Is lysosomal acid lipase activity associated with the presence and severity of coronary artery disease?

BACKGROUND: Lipid metabolism is considerably complex and there can be many critical steps in atherogenesis. The association between lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) activity and coronary artery disease (CAD) has not been elucidated in detail. We aimed to evaluate the association between LAL activity with the presence and severity of CAD in patients who are seen in daily clinical practice. METHODS: Patients who underwent coronary angiography were divided into groups according to the angiography results. Syntax scores and Gensini scores were calculated. The LAL activity was measured from dried blood spots. RESULTS: Median LAL activity values were similar in all study groups (normal coronary arteries: 0.40 nmol/punch/h; non-obstructive CAD: 0.44 nmol/punch/h; obstructive chronic CAD: 0.40 nmol/punch/h; obstructive acute coronary syndrome: 0.48 nmol/punch/h) and there was no correlation between coronary atherosclerotic burden and LAL activity (correlation coefficients Syntax score and LAL: -0.032; Gensini score and LAL: -0.030). In addition, no relationship between serum lipid levels and LAL activity was detected. CONCLUSION: The presence of CAD and its severity is not associated with the LAL activity in patients encountered in daily clinical practice.

The Prognostic Impact of Pericardial Fluid Cytology in Malignant Pericardial Effusion.

OBJECTIVE: Malignant pericardial effusion may affect almost 15 of the patients with underlying malignancies which deteriorates the prognosis. The prognostic significance of pericardial fluid cytology is under-represented in previous studies. METHODS: A total of 73 patients with symptomatic pericardial effusion treated with pericardiocentesis were included in this retrospective analysis. Macroscopic appearance, biochemical features, and cytological findings were obtained. Patients were divided into 3 groups: (i) without malignancy, (ii) with malignancy and negative cytology, and (iii) with malignancy and positive cytology. Survival data were searched via governmental death notification system. RESULTS: Mean age of the study group was 62 ± 15, and 54% (40) of the patients were female. On the cytological evaluation, 17 patients (23.3%) revealed positive cancer cytology, whereas 56 patients (76.7%) revealed negative cancer cytology. The median follow-up period was 840 days, and 34 patients (46.5%) died during follow-up. The survival rate of Group 3 was found to be significantly worse compared to Groups 1 and 2, no statistical difference was found between Groups 1 and 2 in terms of survival (Group 1 vs. Group 2 P =.078; Group 1 vs. Group 3 P <.001; Group 2 vs. Group 3 P =.041). CONCLUSION: Cytological evaluation is an important step in patients with malignant pericardial effusion. Positive pericardial fluid cytology indicates a poorer prognosis.

Predictive Value of Supraventricular Short Runs for New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Ischemic Stroke.

Background: The clinical importance of supraventricular run (SVR) is uncertain in the management of patients with previous cerebrovascular events. We aim to evaluate the role of SVRs in the development of future atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated patients who underwent 24-h Holter monitoring for the evaluation of possible AF after ischemic cerebrovascular events. The presence and duration of SVR were noted. Subsequent diagnosis of AF was searched in patients with sinus rhythm. Results: A total of 694 patients were included in the analysis. SVR was detected in 104 (14.9%) patients in the study group. Seventy-one (10.2%) patients were diagnosed with AF in the follow-up. SVRs were more prevalent among patients with AF (P < 0.001). The median atrial run duration was 5.96 (2.02-17.84) s in the AF absent group vs. 8.76 (3.78-17.62) s in the AF present group (P < 0.001). The best predictive cut-off duration of an atrial run was 8 s (sensitivity = 61.5% and specificity = 74.4%, Area Under Curve (AUC) = 0.708). Cox regression analysis showed that age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00-1.060, P = 0.020), presence of short supraventricular run (OR: 2.53, 95% CI 1.40-4.57, P = 0.002), and left atrial diameter (OR: 1.13 95% CI: 1.07-1.19, P < 0.001) were the independent predictors of AF development in the follow-up. Conclusion: Age, left atrial diameter, and the presence of SVRs are associated with an increased risk of future AF after ischemic stroke. SVR duration may be an important parameter in risk stratification.

Low sCD163/TWEAK Ratio at First Day After Acute Myocardial Infarction Associated with Adverse Cardiac Remodeling in Non-Elderly Patients.

Aim    In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of sCD163 / tumor necrosis factor-like weak apoptosis-inducing (TWEAK) ratio in cardiac remodeling in non-elderly patients diagnosed with first acute myocardial infarction (MI).Material and Methods    Forty-four patients (age ranges: 40-64 years) diagnosed with first-time acute ST-elevation MI in the emergency department were evaluated with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Adverse remodeling (AR) was defined the increases of left ventricular end-diastolic volume by ≥12 % by CMR at 6­month post-MI TWEAK and sCD163 were measured at the first day (baseline), 2 weeks and 6 weeks post-MI.Results    The average age of patients included in the study was 53.6±5.1 years. AR was detected in 18 patients at the 6 months post-MI. At the first day post-MI, median sCD163 concentration (116 069 vs 86 394 pg / mL, p=0.040) and median TWEAK concentration (759.4 vs 220.1 pg / mL, p<0.001) were higher in AR group compared to group without AR (the non-AR group), median sCD163 / TWEAK ratio (101.4 vs. 406.8; p<0.001) was lower. At the first day post-MI, concentrations of TWEAK and sCD163 showed a positive correlation in AR group and group without AR s. At 2 weeks post-MI, positive correlation continued in the non-AR group, but no significant correlation was found in the AR group. At the first day post-MI, sCD163 / TWEAK ratio was higher diagnostic performance compared to TWEAK and sCD163.Conclusion    In the early phase post-MI, the relationship between sCD163 - TWEAK may have an important role in AR pathogenesis. A lower sCD163 / TWEAK ratio on the first day after MI was associated with an increase in left ventricular end-diastolic volume after 6 months of follow-up.

The Role of Serum Resolvin D1 Levels in Determining the Presence and Prognosis of ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

BACKGROUND: Resolvin D1 (RvD1) can play a determining role in inflammatory cell migration and reduce the expression of inflammatory cytokines to enhance cardioprotection. The aim of this study was to compare serum RvD1 levels in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and individuals with normal coronary arteries (NCAs) and to evaluate the association between serum RvD1 levels and prognostic markers of STEMI. METHODS: 140 subjects (88 patients diagnosed with the indication of STEMI and 52 healthy individuals with NCA) were studied. RESULTS: Regression analysis revealed that RvD1 levels were independently associated with STEMI. While RvD1 levels were negatively correlated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, pro-brain natriuretic peptide, peak troponin, and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction thrombus grade, they were positively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction. An RvD1 cut-off value of 5.07 (ng/mL) was effective in predicting STEMI with a sensitivity of 79.5% and specificity of 96.2%. CONCLUSION: Serum RvD1 levels were found to be lower in the group with STEMI compared to the control group. Levels of RvD1 at admission were associated with poor prognostic markers of STEMI.

Visceral Adiposity Index Is Associated with the Increased Syntax Score in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Background: The visceral adipose tissue excess in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the mechanisms that plays role in the development of coronary atherosclerosis. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between visceral adiposity index (VAI), an indicator of visceral adiposity, and Syntax score (SxS), a predictor of the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD), in patients with stable angina pectoris (SAP) and type 2 DM. Methods: A total of 253 patients with SAP and type 2 DM were included in this cross-sectional study. The patients were divided into three risk groups (low risk <22, 32 ≥ intermediate risk ≥22, high risk ≥33) according to the SxS based on invasive coronary angiography. Several adiposity indexes such as body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), body adiposity index (BAI), and lipid accumulation product index (LAPI) were calculated using relevant formulas. In addition, VAI scores for each patient were calculated. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups for WHtR, BAI, and LAPI. WHR was found significantly lower in the low SxS group (P = 0.0038), and VAI was found significantly higher (P = 0.021) in the high SxS group. Besides, in multivariate logistic regression analysis, the VAI (odds ratio: 2.455; 95% confidence interval: 1.244-4.845; P = 0.010) was an independent predictor of high SxS. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, VAI with an optimal cutoff value of 2.048 predicted the severe coronary lesion with a sensitivity of 60.8% and a specificity of 61.5%. Conclusion: This study showed that VAI was an independent predictor in estimating CAD severity in patients with SAP and type 2 DM.

Effects of Smoking on Very-Long Term Mortality after First ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction. / Efeitos do Ato de Fumar na Mortalidade de Longo Prazo após Infarto do Miocárdio por Elevação de ST.

BACKGROUND: The smoking paradox has been a matter of debate for acute myocardial infarction patients for more than two decades. Although there is huge evidence claiming that is no real paradox, publications supporting better outcomes in post-MI smokers are still being released. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of smoking on very long-term mortality after ST Elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). METHODS: This study included STEMI patients who were diagnosed between the years of 2004-2006 at three tertiary centers. Patients were categorized according to tobacco exposure (Group 1: non-smokers; Group 2: <20 package*years users, Group 3: 20-40 package*years users, Group 4: >40 package*years users). A Cox regression model was used to estimate the relative risks for very long-term mortality. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. RESULTS: There were 313 patients (201 smokers, 112 non-smokers) who were followed-up for a median period of 174 months. Smokers were younger (54±9 vs. 62±11, p: <0.001), and the presence of cardiometabolic risk factors were more prevalent in non-smokers. A univariate analysis of the impact of the smoking habit on mortality revealed a better survival curve in Group 2 than in Group 1. However, after adjustment for confounders, it was observed that smokers had a significantly increased risk of death. The relative risk became higher with increased exposure (Group 2 vs. Group 1; HR: 1.141; 95% CI: 0.599 to 2.171, Group 3 vs Group 1; HR: 2.130; 95% CI: 1.236 to 3.670, Group 4 vs Group 1; HR: 2.602; 95% CI: 1.461 to 4.634). CONCLUSION: Smoking gradually increases the risk of all-cause mortality after STEMI.

FUNDAMENTO: O paradoxo do fumante tem sido motivo de debate para pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio (IM) há mais de duas décadas. Embora haja muitas evidências demonstrando que não existe tal paradoxo, publicações defendendo desfechos melhores em fumantes pós-IM ainda são lançadas. OBJETIVO: Explorar o efeito do fumo na mortalidade de longo prazo após infarto do miocárdio por elevação de ST (STEMI). MÉTODOS: Este estudo incluiu pacientes com STEMI que foram diagnosticados entre 2004 e 2006 em três centros terciários. Os pacientes foram categorizados de acordo com a exposição ao tabaco (Grupo 1: não-fumantes; Grupo 2: <20 pacotes*anos; Grupo 3: 2-040 pacotes*anos; Grupo 4: >40 pacotes*anos). Um modelo de regressão de Cox foi utilizado para estimar os riscos relativos para mortalidade de longo prazo. O valor de p <0,05 foi considerado como estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: Trezentos e treze pacientes (201 fumantes e 112 não-fumantes) foram acompanhados por um período médio de 174 meses. Os fumantes eram mais novos (54±9 vs. 62±11, p: <0,001), e a presença de fatores de risco cardiometabólicos foi mais prevalente entre os não-fumantes. Uma análise univariada do impacto do hábito de fumar na mortalidade revelou uma curva de sobrevivência melhor no Grupo 2 do que no Grupo 1. Porém, após ajustes para fatores de confusão, observou-se que os fumantes tinham um risco de morte significativamente maior. O risco relativo tornou-se maior de acordo com a maior exposição (Grupo 2 vs. Grupo 1: RR: 1,141; IC95%: 0,599 a 2.171; Grupo 3 vs. Grupo 1: RR: 2,130; IC95%: 1,236 a 3,670; Grupo 4 vs. Grupo 1: RR: 2,602; IC95%: 1,461 a 4,634). CONCLUSÃO: O hábito de fumar gradualmente aumenta o risco de mortalidade por todas as causas após STEMI.

Determination of microRNAs associated with adverse left ventricular remodeling after myocardial infarction.

Increasing evidence indicates that microRNA (miRNA) regulated mechanisms in myocardial healing and ventricular remodeling following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We aim to comprehensively investigate changes of exosomal miRNA profile during the post-MI period and determine potential miRNAs associated to adverse left ventricular remodeling (ALVR). We prospectively evaluated ST-elevated MI patients with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at the 2 weeks and 6 months after AMI (n = 10). ALVR was defined as an increase in LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volume > 13%. The blood samples were taken for miRNA measurements at the baseline, 2 and 6 weeks after AMI. In the miRNA profile assessment, 8 miRNAs were identified that were associated ALVR (miR-199a-5p, miR-23b-3p, miR-26b-5p, miR-301a-3p, miR-374a-5p, miR-423-5p, miR-483-5p and miR-652-3p). Three of them (miR-301a-3p, miR-374a-5p and miR-423-5p) differed significantly between patients with and without ALVR during follow-up period and the rest of them during the acute phase of AMI. The detection of these miRNAs, which have different role in various pathways, necessitate future mechanistic studies unravel the complex remodeling process after AMI.

Efeitos do Ato de Fumar na Mortalidade de Longo Prazo após Infarto do Miocárdio por Elevação de ST / Effects of Smoking on Very-Long Term Mortality after First ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento O paradoxo do fumante tem sido motivo de debate para pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio (IM) há mais de duas décadas. Embora haja muitas evidências demonstrando que não existe tal paradoxo, publicações defendendo desfechos melhores em fumantes pós-IM ainda são lançadas. Objetivo Explorar o efeito do fumo na mortalidade de longo prazo após infarto do miocárdio por elevação de ST (STEMI). Métodos Este estudo incluiu pacientes com STEMI que foram diagnosticados entre 2004 e 2006 em três centros terciários. Os pacientes foram categorizados de acordo com a exposição ao tabaco (Grupo 1: não-fumantes; Grupo 2: <20 pacotes*anos; Grupo 3: 2-040 pacotes*anos; Grupo 4: >40 pacotes*anos). Um modelo de regressão de Cox foi utilizado para estimar os riscos relativos para mortalidade de longo prazo. O valor de p <0,05 foi considerado como estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Trezentos e treze pacientes (201 fumantes e 112 não-fumantes) foram acompanhados por um período médio de 174 meses. Os fumantes eram mais novos (54±9 vs. 62±11, p: <0,001), e a presença de fatores de risco cardiometabólicos foi mais prevalente entre os não-fumantes. Uma análise univariada do impacto do hábito de fumar na mortalidade revelou uma curva de sobrevivência melhor no Grupo 2 do que no Grupo 1. Porém, após ajustes para fatores de confusão, observou-se que os fumantes tinham um risco de morte significativamente maior. O risco relativo tornou-se maior de acordo com a maior exposição (Grupo 2 vs. Grupo 1: RR: 1,141; IC95%: 0,599 a 2.171; Grupo 3 vs. Grupo 1: RR: 2,130; IC95%: 1,236 a 3,670; Grupo 4 vs. Grupo 1: RR: 2,602; IC95%: 1,461 a 4,634). Conclusão O hábito de fumar gradualmente aumenta o risco de mortalidade por todas as causas após STEMI.

Abstract Background The smoking paradox has been a matter of debate for acute myocardial infarction patients for more than two decades. Although there is huge evidence claiming that is no real paradox, publications supporting better outcomes in post-MI smokers are still being released. Objective To explore the effect of smoking on very long-term mortality after ST Elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods This study included STEMI patients who were diagnosed between the years of 2004-2006 at three tertiary centers. Patients were categorized according to tobacco exposure (Group 1: non-smokers; Group 2: <20 package*years users, Group 3: 20-40 package*years users, Group 4: >40 package*years users). A Cox regression model was used to estimate the relative risks for very long-term mortality. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results There were 313 patients (201 smokers, 112 non-smokers) who were followed-up for a median period of 174 months. Smokers were younger (54±9 vs. 62±11, p: <0.001), and the presence of cardiometabolic risk factors were more prevalent in non-smokers. A univariate analysis of the impact of the smoking habit on mortality revealed a better survival curve in Group 2 than in Group 1. However, after adjustment for confounders, it was observed that smokers had a significantly increased risk of death. The relative risk became higher with increased exposure (Group 2 vs. Group 1; HR: 1.141; 95% CI: 0.599 to 2.171, Group 3 vs Group 1; HR: 2.130; 95% CI: 1.236 to 3.670, Group 4 vs Group 1; HR: 2.602; 95% CI: 1.461 to 4.634). Conclusion Smoking gradually increases the risk of all-cause mortality after STEMI.

Analysis of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring data in patients with ankylosing spondylitis without clinically evident cardiovascular disease.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Parameters, such as non-dipper, average real variability (ARV), pulse pressure index (PPI), and ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) obtained from ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), provide information about adverse cardiovascular outcomes. In this study, these indexes were evaluated in patients with AS. Sixty-five patients with AS and 65 control subjects were included in this study. Non-dipper pattern, ARV, PPI, and AASI parameters were assessed using 24-h ABPM recordings. Twenty-four-hour systolic, diastolic, mean standard deviation, PPI, ARV, and AASI were higher in patients with AS (p < 0.05 all parameters). Non-dipper (43.1% vs. 21.5%, p = 0.007) and reverse dipper (10.8% vs. 0%, p = 0.013) patterns were more common in patients with AS. In addition, disease duration was moderately correlated with AASI and ARV (r = 0.36, p = 0.003; r = 0.31, p = 0.012, respectively). This study showed that PPI, AASI, ARV, and dipper pattern were impaired in patients with AS evaluated with ABPM.

Gamma-glutamyl transferase to albumin ratio can predict severity of coronary artery disease detected by coronary computed tomography angiography.

OBJECTIVE: Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) to albumin ratio (GAR) has been shown to be helpful to diagnose and determine the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is a guide recommended non-invasive test that provides information about the presence, severity, and morphology of coronary plaques. In this study, our main aim was to investigate the relationship between the presence, morphology, and severity of coronary plaques detected via CCTA and GAR in patients with low to moderate risk for undiagnosed CAD. METHODS: Nine hundred and sixty six patients were included who underwent CCTA. The severity of CAD and plaque morphology were investigated. CT-adapted Leaman score (CT-LeSc) was calculated to determine the extent of the CAD. The study population was further evaluated in three groups according to tertiles of GAR. RESULTS: Atherosclerotic plaques were more common in the male gender and older patients with conventional cardiovascular risk factors. GAR was significantly lower in patients with normal CCTA than in patients with a non-obstructive plaque or obstructive plaque on CCTA. Patients in upper GAR tertiles had a higher coronary calcium score (CACS) and CT-LeSc. GAR was one of the independent predictors to predict severe stenotic plaque and high CACS. CONCLUSION: GAR can independently predict the presence, extent, and severity of CAD determined by CT-LeSc. We believe as a cheap, safe, and widely available tool, GAR would be useful in the diagnosis of CAD.

The association between left ventricular mass index and serum sirtuin 3 level in patients with hypertension.

OBJECTIVES: Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) can protect cardiomyocytes from oxidative stress-mediated cell damage and prevent cardiac hypertrophy development. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a relationship existed between left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and serum SIRT3 levels in patients with hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study was conducted as a cross-sectional study of 83 patients between April 2018 and October 2018. The LVMI of all patients was calculated using the formula of the American Echocardiography Association and patients were divided into two groups according to results (increased LVMI and normal LVMI). RESULTS: Increased LVMI was determined in 37.3% of patients, whereas 62.7% had normal LVMI. There was no significant difference between serum SIRT3 levels between those with increased LVMI and normal LVMI (5.8 versus 5.4 ng/ml; P = 0.914). Serum pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels (69 versus 41 ng/ml; P = 0.019) were found to be higher in patients with increased LVMI than in those with normal LVMI. A positive correlation between SIRT3 levels and Sm (myocardial systolic) velocity was also determined (r = 0.338; P = 0.002). CONCLUSION: The serum levels of SIRT3, a molecule which has been proposed to have protective properties against myocardial hypertrophy, were not found to be correlated with LVMI values; however, SIRT3 levels were found to be correlated with Sm velocity, which is accepted to be an indicator of myocardial early diastolic dysfunction.

Association between Serum Serglycin Levels and St-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction. / Associação entre os Níveis Séricos se Serglicina e o Infarto do Miocárdio com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST.

BACKGROUND: It is suggested that serglycin has important functions in fibrin stabilization and inflammation but there is limited information on its clinical value for atherosclerotic heart disease. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to find out serum serglycin levels in acute myocardial infarction patients and in the control group individuals; and to investigate the association between serglycin levels with inflammation markers and infarct size markers. METHODS: The study population consisted of 75 patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and 57 patients with normal coronary arteries (NCA) (control group). Patient characteristics, serum serglycin levels, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, peak troponin T levels and other biochemical parameters were recorded. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The control group consisted of individuals who are younger and smoke less than those of the STEMI group. The number of females in the control group was higher than in the STEMI group. Serum serglycin levels were significantly higher in the STEMI group than in control group (102.81±39.42 vs. 57.13±32.25, p<0.001). Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive correlation between serglycin and troponin (Spearman's Rho: 0.419; p<0.001) and between serglycin and hs CRP (Spearman's Rho: 0.336; p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that serum serglycin levels were independently associated with STEMI. Using a cutoff level of 80,47 µg/L, the serglycin level predicted the presence of STEMI with a sensitivity of 75.7% and specificity of 68.4%. CONCLUSION: Serum serglycin levels were significantly higher in the STEMI group than in the control group. Serum serglycin levels were positively correlated with both hs CRP levels and troponin levels.

FUNDAMENTO: Sugere-se que a serglicina tenha funções importantes na estabilização da fibrina e inflamação, mas há informações limitadas sobre seu valor clínico para a doença cardíaca aterosclerótica. OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo é descobrir os níveis séricos de serglicina em pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio e nos indivíduos do grupo controle; e investigar a associação entre os níveis de serglicina com marcadores de inflamação e marcadores de tamanho do infarto. MÉTODOS: A população do estudo consistiu em 75 pacientes com infarto do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST) e 57 pacientes com artérias coronárias normais (NCA) (grupo controle). As características dos pacientes, os níveis séricos de serglicina, os níveis de proteína C-reativa ultrassensível (PCR-us), os níveis máximos de troponina T e outros parâmetros bioquímicos foram registrados. O valor de p<0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: O grupo controle consistiu em indivíduos mais jovens e que fumam menos do que os do grupo IAMCSST. O número de mulheres no grupo controle foi maior do que no grupo IAMCSST. Os níveis séricos de serglicina foram significativamente maiores no grupo IAMCSST do que no grupo controle (102,81±39,42 vs. 57,13±32,25, p<0,001). As análises de correlação revelaram uma correlação positiva significativa entre a serglicina e a troponina (correlação de postos de Spearman: 0,419; p<0,001) e entre a serglicina e a proteína C-reativa ultrassensível (correlação de postos de Spearman: 0,336; p<0,001). A análise de regressão logística multivariada demonstrou que os níveis séricos de serglicina apresentaram-se independentemente associados com IAMCSST. Usando um nível de corte de 80,47 µg/L, o nível de serglicina foi preditor da presença de IAMCSST com uma sensibilidade de 75,7% e especificidade de 68,4%. CONCLUSÃO: Os níveis séricos de serglicina apresentaram-se significativamente maiores no grupo IAMCSST do que no grupo controle. Os níveis de serglicina sérica mostraram-se positivamente correlacionados com os níveis de proteína C-reativa ultrassensível e troponina.

Effect of triple antimicrobial therapy on electrocardiography parameters in patients with mild-to-moderate coronavirus disease 2019.

OBJECTIVE: The effects of treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with a triple combination composed of hydroxychloroquine, an an-tiviral, and an antibiotic on electrocardiography (ECG) parameters in patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms are not wholly understood. We aimed to explore the changes in ECG parameters after treatment with triple combination therapy in patients with mild-to-moderate symptomatic COVID-19. METHODS: This retrospective, single-center case series analyzed 91 patients with mild-to-moderate symptomatic COVID-19 at Ankara Gazi Mus-tafa Kemal State Hospital of Ankara City, Turkey, from April 1, 2020, to April 30, 2020. Forty-three patients were treated with hydroxychloroquine+oseltamivir+azithromycin (Group 1) and 48 patients were treated with hydroxychloroquine+oseltamivir+levofloxacin (Group 2). Heart rate, P wave duration, P wave dispersion, PR interval, QRS duration, corrected QT interval (QTc), QTc dispersion (QTD), delta QTc, Tp-e, Tp-e dispersion, and Tp-e/QTc ratio were all calculated from the baseline and posttreatment 12-lead ECG recordings. RESULTS: The QTc, QRS duration, Tp-e, PR interval, and P wave duration were significantly increased after treatment (p<0.001; p<0.001; p<0.001; p=0.001; p=0.001). The posttreatment C-reactive protein level was significantly lower than at baseline in Group 1 (p=0.014). At admission, 30% of patients had QT prolongation, and 4.3% of them had a QT duration >500 ms. Both Group 1 and Group 2 showed significant prolongation of the QTc interval (Group 1; p<0.001 vs. Group 2; p<0.001), QRS duration (Group 1; p=0.006 vs. Group 2; p=0.014), Tp-e (Group 1; p=0.036 vs. Group 2; p<0.001), and PR interval (Group 1; p=0.002 vs. Group2; p=0.05). The QTD was significantly decreased in Group 1 (p<0.001). None of the patients experienced any overt ventricular arrhythmia. CONCLUSION: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate QT prolongation in a population of COVID-19 patients treated with triple combination therapy. We found that there was a significant decrease in the QTD after the treatment in patients who were taking triple therapy including azithromycin.

Relationship Between Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) and the Severity of Stable Coronary Artery Disease.

Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII; platelet count × neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio), a novel marker, predicts adverse clinical outcomes in coronary artery diseases (CAD). We hypothesized that SII could provide more valuable information in assessing the severity of CAD than ratios obtained from other white blood cell subtypes. Patients (n = 669) who underwent coronary angiography were analyzed in this retrospective study. We analyzed the relation between the SII and the angiographic severity of CAD. The severity of coronary atherosclerosis was determined by the SYNTAX score (SxS). Patients with CAD were divided into 3 groups according to the SxS. Multivariate logistic analysis was used to assess risk factors of CAD. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the SII (odds ratio: 1.004; 95% CI: 1.001-1.007; P = .015) was an independent predictor of high SxS. Additionally, there was a positive correlation between SII and SxS (Rho: 0.630, P ≤ .001). In the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, SII with an optimal cutoff value of 750 × 103 predicted the severe coronary lesion with a sensitivity of 86.2% and specificity of 87.3%. The SII, an inexpensive and easily measurable laboratory variable, was significantly associated with the severity of CAD and high SxS in patients with stable angina pectoris.

Relationship between elevated bilirubin level and subclinical atherosclerosis as well as oxidative stress in Gilbert syndrome.

AIM: This study aimed to determine oxidant status and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and their relationship with mild hyperbilirubinemia in patients with Gilbert syndrome (GS). BACKGROUND: Gilbert syndrome (GS) presents with mild indirect hyperbilirubinemia, normal liver function tests, and normal hepatic histology. METHODS: A total of 84 patients, including 41 (48.8%) patients with GS and 43 (51.2%) patients without GS, were included in the study. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) were examined for oxidant status. RESULTS: TAS was found to be higher in the GS patients compared to the non-GS patients (1.7±0.1 vs. 1.5±0.2; p=0.002); there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of mean TOS and mean OSI (p>0.05). No significant difference was observed either between the GS and non-GS patients in terms of mean left ventricular volume and mean LVMI (p>0.05). However, subgroup analysis based on sex revealed that GS patients had a lower LVMI for both sexes. In GS patients, TAS level had a positive correlation with albumin (r=0.319; p=0.042), triglyceride (r=0.392; p=0.011), total bilirubin (r=0.420; p=0.006), direct bilirubin (r=0.361; p=0.020), and indirect bilirubin (r=0.338; p=0.0311) levels; no correlation was found between TAS level and other laboratory findings (p>0.05). The regression model indicated that risk factors of direct bilirubin (ß±SE=0.13±0.03; p<0.001), uric acid (ß±SE=0.04±0.01; p=0.001), and albumin (ß±SE=0.17±0.04; p<0.001) were independent predictors of TAS level. CONCLUSION: This study revealed a relationship between mild hyperbilirubinemia and antioxidant balance in GS. Although statistical significance was not reached, LVMI was found to be lower in the GS group compared to the non-GS group for both sexes.

Association of Serum Copeptin Levels with Patency of Infarct-Related Arteries in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

BACKGROUND: Copeptin is widely used as a predictor of an adverse prognosis in many clinical conditions. Reduced antegrade coronary flow in an infarct-related artery (IRA) is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The aim of this study was to investigate whether copeptin level on admission was associated with IRA patency in STEMI patients. METHODS: A total of 88 patients were enrolled into the study and divided into two groups according to TIMI flow grade in the IRA before primary percutaneous coronary intervention. RESULTS: White blood cell count (p = 0.015), neutrophils (p = 0.047), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) (p < 0.001), copeptin (p < 0.001) and peak troponin I (p = 0.001) were significantly higher in the occluded IRA group with a significantly lower serum sodium level (p < 0.001). Age- and gender-adjusted multivariate analysis revealed that copeptin (OR = 1.970; p = 0.001), peak troponin I (1.055; p = 0.005) and NTproBNP (OR = 1.003; p = 0.010) were independent predictors of an occluded IRA. A copeptin cut-off value of > 6.8 ng/mL was found to predict an occluded IRA with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 100% (area under the curve: 0.917; p < 0.001). Performance ranking of the biomarkers that could predict an occluded IRA showed copeptin > peak troponin I = NTproBNP. CONCLUSIONS: Copeptin levels were higher in the patients with an occluded IRA and STEMI. Higher levels of copeptin predicted an occluded IRA in the patients with STEMI who were admitted to the emergency department during the first three hours of chest pain.

Serum Sirtuin 1, 3 and 6 Levels in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients.

BACKGROUND: Sirtuins may act in many cellular processes like apoptosis, DNA repair and lipid/glucose metabolism. Experimental studies suggested some sirtuin types may have protective effects against endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, cardiac hypertrophy and reperfusion injury. Data about sirtuins in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients are scarce. OBJECTIVES: To investigate temporal changes of serum sirtuin 1,3 and 6 levels in AMI patients; to compare the serum sirtuin 1,3 and 6 levels between AMI patients and control subjects; and to investigate the association of serum sirtuin 1,3 and 6 levels with prognostic markers of AMI. METHODS: Forty patients with AMI and 40 patients with normal coronary arteries were included. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), serum proBNP, CRP, sirtuin1, sirtuin 3 and sirtuin 6 levels were processed. Peak troponin T levels, GRACE score, first day / second day sirtuin levels were recorded of AMI patients. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Serum sirtuin 1,3 and 6 levels in AMI patients were similar to those in normal coronary patients. No temporal change in serum sirtuin 1,3 and 6 levels were found in AMI course. No correlation was evident between the sirtuin levels and the following parameters: proBNP, CRP, peak troponin and LVEF. Baseline sirtuin 1 and 6 levels were positively correlated with reperfusion duration. Baseline sirtuin 3 levels were negatively correlated with GRACE score. CONCLUSION: Serum sirtuin 1,3 and 6 levels in AMI patients were similar to those in normal coronary patients. This study does not represent evidence of the possible protective effects of sirtuin1, 3 and 6 in AMI patients.

Relationship Between Prodromal Angina Pectoris and Neutrophil-to Lymphocyte Ratio in Patients With ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between prodromal angina (PA) with neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). METHODS: The study group included 145 patients with STEMI who underwent emergency coronary angiography (CA) within 24hours of symptom onset. Data were collected regarding whether patients had experienced PA before acute myocardial infarction. Seventy-three (73) patients (50.3%) had prodromal angina. Prodromal angina positive and negative groups were compared for demographic characteristics, complete blood count parameters including NLR, blood biochemistry parameters and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). RESULTS: Neutrophil count, NLR, and troponin I levels were significantly higher in the PA negative group. LVEF after reperfusion and lymphocyte count were lower in the PA negative group. In multivariate regression analysis, NLR (ß=-0.419, p<0.001) and LVEF (ß=0.418, p<0.001) were found to be significantly associated with the presence of PA in STEMI patients. CONCLUSIONS: Absence of PA was significantly and independently associated with increased NLR and impaired LVEF after reperfusion, and increased NLR was found as a significant predictor for both lack of PA and impaired LVEF in STEMI patients.

Serum Sphingosine 1 Phosphate Levels in Patients with and without Coronary Collateral Circulation.

BACKGROUND: Sphingosine 1 phosphate, an active sphingolipid metabolite, functions in both healthy and diseased cardiovascular systems. It has been reported to play a role in angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in various tissues, which are the proposed mechanisms for the development of coronary collateral circulation. To the best of our knowledge, no data exist regarding serum sphingosine 1 phosphate levels and the presence of coronary collateral circulation in the literature. Thus this study aimed to investigate serum sphingosine 1 phosphate levels in patients with and without coronary collateral circulation. METHODS: A total of 140 patients were included (70 with coronary collateral circulation and 70 with normal coronary arteries and stable coronary artery disease without collaterals). Rentrop collateral grade and the number of coronary arteries with collateral circulation were recorded. RESULTS: Serum sphingosine 1 phosphate levels were higher in the collateral group than in the control group [186.6 (142.3-243.5) µg/l vs. 128.5 (105.0-161.6) µg/l, p < 0.001]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of multivessel disease, high serum sphingosine 1 phosphate levels and previous history of P2Y12 use were independent predictors of coronary collateral circulation. Median sphingosine 1 phosphate levels in different Rentrop grades in the collateral group were similar, and there was no significant difference in median serum sphingosine 1 phosphate level with a higher number of coronary arteries with collateral circulation. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrated higher levels of sphingosine 1 phosphate in the patients with coronary collateral circulation.