Abstract:Despite of tremendous progresses made in the genomics, stem cell technology, and microelectronics, challenges remain for the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases including cancer. Thus the conception of “translational medicine” appeared and it is generally believed that translational researches should be intensified. Translational researches not only include the application of new methods and advanced technologies, but also emphasize the raise of problems from clinical practice and study and solve them for diagnosis and treatment. Another important aspect of translational medicine is personalized treatment of diseases, i.e., using targeted drugs against specific molecular changes in individual patient. Although there are only a handful of examples for targeted therapy, we believe that, with the deeper understanding of the mechanisms of more diseases, discovery of more biomarkers and diagnostic methods, and development of more targeted drugs, personalized therapy will become popular in clinic in the future.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo investigate the secondary metabolites of actinomycete Brevibacterium sp. associated with the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus Selenka. MethodsThe ethyl acetate extract of the actinomycete was purified by repeated column chromatography on silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to obtain pure compounds; and the compound structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis (nuclear magnetic resonance, NMR; mass spectrometry, MS) and the results were compared with the previously reported data. ResultsSeven compounds were isolated: cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Phe) (1), cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Met) (2), cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Tyr) (3), cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Val) (4), cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Pro) (5), cyclo-(L-Val-Gly) (6), and cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Leu) (7). ConclusionThis is the first report on the secondary metabolites of microorganisms associated with the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus Selenka, and all the seven compounds have been reported from the actinomycete Brevibacterium sp. for the first time.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo prepare the ternary nano-gene polyplex by adding hyaluronic acid (HA) into DNA/polyamidoamine (PAMAM) binary nano-gene polyplex, and to probe into its gene transfection ability. MethodsDNA and HA were mixed with PAMAM dendrimer in different charge ratios to form ternary nano-gene polyplex, and the size and zeta potential of the polyplex were measured. MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were used for transfection efficiency test; B16 and MCF-7 cells were used for cell viability assay. Results and conclusionThe prepared ternary nano-gene polyplex has even size and stable structure. HA can enhance the gene transfection efficiency and reduce the cell toxicity compared with pure PAMAM, making it suitable for gene delivery and transfection.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo investigate the changes of global gene expression during bone marrow recovery period following sublethal ionizing radiation (IR) in mice. MethodsThe mice were exposed to 4 Gy of ⁶⁰Co γ irradiation, and RNA samples were extracted from bone marrow cells at day 0, 3, 7, 11 and 21 after irradiation and were subjected to microarray analysis for identifying differentially expressed genes. Multiple bioinformatics analyses, including clustering analysis, gene ontology (GO) analysis, and dynamic gene network analysis, were conducted to identify key hub genes, pathways and biological processes during bone marrow recovery phase. Analysis was also made for the protein of the identified hub genes. ResultsCompared with non-IR stimulation group, 1 302 differential genes were identified by global gene expression profiling of the irradiation-damaged bone marrow. Clustering and GO analyses revealed that the immune response (especially hematopoiesis) associated genes played a critical role in the body function recovery after IR injury. Twenty-five of the differential genes were defined as the hub genes participating in two pathways including immune response and transcription/nucleosome assembly. Key node CCL3 improved the proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) by spontaneous down-regulation and increased degradation by CtsG. ConclusionThe 25 genes identified by microarray analysis and bioinformatics analyses may play critical roles in recovery phase after IR. Key node CCL3 may increase the proliferation of HSCs by spontaneous down-regulation and increase of protein hydrolyzation.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo establish a new animal model of chronic cervical compressive myelopathy and to assess its feasibility. MethodsEighteen Chongming goats were divided into two groups: control group (n=3) and experimental group (n=15). The balloon was placed into the C3 intervertebral space by anterior approach operation, and the syringe valve was fixed subcutaneously. Contrast agent was injected percutaneously into the valve (0.1 ml/week) to inflate the balloon progressively to produce chronic compression. In the control group, the balloon compression system was placed and immediately removed; percutaneous puncture was performed each week without injecting anything. The Tarlov scores were assessed in each group every four weeks. The goats underwent X-ray, CT and MRI under general anesthesia every four weeks. The spinal cord specimens were pathologically examined at test level at the end of experiment. ResultsThe Tarlov scores were 5 (normal) at all time points in the control group. Tarlov scores were not changed in the experimental group four weeks after surgery (n=13); at eight weeks after surgery (n=11) the Tarlov scores were 4 in 2 goats and 5 in 9 goats; and at twelve weeks after surgery (n=9) the Tarlov scores were 2 in 3 goats, 3 in 4 goats and 4 in 2 goats. The balloon compression system was stable in the experimental group. Radiological findings showed that the cervical spinal cord compressed progressively in the experimental group as time went by, and those in the control group underwent no noticeable change. Pathological examination showed neuronatrophy, increased gap around the neurons, mild demyelinated and vacuolar degeneration in the experimental group at eight weeks after surgery, and these changes were deteriorated twelve weeks after surgery. There were no noticeable pathological changes in the control group and four weeks after surgery in the experimental group. ConclusionThe postoperative behavior, radiological and pathological findings of the animals consist with the character of chronic cervical compressive myelopathy, indicating that the balloon compression system in the present study can be used to establish a reliable and stable animal model of chronic cervical spinal cord compression.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of splenectomy on development and progression of implanted hepatic tumors by establishing implanted hepatic tumor rat model with portal hypertension. MethodsRat cirrhosis with portal hypertension models were built by subcutaneous injection of carbon tetrachloride, and then the rats were randomly divided into two groups. Group A was subjected to splenectomy and implantation of Walker-256 tumor tissue on the left lobe of liver, and group B was only subjected to implantation of tumor tissue. T-lymphocyte subsets CD4, CD8 and CD4/CD8 of two groups were examined 10 days after implantation of tumor tissue; the left lobe of liver was resected and the maximal tumor size was measured; expression of Ki-67 was detected by immunohistochemical method in the tumor tissues. ResultsThe results of blood routine test and liver function test were obviously abnormal in rat model of portal hypertension. The levels of CD4 and CD4/CD8 in group A were higher than those in group B (0.36±0.01 vs 0.35±0.02,1.33±0.08 vs 1.24±0.05; P<0.05 or P<0.01), and the level of CD8 in group A was lower than that of CD8 in group B (0.27±0.01 vs 0.29±0.02, P<0.01). There was no significant difference in the diameter of hepatic tumor between the two groups. Ki-67-positive rate of tumor in group A was lower than that in group B (P<0.05). ConclusionSplenectomy in portal hypertension rats can not only help to improve the immunity against hepatic tumor, but also decrease the invasive ability of the hepatic tumor to some extent.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo observe the homing of bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) to the embolized lung tissues after mobilization and to investigate the potential mechanisms. MethodsThirty healthy Chinese big-ear rabbits were randomized into two groups regardless of gender: pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) group (model group), PTE+granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) mobilization group (experimental group), with each group having 15 animals. Stable PTE models were established by injecting autologous thrombus into the femoral veins of the animals (model group). The animals in the experimental group received daily hypodermic injection of G-CSF (10 μg/\[kg·d\]) for five days, which was started 4 days before the establishing PTE models and ended at one day after the models were established. The animals were sacrificed 24 hours after modeling in both groups for general sample observation. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was done for the samples. Immunohistochemical analysis was done to detect the expressions of CD34 and SDF-1 in the embolized area, edge area, and normal area. A medical image processing software was used to analyze the results of immunohistochemical results to calculate the relative contents of CD34 and SDF-1. Results(1)General sample observation: the animals exhibited the damage of lung tissues in both groups, including splinter hemorrhage sites, local pale region and atelectasis. (2)Microscopic pathological observation: the embolized areas of all animals exhibited interstitial edema and hyperemia, and many red blood cells entered the pulmonary alveoli. Increased monocyte infiltration was detected in the experimental group. (3)Results of immunohistochemical analyses and image analyses of CD34: Most CD34 expression was found in the embolized area, very weak expression was found in the edge area, and hardly any was detected in the normal area. CD34 expression in embolized area was significantly higher in the experimental group than that in the model group (P<0.01). More monocytes expressing CD34 were seen in the experimental group and only a small number of them were found in the model group. (4) Results of immunohistochemical analyses and image analyses of SDF-1: Most SDF-1 expression was found in the embolized area, and no expression was found in the edge area and normal area. SDF-1 expression in embolized area was significantly higher in experimental group than in the model group (P<0.01). ConclusionBMSCs expressing CD34 can home to the embolized lung tissues after PTE. The increased SDF-1 expression may be one of the mechanisms of BMSCs homing to embolized lung tissues after PTE. Mobilization with G-CSF can increase SDF-1 expression in embolized area, which can attract more BMSCs to home to embolized lung tissues.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo determine the role of different molecular compositions of K_ATP channels in reducing the blood pressure variability (BPV) in conscious,freely-moving sinoaortic denervated (SAD) rats. MethodsSAD rat model was established. Computerized analytic system of blood pressure was used to observe the effects of unselective K_ATP openers (pinacidil) or Kir6.1/Sur2B and Kir6.1/Sur1 selective opener (diazoxide) on BPV of SAD rats. We also observed the effects of pinacidil and diazoxide on BPV of SAD rats pre-treated with selective Kir6.1/Sur1 antagonist 5-hydroxydecanoic acid (5-HD) and selective Kir6.2/Sur2A antagonist (HMR1098). ResultsBoth pinacidil and diazoxide significantly decreased BPV in SAD rats (P<0.01), and pre-treatment with 5-HD+HMR1098 did not change the effect of either pinacidil or diazoxide on BPV of SAD rats. ConclusionOpening Kir6.1/SUR2B of vascular smooth cells can decrease the BPV levels in SAD rats.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of Kaixin-San (KXS) on behavior, brain monoamine transmitters, and hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in mice receiving tail suspension test (TST), so as to explore the correlation of the antidepressant effect of KXS and hippocampal BDNF level. MethodsThe effect of KXS on the immobility time of mice in the TST was observed. The levels of norepinephrine (NE), dopamine (DA) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the brain were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Western blotting analysis was used to examine the expressions of cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), p-CREB, and BDNF in the hippocampus. BDNF mRNA expression was also examined by RT-PCR. Pearson’s correlation analysis was used to evaluate relationship between anti-depression effect of Kaixin-San and hippocampal BDNF level. ResultsKXS reduced the immobility time of mice in the TST (P＜0.05); it also increased the brain levels of monoamine transmitters (DA and 5-HT) and hippocampal levels of CREB, p-CREB and BDNF compared with the control mice(P＜0.05). Moreover, the anti-depression effect of KXS was correlated with BDNF level (protein:r=-0.694, P＜0.01; mRNA:r=-0.547, P＜0.01) in the hippocampus. ConclusionThe anti-depression effect of KXS is positively correlated with the hippocampal BDNF level, indicating KXS may exert anti-depression effect via increasing hippocampal BDNF.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo observe the neuron apoptosis and anti-oxidative stress function of cerebral tissues after acute cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in rats treated with apelin in the early period of acute cerebral I/R. MethodsTotally 156 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: sham group (n=12), ischemia reperfusion group (I/R group, n=72) and ischemia reperfusion plus apelin group (I/R+AP group, n=72). The latter two groups were further divided into 6 subgroups according to reperfusion time (3, 6, 12, 24, 72, and 120 h groups, each group containing 12 rats). Apelin (10^-7 mol/L \[10 μl\]) was injected into the lateral ventricle in the early time of reperfusion (30 min) in the I/R+AP group. RT-PCR was used to observe the change of caspase-3 and caspase-12 mRNA expression in the injured side of cerebral cortex in each group, and flow cytometer was employed to detect the apoptosis rate of neurons. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and the total antioxidant capacity were also examined in the brain homogenate after I/R. ResultsThe expression of caspase-3 mRNA and caspase-12 mRNA was increased in I/R and I/R+AP groups compared with the sham group. Treatment with apelin down-regulated caspase-12 mRNA expression but had little influence on caspase-3 mRNA expression. The neuron apoptosis rate was significantly lower in I/R+AP group compared with the I/R group (P<0.05), and the changes increased with time. Compared with the sham group, I/R group had significantly increased MDA content(P<0.05) and significantly decreased GSH-Px activity and total antioxidant capacity (P<0.05). Compared with the I/R group, I/R+AP group had significantly increased GSH-Px activity and total antioxidant capacity and significantly decreased MDA content (P<0.05). ConclusionEarly intervention with apelin can protect the neurons in rats after acute cerebral I/R.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of lung-protective ventilation mode on stroke volume variation (SVV) in patients receiving selected thoracotomy. MethodsTwenty patients of the American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) class Ⅰ or class Ⅱ were selected for this study, with no drugs administrated before operation. In addition to standard hemodynamic monitoring, SVV and cardiac index (CI) were recorded at the following eight time points: spontaneous breathing when awake and at supine position (T₁), spontaneous breathing when awake and at lateral position (T₂), general anesthesia with two-lung ventilation and at supine position (T₃), general anesthesia with one-lung ventilation under lung-protective strategy and at supine position (T₄), general anesthesia with two-lung ventilation and at lateral position (T₅), general anesthesia with one-lung ventilation under lung-protective strategy and at lateral position (T₆), combined anesthesia with one-lung ventilation under lung-protective strategy when skin incision (T₇), and combined anesthesia with one-lung ventilation under lung-protective strategy when pleural dissection (T₈). The changes of heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), SVV, and CI were observed at the above eight time points; and the relation of SVV with HR, MAP and CI was discussed. Homogenity test of variances was used to analyze the data of the four indices; the use of further statistical scheme was judged by the result of homoscedasticity. A Pearson correlation analysis was used for SVV with HR, MAP, and CI. ResultsHomogenity of variance test showed that the changes of SVV and HR at T₁ -T8 had no significant difference (P>0.05), while the changes of MAP and CI had significant difference (P<0.05). LSD multiple comparison indicated significant differences for the followings (P<0.05): SVV between T₂ and T₅, CI among T₁ and T_3-8, CI among T₂ and T_4,6,7,8, MAP among T₁ and T_3,4,6,7,8, MAP among T₂ and T_3,4,6,7,8, and MAP between T₄ and T₅. We also found that SVV had negative correlation with CI (r=-0.267, P=0.018). ConclusionThe change of body position (from supine to lateral position) in patients without hypovolemia before operation has no significant impact on SVV and HR; one-lung ventilation under lung-protective strategy has no noticeable effects on SVV, HR, MAP or CI. Anesthetic factor can cause the drop of MAP and CI, and the action of passive position change under anesthesia can result in the rise of MAP and CI. Alteration of SVV has negative correlation with CI, but the correlation is weak.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo design and prepare a polyester-coated nitinol ventricular septal defect (VSD) occluder. MethodsThe shape wax model was made by slightly stretching the shape of the commercially available nitinol VSD occluder. The wax model was fixed on the weaving machine and a wax model-polyester coat compomer was made using the medical 4-0 sutures by warp knitting method. Then dewaxing and defatting were done and the polyester coat was produced. The commercially available nitinol VSD occluder was placed into the coat by sheath, with the ends of the polyester coat sutured at the VSD stainless steel rivets, and the surplus parts of both ends were cut by high-temperature knife. ResultsThe polyester coat of VSD occluder was successfully made by weaving machine and warp knitting method. Polyester coat had a waist diameter of 8 mm and a disc diameter of 12 mm, and it completely fit with the conventional nitinol VSD occluder with diameter being 8 mm. The polyester coat was sutured tightly with the VSD occluder, and the surplus parts of two ends of the VSD occluder were cut smooth by high-temperature knife, with no loosening of the wire. ConclusionThe polyester coat of nitinol VSD occluder can be woven by the weaving machine and warp knitting method, and then the polyester-coated nitinol VSD occluder can be successfully made by suture and high-temperature cutting.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo retrospectively analyze the incidence of bleeding during transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) procedures, so as to provide evidence for prevention and treatment of the condition. MethodsTBNA procedures were performed in 178 patients with enlarged mediastinal and/or hilar lymph nodes, who were treated in the People’s Hospital of Linyi. A total of 248 lymph node sites were punctured, including 100 for the groups of pretracheal and post-superior vena cava lymph nodes (4R), 10 for the groups of left paratracheal (aorta-pulmonary artery windows) lymph nodes (4L), 13 for the groups of pre-carinal lymph nodes (7),90 for the groups of sub-carinal lymph nodes (7), 12 for the groups of sub-subcarinal lymph nodes (7), 12 for the groups of right lung hilar lymph nodes (11R), and 11 for the groups of left lung hilar lymph nodes (11L).TBNA procedures were performed according to WANG’s TBNA positioning and punctured method. The sites and incidence rates of bleeding sites during the procedures were analyzed. ResultsThe highest incidence rate of bleeding (20%) was found during TBNA procedures in the sub-carinal lymph node groups (7) , and the lowest incidence rate was found (2%) in the pretracheal and post-superior vena cava lymph node groups (4R) .The incidence rates of bleeding were significantly different between different puncture sites as demonstrated by chi-square test (χ²=17.035,P=0.009). ConclusionPretracheal and post-superior vena cava lymph nodes (4R) and sub-carinal lymph nodes (7) are the most common TBNA puncture position in the airway. TBNA procedure at sub-carinal lymph nodes (7) has the highest risk of bleeding. The massive bleeding during TBNA procedures can be avoided by prior enhanced CT and/or endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-TBNA of the lung.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo investigate the ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT features of clear cell sarcoma (CCS) of soft tissue. MethodsTen patients with pathologically confirmed CCS were enrolled in the present study. All patients underwent preoperative ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT scanning, and the image findings and clinical characteristics of the tumors were analyzed. ResultsThe mean maximum standard uptake value (SUV_max) of the primary lesions was 6.52(range, 5-9.6) in the patients. PET/CT revealed lung metastasis in 7 patients, soft tissue metastases in 5, and regional lymph node metastases in 3, with no brain/bone/liver metastases. CT findings showed lung metastases in 6 cases and soft tissue metastasis in one. ConclusionCCS ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT image lacks specificity, but it can better demonstrate the extent and metastases of CCS, helping the accurate, timely, and more targeted therapy.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo study the preparation technique of Apium graveolens L.capsules and to assess the quality of the prepared capsules. Methods and ResultsUsing moldability and fluidity of the granules as indices, we optimized the formulation of Apium graveolens L.capsules by mono-factor test, with the mono-factors including microcrystalline cellulose, aerosil and lactose. In the optimized formula, the contents of aerosil, microcrystalline cellulose and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone were 26%, 30% and 2%, respectively. The aerosil had a satisfactory adsorption for volatile oil, which is important to the viscosity, moldability and fluidity of the granules. Three batches of samples were made using the optimized formula,and the quality evaluation tests showed that mass variation, the moisture content and contents of flavonoids and phthalides all met the quality control criteria. ConclusionThe granules of capsules prepared in this study have satisfactory moldability and fluidity.The preparation technique is simple and the quality can be controlled, making it suitable for industrial production.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo develop a method for constructing a modularized support system of medical supplies for military operations other than war (MOOTW) and to evaluate its feasibility. MethodsThe existing disease/injury spectrum and the consumption information of medical supplies in MOOTW were collected. The medical supplies demand in MOOTW was divided into general demand, special demand, and supplement demand according to the principles of modularity, systems analysis, logical analysis and cluster analysis. And a modularized support system for medical supplies was subsequently designed. ResultsIn accordance with the medical support missions and the analysis of loss due to noneffective, we constructed a modularized support system of medical supplies, which consisting of 32 basic modules in 4 categories. The catalogues of medical supplies for 7 common MOOTW missions were proposed based on the analysis of the consumption rules of medical supplies in MOOTW. The decision-making system for modularized support of medical supplies in MOOTW was designed in line with actual requirement of medical supply support in MOOTW. ConclusionSimulating test has demonstrated that the proposed decision-making system for modularized support of medical supplies in MOOTW can improve the flexibility, adaptability, and reliability of medical supply, and it is a new approach to implement precise medical supply support.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo investigate the effects of different hypoxia treatments on secretion of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in the cerebral cortex cells of rats. MethodsPrimary cultured cerebral cortex cells were subjected to hypoxia treatments (1% and 4% oxygen) for 3 h or 6 h. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α protein in cultural supernatants. Results(1) Compared with the corresponding normoxia (20% oxygen) controls, IL-6 level was significantly decreased after treatment with 1% oxygen for 3 h and 6 h (P<0.01, P<0.05), and the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α were not significantly different. (2) Compared with the corresponding normoxia (20% oxygen) controls, the levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were not significantly different in cells treated with 4% oxygen for 3 h(P>0.05); the levels of IL-1β and IL-6 were significantly decreased in cells treated with 4% oxygen for 6 h (P<0.01, P<0.05), and TNF-α level was not significantly different(P>0.05). ConclusionOxygen at 1% has no influence on IL-1β or TNF-α secretion in cerebral cortex cells of rats, and it can inhibit the production of IL-6. Oxygen at 4% has inhibitory effect on IL-1β and IL-6 production, and it has no effect on TNF-α production.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the anxiety sensitivity index-revised(ASI-CR) among patients with anxiety disorders. MethodsA total of 68 patients with anxiety disorders were interviewed using anxiety sensitivity index-revised (ASI-R), trait anxiety inventory (T-AI), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA) and ASI-CR; the reliability and validity of ASI-CR were examined. ResultsInternal consistency of ASI-CR and each factor was 0.77-0.89 and the split-half reliability was 0.67-0.88. The internal correlation coefficient between factors was 0.51-0.65, the correlation coefficient between factors and the total score was 0.83-0.89, and internal correlation coefficient among factors was 0.60-0.90. The correlation coefficient between the total score and factor scores of ASI-CR and total score of ASI-R was 0.76-0.97, and the correlation coefficient between factor scores of ASI-CR and corresponding factor score of ASI-R was 0.78-0.97. The total score and two factor (physical concern and cognitive concern) score of ASI-CR in anxiety patients were significantly higher than the norm (P<0.01). Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the three lower-order ASI-CR factors contributed 65.06% of the total variance. Factor loading of items was 0.51-0.88, but the items were unevenly distributed among factors. Two items had low loading to cognitive concern factor (0.22, 0.48). ConclusionThe ASI-CR displays satisfactory reliability, criterion validity and content validity among anxiety patients, but further research is needed to improve its structural validity.

Abstract:MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of endogenous small non-coding RNAs, which play important gene regulatory roles at the post-transcriptional level by binding to the 3′ untranslated region of the targeted mRNAs. MiRNAs possess tissue-specific signatures and have been found involved in various pathophysiological processes. Recent reports have demonstrated that miRNAs are stably present in blood circulation in the form of microvesicles, exosome, microparticle, and apoptotic bodies; and the plasma levels of specific miRNAs have been proven as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of cancers. Many articles have also reported that miRNAs can serve as important diagnostic biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases. Here we reviewed the roles of circulating miRNAs as potential biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases, including acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, coronary artery disease, and diabetes mellitus.

Abstract:Glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI )-anchored proteins are important cell surface proteins in Candida albicans (C. albicans), and they have important impact on the adhesion, morphogenesis and cell wall synthesis of C. albicans. In recent years, more important functions of GPI-anchored proteins have been identified along with the progress in research of C. albicans. By introducing the concept of C. albicans GPI-anchored proteins, we reviewed the progress in GPI-anchored proteins research from the perspective of family classification and functional classification, and discussed the future research direction for C. albicans GPI-anchored proteins.

Abstract:Liver cirrhosis patients often need emergent platelet transfusions to control hemorrhage due to coagulation factor dysfunction, thrombocytopenia or insufficiency, bleeding and other reasons. However, the indications of platelet transfusion should be strictly considered. Here we summarized the dos and don’ts of platelet transfusion in liver cirrhosis patients, hoping to provide a reference for correct platelet transfusion in liver cirrhosis patients.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical value of the PolyScope^TM endoscope system (F8 modular flexible ureteroscope) in treatment of upper urinary calculi less than 2 cm in diameter. MethodsA total of 117 patients with upper urinary calculi, who were hospitalized in Xinhua Hospital from Nov. 2010 to Aug. 2012, were recruited in this study. The patients included 71 males and 46 females, aging from 20-86 (average age:49.7±13.9). Ninety-six patients had single calculi and the rest 21 had multiple calculi; 61 patients had left calculi and 56 had right calculi. The mean diameter of calculi was (1.19±0.34) cm. Twenty-two patients had been indwelled with D-J tube in advance under ureteroscope for 2-8 weeks, including 13 with ureteral stenosis, 7 with urinary tract infection and 2 with renal insufficiency. General or spinal anaesthesia were used and the patients were at cutting stone position. F8/9.8 rigid ureteroscope was inserted to the ureter for dilating the ureter, and the Holmium laser lithotripsy was performed for upper ureteral stone in situ. After dilating the ureter, the guide wire was inserted under the direct vision of F8/9.8 rigid ureteroscope, and then the F12/14 flexible ureteral access sheath was placed along the guide wire. Finally, further examination and Holmium laser lithotripsy were performed by F8 “PolyScope” modular flexible ureteroscope. The power of the laser was set at 1.0 J and the frequency was 10-20 Hz. F6 D-J tube was regularly indwelled for 4 weeks after operation and Forley urethral tube was indwelled for 1 to 7 days. KUB was performed 1 day after operation to detect the result of lithotropsy and the position of D-J tube. KUB was performed again 2-4 weeks after operation in some patients. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) should be performed if the diameter of residual stones was larger than 6 mm. ResultsLithotripsy was successfully performed in 103 patients, with the operation time being 25-85 min (mean time: \[46±14\] min) and with less bleeding. Four patients developed high fever after operation and were cured after anti-inflammatory treatment. There was no ureteral perforation or septicaemia. The single stone-free rate of single-pass lithotripsy was 88% (103/117); when combined with ESWL, the total stone-free rate was 95.7% (112/117).ConclusionF8 modular flexible ureteroscope is safe, convenient, and effective for the lithotripsy of the upper urinary calculi.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo summarize our clinical experience on laparoscopic adrenalectomy for ≥10 cm adrenal tumors. MethodsFrom June 2011 to September 2012, 5 patients received laparoscopic adrenalectomy for ≥10 cm adrenal tumors in our department. The outcomes of patients were observed. The surgical approach, Trocar sites, exposure of operation field, and the management of “dangerous triangle” were all summarized and analyzed. ResultsAll the 5 cases were successfully operated via intraperitoneal approach, with no complications during or after operation. The operation time was 130-270 min (a mean of \[180±65)\] min), the bleeding was 50-300 ml, the anal exhaust time was 2-3 d after operation, and the hospital stay was 5-7 d. Pathological reports included 1 pheochromocytoma, 1 adrenal cortical adenoma, 1 schwannoma, and 2 myelolipoma. ConclusionAdrenal tumor with diameter ≥ 10 cm is no longer a contraindication for performing laparoscopic adrenalectomy when the followings are ensured: highly skilled, accurate surgical approach, comfortable Trocar sites, full exposure of operative field, complete separation of the “three planes”, and safe management of the “dangerous triangle”.

Abstract:ObjectiveTo evaluate the performance of PROPELLER diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance image (DWI) in reducing image distortion caused by susceptibility artifacts. MethodsForty volunteers with metal denture were enrolled in the present study; their PROPELLER and echo-planar DWI were taken for the skull base. The quality of each image was evaluated by using a four-point scoring system. Qualitative comparison of image distortion between PROPELLER DWI and echo-planar DWI was performed by ROC analysis. ResultsThe area under the ROC curve was 0.979 (P<0.01), indicating a significant difference in the image distortion between PROPELLER DWI and echo-planar DWI. PROPELLER technique could greatly reduce the image distortion associated with magnetic susceptibility artifacts. ConclusionPROPELLER technique can greatly reduce metal denture-induced susceptibility-related image distortion, and ROC curve can be used for quantitative analysis of subjective assessment of image quality.

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