Insight into microRNAs' involvement in hematopoiesis: current standing point of findings.

Hematopoiesis is a complex process in which hematopoietic stem cells are differentiated into all mature blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). Different microRNAs (miRNAs) involve in several steps of this process. Indeed, miRNAs are small single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules, which control gene expression by translational inhibition and mRNA destabilization. Previous studies have revealed that increased or decreased expression of some of these miRNAs by targeting several proto-oncogenes could inhibit or stimulate the myeloid and erythroid lineage commitment, proliferation, and differentiation. During the last decades, the development of molecular and bioinformatics techniques has led to a comprehensive understanding of the role of various miRNAs in hematopoiesis. The critical roles of miRNAs in cell processes such as the cell cycle, apoptosis, and differentiation have been confirmed as well. However, the main contribution of some miRNAs is still unclear. Therefore, it seems undeniable that future studies are required to focus on miRNA activities during various hematopoietic stages and hematological malignancy.

Long-term follow-up evaluation of bilateral total hand loss.

PURPOSE: Bilateral total hand loss is rare, and the challenges faced by the patient immediately after the loss are quite different from the long-term responses to the physical loss of both hands. This study evaluates the problems of these patients years after their injuries. The goal is to evaluate long-term adaptation to the loss and the degree of successful coping achieved by the patients. METHODS: Seven subjects in this descriptive study participated in an interview and physical exam. They were asked about their physical, psychological, and social problems. Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Functional Assessment Measure (FAM) were used to assess the levels of the major functional areas. RESULTS: All of the subjects considered their handicap a serious disfigurement but not an impediment to finding a marriage partner or pursuing educational goals. All of the subjects, however, were dependent economically although they wanted to be employed based on their capabilities. Although 2 subjects used prostheses for activities of daily living, they all needed assistance for self-care. Three of the subjects had diagnosed psychological problems of anxiety and depression. CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral total hand loss does not simply represent double the problems of unilateral hand loss. The problems resulting from the loss of both hands are physical, social, psychological, and economic and unique to these patients. The strength of the subjects came from having good family relations, stable environments, and family emotional support to help solve the numerous problems encountered on a daily basis. The subjects are able to maintain stable personal lives because they experience respect and comprehension of their problems by family members.