Coagulation factor abnormalities related to discordance between anti-factor Xa and activated partial thromboplastin time in patients supported with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices.

Background: High levels of discordance between activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and anti-factor Xa (anti-FXa) have been reported in patients with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs). We sought to determine the biochemical basis for discordance by simultaneous measurement of coagulation factors with aPTT and anti-FXa.

Methods: Consecutive CF-LVAD patients admitted for intravenous unfractionated heparin (IV-UFH) therapy were studied.

Confirmation of reported aspirin use in community studies: utility of serum thromboxane B2 measurement.

Aspirin (ASA) is recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular disease; however, the compliance is low. Reported use may not reflect actual use. Serum thromboxane B2 (STxB2) measurement was evaluated to validate reported ASA use.

Use of therapeutic plasma exchange in the management of acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis: a case report and review of the literature.

Background: Acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (AHLE) is a rare, fatal, central nervous demyelinating disease characterized by a rapid fulminant clinical course. Successful management requires early diagnosis, aggressive management of cerebral edema, and immunosuppression. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is infrequently used and commences after initial management fails.

Estrogen and Myc negatively regulate expression of the EphA2 tyrosine kinase.

Estrogen receptor and c-Myc are frequently overexpressed during breast cancer progression but are downregulated in many aggressive forms of the disease. High levels of the EphA2 tyrosine kinase are consistently found in the most aggressive breast cancer cells, and EphA2 overexpression can increase metastatic potential. We demonstrate, herein, that estrogen and Myc negatively regulate EphA2 expression in mammary epithelial cells.