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Purpose: To validate the effects of subject position on single energy metal artifact reduction (SEMAR) of a reverse shoulder prosthesis using computed tomography (CT)., Methods: A water phantom with a reverse shoulder prosthesis was scanned at four positions on the XY plane of the CT gantry (on-center, 50 mm, 100 mm, and 150 mm from on-center in the negative direction of the X axis, respectively). We obtained images with and without SEMAR. The artifact index (AI) was measured via physical assessment. Scheffé's (Ura) paired comparison methods were performed with the amount of metal artifact by ten radiological technologists via visual assessment., Results: The AI was significantly reduced when using SEMAR. As the phantom moved away from the on-center position, the AI increased, and metal artifacts increased in Scheffé's methods., Conclusion: SEMAR reduces metal artifacts of a reverse shoulder prosthesis, but metal artifacts may increase as the subject position moves away from the on-center position.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to validate the potential of substituting an observer in a paired comparison with a deep-learning observer., Methods: Phantom images were obtained using computed tomography. Imaging conditions included a standard setting of 120 kVp and 200 mA, with tube current variations ranging from 160 mA, 120 mA, 80 mA, 40 mA, and 20 mA, resulting in six different imaging conditions. Fourteen radiologic technologists with >10 years of experience conducted pairwise comparisons using Ura's method. After training, VGG16 and VGG19 models were combined to form deep learning models, which were then evaluated for accuracy, recall, precision, specificity, and F 1 value. The validation results were used as the standard, and the results of the average degree of preference and significance tests between images were compared to the standard if the results of deep learning were incorporated., Results: The average accuracy of the deep learning model was 82%, with a maximum difference of 0.13 from the standard regarding the average degree of preference, a minimum difference of 0, and an average difference of 0.05. Significant differences were observed in the test results when replacing human observers with AI counterparts for image pairs with tube currents of 160 mA vs. 120 mA and 200 mA vs. 160 mA., Conclusion: In paired comparisons with a limited phantom (7-point noise evaluation), the potential use of deep learning was suggested as one of the observers.

A Japanese female patient underwent a living lung transplant at age 29 and has been on immunomodulatory drug therapy since then. At age 52, she presented with sudden hematochezia. Despite abdominal computed tomography scan, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, and colonoscopy, no definitive source of bleeding was identified. Considering the possibility of small bowel bleeding, video capsule endoscopy was performed, which revealed a suspected ulcerative lesion in the jejunum. Subsequent per-oral double-balloon endoscopy confirmed the presence of an ulcerative lesion in the jejunum. A potential pathological diagnosis of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) was considered based on endoscopic biopsy specimens from the jejunal lesion. However, before the pathologic biopsy results were available, the patient experienced small intestinal perforation, necessitating emergency partial resection. Pathologic examination revealed a dense proliferation of medium-to-large atypical lymphocytes with neutrophilic infiltration in the perforated area of the small intestinal wall. Immunostaining showed lymphoid cells positive for CD20 but negative for CD3. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) -encoded RNA was detected by in situ hybridization, and Ki-67 staining demonstrated a higher percentage of positive cells. Consequently, an EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, developed as PTLD, was diagnosed. Complete remission was achieved with a reduced immunomodulatory drug dosage and rituximab therapy. She has been alive for 8 months postoperatively without recurrence. This case suggests that PTLD should be considered in assessing patients presenting with abdominal symptoms following organ transplantation.

About 100 cases of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) occur annually in Japan. It predominantly occurs in infants, presenting as multisystem disease or multifocal bone involvement. However, LCH can also occur in adults aged 20 to 40. Single-system skin involvement is rare, with most cases presenting with multisystem disease, including bone lesions, which respond to chemotherapy. In adults, lung lesions that improve with smoking cessation are well-known, although multisystem disease is more common and requires aggressive therapeutic intervention similar to that in children. In some infant cases, progression of liver, spleen, and bone marrow lesions can be difficult to control and can become severe. However, targeted molecular therapies are now available as a lifesaving option. More than 30% of cases of multisystem LCH recur at least once, often leading to long-term complications. In particular, the emergence of central diabetes insipidus, anterior pituitary dysfunction, and central nervous system neurodegenerative disorders several years after the diagnosis of LCH is a unique feature not observed in other diseases. New therapeutic strategies are needed to counter these problems.

An 88-year-old male underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with the double-debranching and chimney technique for arch aortic aneurysm. When the aforementioned procedure was performed, the left common carotid artery was closed and transected, and the left subclavian artery was embolized and bypassed, respectively. However, postoperatively, the gutter endoleak persisted, and the aneurysm enlarged;therefore, requiring additional surgery. A skin incision was made on the left side of the neck, and the closed and dissected left common carotid artery stump was detected. A sheath was placed at the stump and an angiographic catheter and guidewire were used to retrograde cannulate the gutter beside the chimney graft, and coil embolization was performed. No endoleak was observed at postoperatively and 6-month follow up computed tomography( CT). We believe that embolization from a deblanched left common carotid artery stump is useful for endoleaks after TEVAR employing the chimney and debranching technique.

Purpose: To validate the effects of changing the source-to-image receptor distance (SID) parameter of scattered X-ray correction after exposure on the image quality in portable chest radiography., Methods: The actual SID and tube current-time product (mAs) were varied such that the direct X-ray dose to a flat panel detector (FPD) remained constant. We created two groups as follows: Group A (with the SID parameter unchanged) and Group B (with the SID parameter changed to the actual SID after a phantom chest exposure). The image contrast ratio and standard deviation (SD) were measured on the chest radiographs for physical assessment. Observer studies were performed by seven radiological technologists. Scheffé's (Ura) paired comparison methods were performed with image contrast, noise, and overall assessment as the assessment items. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis for lung nodules was performed., Results: The image contrast ratio and SD in Group A changed, whereas the changes in Group B were less than those in Group A for both these properties. The observer study with Scheffé's methods showed a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) for all assessment items in Group A but not in Group B. The ROC analysis did not indicate any statistically significant differences in either group., Conclusion: Changing the SID parameter of scattered X-ray correction after exposure can possibly maintain image contrast and noise in portable chest radiography if the actual SID changes.

An 82-year-old Japanese man underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy for postprandial epigastric discomfort. The patient was diagnosed with hypozincemia with a serum zinc level of 63μg/dL (normal range:80-130μg/dL), and he had commenced oral intake of zinc acetate 1 month before the esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Endoscopy showed erosions with white-coated mucosa surface adhesions and erythema on the lesser curvature of the gastric body. Moderately differentiated tubular adenocarcinoma was suspected based on the biopsy examination findings;therefore, he was referred to our hospital for further examination and treatment. A repeat endoscopy showed two erosions with white-coated mucosa surface adhesion and erythema on the lesser curvature of the gastric body. However, the lesion location was different from that detected in the initial endoscopy. The biopsy showed no neoplastic changes. Therefore, based on the endoscopic findings and history of oral zinc acetate administration, we diagnosed the gastric mucosal injury as zinc acetate-associated gastric lesions. The cessation of zinc acetate intake resulted in the resolution of gastric lesions. Reassessment of the biopsy specimen from the initial endoscopy revealed erosions, epithelial cells showing infarct-like necrosis, degenerative atypical cells, and necrotic substances, which were misdiagnosed as neoplastic changes. This case highlights the importance of recognizing the typical endoscopic features of a zinc acetate-associated gastric lesion to enable its prompt diagnosis during esophagogastroduodenoscopy.

A 57-year-old Japanese woman underwent partial mastectomy of the right breast and sentinel lymph node biopsy in July 2005. The diagnosis was mucinous carcinoma with negative margins and no lymph node metastases(pT1cN0M0, pStage Ⅰ A). Postoperative adjuvant therapy included radiation therapy and oral administration of anastrozole for 5 years. In December 2015, we observed enlargement of left supraclavicular lymph nodes; a needle biopsy revealed lymph node metastases from breast cancer. We administered toremifene and the swelling disappeared. The patient was subsequently referred to the hospital for urinary frequency in November 2016. Imaging demonstrated a bladder tumor. Transurethral biopsy of bladder revealed adenocarcinoma with mucin production consistent with breast primary. After systemic chemotherapy(UFT, eribulin), endocrine therapy(fulvestrant), and molecular targeted therapy(palbociclib), her urologic symptoms were relieved. However, 2 years and 8 months after diagnosis of bladder metastasis, the patient showed disease progression and decided to discontinue all chemotherapy and pursue palliative care. We also present a review and discussion of the relevant literature.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection has spread worldwide, with no sign of its control in Japan yet. Eight elderly COVID-19 patients over 90 years of age were treated at our hospital. We herein report three cases with characteristic progression. Case 1 was a 91-year-old female patient diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia previously who did not show improvement with medication; thus, she was transferred to our hospital 16 days after the onset. She was diagnosed with COVID-19 using the SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Favipiravir, methylprednisolone, and unfractionated heparin were administered, but she only tested negative 68 days after the onset, at which point she was discharged. However, she was transferred back to our hospital 80 days after the onset since she tested positive again. She was transferred to another hospital 110 days after the onset without testing negative. Case 2 was a 102-year-old female. Despite being a mild case, it took 32 days to obtain negative PCR findings, leading to a decline in the activities of daily living. Case 3 was a 90-year-old male patient treated with favipiravir, dexamethasone, and unfractionated heparin, but his condition deteriorated. He never tested negative for PCR and ultimately died 20 days after the onset. Reports suggest that PCR positivity does not necessarily indicate infectivity, but there are no clear criteria for lifting a quarantine. Therefore, PCR negativity is often sought for "peace of mind." In the current situation where hospitals are fully occupied, clear criteria for lifting the quarantine should be promptly determined. After the completion of treatment, it is more important to monitor symptoms and take standard precautions, such as daily health monitoring, wearing a mask, and keeping an appropriate distance from others, than to obtain a negative PCR result.

Gastric emphysema is a rare condition in which gas from a nonbacterial source accumulates within the gastric wall. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the cases of five patients who were diagnosed with gastric emphysema at the Okayama University Hospital between January 2010 and April 2021, to reveal the clinical features of the disease. Based on their reviews, we revealed that:i) gastric emphysema occurred in hospitalized bedridden patients (n=5), such as those during/after endotracheal intubation (n=3), those undergoing gastric tube placement (n=3), those undergoing percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (n=1), and those undergoing treatment for cerebral infarction (n=1);ii) gastric emphysema was accompanied by the accumulation of gas in the portal (n=4) or gastric veins (n=1);iii) gastric emphysema was accompanied by colon wall thickness increase (n=4);iv) esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed redness, erosions, coarse mucosa, and/or ulcers (n=5);v) a clear boundary between the damaged area and the intact mucosa was observed (n=5);vi) the anterior wall of the stomach was less affected (n=4);vii) mucosal damage was predominant in the gastric folds, whereas the furrow of the mucosa was less affected;and viii) treatment with enteral nutrition suspension and the administration of proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics resulted in the recovery of patients from gastric emphysema (n=5). These results indicate that patients with gastric emphysema have distinct clinical, endoscopic, and radiological features. Furthermore, our results show that these patients can be conservatively managed.

A 70-year-old man, who had undergone aortic valve neocuspidization using his own pericardium 8 months before, complained of back pain, and was diagnosed with pyrogenic spondylitis. As the result of blood culture, Enterococcus faecalis was found to be the causative bacterium, and antibiotic therapy was started. Six days after admission, hemodynamics collapsed suddenly, and percutaneous cardio-pulmonary support was established. Echocardiography showed severe aortic valve regurgitation, and he was diagnosed with active infective endocarditis. We performed re-do aortic valve neocuspidization using bovine pericardium. There was a tear on the non-coronary cusp and the cusps were thickened because of infection. Aortic annular tissue was not destroyed and we could fix the neo-valve directly to the annulus. After these procedures, severe reduction of antero-septal wall motion was noted, which suggested dissection of the main trunk of the left coronary artery. Coronary artery bypass grafting to the left anterior descending and the circumflex branches was added. The patient came off percutaneous cardio-pulmonary support 5 days after surgery. Although trivial aortic regurgitation remained, he was discharged after 2 months of rehabilitation.

A 67-year-old man was referred to our hospital because of fever and discomfort of the throat. Gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed hematoma at the middle thoracic esophagus. Computed tomography revealed posterior mediastinal hematoma extending the descending aorta. Bacillus was detected in the blood culture. Aortoesophageal fistula with an infected thoracic aortic aneurysm rupture was diagnosed. First, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) was performed. Resection of the thoracic esophagus and omentopexy was conducted 15 days after TEVAR. Esophageal reconstruction using a gastric tube was performed 43 days after esophagectomy. He has been doing well since then.

A 69-year-old Japanese man underwent successful percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) without any intra-procedural adverse event. However, 3 days postoperatively, he presented with melena and bloody discharge from the gastrostomy tube. Computed tomography revealed gastric emphysema, hepatic portal venous gas, portal vein thrombosis, and swelling of the ascending colon. We administered antibiotics and discontinued enteral feeding; this resulted in resolution of gastric emphysema, hepatic portal venous gas, and portal vein thrombosis and an improvement in the swelling of the ascending colon. To the best of our knowledge, till date, only three patients have been reported to develop gastric emphysema and hepatic portal venous gas after PEG. All previously reported patients were treated with antibiotics and/or discontinuation of enteral feeding, exhibiting recovery within 6-14 days. Although the occurrence of gastric emphysema and hepatic portal venous gas after a PEG procedure is rare, conservative management can ensure recovery in such patients.

An 83-year-old Japanese man underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy for screening purposes. He had a medical history of hypertension, chronic kidney disease, chronic heart failure, and chronic myeloid leukemia, and he had been taking the following medications:ferrous citrate, furosemide, spironolactone, tolvaptan, bisoprolol, nicorandil, warfarin, nilotinib, febuxostat, esomeprazole, digestive enzyme complex, ambroxol, carbocysteine, and potassium L-aspartate. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a brownish speckled pigmentation in the duodenal bulb. Biopsy specimens from the duodenal villi revealed a brown pigment deposition, which appeared bright on scanning electron microscopy. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and elemental mapping revealed the presence of iron and sulfur in the duodenal villi. Consequently, pseudomelanosis duodeni was diagnosed based on these findings.

Nasogastric tube feeding is a common method of parenteral nutrition. We observed ulcers on the epiglottis caused by a nasogastric tube in three adults with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID) during examination with a laryngeal fiberscope while swallowing. These ulcers were healed by changing the method of inserting the nasogastric tube. The patients were three men aged 25, 39, and 55 years. The muscle tone of the whole body was increased in all of the patients. Two patients had severe scoliosis, and the other patient had lordosis in the thoracic vertebrae and had received laryngo-tracheal diversion. All of the patients received intermittent or continuous respiratory care. The pharynx of the patients with severe scoliosis became thinner and the feeding tubes ran obliquely. The feeding tube in the patient who received laryngo-tracheal diversion entered the cut and closed trachea through the glottis. Ulcers were observed on the laryngeal side of the epiglottis in all of the patients. The ulcers were healed by preventing feeding tubes from running obliquely or by using the naso-gastric tube made of different materials in the patients with severe scoliosis. In the patient who received laryngo-tracheal diversion, we succeeded in avoiding the glottis by keeping his face forward while inserting the feeding tube. Then feeding tubes were changed with guidewires, and the ulcers were healed. When using nasogastric tube feeding for persons with SMID with a large increase in muscle tone and/or with severe scoliosis, adopting a method of inserting feeding tubes that avoids damaging the epiglottis with a laryngeal fiberscope is required.

A 77-year-old Japanese man underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection twice over a 5-year period for the treatment of two separate early gastric cancers. He had been taking lanthanum carbonate, an orally administered phosphate binder, for 3 years. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed reddish mucosa in the greater curvature and anterior wall of the gastric angle, while granular, white deposits were also observed in some areas of this reddish mucosa. Additionally, biopsy specimens from the gastric mucosa revealed the deposition of fine, amorphous, eosinophilic material, which appeared bright on scanning electron microscopy. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed the presence of lanthanum and phosphate in these bright areas, and elemental mapping confirmed that their distribution was identical to that seen in the bright areas. Based on these findings, the diagnosis of lanthanum phosphate deposition in the gastric mucosa was determined.

Pediatric anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a chemosensitive malignancy, but about 30% of patients experience relapse. In most of these patients, a second complete remission is obtainable with salvage chemotherapy, though relapse free survival rates are as low as 30-60%. Herein, we report a 6-year-old boy with relapsed anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) positive ALCL successfully treated with vinblastine monotherapy followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), with a reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimen, from his father. One HLA locus from the father was mismatched. The boy had neither severe graft-versus-host disease nor transplantation related complications. He is currently well and has remained disease free for 10 months, to date, since transplantation. Allo-HSCT with a RIC regimen may be a promising treatment strategy for relapsed ALK positive ALCL based on obtaining graft-versus lymphoma effects as well as reducing transplantation-related mortality.

A 77-year-old woman with a 15-year history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was admitted to our hospital because of a wet cough that persisted for 1 month. The patient had been taking methotrexate (MTX) and adalimumab (ADA) for the past 3 years, and disease activity of RA was low. Discontinuation of ADA and MTX and treatment with oral levofloxacin were not effective. On admission, laboratory examinations showed eosinophilia (2539/μL), elevated serum total immunoglobulin E (538.0 IU/ml) and Aspergillus-specific immunoglobulin E levels, and Aspergillus fumigatus serum precipitins. A chest radiograph revealed multiple bilateral pulmonary shadows, and computed tomography revealed multiple consolidations. Bronchoscopic examination showed mucous plugs. Pathological examination revealed diffuse infiltration of eosinophils and fungus in the plugs. These findings led to the diagnosis of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). A combination of prednisolone (0.5 mg/kg/day) and itraconazole (200 mg/day) was administered. After 3 months, the pulmonary consolidations resolved. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ABPA in a patient with RA treated with ADA. If patients treated with biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs present with eosinophilia and pulmonary consolidations, clinicians should consider ABPA in the differential diagnosis.

This paper aims to show the system for relief provided by the Japanese Red Cross relief units during the Second World War, as well as the actual activities of sixteen of its relief units dispatched to Burma. The Red Cross wartime relief efforts involved using personnel and funding prepared beforehand to provide aid to those injured in war, regardless of their status as ally or enemy. Thus they were able to receive support from the army in order to ensure safety and provide supplies. Nurses dispatched to Burma took care of many patients who suffered from malnutrition and physical injuries amidst the outbreak of infectious diseases typical of tropical areas, without sufficient replacement members. Base hospitals not meant for the front lines also came under attack, and the nurses' lives were thus in mortal danger. Of the 374 original members, 29 died or went missing in action.

This paper aims to reveal changes in the relief support of the Japanese Red Cross relief units dispatched to Burma during the Second World War, from the beginning of fighting in Burma to the Japanese withdrawal. Japanese Red Cross relief units began their relief support when Japan invaded Burma in February of 1942. Counterattacks by the British, Indian and Chinese armies from December 1942 caused an increase in the number of patients. There were also many cases of malnutrition and malaria due to the extreme shortage of medical supplies as a result of the Battle of Imphal, which began in March of 1944. Bomb raids became even more intense after the battle ended in July 1944, and patients were carried into bomb shelters and caves on a daily basis. Just prior to invasion by enemy troops, they were ordered to evacuate to neighboring Thailand. Nurses from the Wakayama group hid their identity as members of the Red Cross and evacuated, with 15 out of 23 dying or being reported missing in action.

In our institution, placement of a self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) for obstructive colorectal cancer to avoid emergency operations, namely as a bridge to surgery (BTS), was introduced in April 2012. Here, we assess the efficacy and safety of pre-operative SEMS placement for treatment of Stage Ⅳ obstructive colorectal cancer. We analyzed a total of 44 cases of Stage Ⅳ colorectal cancer, which consisted of 13 obstructive cases that were surgically resected following SEMS placement as BTS (BTS group), and 31 cases that were resected in elective operations without pre-operative SEMS placement (Ope group), from April 2012 to August 2014. None of the patients had any adverse events during the SEMS procedure or after SEMS placement, and all patients of BTS group could undergo the planned operations after sufficient decompression. In the postoperative period, 1 patient of BTS group (7.7%) had anastomosis bleeding, but no other complications, including anastomosis leakage, were observed in BTS group. However more progressive primary tumors were resected in BTS group (p=0.0115), there were no significant differences for post-operative course between the 2 groups; this indicated avoiding high-risk emergency operations contributed to adequate short-term outcomes in BTS group comparable to those in Ope group. SEMS placement as BTS could be performed safely for Stage Ⅳ obstructive colorectal cancer cases, and was 1 of the effective strategies for local treatment.

A man in his 70s was referred to our hospital with anorexia, weight loss, and constipation. After examination by computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and colonoscopy, he was diagnosed as having a locally advanced rectal cancer with abscess formation. Because CT and MRI indicated that the tumor had invaded the seminal vesicle, prostate, and sacrum, we diagnosed it as an unresectable tumor. We treated the abscesses around the tumor by sigmoid colostomy with administration of antibiotics. After control of the infection, the patient received systemic chemotherapy with capecitabine/oxaliplatin (XELOX) plus bevacizumab (BV). After the 5th courses of XELOX plus BV, the primary tumor showed a tendency to shrink, but invasion to the neighboring organs was still seen. Therefore, we treated him with chemoradiotherapy (CRT) using S-1. After completion of CRT with no significant adverse effects, the tumor invasion to the neighboring organs disappeared, and we performed a low anterior resection 9 weeks later. Pathological findings revealed that the tumor had shrunk remarkably and it was resected curatively, although a few tumor cells remained in the subserosal layer of the ulcerative scar caused by the CRT. His postoperative course was uneventful, and he underwent adjuvant chemotherapy with S-1 for 3 months after discharge. To date, no disease recurrence has been detected. We report a case of locally advanced rectal cancer, which was curatively resected following chemoradiotherapy, along with a short literature review.

A 70s-year-old man was referred to our hospital because of sigmoid colon cancer. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a large mass in the right lobe of the liver and small masses in Couinaud segments Ⅳ and Ⅵ. We started systemic chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6 and panitumumab. After 6 courses of the treatment, the size and number of the liver metastases was remarkably reduced on CT. We performed a simultaneous laparoscopic resection for the primary tumor and synchronous liver metastases. The postoperative course was uneventful and he had no signs of recurrence 12 months after surgery.

We report a case of ascending colon cancer with right extra iliac lymph node metastases. A 60s-year-old woman underwent right hemicolectomy with lymph node dissection in July 2011. Pathological diagnosis was T4 (SE), N1 (2/42), M0, stage ⅢA. Adjuvant chemotherapy with tegafur/uracil was administered after the operation for 6 months. One year after the operation, the serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level was gradually increasing. Three years after the operation, positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) delineated a 3 cm mass with an abnormal signal on the right lower abdominal side of the external iliac vessels. The diagnosis was an isolated remnant tumor in the right extra iliac vessels area from the primary ascending colon cancer. Other recurrent lesions were not found; therefore, resection of this mass was performed. Pathological findings confirmed lymph node metastases from the ascending colon cancer. This type of metastasis is extremely rare, and more case reports are needed to determine the mechanism behind these metastases.

The patient was a 72-year-old man, who had undergone total arch replacement with an open-stent graft due to saccular aneurysm of distal arch, 2 years before. He was admitted to a local hospital with the complaint of high fever, and was diagnosed as having pyothorax, after computed tomography (CT) scanning. After transferred to our hospital, he was treated by drainage, and antibiotic therapy. But CT scans showed the enlargement of distal arch aneurysm, and migration of the stent graft. Urgent operation was performed. We approached to the site by a full sternotomy, and left anterolateral thoracotomy. Segment 1+2 of the left lung was resected to avoid bleeding and lung injury. Graft replacement of distal arch and descending aorta was performed on cardiopulmonary bypass, with hypothermia, selective brain perfusion and systemic circulatory arrest. To protect from recurrence of infection, the omental flap was transposed to the graft site. Until now, there is no recurrence of infection.

Type 2 diabetes is closely associated with our daily diets and has become a global health problem with increasing number of patients. Maintaining energy homeostasis is essentially required for the treatment of diabetes. Energy metabolism starts with taking in a meal. Nutrients including amino acids, fatty acids and glucose in the digest have been shown to act on the neuroendocrine cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and thereby play important roles in energy homeostasis. Therefore, the GI tract is now recognized as a sensor system for nutrient signals. Taste receptor type 1 member 2 (T1R2) is known to function as a co-receptor with T1R3 to detect sweet chemicals in the taste buds. It has been proposed that the T1R2/T1R3 receptor complex acts as sweet sensor in the intestine, and plays a pivotal role in sensing sugars and maintaining glucose homeostasis through incretin secretion. To clarify the physiological roles of T1R2 in glucose homeostasis, T1r2-lacZ knock-in/knock-out mice were generated. We found lacZ gene expression in the GI tract where T1r3 expression has been reported. Interestingly, the T1r2-lacZ knock-in mice showed impaired glucose tolerance on oral glucose challenge but not on intraperitoneal injection. However, the fasting glucose level in T1r2-lacZ knock-in mice was comparable to that in wild type mice. These results suggest an important role of the sweet taste receptor system in the intestine when stimulated by glucose. Therefore, the roles of T1R2 will be presented and the mechanism for metabolic homeostasis will be discussed.

It has been reported that fibrinogen products, such as fibrinogen concentrates, cryoprecipitate (CRYO), and fresh frozen plasma, are beneficial for treating coagulopathy due to massive blood transfusion. For the appropriate use of these products, it is necessary to evaluate the status of coagulopathy and determine the trigger level of the fibrinogen concentration for the administration of fibrinogen products. In our institution, we established a treatment procedure for coagulopathy due to massive transfusion in 2011. This procedure includes determination of the trigger level for administration of CRYO (150 mg/dL), timing of sample collection for the evaluation of coagulation parameters (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and fibrinogen) and concentration status during the operation, and a method for rapid coagulation testing (turnaround time within 15 minutes) in critical bleeding. Since 2011, we have performed 56 rapid coagulation tests for patients suffering from critical bleeding. The average turnover time was 13 minutes. According to the rapid coagulation test results, CRYO was administered to 27 patients. These results are satisfactory for treating critical bleeding patients. We stress the need for the establishment of a rapid coagulation test system in the central hospital laboratory. (Review).

Background: Based on a case who developed anaphylaxis after mouse bite which occurred at Hokkaido University, we studied on allergic sensitization prevalence for laboratory animals among students and researchers who are exposed to laboratory rodents and rabbit, for the purpose of allergy prevention, particularly anaphylaxis., Methods: We carried out the health check-up on laboratory animal allergy (LAA) by questionnaires and specific-IgE antibody test for 555 rodents and/or rabbit handlers from whom informed consent was obtained., Result: Prevalence of positive IgE antibody higher than class 1 to mice, rats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and/or rabbits in the examinees was 14.1% (62/441) , 17.9% (50/279) , 18.8% (6/32) , 17.4% (4/23) , and 11.3% (12/106) , respectively. Moreover, among users of mouse, those who had allergic symptoms during contact with animals resulted in significantly higher positive rate for anti-mouse IgE antibody test than the other (38.1% vs 8.8%, p<0.01) ., Conclusion: Health check-up including measurement of specific-IgE antibody against laboratory animals is useful for understanding allergic sensitization.

A 66-year-old man, presented with hematemesis and hemorrhagic shock, was transported to our institution. Computed tomographic examination suggested a pseudo-aneurysm formed by bleeding from aorto-esophageal fistula( AEF). We planned staged operations. At first, in an emergent operation, graft replacement of descending aorta, was performed under partial cardiopulmonary bypass, by left thoracotomy approach. AEF was 5 mm in diameter, and existed inside of normal-diameter and non-aneurysmal aortic intima. AEF orifice into pseudo-aneurysm was closed with aortic wall and was sutured tightly. Next day, gastrointestinal fiberscopy was performed, and penetrating ulcer was found at lower esophagus.To prevent infective complications, the 2nd operation, subtotal esophagectomy, cervical esophagostomy, gastrostomy and tube ileostomy were performed by right thoracotomy approach. Post- operative course was uneventful. Two months later, 3rd operation, cervical esophago-gastric anastomosis was performed, uneventfully. Two years and four months elapsed, and no evidences of infection and formation of pseudo-aneurysm were observed.

We report a case of discrete type subaortic stenosis disclosed by hemolytic anemia 7 years after aortic and mitral prosthetic valve replacement. A 53-year-old female complained of general fatigue, dyspnea, macrohematuria and hemolysis. She had undergone aortic valve replacement for non-coronary cusp perforation 15 years before, and mitral valve replacement and tricuspid annuloplasty 7 years before. Echocardiography showed mitral prosthetic valve regurgitation (III/IV degree) and symptomatic hemolysis might be caused by accelerated blood flow through the prosthetic valve. A mild aortic stenosis (peak flow verocity:3.73 m/s) was also pointed out. The redo double valve replacement was performed. Intraoperative findings showed discrete type subaortic stenosis due to extensive pannus formation, but that the previously implanted prosthetic valves were intact. The blood flow biased by the interference of the subaortic stenosis might have obstructed closure of the mitral prosthetic valve and caused mitral regurgitation. Postoperatively, hemolysis and mitral regurgitation were diminished, and aortic stenosis was improved.

A 56-year-old male was admitted to our hospital for acute type B aortic dissection. He received conservative therapy but follow-up computed tomography (CT) revealed a low-enhanced left kidney and severe stenosis of the left common iliac artery due to the expansion of the false lumen. Serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine increased and renovascular hypertension worsened with severe intermittent claudication of the left leg. We performed Y-graft replacement with reconstruction of the left renal artery. Postoperative CT showed a well-enhanced left kidney and no stenosis of the left common iliac artery. Intermittent claudication and renal dysfunction improved and his hypertension became controllable. He was discharged on the 17th postoperative day.

A 79-year-old female underwent open mitral commissurotomy and thrombectomy for mitral valve stenosis and thrombus in the left atrium 21 years ago. She was admitted for congestive heart failure because of recurrent mitral valve stenosis. Cardiac echocardiography showed severe mitral valve stenosis and the calcification of the left atrium wall. We performed mitral valve replacement and removal of thrombus calcification in the left atrium. Cardiopulmonary bypass was weaned successfully. In the intensive care unit, her blood pressure (BP) dropped, central venous pressure (CVP) increased, and urine volume decreased. Cardiac echocardiography revealed functional deterioration and dilatation of the right ventricle. As medical therapy was not effective, percutaneous cardiopulmonary support(PCPS)was established through the femoral artery and vein. Then her BP increased, CVP decreased, and the right ventricular function and the dilatation improved. PCPS was removed after 3 days, and the respirator on the 13th postoperative day. She moved out of the intensive care unit on the 24th postoperative day.

Cardiac rupture is a catastrophic complication of acute myocardial infarction with highly mortality rate. Three types of rupture are ventricular free wall rupture( VFR), ventricular septal rupture( VSR), and papillary muscle rupture( PMR). A combination of any 2 types of rupture is called ventricular double rupture (VDR), and very rare. We report a case of VDR (VSR and VFR) after acute myocardial infarction. A 76-year-old female with heart failure was admitted to our hospital. Echocardiography showed an apical VSR and pericardial effusion. She was diagnosed with VDR and emergent operation was performed. During operation, the site of VFR was right ventricle, which was the same infarction area of VSR. VSR was closed by infarction exclusion technique, concurrently excluding the site of VFR. VFR was successfully repaired by mattress sutures. Post-operative course was good without heart failure, though residual shunt was remained. The patient survived and was discharged from our hospital.

56-year-old male, who had undergone re-aortic valve replacement (AVR) 33 years ago, received preoperative study for pancreatic surgery. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a giant pseudoaneurysm (7 cm diameter) of the ascending aorta. The ascending aorta was not dilated. A midline skin incision was performed, followed by full sternotomy. A tight pericardial adhesion was carefully dissected. Cardiopulmonary bypass was established by femoral arterial and bicaval venous cannulation. The pseudoaneurysm was incised under the retrograde cardioplegic protection. A communication between ascending aorta and aneurysm was found 1 cm distal to the previous aortic suture line. This communication coincided with the cardioplegic root cannulation site. The aortic prosthetic valve was intact. The ascending aorta was replaced with 26 mm prosthetic graft. Postoperative course was uneventful. In this case, CT was useful to select the approach to the complicated postoperative surgical site.

Congenital bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is one of the most common congenital heart diseases, with a high incidence of associated valvular lesions and aortic abnormalities including aortic stenosis( AS), aortic regurgitation, aortic dilatation, and aortic dissection. Patients with BAV and AS often have a small aortic annulus. We encountered a case of BAV in which a 51-year-old woman with severe AS having a small aortic annulus and a dilated ascending aorta required surgical intervention. We performed the surgery using new technique that involved concomitant replacement of the aortic valve and the ascending aorta with enlargement of the aortic annulus using a single uniquely-shaped graft to avoid prosthesis patient mismatch. We trimmed the proximal end of the straight graft in shape of 2 teardrops hanging on it to fit the cut annulus. It requires only a single suture line to replace the ascending aorta and enlarge the aortic annulus, which entails a decreased risk of bleeding during surgery. We believe that it could be applicable to many cases requiring concomitant surgery.

The rapidity of coagulation testing is important for use as appropriate substitution therapy in patients with, or at risk of critical bleeding requiring massive transfusion. Whereas the ordinary method of coagulation testing is known to be slow, in a critically haemorrhaging patient, a rapid turnaround time of coagulation testing becomes indispensable. To find out if coagulation test results will be affected by a shortened centrifugation time, we measured PT (prothrombin time), APTT (activated partial thromboplastin time), FIB (fibrinogen) and PLT (platelet) in plasma, using different centrifugation times (10 min, 5 min, 3 min), and analyzed the measurements. We found that, whereas centrifugation time significantly affected the PLT count in plasma (10 min; 5.17 +/- 3.71 x 10(3)/microl, 5min; 28. +/- 26.9 x 10(3)/microl, 3min; 63.7 x 10(3)/microl), PT(10min; 14.6 +/- 5.76 sec, 5min; 14.7 +/- 5.84 sec, 3min; 14.9 +/- 6.40 sec), APTT (10min; 36.4 +/- 15.9 sec, 5min; 36.8 +/- 16.5 sec, 3min; 34.7 +/- 11.4 sec) and FIB(10min; 361 +/- 134 mg/dl, 5min; 356 +/- 132 mg/dl, 3min; 356 +/- 125 mg/dl) were not affected. These data suggest that shortening centrifugation time will have no significant effect on the value of PT, APTT and FIB, in an emergency situation.

A 59-year-old man with type 3 gastric cancer(signet-ring cell carcinoma)underwent simple laparotomy because of peritoneal dissemination.S -1/CDDP was started.Since the icterus of Grade 2 had appeared after 2 courses, S-1 and biweekly paclitaxel combination chemotherapy was started as second-line treatment.Throughout treatment, there was no adverse event, and this regimen was continued for 14 courses(25 months).He died 32 months after his first visit.S -1/PTX may play an important role as second-line chemotherapy for patients with unresectable advanced gastric carcinoma.

High pathogenicity and drug resistance of Streptococcus pneumoniae are serious problem in clinical practice. Since 1999, we have conducted epidemiologic analyses of S. pneumoniae in Chubu district. We report the results of the analysis conducted in 2009. Three hundred and eight (308) S. pneumoniae isolates with a gene coding for autolysin lyt-A, which had been isolated from patients at 21 medical institutions in Gifu prefecture and the northern part of Aichi prefecture in 2009, were enrolled in this study. The strains were classified according to their drug resistance based on the presence of the pbp mutation, and examined for the presence of the two macrolide-resistance genes, ermB and mefA. Moreover, they were serotyped using type-specific antisera. The mean age of the patients from whom these S. pneumoniae strains were isolated, was 23.4 +/- 30.1 years old, and children aged 15 years old or less accounted for 66% of all the patients. Genotype penicillin-susceptible S. pneumoniae (gPSSP), genotype penicillin-intermediate S. pneumoniae (gPISP) and genotype penicillin-resistant S. pneumoniae (gPRSP) were 22 (7.1%), 131 (42.5%) and 155 (50.3%), respectively. The strains with mefA positive and ermB negative, mefA negative and ermB positive, and mefA positive and ermB positive were 80 (26.0%), 153 (49.7%), and 47 (15.3%), respectively. The MIC90 values of tebipenem (TBPM) and faropenem were 0.06 microg/mL and 0.5 microg/mL, respectively. TBPM showed the high bactericidal activity against gPRSP. In carbapenems, panipenem and biapenem exhibited higher bactericidal activities. Quinolone-resistant S. pneumoniae (QRSP) were isolated from 10 (3.2%). QRSP dominated 5 (7.9%) and 3 (1.5%) among the elderly (over 65 years old) and children, respectively. (As for the serotype, serotypes 6, 19 and 23 were 60 (19.5%), 62 (20.1%), and 44 (14.3%), respectively. Further epidemiologic studies on S. pneumoniae might be required also in the future, including the relationship between the serotype and drug resistance.

We investigated the susceptibility to antibacterials, genotype of penicillin-binding protein (PBP) genes and macrolide resistant genes, and the serotypes against 377 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolated from medical facilities in Gifu and Aichi prefectures between June 2008 and April 2009. These results were compared with those against 160 strains of S. pneumoniae isolated in 2004. Referring to CLSI (M100-S17), the overall incidence of penicillin-susceptible (PSSP), penicillin-intermediate (PISP) and penicillin-resistant (PRSP) S. pneumoniae was 143 (38%), 185 (49%) and 49 (13%) strains, respectively. PISP and PRSP were isolated higher in the material of nasal cavity and throat, and PRSP was isolated higher in the area of Chuno district. The number of gPSSP with 3 normal PBP genes, gPISP with 1 or 2 normal PBP genes and gPRSP with 3 abnormal genes was 23 (6.1%), 173 (46%) and 181 (48%) strains, respectively. The isolates with no macrolide-resistant gene, only mefA, only ermB, and both mefA and ermB were 28 (7.4%), 138 (37%), 166 (44%) and 45 (12%). The prevalent pneumococcal serotypes were type 19 (92 strains; 24%), following by type 23 (60 strains; 16%) and type 6 (56 strains; 15%). The 80% of pneumococcal serotypes of PRSP were serotype 19 and 6. The MIC90 of each antibacterial was as follows; 0.1 microg/mL for imipenem, panipenem and garenoxacin, 0.2 microg/mL for moxifloxacin, 0.39 microg/mL for meropenem and tosufloxacin, 0.78 microg/ mL for amoxicillin, clavulanic acid/amoxicillin, cefditoren and cefcapene, 1.56 microg/mL for benzylpenicillin, piperacillin, cefteram and levofloxacin, 3.13 microg/mL for cefotiam, flomoxef and pazufloxacin, 6.25 microg/mL for cefdinir, 12.5 microg/mL for norfloxacin and minocycline, > 100 microg/mL for clarithromycin, and these MIC90s were about the same as those in 2004.

Background: Postinfarction ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a lethal complication with high mortality. The aim of this study was to evaluate our surgical strategy and results of VSR., Patients and Methods: Between 1996 and 2008, 13 consecutive patients underwent operation for VSR at our hospital. All patients required emergent operation because of severe cardiogenic shock. Surgical procedure consisted of endocardial patch repair with infarct exclusion, so called "Komeda-David operation". In patients with multiple coronary artery disease, myocardial revascularization was done simultaneously., Results: These patients were divided into 2 groups according to the location of VSR. There were 9 patients of anterior VSR. Two of them could not be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass and died of severe low output syndrome (LOS) at early postoperative period. The site of infarction in both patients was broad anteroseptal region including right ventricle. On the other hand, there were 4 patients of inferior VSP. Two of these patients were lost due to LOS. One patient was complicated with left ventricular free wall rupture. In another patient, infarction was extended proximally toward the mitral annulus and papillary muscles. Both cardiopulmonary bypass time and aortic crossclamp time were significantly longer in inferior VSR than in anterior region. There was no late death in 2 groups., Conclusions: Despite improvements of surgical procedures, such as infarct exclusion technique, the operative mortality remains high in cases with broad infarction and/or right ventricular infarction. In these particular circumstances, in should be mandatory to consider the optimal timing of operation and the modification of surgical technique itself.

Recent studies have identified mutations in the genes encoding TDP-43 and FUS/TLS in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Both TDP-43 and FUS/TLS display all the characteristics of a heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein, which regulates various aspects of RNA processing. In addition, TDP-43 is partly cleared from the nuclei of neurons containing cytoplasmic aggregates, suggesting loss of normal TDP-43 function in the nucleus, leading to defects or alterations in RNA metabolism, plays, at least in part, a causative role in the pathogenesis of ALS. TDP-43 has been reported to be involved in the Drosha complex required for the biogenesis of microRNAs. The high expression level of microRNAs and the exclusive expression of certain microRNAs in the central nervous system highlights their biological importance at all stages of neural development as well as in differentiated neurons. In addition, the altered expression of certain microRNAs has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, elucidation of the role of TDP-43 in microRNA biogenesis as a component of the Drosha complex is indispensable to understanding pathophysiology of ALS. In addition, the identification of TDP-43-regulated microRNAs associated with motor neuron death is expected to further contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for ALS treatment.

Background: Traumatic neuropathy of the optic chiasm is a rare finding which occurs after severe blunt head trauma. It is often accompanied by dysfunction of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus and called traumatic chiasmal syndrome. We report a patient with traumatic chiasmal syndrome caused by a severe traffic accident., Case: A 25 year-old woman was referred for bitemporal visual field defects caused by a traffic accident two months before. Corrected visual acuity was 0.05 in the right eye and 1.2 in the left eye. Bilateral optic atrophy and relative afferent pupillary defect in the right eye were found. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an enlarged optic chiasm. Computed tomography disclosed many fractures in the skull including the back wall of the sphenoid sinuses. She also suffered from diabetes insipidus and anosmia., Conclusion: Traumatic optic neuropathy of the optic chiasm is a rare condition which can be differentiated from neuropathy in the optic canal by considering the patterns of visual field defects and their accompanying signs.

We examined 58 cases of type A acute aortic dissection treated from 2003 to 2005 in our hospital. Thirty-three patients were treated surgically and 25 patients were treated conservatively. Among the 25 patients treated conservatively, 13 patients had open false lumen, and were eligible for surgical therapy. Surgical therapy was abandoned however, for various reasons (stroke, advanced age, malignancy, renal disease, lung disease, or patient's reject). Thirteen patients (52%) treated conservatively died while only 1 patient (3%) treated surgically died. Patients with thrombosed false lumen had good prognosis while those with open false lumen or ischemic complication had poor prognosis. It is concluded that patients with thrombosed false lumen of type A acute aortic dissection could receive conservative therapy with surgical team's back up and close computed tomography (CT) follow up to detect recanalization and enlargement of the aorta.

The Tokyo metropolitan hospital society of chief medical technologist has carried out a staining survey once a year since 1992. This staining survey is performed to plan improvements of the staining technology at each hospital and reduction of differences among hospitals. This report describes the examination results for PAS stain, Papanicolaou stain, and PAM stain.

Background: Although the aortic root dissection is a common finding in patients with type A acute aortic dissection, it is potentially fatal. Several procedures are available for reconstruction of the aortic root, and the choice depends on the mode of dissection; rupture, coronary ostial disruption or pre-existing cardiovascular diseases (annulo-aortic ectasia, aortic regurgitation: AR). The purpose of this study was to evaluate our surgical strategy of type A acute aortic dissection with proximal involvement., Methods: Between 1996 and 2008, 100 patients with type A acute aortic dissection underwent emergency operation at our hospital. Fifteen of them received aortic root intervention simultaneously., Results: In the initial 3 patients, the dissected aortic root was reinforced by fibrin glue and concomitant coronary bypass grafting was performed. During the follow-up term, residual aortic insufficiency was noted in 2 patients. Aortic root reconstruction was performed in 12 patients. Of these, the most recent 2 young patients underwent a new type of aortic valve sparing procedure, so called "partial remodeling". The postoperative echocardiography demonstrated no AR. There was no operative death in this series, and the long-term results were good., Conclusion: The excellent outcome was demonstrated with the change of surgical strategy. Special care should be taken for precise recognition of the proximal extension of the aortic dissection at operation. Although we recommend consideration of the partial remodeling procedure as an alternative, close observation is mandatory in this particular circumstance.

Two successful cases of Konno procedure for congenital aortic stenosis and left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) were reported herein. A 3-year-old child previously underwent definitive repair of complete atrioventricular septal defect. Follow-up echocardiography revealed progression of valvular aortic stenosis and subaortic tunnel stenosis. Second patient was a 30-year-old male with congenital aortic stenosis, severe LVOTO and funnel chest. Both patients underwent Konno procedure, and their postoperative courses were uneventful. The Konno procedure is effective and stenotic lesion could be enlarged sufficiently even in complex LVOTO. Especially in the patient of advanced age, care should be taken to fragility of the left ventricular muscle and coronary malperfusion caused by the procedure itself.

Nine cases of mantle cell lymphoma with gastrointestinal involvement were retrospectively reviewed, and their clinical features, including the involved organs, macroscopic forms, treatment methods, and prognoses were evaluated. The involved organs in the gastrointestinal tract were the stomach in 5 cases, the duodenum in 4, the ileum in 5, the cecum in 1, the colon in 4, and the rectum in 2. The macroscopic form of the gastric involvement varied, and included the protruding type in 3 cases, the ulcerated type in one, and the superficial type in one. On the other hand, the macroscopic form of the intestinal involvement from the duodenum to the rectum was mostly of the multiple lymphomatous polyposis type, which was observed in 6 cases. A hyper CVAD/MA regimen and high-dose chemotherapy with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation was performed in 5 cases. All of these 5 cases continue to show a complete response.

Hemodilutional autologous blood transfusion has been experienced by 13 cases in urological surgery and has been able to save on blood, 276.6 ml in mean volume, so that this blood transfusion is thought to be valuable. And medical technologists played an important role of this method as a specialist of blood transfusion, who is expected to collaborate with surgeons as a staff.