FIB-4 liver fibrosis index correlates with aortic valve sclerosis in non-alcoholic population.

AIM: Hepatic fibrosis, a progressive scarring of liver tissue, is commonly caused by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. The Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index is a non-invasive tool used to assess liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD. Aortic valve sclerosis (AVS), a degenerative disorder characterized by thickening and calcification of valve leaflets, is prevalent in the elderly and associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Recent studies have suggested that AVS may also be linked to other systemic diseases such as liver fibrosis. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the FIB-4 index and AVS in a non-alcoholic population, with the hypothesis that the FIB-4 index could serve as a potential marker for AVS. METHOD: A total of 92 patients were included in this study. AVS was detected using transthoracic echocardiography, and patients were divided into groups according to the presence of AVS. The FIB-4 index was calculated for all patients and compared between the groups. RESULTS: A total of 17 (18.4%) patients were diagnosed AVS. Patients with AVS had higher rates of diabetes mellitus, older age, hypertension, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor use, higher systolic blood pressure (BP) and diastolic BP in the office, coronary artery disease prevalence, left atrial volume index (LAVI), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), and late diastolic peak flow velocity (A) compared to those without AVS. Moreover, AVS patients had significantly higher creatinine levels and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate. Remarkably, the FIB-4 index was significantly higher in patients with AVS. In univariate and multivariate analyses, higher systolic BP in the office (OR, 1.044; 95% CI 1.002-1.080, p = .024) and higher FIB-4 index (1.46 ± .6 vs. .91 ± .46, p < .001) were independently associated with AVS. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the FIB-4 index is associated with AVS in non-alcoholic individuals. Our results highlight the potential utility of the FIB-4 index as a non-invasive tool for identifying individuals at an increased risk of developing AVS.

Presystolic wave as a predictor of interatrial block in patients with supraventricular tachycardia.

The identification of interatrial block (IAB) through electrocardiography (ECG) has been correlated with an elevated likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke. IAB is diagnosed by evaluating P-wave prolongation on a surface ECG. The presystolic wave (PSW) is an echocardiographic marker determined by pulse-wave examination of the aortic root during late diastole. As IAB and PSW share similar pathophysiological mechanisms, we speculated that PSW, as a component of the P wave, might be useful in predicting IAB. In the present study, we aimed to determine the relationship between PSW and IAB. Patients with pre-diagnosis of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) on electrocardiography or rhythm Holter monitoring between January 2021 and December 2022 were included in the study. Surface 12-lead ECG and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) were performed for the diagnosis of IAB and PSW. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of IAB, and PSW was compared between the groups. In total, 104 patients were enrolled in this study. IAB was diagnosed in 16 patients (15.3%) and PSW was detected in 33 patients (31.7%). The PSW was higher in the IAB ( +) group than in the IAB ( -) group (10 patients (71.4%) vs. 23 patients (32.4%), p = 0.008). PSW may be a useful tool for predicting IAB in patients with SVT. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical utility of PSW in the diagnosis and management of IAB.

Liver fibrosis scores and coronary artery ectasia.

BACKGROUND: Although scoring systems showing liver fibrosis using non-invasive methods have been accepted as effective tools for predicting cardiovascular risk, their role in predicting coronary ectasia (CAE) has not been evaluated. This study investigated whether aprison (APRI) and fibrosis-4 indices (FIB-4), which are indicators of fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are associated with CAE. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective, cross-sectional study consisted of 215 patients, 108 with CAE and 107 without CAE, as diagnosed by angiography. The mean age of all patients was 61.8±9.9 yrs, and 171 (78.8 %) were males. The relationships between APRI, FIB-4, NAFLD, and Bard scores and CAE were evaluated. RESULTS: APRI, FIB-4, NAFLD, and Bard scores were independent predictors of CAE. Fib 4, APRI, NAFLD, and Bard scores were higher in the CAE patients. There were a moderate, positive correlations for FIB-4, APRI, and NAFLD scores with coronary ectasia (r=0.55, p<0.001; r=0.52, p<0.001; r=0.51, p<0.001, respectively). A weak-moderate positive correlation was observed between the Bard score and CAE (r=0.34, p<0.001). Univariate and multivariate regression analysis showed that APRI score, low HDL, and Bard score were independent risk factors for CAE ectasia (p<0.001). Cut-off values to predict CAE as determined by ROC curve analysis were: FIB-4 index ≥1.43 (AUC=0.817, 95 % confidence interval (CI): 0.762 to 0.873, p<0.001), APRI index ≥0.25 (AUC=0.804, 95 % CI: 0.745 to 0.862, p<0.001), NAFLD score ≥-0.92 (AUC=0.798, 95 % CI: 0.738 to 0.857.p<0.001), Bard score ≥2 (AUC=0.691, 95 % CI: 0.621 to 0.761, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: APRI, FIB-4, NAFLD, and Bard scores are associated with CAE.

The relationship between ascending aortic diameter with left atrial functions and left ventricular mass index in a population with normal left ventricular systolic function.

AIM: Ascending aortic dilatation is a common clinical issue. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between ascending aortic diameter with left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) functions, and LV mass index (LVMI) in a population with normal LV systolic function. METHODS: A total of 127 healthy participants with normal LV systolic function took part in the study. Echocardiographic measurements were obtained from each subject. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 43 ± 14.1 years and 76 (59.8%) were female. The mean aortic diameter of the participants was 32.2 ± 4.7 mm. A negative correlation was found between aortic diameter and LV systolic function (LVEF r = -.516, p < .001; Gls r = -.370). In addition, there was a strong positive correlation between aortic diameter with LV wall thicknesses, LVMI (r = .745, p < .001), and systolic and diastolic diameters. The relationship between aortic diameter and diastolic parameters was evaluated, a negative correlation with Mitral E, Em, E/A ratio, and a positive correlation with MPI, Mitral A, Am, E/Em ratio were found. CONCLUSION: A strong correlation between ascending aortic diameter with LV and LA functions, and LVMI in individuals with normal LV systolic function.

Non-alcoholic faty liver disease and liver fibrosis score have an independent relationship with the presence of mitral annular calcification.

Non-alcoholic faty liver disease (NAFLD) and liver fibrosis score (FIB 4) are associated with increased mortality from cardiovascular causes. NAFLD and cardiac diseases are different manifestations of systemic metabolic syndrome. In this study, we aimed to reveal the relationship between NAFLD and FIB 4 liver fibrosis scores and mitral annular calcification (MAC). One hundred patients were included in the study. Blood samples and echocardiography measurements were obtained from each subject. The two groups were compared in terms of demographic and echocardiographic characteristics. Thirty-one men and 69 women with a mean age of 48.6 ± 13.1 years were included in the analysis. The patients were divided into two groups as those with MAC (n = 26) and those without (n = 74). The baseline demographic and laboratory data for the two groups were compared. In the group with MAC (+) age, serum creatinine levels, FIB4 and NAFLD Scores; HL, DM rates, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and statin usage rates were higher, with statistical significance. NAFLD and FIB 4 liver fibrosis scores have an independent relationship with MAC.

Effect of Coronavirus Disease-2019 Infection on Left Atrial Functions.

Objective: Left atrial (LA) dysfunction is a crucial risk factor for cardiovascular events, and various pathologies may affect LA function. Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is an ongoing global pandemic causing morbidity and mortality. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate LA functions in patients who recovered from COVID-19. Methods: Sixty consecutive patients recovered from COVID-19 and 60 healthy individuals as a control group were included in the study. Blood samples and echocardiography measurements were obtained from each subject. The two groups were compared in terms of demographic and echocardiographic characteristics. Results: In the COVID-19 group, LA maximum volume (LAVmax) (P = 0.040), LA pre-A volume (LAVpre-A) (P = 0.014), and LA active emptying fraction (P = 0.027) were higher, while LA passive emptying fraction (P = 0.035) was lower. In addition, left ventricular ejection fraction (P = 0.006) and isovolumetric relaxation time (P = 0.008) were decreased in this group. Although LA volume index was higher in the COVID-19 group, it does not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: LA functions may be impaired in patients recovered from COVID-19 infection.

COVID 19 disease independently predicted endothelial dysfunction measured by flow-mediated dilatation.

The systemic effects of COVID-19 disease are still largely uncertain and needs to be scrutinized with further trials. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) is responsible for the majority of adverse cardiovascular events. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) is easily obtainable method to assess ED accurately. It is aimed to evaluate ED by measuring FMD following COVID-19 disease. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 disease were recruited to the hospital two month after the discharge. Sex and age-matched healthy subjects were determined as the control group. Blood samples and FMD measurements were obtained from each participant. All subjects were divided into two groups according to the presence of ED determined by FMD measurements. These two groups were compared in terms of demographic features and the presence of recovered COVID-19 disease. A total of 92 subjects consisting of 59 without ED and 33 with ED were included in the study. ED (+) group was older (p = 0.015) and more likely to have hypertension (p = 0.044) and COVID-19 rate was higher in ED (+) group (p = 0.009). While neutrophil count (p = 0.047) and CRP (p = 0.036) were higher, eGFR (p = 0.044) was lower in ED (+) group. In the backward multivariable regression analysis, COVID-19 disease [OR = 3.611, 95% CI 1.069-12.198, p = 0.039] and BMI [OR = 1.122, 95% CI 1.023-1.231, p = 0.015] were independent predictors of ED. COVID-19 disease may cause ED which is the major underlying factor of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, COVID-19 disease may deteriorate the existing cardiovascular disease course. Detecting ED in the early phase or preventing by new treatment modalities may improve short and long-term outcome.

Prognostic nutritional index is related to myocardial performance index in newly diagnosed nondiabetic hypertensive patients.

Background: Arterial hypertension (AH) leads to systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV) by causing structural changes in the myocardium. Myocardial performance index (MPI) provides the evaluation of LV systolic and diastolic functions together. Prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is an indicator of immunonutritional status. PNI was studied in patients with malignancy, malnutrition, and cardiovascular diseases so far. It was aimed to investigate the relationship between PNI and MPI in hypertensive patients.Methods: A total of 91 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed AH were included in the study. PNI was calculated according to the following formula: ((10 × serum albumin (g/dL))+(0.005 × total lymphocyte count)). MPI was obtained by dividing the sum of isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT) and isovolumetric contraction time (IVCT) by the ejection time (ET) ((IVRT+IVCT)/ET). Patients were divided into two groups according to MPI is above or below the value of 0.5. The demographic characteristics and PNI values of patients were compared between two groups.Results: There were 65 patients in the higher and 26 patients were in the normal MPI group. Higher MPI group had male predominance (p = .002). Diastolic blood pressure (p = .021), interventricular septum thickness (p = .005), posterior wall thickness (PWT) (p = .001), serum albumin concentration (p = .045), and PNI (p = .013) were differed between groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that PWT [OR = 1.835, 95% CI: 1.126-2.992, p = .015] and PNI [OR = 1.161, 95% CI: 1.004-1.343, p = .018] predicted higher MPI.Conclusion: Higher PNI was an independent predictor of LV dysfunction in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. Immunonutritional status may be used as an indicator of the left ventricular function in patients with AH.

Left Atrial Volume Index to Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Ratio Predicted Major Adverse Cardiovascular Event in ST-Elevated Myocardial Infarction Patients during 8 Years of Follow-up.

Objective: It is crucial to determine the high-risk group in ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI). Left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) and left atrial volume index (LAVI) are the well-established parameters for risk prediction. However, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) may be predicted less than actual when LVEF or LAVI are in the normal range. It was investigated LAVI to LVEF ratio (LAVI/LVEFr) for more accurate MACE prediction. Methods: Patients with STEMI were included in the study. LAVI and LVEF were obtained at admission. The LAVI/LVEFr was calculated as LAVI dividing by LVEF. The composite primary endpoint of the study was all-cause mortality and new-onset heart failure for 8 years follow-up. Results: A total of 176 patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of MACE. MACE (+) group consisted of 70 (39.7%) patients who were older and more likely to be male. While LVEF (P < 0.001) was lower, LAVI (P < 0.001) and LAVI/LVEFr (P < 0.001) were higher in MACE (+) group. Age (P = 0.003), serum creatinine (P < 0.001), and LAVI/LVEFr (P < 0.001) were independent predictors of MACE. Conclusion: Combined usage of LAVI and LVEF (LAVI/LVEFr), increased age, and serum creatinine level were the independent predictors of MACE during 8 years of follow-up in STEMI patients.

Comparison of prediction accuracy of five different biometric formulas / Comparação da acurácia preditiva de cinco fórmulas biométricas diferentes

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the performance of Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Theoretical, Hoffer Q, Barrett Universal II, Kane, and Hill-radial basis function formulas to calculate intraocular lens power in eyes with normal axial length, in terms of predicting target refraction by using partial coherence interferometry technology. Methods Phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation were performed in 135 eyes of 135 patients with an axial length between 22 and 24.5 mm. Axial length, keratometry, and anterior chamber depth were measured by intraocular lens Master 500. Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Theoretical, Hoffer Q, Barrett Universal II, Kane, and Hill-radial basis function formulas were used for intraocular lens power calculations. The difference between the expected postoperative refraction and the mean absolute prediction error was calculated for each eye. Statistical significance was evaluated at the level of p<0.05. Results The study included 135 subjects. The mean axial length, anterior chamber depth, keratometry, and intraocular lens power were 23.2±1.2 (22 to 24.5) mm, 3.2±0.4 (2.4 to 4.4) mm, 43.5±1.5 (40.8 to 46.2) diopter, 21.5±1.8 (18.5 to 25.5) diopter, respectively. The mean absolute prediction error for Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Theoretical, Hoffer Q, Barrett Universal II, Kane, and Hill-radial basis function was 0.306±0.291, 0.312±0.257, 0.314±0.268, 0.299±0.206 and 0.308±0.280, respectively (p>0.05). Conclusion The study showed the third-generation (Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Theoretical and Hoffer Q), fourth-generation (Barrett Universal II) and new-generation (Kane and Hill-radial basis function) intraocular lens power calculation formulas had similar performances regarding calculation of intraocular lens power to predict target refraction after phacoemulsification in eyes with normal axial length.

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar o desempenho das fórmulas Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Teórica, Hoffer Q, Barrett Universal II, Kane, e Hill-radial basis function (RBF) para cálculo de poder dióptrico das lentes intraoculares, em olhos com comprimento axial normal, em termos de predição da refração alvo, utilizando a tecnologia de interferometria de coerência parcial. Métodos Facoemulsificação e implante de lentes intraoculares foram realizados em 135 olhos de 135 pacientes com comprimento axial entre 22 e 24.5 mm. Comprimento axial, ceratometria, e profundidade da câmara anterior foram medidos por lente intraocular Master 500. As fórmulas Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Teórica, Hoffer Q, Barrett Universal II, Kane, e Hill-radial basis function foram empregadas para cálculo de poder dióptrico das lentes intraoculares. A diferença entre a refração esperada no pós-operatório e a média dos erros absolutos preditivos foi calculada para cada olho. Os valores de p<0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. Resultados O estudo incluiu 135 sujeitos. As médias de comprimento axial, profundidade da câmara anterior, ceratometria, e poder dióptrico das lentes intraoculares foram 23,2±1,2 (22 a 24,5) mm, 3,2±0,4 (2,4 a 4,4) mm, 43,5±1,5 (40,8 a 46,2) dioptria, 21,5±1,8 (18,5 a 25,5) dioptria, respectivamente. A média de erro absoluto preditivo para as fórmulas Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Teórica, Hoffer Q, Barrett Universal II, Kane, e Hill-radial basis function foi 0,306±0,291, 0,312±0,257, 0,314±0,268, 0,299±0,206 e 0,308±0,280, respectivamente (p>0,05). Conclusão O estudo mostrou que as fórmulas de terceira geração (Sanders-Retzlaff-Kraft/Teórica e Hoffer Q), de quarta geração (Barrett Universal II) e as da nova geração (Kane e Hill-radial basis function) para cálculo de poder dióptrico das lentes intraoculares, têm desempenhos semelhantes para cálculo do poder dióptrico das lentes intraoculares, para predizer a refração alvo após facoemulsificação em olhos com comprimento axial normal.

An echocardiographic predictor of contrast-induced nephropathy following percutaneous coronary intervention in acute coronary syndrome: aortic valve sclerosis.

Objective. Aortic valve sclerosis (AVS) is closely related to endothelial dysfunction. The association of AVS with contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is unknown. We planned to investigate the relationship of AVS besides known parameters with CIN. Design. Baseline characteristics, biochemical values, and AVS of 292 consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) that underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were analyzed. Results. Fifty-three patients (18.2%) had CIN. Patients with CIN were older, less likely to be smokers, and had more prevalent prior bypass surgery, higher Mehran score, creatinine, and uric acid concentrations than those without CIN. AVS was more prevalent in patients with CIN. Logistic regression analysis including all related parameters identified Mehran score (OR = 1.036, p = .033), uric acid concentration (OR = 1.244, p = .023), and AVS (OR: 2.223, p = .027) as independent predictors of CIN. Conclusion. AVS is independently associated with CIN in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. AVS may help to identify high-risk patients for CIN, who would benefit from preventive measures.

Endothelial dysfunction, subclinical atherosclerosis and LDL cholesterol are the independent predictors of left atrial functions in hypertension.

Left atrial function has an important role in determining optimal performance of the heart. Increase of left atrial dysfunction and volume are poor prognostic factors. In this study, we investigated independent determinants of left atrial function in non-diabetic patients with de novo hypertension. The study included 124 consecutive non-diabetic patients with de novo hypertension. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation, carotid intima-media thickness, transthoracic echocardiography, 24-h rhythm holter, and aortic stiffness measurements were recorded. In echocardiography, left atrial maximum (LAMaV) and minimum (LAMiV) volumes were calculated. Left atrium total emptying fraction (LATEF) and total emptying volume (LATEV) were divided into two groups according to the mean levels. Multivariate analysis was performed after correlation analysis for LATEV and LATEF mean levels. By logistic regression analysis, systolic blood pressure (OR 0.882, 95% CI 0.784-0.992, p = 0.036), percent of flow-mediated dilation (OR 0.747, 95% CI 0.595-0.938, p = 0.012), and presence of carotid plaque (OR 0.014, 95% CI 0.001-0.188, p = 0.001) were found as independent variables that determine LATEF. Age (OR 0.879, 95% CI 0.795-0.972, p = 0.012), smoking (OR 23.739, 95% CI 2.699-208.810, p = 0.004), left ventricular mass index (OR 1.052, 95% CI 1.012-1.094, p = 0.011), mitrale E-wave velocity (OR 1.108, 95% CI 1.031-1.191, p = 0.005) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol (OR 0.942, 95% CI 0.911-0.974, p = 0.001) were independent predictors of LATEV. In non-diabetic patients with de novo hypertension endothelial dysfunction, subclinical atherosclerosis and LDL cholesterol levels independently affect left atrial function.

Serum visfatin level is associated with complexity of coronary artery disease in patients with stable angina pectoris.

BACKGROUND: Visfatin is an adipokine that plays a role in the inflammatory process of atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate whether adipokine is associated with the extent of stable coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: The study population included 110 patients who underwent elective coronary angiography (CAG) due to stable angina pectoris. The severity of CAD was assessed by the 'Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX)' score. We evaluated patients in two groups: group 1 with a SYNTAX score <22 (low) and group 2 with a SYNTAX score ⩾22 (intermediate to high). RESULTS: Serum visfatin (8.6 ± 4.2 ng/ml versus 13.4 ± 5.2 ng/ml, p < 0.001) and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels [0.46 (0.25-0.77) mg/dl versus 0.71 (0.32-1.10) mg/dl, p < 0.001] were lower in group 1. A positive significant correlation was found between serum visfatin level and SYNTAX score (r = 0.559, p < 0.001). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, visfatin [odds ratio (OR) 1.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10-1.36; p < 0.001], CRP (OR 6.22, 95% CI 1.70-22.7; p = 0.006), and diabetes mellitus (OR 3.83, 95% CI 1.10-13.2; p = 0.034) were found to be independent predictors of SYNTAX score. CONCLUSIONS: Serum visfatin level was positively correlated with CAD severity in patients with high SYNTAX score. Serum visfatin level can be a useful biomarker for predicting high SYNTAX scores in patients with angina pectoris undergoing CAG.

A glycosaminoglycan mimetic peptide nanofiber gel as an osteoinductive scaffold.

Biomineralization of the extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a crucial role in bone formation. Functional and structural biomimetic native bone ECM components can therefore be used to change the fate of stem cells and induce bone regeneration and mineralization. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) mimetic peptide nanofibers can interact with several growth factors. These nanostructures are capable of enhancing the osteogenic activity and mineral deposition of osteoblastic cells, which is indicative of their potential application in bone tissue regeneration. In this study, we investigated the potential of GAG-mimetic peptide nanofibers to promote the osteogenic differentiation of rat mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs) in vitro and enhance the bone regeneration and biomineralization process in vivo in a rabbit tibial bone defect model. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and Alizarin red staining results suggested that osteogenic differentiation is enhanced when rMSCs are cultured on GAG-mimetic peptide nanofibers. Moreover, osteogenic marker genes were shown to be upregulated in the presence of the peptide nanofiber system. Histological and micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) observations of regenerated bone defects in rabbit tibia bone also suggested that the injection of a GAG-mimetic nanofiber gel supports cortical bone deposition by enhancing the secretion of an inorganic mineral matrix. The volume of the repaired cortical bone was higher in GAG-PA gel injected animals. The overall results indicate that GAG-mimetic peptide nanofibers can be utilized effectively as a new bioactive platform for bone regeneration.

The effect of irritable bowel syndrome on carotid intima-media thickness, pulse wave velocity, and heart rate variability.

OBJECTIVE: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a subgroup of functional somatic disorders, may be associated with autonomic dysfunction (AD). Heart rate variability (HRV), a measure of autonomic dysfunction, may predict survival. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of IBS on HRV parameters, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) as surrogates of AD, subclinical atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness, respectively. METHODS: Our study was cross-sectional and observational. Thirty consecutive patients with IBS and 30 control participants underwent 24-hour Holter monitoring, cf-PWV assessment and CIMT measurement. The diagnosis of IBS was based on Rome III criteria. There were 24 patients with IBS-Constipation (80%), 4 patients with IBS-Diarrhea (13.3%), and 2 patients with IBS-Mixed (6.7%) in IBS group. Student t-test and χ2 test were utilized in order to compare continuous and categorical variables between two groups, respectively. RESULTS: Biochemical parameters did not differ between groups except for slightly increased creatinine in patients with IBS. cf-PWV and CIMT values were similar between groups. SDNN index and RMSSD were significantly impaired in patients with IBS compared to controls. Frequency analyses revealed lower LF, HF, and VLF in subjects with IBS. CONCLUSION: We demonstrated decreased parasympathetic modulation in patients with constipation predominant IBS. However, we could not demonstrate any changes in vascular structure and functions measured by carotid intima-media thickness and pulse wave velocity. Our results do not support accelerated atherosclerosis in IBS population.

Successful thrombolysis using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in cases of severe pulmonary embolism with mobile thrombi in the right atrium.

Hereby, we report two cases of acute pulmonary embolism with concomitant right-sided thrombus, which were successfully treated using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA). These patients had life-threatening acute right ventricular failure, which dramatically improved within hours following thrombolysis. These cases emphasize the clinical utility of rtPA for the treatment of life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Epicardial adipose tissue thickness and NGAL levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with an increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and early atherosclerosis. Epicardial adipose tissue thickness (EATT) is clinically related to subclinical atherosclerosis. In the present study, considering the major role of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) which is an acute phase protein rapidly releasing upon inflammation and tissue injury, we aimed to evaluate NGAL levels and EATT in PCOS patients and assess their relationship with cardiometabolic factors. METHODS: 64 patients with PCOS and 50 age- and body mass index-matched healthy controls were included in the study. We evaluated anthropometric, hormonal and metabolic parameters. EATT was measured by echocardiography above the free wall of the right ventricle. Serum NGAL and high-sensitive C- reactive protein (hsCRP) levels were measured by ELISA. RESULTS: Mean EATT was 0,38 +/-0,16 mm in the PCOS group and 0,34 +/-0,36 mm in the control group (p = 0,144). In the obese PCOS group (n = 44) EAT was thicker compared to the obese control group (n = 41) (p = 0.026). Mean NGAL levels of the patients with PCOS were 101,98 +/-21,53 pg/ml, while mean NGAL levels were 107,40 +/-26,44 pg/ml in the control group (p = 0,228). We found a significant positive correlation between EATT and age, BMI, waist circumference, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, triglyceride and hsCRP levels in PCOS group. CONCLUSIONS: Thickness of the epicardial adipose tissue can be used to follow the risk of CVD development in obese PCOS cases. However serum NGAL levels do not differ in patients with PCOS and control group.

Effect of epicardial adipose tissue on diastolic functions and left atrial dimension in untreated hypertensive patients with normal systolic function.

BACKGROUND: Adipose tissue is the source of many adipokines affecting the cardiovascular system either locally or systemically. Although hypertension is one of the most important factors in diastolic dysfunction (DD), the exact cause of this relationship is unknown. There is no specific study in the current literature regarding the association of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) with left ventricular DD in patients with essential hypertension. METHODS: The present study was cross-sectional and observational, including 127 patients with untreated hypertension who underwent a complete transthoracic echocardiographic examination as well as measurements of EAT and diastolic parameters. RESULTS: EAT was significantly correlated with left atrial dimension, DD parameters, and left ventricular (LV) mass as well as age and blood pressure measurements. EAT was also correlated with Framingham risk score (p<0.001). Age and EAT were significantly increased in patients with high grades of DD compared to those with low values (p<0.001 and p=0.001, respectively). Linear regression analyses revealed EAT as an independent predictor of all DD parameters. The area under the curve values of EAT were similar to age and higher than those of LV mass and mean BP for both the presence of DD and grade two DD. CONCLUSION: Based on our findings, increased EAT may be associated with diastolic dysfunction and left atrial dilatation due to local or systemic effects in untreated hypertensive patients. This relationship is independent of and stronger than abdominal obesity, implicating the clinical importance of measuring EAT thickness.

Increased pulse wave velocity and carotid intima-media thickness in patients with ulcerative colitis.

BACKGROUND: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized with chronic, progressive inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The association of UC with cardiovascular disease is still a matter of debate. AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate whether carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) as surrogates of atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness are increased in patients with UC. METHODS: Our study was cross-sectional and observational in design. Baseline characteristics were recorded during interview with the patient. Patients with previous cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic renal failure, and infectious and inflammatory disorders other than UC were excluded. Thirty-seven consecutive patients with UC and 30 control participants underwent cf-PWV assessment and CIMT measurement. The diagnosis of UC was based on clinical, radiologic, endoscopic, and histological findings. RESULTS: CIMT, cf-PWV, and C reactive protein were significantly higher in patients with UC. Although linear regression analyses identified UC as an independent predictor of CIMT (ß ± SE, 0.39 ± 0.08; p < 0.001), only age independently predicted cf-PWV (ß ± SE, 0.08 ± 0.03; p = 0.003) in our study population. Moreover, we revealed higher CIMT and PWV values in patients with higher disease activity and more extensive involvement, compared to patients with mild activity and limited disease. CONCLUSION: We revealed increased pulse wave velocity and CIMT in patients with UC. UC appears to be associated with arterial stiffness and atherosclerotic burden, but the underlying mechanisms require further studies to be identified.

Epicardial adipose tissue is independently associated with increased left ventricular mass in untreated hypertensive patients: an observational study.

OBJECTIVE: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) secretes various inflammatory mediators and growth factor, and has endocrine and paracrine effects on myocardium and body. We planned the present study in order to evaluate the possible relationship between EAT and left ventricular mass (LVM), a potent predictor of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity, independent of age, blood pressure and the metabolic parameters in patients with hypertension (HT). METHODS: The present study was cross-sectional and observational, including consecutive 107 untreated essential hypertensive patients who underwent a complete transthoracic echocardiographic examination as well as measurements of LVM and EAT. Blood pressure, routine blood chemistry, C-reactive protein, and patient characteristics were also recorded. Univariate and then multiple linear regression analyses were used for analysis of independent variables associated with EAT. RESULTS: LVM significantly correlated with waist circumference, EAT, glucose, uric acid, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. When we divided study population into two groups according to median mean blood pressure (BP) (Mean BP ≤116 vs. >116 mmHg), EAT was the only associated factor for LVM in patients below median BP (Beta: 0.518, p<0.001). Linear regression analyses revealed EAT to be independently associated with LVM (Beta: 0.419; p<0.001) and LVM index (Beta: 0.384, p<0.001) as well as high-density lipoprotein (Beta: -0.264, p=0.006). CONCLUSION: EAT was related to increased LVM independent of BMI, waist circumference, weight, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and other risk parameters, in patients with HT. Determination of increased EAT by echocardiography may have an additional value as an indicator of cardiovascular risk and total visceral adipose tissue.