KLF4: a multifunctional nexus connecting tumor progression and immune regulation.

Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) regulate various biological processes such as cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and differentiation as gene transcription factors. Signaling pathways which mediated by KLF4 and KLF4 have a sophisticated role in tumors due to multiple factors, including the types or stage of tumors. KLF4 plays a promoter role in tumorigenesis and development, or tumor suppressor as a context-dependent anti- and pro-inflammatory factor.

Two cases of catastrophic deterioration and multiple leaflet detachment in Trifecta valves.

Reports of early and catastrophic acute structural valve deterioration (SVD) in Trifecta valve (Abbott, St Paul, MN, USA) with multiple leaflet detachment are rare. We encountered two cases of early SVD in Trifecta valve with tears on two leaflets. Both cases presented with acute heart failure because of aortic insufficiency, and underwent redo aortic valve replacement; one patient died due to multiple organ failure caused by cardiogenic shock.

Predictors of Pericardial Effusion in Patients Undergoing Pulmonary Artery Banding.

Background: Although pulmonary artery banding (PAB) is a common palliative procedure for pediatric heart malformation, there are concerns of pressure overload and concomitant immune reactions in the right ventricle causing postsurgical complications such as pericardial effusion. At this time, no clear guidelines as to potential risk factors or procedural contraindications have been widely disseminated. Therefore, a study was undertaken to examine wide-ranging factors to find potential biomarkers for postsurgical pericardial effusion formation risk.