Biomedical subjects
K Carbone
Publications and source records attributed to K Carbone.
Transmyocardial laser revascularization.
Transmyocardial laser revascularization is a new treatment modality for patients with chronic angina that is refractory to traditional management. A laser is used to create full-thickness channels through areas of ischemic myocardium. Transmyocardial laser revascularization is performed in an effort to improve myocardial oxygenation, eliminate or reduce angina, and improve functional status. Transmyocardial laser revascularization currently is undergoing clinical trials. Early results have demonstrated significant reduction in anginal symptoms. Long-term efficacy of transmyocardial laser revascularization remains to be determined.
Expression of tissue factor is increased in astrocytes within the central nervous system during persistent infection with borna disease virus.
Persistent tolerant infection of rats with borna disease virus (BDV) results in a central nervous system (CNS) disease characterized by behavioral abnormalities. These disorders occur without inflammation and widespread cytolysis in the CNS. Therefore, mechanisms other than virally induced destruction of brain cells may explain the CNS disturbance caused by BDV. Previously, we have shown that astrocytes in the CNS express tissue factor (TF). TF functions as the primary cellular initiator of the coagulation protease cascades, resulting in the generation of the protease thrombin. Proteases and their inhibitors play important roles in the development and physiology of the CNS, and altered protease activity has been implicated in the pathophysiology of various neurological diseases. Here, we present evidence that TF expression in the brain is markedly increased during persistent infection with BDV. Persistent infection of cultured astrocytes with BDV also increased TF expression as a result of both increased transcription of the TF gene and stabilization of TF mRNA. We speculate that increased TF expression within the brain parenchyma may lead to increased protease activity in the CNS and contribute to virus-mediated CNS functional impairment by affecting neural cell interactions.
Ceftriaxone compared with cefotaxime for serious bacterial infections.
Ceftriaxone was compared with cefotaxime for the treatment of serious bacterial infections in a prospective, randomized, double-blind clinical trial. The dose of ceftriaxone was 2 g once a day, and the dose of cefotaxime was 2 g every 4 h. Metronidazole was added if anaerobic infection was suspected. Explicit criteria were used to define infections, clinical response, and adverse effects. Ceftriaxone was given to 88 patients and cefotaxime to 83. The two treatment groups did not differ in types of infection, infecting organisms, and severity of underlying disease. The response rate was 81% (71/88) for ceftriaxone and 80% (66/83) for cefotaxime. The power of the study to detect a 15% difference in response rate at P less than .1 was 90%. The frequency of diarrhea, thrombophlebitis, prothrombin time, prolongation, colonization, and superinfection did not differ between treatment groups. Ceftriaxone 2 g once a day was as safe and effective as cefotaxime 2 g every 4 h for suspected serious bacterial infections.
Hemothorax due to vena caval erosion by a subclavian dual-lumen dialysis catheter.
We have reported a case of vena caval perforation by a polyurethane dual-lumen subclavian vein catheter unrelated to insertion or subsequent manipulation. This case emphasizes the necessity for constant vigilance while such catheters are in use.