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The functionalization of a hydrogel with target molecules is one of the key steps in its various applications. Here, a versatile approach is demonstrated to functionalize a micropatterned hydrogel, which is formed by "thiol-yne" photo-click reaction between the yne-ended hyperbranched poly(ether amine) (hPEA-yne) and thiol-containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (PEG-POSS-SH). By controlling the molar ratio between hPEA-yne and PEG-POSS-SH, patterned hydrogels containing thiol or yne groups are obtained. A series of thiol-based click chemistry such as "thiol-epoxy", "thiol-halogen", "thiolene", and "thiol-isocyanate" are used to functionalize the thiol-containing hydrogel (Gel-1), while the yne-containing hydrogel (Gel-2) is functionalized through a typical copper-catalysed alkyne-azide reaction (CuAAC). FTIR, UV-vis spectra and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) are used to trace these click reactions. Due to the selective adsorption to the hydrophilic dyes, the obtained patterned hydrogel of hPEA modifi ed with fl uorescence dye is further demonstrated in application for the recognition of guest molecules.

Rationale: Chilaiditi syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by a broad spectrum of (gastro-intestinal) symptoms caused by interposition of a segment of bowel between the liver and the diaphragm. Most cases present with abdominal symptoms and the morbidity tend to increase with age. Patient concerns: Here we present a rare case of Chilaiditi syndrome. An elderly postmenopausal woman developed unresolved postoperative respiratory symptoms and chest pain. Chest auscultation revealed considerable attenuation of respiratory sounds. She showed postoperative increase in D-dimer level and sudden onset of dyspnea. Diagnoses: Considering the presence of atelectasis in the middle and lower lobes of the right lung, bedside fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed immediately to rule out bronchial phlegm embolism. However, no phlegm embolism was found in the left lung, and a small amount of yellow–white mucus was seen in the upper lobe of the right lung. Due to external pressure, the lumen of the middle and lower lobes of the right lung was obviously narrowed. Interventions: The patient was placed in a semi-sitting position and a tube was passed through the anus to decompress the intestinal cavity; in addition, she received potassium supplementation. Outcomes: The patient's symptoms improved markedly. Chest and semi-supine abdominal plain radiographs showed enhanced lung markings, shadows in the left lower lung lobes, elevation of the right diaphragm, and small amount of pneumoperitoneum. The patient recovered after 5 days of continuous treatment and was discharged. Lessons: Emergency computed tomographic pulmonary angiography may facilitate the diagnosis of Chilaiditi syndrome, especially in the postoperative setting. Occurrence of Chilaiditi syndrome in this patient was likely associated with surgical factors. Appropriate investigations and clear identification of etiology are essential for successful treatment.

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The aim of this study was to explore and evaluate biotubes consisting of autologous tissues. The biotubes were prepared by intra-abdominally embedding silicon rods as moulds. The specimens were analyzed by mechanical tests, histological observation and superficial study. The intra-abdominal implantation of the silicone tubes readily stimulated the development of the biotubes. The biotubes consisted of collagen-rich extracellular matrices. Myofibroblasts appeared as elongated cells with circumferential or longitudinal orientations. Subsequent to one month of embedding, the thickness of the tube wall was 70–250 μm. The burst strength was 1100±187 mmHg and the suturability was excellent. Biotubes that have the ability to be widely variable in their shapes are composed of autologous cells and glomerular extracellular matrices. Biotubes are ideal grafts for tissue engineering as they are able to avoid immunological rejection and are of sufficient mechanical strength.