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Neuroblastoma (NBL), derived from the sympathetic precursor cells, is one of the most common pediatric solid tumors. The expression of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V and IX (GnT-V and GnT-IX) mRNA in 126 primary NBLs were quantitatively analyzed and higher expression levels of GnT-V were found to be associated with favorable stages (1, 2 and 4s). Conversely, the downregulation of GnT-V expression by small interfering RNA resulted in a decrease in the susceptibility to cell apoptosis induced by retinoic acid in NBL cells accompanied by morphological change. These results suggest that GnT-V is associated with prognosis by modulating the sensitivity of NBLs to apoptosis.

We report a rare case of massive and recurrent bleeding from ileal varices in a patient with hepatitis C virus-positive liver cirrhosis. A 66-year old woman, who had undergone laparotomy and blood transfusion 36 years before (because of an extrauterine pregnancy) and endoscopic sclerotherapy for esophageal varices 1 year previously, was admitted to our hospital with loss of bright red blood per rectum. The bleeding was massive and recurrent, and frequent blood transfusions were required. Endoscopic studies failed to find the bleeding site. In the venous phase of selective superior mesenteric angiography, mesenteric varices in the lower part of the abdominal cavity were observed. Laparotomy was performed to control the repeated bleeding which had lasted for more than 1 month. Varices communicating with the right ovarian vein were found on the ileal wall and segmental resection of the ileum was performed. Histological examination demonstrated a massive varicose vein and several dilated veins in the submucosa. The patient's postoperative course was favorable, with no hemorrhagic events during a follow-up of more than 6 months after surgery. Ileal varices should be considered in the diagnosis of a patient who presents with lower gastrointestinal bleeding and portal hypertension.