Identification of a TGF-β/SMAD/lnc-UTGF positive feedback loop and its role in hepatoma metastasis.

Aberrant activation of the TGF-β/SMAD signaling pathway is often observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Whether lncRNA regulates the TGF-β/SMAD signaling remains largely unknown. Here, we identified an oncogenic lncRNA that was upregulated in HCC and was transcriptionally induced by TGF-β (named lnc-UTGF, lncRNA upregulated by TGF-β).

Dual and opposing roles of the androgen receptor in VETC-dependent and invasion-dependent metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Background & Aims: Contradictory roles of the androgen receptor (AR) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) metastasis have been reported. We have shown that VETC (vessels encapsulating tumor clusters) mediates invasion-independent metastasis, whereas VETC HCCs metastasize in an invasion-dependent manner. Herein, we aimed to reveal the roles of AR in HCC metastasis.

Obtained mydriasis in long-term type 2 diabetic patients.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate obtained mydriasis and prevalence of small pupil in long-term type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods: A prospective observational cross-sectional study was carried out. We included 107 eyes from 107 patients (mean age: 60.

Associations between chronic glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level and macular volume in diabetes patients without macular oedema.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the correlation between glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level and macular volume in diabetes patients without diabetic macular oedema (DMO).

Methods: We carried out an observational, cross-sectional study. Patients who had diabetes mellitus (DM) of ≥ 10 years duration without DMO were included.

[Clinical observation on treatment of primary dysmenorrhea with acupuncture and massage].

Objective: To observe the clinical therapeutic effect of acupuncture massage for primary dysmenorrhea and its influence on prostaglandin F2alpha level in menstrual fluid.

Methods: Ninety patients with primary dysmenorrhea were assigned equally to the acupuncture group, the massage group and the control group (oral administrated with Somiton tablet). The treatment course was 3 menstrual cycles.