Health benefits of high-density lipoproteins in preventing cardiovascular diseases

Plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) are strongly and inversely correlated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. However, it is becoming clear that a functional HDL is a more desirable target than simply increasing HDL-cholesterol levels. The best known antiatherogenic function of HDL particles relates to their ability to promote reverse cholesterol transport from peripheral cells. However, HDL also possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic effects. This review focuses on the state of knowledge regarding assays of HDL heterogeneity and function and their relationship to cardiovascular diseases.     

Effect of Degree of Branching on Properties of Photosensitive Nanoparticles as Drug‐Delivery Carriers

Hyperbranched copolymers with different degrees of branching (DBs), poly(3,4‐dihydroxycinnamic acid)‐co‐poly(4‐hydroxycinnamic acid) (PCA), were prepared by polycondensation. Amphiphilic PCA–DTT copolymers were prepared by grafting dithiothreitiol (DTT) into PCA by the Michael addition. PCA–DTT nanoparticles were self‐assembled by additional water into a DMSO solution of PCA–DTT. The diameter and photoresponsivity of the PCA–DTT nanoparticles were influenced by the DB, and they increased with increasing the DB. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model protein was successfully encapsulated into the PCA–DTT nanoparticles, and the release behavior of BSA was affected by the DB in PBS. These biodegradable and photoresponsive nanoparticles would be useful as functional carriers for drug delivery systems.     

光致还原制备透明质酸-纳米银复合物

以透明质酸(HA)为分散载体,通过紫外光还原硝酸银制备出了Ag纳米颗粒分散体系。用紫外-可见光分光光度计(UV-Vis)、傅里叶变换红外光谱(FT-IR)、透射电子显微镜(TEM)、动态激光光散射(DLS)及抑菌实验对所得样品的形貌、结构及性质进行表征。结果表明：所制备的Ag纳米颗粒呈球形,平均粒径约为18 nm,在水相中能稳定分散,且对金黄色葡萄球菌(S.aureus)具有明显的抑菌作用。     

Heparin Flush Use in Transfemoral Cerebral Angiography Survey

The drug concentration of heparinized saline used for transfemoral catheter angiography flush during different types of cerebral angiogram procedures varies among providers and centers worldwide. Although heparin is recommended for use during cerebral angiograms to minimize the risk of thromboembolic events associated with the utilization of multiple endovascular devices and lengthy procedures, there is a paucity of information available regarding protocols for administration of heparin and heparinized saline. Higher concentrations of heparinized saline flush may benefit patients undergoing elective nonruptured intracranial aneurysm embolization procedures by decreasing the risk of thromboembolism. However, it could potentially place patients undergoing revascularization procedures for acute ischemic stroke at higher risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, particularly if they received intravenous tissue plasminogen activator immediately before endovascular thrombectomy. After obtaining permission from the Association for Radiologic and Imaging Nursing (ARIN) Board of Directors, a survey was presented in English and electronically distributed by the ARIN to all current and past ARIN members with valid e-mail addresses. The survey was preceded by an introductory letter explaining the study purpose and its voluntary nature. Response to the survey was identified as consent to participate. Subjects were asked to participate if they were currently involved in the management of patients undergoing cerebral angiography with a variety of interventions including management of acute ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. There is a paucity of evidence supporting use of a specific concentration of heparinized saline solution. It ranges from no heparin added to concentrations exceeding 5 units/mL for transfemoral flush. The most frequently used concentration is 2 units/mL (32.8–34.8% of respondents depending on endovascular intervention), and the least frequently utilized concentrations are 3 units/mL and higher than 5 units/mL (4.3–5.7% of respondents depending on endovascular intervention). Mixing and labeling bags with heparinized saline flush was noted to be the responsibility of interventional radiology registered nurse (39%, n = 46), pharmacy (26.3%, n = 31), or the angiography technologist (8.5%, n = 10). More than quarter (26.5%) of respondents noted not having readily available premixed heparinized saline flush. Twenty-four (20.3%) of survey participants claimed using only premixed bags of heparinized saline solution. Despite the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, Institute for Safe Medication Practices and Joint Commission recommendations, there are no standard protocols across stroke centers identifying optimal heparinized saline flush solution concentration, preparation, and documentation. Replication of this survey among members of the American Society of Neuroradiology is recommended to validate the findings from the present study. If confirmed, a consensus on safety of heparinized saline flush use during neuroradiology interventions is strongly advised.