTS were included. Thirty-four were female and 25 were male, with a mean age of 28.4 years. Colour Doppler sonography was used to assess the lower limb veins. The main sonographic criteria for a positive diagnosis were visualization of the lateral vein or sciatic vein, capillary haemangioma, and abnormality of the deep veins. These data were compared with phlebography findings. The κ statistic was used to determine the level of agreement. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy of colour Doppler sonography as a diagnostic test were assessed. RESULTS: Colour Doppler sonography findings were positive in 21 of 59 patients with a clinical suggestion of KTS. The diagnosis was confirmed using phlebography in 22 patients. There were two false-positive results and one false-negative result by colour Doppler sonography. The κ-value was 0.892. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy for colour Doppler sonography were 95.4, 94.6, 91.3, 97.2, and 94.9%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Colour Doppler sonography is an accurate, reliable, and non-invasive investigation in the assessment of patients with suspected KTS.

D2 lymphadenectomy can disseminate tumor cells into peritoneal cavity in patients with advanced gastric cancer.

We sought to determine the dissemination of gastric cancer cells before and after radical D2 surgery and to determine the effectiveness of EIPL in preventing post-operative peritoneal metastasis. 64 patients were recruited with advanced gastric cancer for our final analysis. Complete curative gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy was performed on the 64 patients. Before surgery, peritoneal lavage fluid was collected for cytological analysis by cell smearing and immunohistochemistry to detect disseminated cancer cells (S1). Following tumor and lymph node resection, peritoneal lavage fluid was collected for cytological examination (S2). The patients were treated by extensive intra-operative peritoneal lavage (EIPL) with normal saline (n = 31) or distilled water (n = 33). The peritoneal lavage fluid was collected for cytological examination (S3). At S1 stage, 18 patients (28.1%) were positive for disseminated cancer cells in their abdominal fluid. After D2 lymphadenectomy, 34 patients (53.1%) had disseminated cancer cells in their abdominal fluid at stage S2, which indicated that the D2 lymphadenectomy caused in an additional 16 (16/46, 34.8%) patients positive for disseminated cancer cells. After EIPL with either normal saline or distilled water at the S3 stage), all the patients were negative for disseminated cancer cells in their abdominal fluid. A total of six patients died, and four patients had recurrencent cancer. These findings indicate that D2 lymphadenectomy can disseminate gastric cancer cells, and post-operative lavage of the abdominal cavity can eliminate cancer cell dissemination and decrease the risk of peritoneal metastasis.

Quantum dot-based nanocomposites for biomedical applications.

Quantum dot (QD) has been extensively investigated as a nanoprobe to replace conventional organic dyes due to its unique optical properties. However, nanotoxicity of QD greatly hampers its biomedical applications, particularly in in vivo imaging. It is critical to functionalize QD and/or composite QD with other functional materials for biocompatibility, multifunction and expanded applications. In this review, advances of QD-based nanocomposites are addressed with emphasis of their synthesis, fundamental understanding and applications in biosensor, multimodal imaging, drug delivery, diagnostics and cancer therapy. Some specific QD-based bionanosystems and future development directions are also discussed.

Full-length sequence and expression analysis of a myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) in half-smooth tongue sole Cynoglossus semilaevis.

Myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) is a universal and crucial adaptor protein, which plays an essential role in the intracellular signalling elicited by IL-1R/TLR superfamily. In the present study, we report the full-length sequence of MyD88 gene in half-smooth tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis). In the 2855 bp genomic sequence, five exons and four introns were identified. The cloned cDNA exhibited 110 bp of 5' UTR, 576 bp of 3' UTR and 858 bp of the entire open-reading frame encoding a polypeptide of 285 amino acids. The protein sequence included a typical conserved cytosolic Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domain, an intermediate domain (ID) and a death domain (DD), and shared greater than 70% identity with Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceu ortholog. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis indicated a broad expression of csMyD88, especially in ovary and spleen. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis indicated that the csMyD88 mRNA levels were significantly increased in the spleen and head kidney after inactive Vibrio anguillarum challenge and the expression of csMyD88 appeared to be developmentally regulated during C. semilaevis ontogeny. Although, species-specific differences were present, the similarity between mammalian and piscine MyD88s suggested that the main function of MyD88 might be conserved across vertebrates.