The new prognostic factor for pulmonary embolism: The ratio of monocyte count to HDL cholesterol.

PURPOSE: Aim of this study is to investigate effectiveness of the monocyte to HDL cholesterol ratio in patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism for predicting intra-hospital mortality. METHOD: A total of 269 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism in the emergency clinic were included in the study. Study was conducted retrospectively. Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI), Monocyte count and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) values were determined. MHR values of the patients were calculated. SPSS 26 package program was used to investigate the effectiveness of MHR in predicting mortality. FINDINGS: Mean age of the patients was 64.51 ± 12.4 years. PESI, Number of monocytes and MHR were significantly higher in the group with mortality than the group without mortality (p < .05). HDL values were significantly lower (p < .05) in mortality group. Sensitivity of MHR 19 cut off value was 89.3%, and its specificity was 82.0%. CONCLUSION: Use of predictors for mortality estimation in patients diagnosed with acute pulmonary embolism is important for faster administration of treatment modalities. We think MHR values can be used as a strong predictor according to the hemogram parameters and biochemical results.

Complement C1q/Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Protein-3 (CTRP3) is Significantly Decreased in Patients with Heart Failure and Closely Related with Ventricular Tachycardia.

BACKGROUND: The relationship between serum complement C1q/tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related protein-3 (CTRP3) levels and ventricular tachycardia (VT) in heart failure patients with reduced ejection-fraction (HFrEF) is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in serum CTRP3 level and the relationship with VT in HFrEF. METHODS: The study included 88 patients with HFrEF with and without VT and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Serum CTRP3 levels were measured in addition to routine anamnesis, physical, laboratory and echocardiography examinations. The patients were divided into groups with and without HFrEF and HFrEF patients with and without VT. RESULTS: Serum CTRP3 levels were significantly lower in the patients with HFrEF than in the control group (206 ± 16 ng/mL and 427 ± 49 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Similarly, CTRP3 levels were lower in the patients with VT (194 ± 10 ng/mL and 216 ± 15 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Left ventricular (LV) volume and tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient were significantly higher and LV ejection-fraction was significantly lower in the patients with VT (all p < 0.05). Serum CTRP3 and LV end-systolic volume values independently determined the patients with VT (all p < 0.01). Every 10 ng/mL decrease in CTRP3 level increased the odds ratio of VT by 79%. In the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, the area under the ROC curve for CTRP3 was 0.884 (p < 0.001). A CTRP3 cut-off value of 200 ng/mL could predict VT with 88.1% sensitivity and 80.2% specificity. CONCLUSIONS: Serum CTRP3 levels were significantly decreased in the patients with HFrEF, and decreased CTRP3 levels were very closely related to the presence of VT in these patients.

Impaired left ventricular global longitudinal strain improves with radiofrequency catheter ablation in patients with PVC-induced cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND: In our study, we aimed to evaluate left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS) value in patients with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and reduced LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and to determine the effect of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) procedure on LV-GLS. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 150 patients who underwent three-dimensional RFA with the diagnosis of PVCs were included. LV-GLS was measured with strain echocardiography in all patients before RFA and in the sixth-month control. Patients included in the study were grouped as LVEF <50% (Group I) and LVEF ≥50% (Group II) according to baseline LVEF, and patients within Group I were grouped as LVEF <50% (Group A) and LVEF ≥50% (Group B) according to the sixth-month LVEF. RESULTS: There were 39 patients (26%) with baseline LVEF <50%. In 14 (36%) of these patients, LVEF <50% was observed to continue during the sixth-month controls. Both the baseline and sixth-month LV-GLS values were significantly lower in Group I patients (<0.01). RFA treatment significantly increased both LVEF and LV-GLS (<0.01). It was found that age, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, LV diameters, and baseline LVEF were higher, and baseline LV-GLS level was lower in Group A patients (P < .01). Baseline LVEF and LV-GLS values were found to independently determine the patients in Group A (P < .01). In receiver operator characteristic analysis, when the limit value is accepted as 40% for baseline LVEF and 18% for baseline LV-GLS, it can determine Group A with acceptable sensitivity and specificity. CONCLUSIONS: LV-GLS decreases significantly in patients with reduced LVEF and PVCs. In these patients, RFA treatment significantly increases both LVEF and LV-GLS.

Morning blood pressure surge increases in patients with hypertensive primary hyperparathyroidism and is independently associated with serum calcium level.

Introduction: There is not enough data on the effects of primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) on morning blood pressure surge (MBPS) in the literature. We aimed to determine whether there was any change in MBPS value in patients with hypertensive pHPT and to determine the parameters related to MBPS.Method: 80 patients with newly diagnosed pHPT with hypertension (HT) and 80 controls with newly diagnosed hypertension were included. Routine laboratory examinations and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) were performed in all patients.Results: In patients with pHPT, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), triglyceride, hs-CRP, uric acid, serum calcium (Ca), parathormone (PTH), daytime SBP and MBPS levels are higher than others (p < 0.05). Body mass index (BMI) and Ca level were independently associated with MBPS. In patients with MBPS ≥ 25 mmHg, BMI, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, Ca and PTH levels were found to be higher than others. BMI values and Ca levels determine the patients with MBPS ≥ 25 mmHg (p < 0.05) independently. According to this analysis, increase in BMI (for each 1 unit) and Ca level (for each 0.1 mg/dL) was found to increase the probability of MBPS ≥ 25 mmHg by 17.8% and 7.7%, respectively. When the cut-off value for Ca was taken as 10 mg/dL, the patients with MBPS ≥ 25 mmHg were determined with 73.5% sensitivity and 73.1% specificity.Conclusion: MBPS significantly increases in patients with newly diagnosed hypertensive pHPT. This increase in MBPS is closely associated with increased Ca levels. In patients with pHPT, lowering the Ca level below 10 mg/dL may have clinical implications.

Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratio in hypertensive patients with primary aldosteronism.

Introduction: There is no study evaluating the Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratios with T wave peak to end interval (Tp-e interval) used for evaluation of cardiac arrhythmia risk and ventricular repolarization changes in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). We aimed to investigate whether there was a change in Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratios in patients with PA.Method: Thirty patients with newly diagnosed hypertension (HT) and PA and 30 patients with primary HT were included. Twelve-lead electrocardiography (ECG) was performed in all patients. Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratios were measured in addition to routine measurements in ECG.Results: Sodium, potassium, and plasma renin activity (PRA) were significantly lower in patients with PA; systolic and diastolic blood pressure, plasma aldosterone, plasma aldosterone/PRA were significantly higher in patients with PA (p < .05 for each one). When ventricular repolarization parameters were examined; while QT and QTc interval were similar between two groups, Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratio values were significantly higher in patients with PA (p < .05 for each one). Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratio values were positively correlated with the serum calcium, aldosterone, and aldosterone/PRA levels and negatively correlated with serum sodium, potassium, renin levels (p < .05 for each one). In linear regression analyses, Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc ratios were independently associated with the aldosterone/PRA ratio.Conclusion: Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/QTc were increased in hypertensive patients with PA and were independently associated with aldosterone/PRA levels. This may be related to the changing neuroendocrine state in patients with PA.

Serum Elabela Levels Are Elevated in Patients with Hyperthyroidism.

The apelinergic system plays an important role in the modulation of the cardiovascular system via the apelin peptide and the apelin receptor (APJ receptor). Apelin and elabela, also known toddler, are peptide ligands for the apelin receptor. These two peptides show similar biological actions, such as vasodilatation, increased myocardial contractility, angiogenesis, and energy metabolism. However, the serum levels of elabela in patients with hyperthyroidism are not well known. The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in serum elabela levels in patients with hyperthyroidism and its association with hypertension. This cross-sectional study included 74 patients with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism due to Graves' disease and 20 healthy individuals. Serum elabela levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The patients were divided into two groups: hyperthyroid patients without hypertension (n = 51) and those with hypertension (n = 23). Basal heart rate, serum glucose and high-sensitive C reactive protein were significantly higher in hyperthyroid patients with and those without hypertension than in healthy controls (p < 0.05 for each). Serum elabela levels were significantly elevated in hyperthyroid patients compared with healthy controls, with higher serum elabela levels found in hyperthyroid patients with hypertension than those without hypertension. Linear regression analysis showed that serum elabela levels were correlated with systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001). In conclusion, serum elabela levels were significantly increased in patients with hyperthyroidism, especially in hyperthyroid patients with hypertension. Elevation in serum elabela levels may contribute to alleviation of cardiovascular complications of hyperthyroidism and hypertension.

A new approach to radiofrequency catheter ablation of premature ventricular contractions: The diurnal variation index.

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) is a frequently used method in the treatment of premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) resistant to drug therapy. RFA is recommended for patients with PVCs burden >10%. This study was aimed to investigate the presence of other parameters to enhance the indication of ablation in 24-hour rhythm Holter recordings. METHODS: 202 patients with >10% PVCs in 24-hour rhythm Holter recordings were included in the study between January 2015 and August 2019. Patients were divided into two groups. Radiofrequency ablation was performed in 163 patients but not in 39 patients. RESULTS: Laboratory findings were compared between two groups. Total cholesterol (p = 0.018), LDL cholesterol (p = 0.013) and triglyceride (p < 0.001) values were significantly higher in the RFA group, When the 24-hour rhythm Holter findings were compared, the diurnal variation index was significantly higher in the RFA group (p < 0.001). Triglyceride (OR: 1.013, 95% CI: 1.001-1.025, p = 0.032) and diurnal variation index (OR: 3.643, 95% CI: 1.440-9.216, p = 0.006) were determined as independent predictors in binominal logistic regression analysis. In the ROC analysis, when the cut-off value of the diurnal variation index was taken as 1.5, it was found that it could predict patients who undergo effective RFA with 76.7% sensitivity and 60% specificity. CONCLUSION: Diurnal variation index may be a useful parameter for RFA indication with PVC burden in 24-hour rhythm Holter recordings.

Coronary sinus lead delay index for optimization of coronary sinus lead placement.

AIM: Optimization of coronary sinus (CS) lead position to the latest activated left ventricular (LV) area is important to increase cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) response. We aimed to detect the relationship between coronary sinus lead delay index (CSDI) and echocardiographic, electrocardiographic response to CRT treatment. METHODS: We prospectively included 137 consecutive patients with heart failure (HF) diagnosis, QRS ≥ 120 ms, left bundle branch block (LBBB), New York Heart Association score (NYHA) II-IV, LV ejection fraction (LVEF) <35% and scheduled for CRT (84 male, 53 female; mean age 65.1 ± 10.1 years). Echocardiographic CRT response was defined as ≥15% reduction in LV end-systolic volume (LVESV). CS lead sensing delay was calculated as the time interval from the onset of surface QRS wave to the onset of depolarization wave recorded from the CS lead by using the CS pacing lead as a bipolar electrode. CSDI was calculated by dividing the CS lead sensing delay by the QRS duration. RESULTS: LVESV reduction was associated with baseline QRS width (r = .257, p = .002), QRS narrowing (r = .396, p < .001), CSDI (r = .357, p < .001), and NT-proBNP (r = -0.213, p = .022) in bivariate analysis. In logistic regression analysis, CSDI was found to be only independent parameter for predicting significant LVESV reduction (Beta = 0.318, p < .001). CSDI was also found to be significantly associated with LVEF increase (r = .244, p = .004) and QRS narrowing (r = .178, p = .046). CONCLUSION: CSDI may be used as a marker to predict the favorable response to CRT. It may be useful to integrate CSDI to CRT implantation procedure in order to minimize nonresponders.

S-R difference in V1-V2 is a novel criterion for differentiating the left from right ventricular outflow tract arrhythmias.

AIM: The correct estimation of the VA origin as RVOT or LVOT results in reduced ablation duration reduced radiation exposure and decreased number of vascular access. In our study, we aimed to detect the predictive value of S-R difference in V1-V2 for differentiating the left from right ventricular outflow tract arrhythmias. METHODS: We included 123 patients with symptomatic frequent premature ventricular outflow tract contractions who underwent successful catheter ablation (70 male, 53 female; mean age 46.2 ± 13.9 years, 61 RVOT, 62 LVOT origins). S-R difference in V1-V2 was calculated with this formula on the 12-lead surface ECG: (V1S + V2S) - (V1R + V2R). Conventional ablation was performed in 101 (82.1%) patients, CARTO electroanatomic mapping system was used in 22 (17.9%) patients. RESULTS: V1-2 SRd was found to be significantly lower for LVOT origins than RVOT origins (p < .001). The cutoff value of V1-2 SRd obtained by ROC curve analysis was 1.625 mV for prediction of RVOT origin (sensitivity: 95.1%, specificity: 85.5%, positive predictive value: 86.5%, negative predictive value: 94.5%). The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.929 (p < .001). CONCLUSION: S-R difference in V1-V2 is a novel and simple electrocardiographic criterion for accurately differentiating RVOT from LVOT sites of ventricular arrhythmia origins. The use of this simple ECG measurement could improve the accuracy of OTVA localization, could be beneficial for decreasing ablation duration and radiation exposure. Further studies with larger patient population are needed to verify the results of this study.

Myocardial repolarization is affected in patients with ascending aortic aneurysm.

OBJECTIVE: Ascending aortic aneurysm (AAA) is one of the major causes of ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Diastolic dysfunction can induce ventricular repolarization dispersion. Nevertheless, myocardial repolarization dispersion is not yet to be fully evaluated in patients with AAA. We aimed to evaluate ventricular repolarization using QT and Tp-Te interval and corrected (c) Tp-Te/QT ratio in patients with AAA. METHODS: One hundred-four patients with AAA without coronary artery disease (CAD) served as the aneurysm group and 82 patients having a normal aortic diameter as the control group. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for measurements of LV diastolic function and underwent electrocardiography (ECG) to calculate RR, QT, Tp-Te intervals and QT dispersion. Bazett's formula was used to calculate QTc and cTp-Te intervals. cTp-Te/QT ratio was also calculated. RESULTS: The groups were similar according to basal characteristics. We found left ventricular diastolic properties were impaired and QT dispersion, QTc interval, and both of Tp-Te and cTp-Te intervals were significantly prolonged in the aneurysm group than the control group. There were also significant correlations between TTE and ECG parameters. On multivariate linear regression analysis, indexed ascending aortic dimension (AAoD), LA diameter and E/e' ratio were independent predictors of ventricular repolarization dispersion in AAA patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our study results showed that patients with AAA may have an increased risk for ventricular arrhythmogenesis because of deteriorated the left ventricular diastolic function.

Association of P wave duration index with atrial fibrillation recurrence after cryoballoon catheter ablation.

AIM: We aimed to investigate the relationship between the recurrence of AF and P wave duration index (PWDI) in patients with nonvalvular PAF. METHODS: We included 114 patients who underwent cryoballoon catheter ablation with the diagnosis of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) (55 male, 59 female; mean age 55.5±10,9years). PWDI was calculated by dividing the Pwd by the PR interval in DII lead of 12­lead ECG. Patients had regular follow-up visits with 12-lead ECG, medical history and clinical evaluation. 24h Holter ECG monitoring had been recorded at least 12months after ablation. RESULTS: AF recurrence was detected in 24 patients after 1year. Patients were divided into two groups according to the AF recurrence. All parameters were compared between the two groups. Age, DM, HT frequency, ACEI-ARB use, CHA2DS2VASc and HAS-BLED score, HsCRP, LA diameter, LA volume, LA volume index, Pwd and PWDI were related to AF recurrence. In binary logistic regression analysis, PWDI (OR=1.143, p=0.001) and HT (OR=0.194, p=0.020) were found to be independent parameters for predicting AF recurrence. Every 0,01 unit increase in PWDI was found to be associated with 14.3% increase in the risk of AF recurrence. The cut-off value of PWDI obtained by ROC curve analysis was 59,9 for prediction of AF recurrence (sensitivity: 75.0%, specificity: 69.0%). The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.760 (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Increased PWDI may help to identify those patients in whom electrical remodeling has already occurred and who will get less benefit from cryoablation.

A new criterion to differentiate atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia from atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia: Combined AVR criterion.

AIM: A combined aVR criterion is described as the presence of a pseudo r' wave in aVR during tachycardia in patients without r' wave in aVR in sinus rhythm and/or a ≥50% increase in r' wave amplitude compared to sinus rhythm in patients with r' wave in the basal aVR lead. We aimed to investigate the use of combined aVR criterion in differential diagnosis of atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) and atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT). METHODS: In this prospective study, 480 patients with inducible narrow QRS supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) were included. Twelve-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) was conducted during tachycardia and sinus rhythm. The patients were divided into two groups according to the arrhythmia mechanism that determined via EPS, AVNRT, and AVRT. Criteria of narrow QRS complex tachycardia were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: AVNRT was present in 370 (77%) patients and AVRT in 110 (23%) patients. Combined aVR criterion was found to be more frequent in patients with AVNRT (84.1% and 9.1%, p < 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, combined aVR criterion and classical ECG criterion were found to be the most important predictors of AVNRT (p < 0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the combined aVR criterion for AVNRT were 84.1%, 90.9%, 96.9%, and 62.9%, respectively. CONCLUSION: In the differential diagnosis of patients with SVT, the combined aVR criterion identifies the presence of AVNRT with an independent and acceptable diagnostic value. In addition to classical ECG criteria for AVNRT, it is necessary to evaluate the combined aVR criterion in daily practice.

A new use for maximum deflection index: Detection of intraventricular dyssynchrony.

AIM: CRT has been shown to be very beneficial for patients with reduced LVEF, symptomatic HF and increased QRS width. But many patients do not benefit from CRT. Maximum deflection index (MDI) is a quantitive measure of the rapidity of depolarization of the myocardium. In previous studies, high MDI was found to indicate epicardial origin of ventricular tachycardia. We aimed to detect the relationship between echocardiographic intraventricular dyssynchrony and MDI. METHODS: We included 144 patients with HF, QRS≥120ms, LBBB, NYHA II-IV, LVEF<35% and scheduled for CRT (90 male, 54 female; mean age 65.3±9.9years). Septal-lateral >60ms delay for the beginning of systolic velocity in TDI and septum-posterior >130ms delay in M-mode were accepted as intraventricular dyssynchrony. The MDI was calculated by dividing the time from onset of the QRS complex to the earliest point of maximum deflection in V5-V6 by the QRS duration. RESULTS: Septal-lateral delay was associated with MDI and QRS width in bivariate analysis. In logistic regression analysis, MDI (beta=0,264, p=0.001) and QRS width (beta=0,177, p=0.028) were found to be independent parameters for predicting significant septal-lateral delay. MDI was also associated with significant septum-posterior delay in bivariate correlations and ROC curve (p<0.05 for all). In bivariate analysis MDI was associated with intraventricular dyssynchrony in both non-strict LBBB (r=0.261, p=0.010) and strict LBBB (r=0.305, p=0.035) groups. CONCLUSION: MDI is closely associated with all echocardiographic intraventricular dyssynchrony parameters. We suggest that MDI may be used as a marker to detect patients with increased intraventricular dyssynchrony. It may be useful to integrate MDI to CRT patient selection procedure in order to minimize nonresponders.

Plasma apelin-12 levels may predict in-hospital major adverse cardiac events in ST-elevation myocardial infarction and the relationship between apelin-12 and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in patients undergoing primary coronary intervention.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the compliance of plasma apelin-12 levels to show angiographic properties and hospital MACE in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The association of apelin-12 levels with the N/L ratio on admission was assessed in 170 consecutive patients with primary STEMI undergoing primary PCI. All patient SYNTAX scores and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grades were also assessed. Patients were divided into two groups according to their TIMI flow grade. Patients with a TIMI 0-2 flow and TIMI 3 flow with grade 0/1 myocardial blush grade (MBG) score were defined as the no-reflow group and patients with TIMI grade 3 flow with ⩾2 MBG were considered as the normal flow group. RESULTS: Baseline apelin-12 levels were significantly lower in the no-reflow group than in the normal flow group (3.3±1.81 vs 6.2±1.74, p<0.001). In-hospital events, including death, myocardial infarction (MI) and re-infarction were significantly higher in patients in the no-reflow group than normal flow group (23% vs 7%, p<0.001). Apelin-12 level was negative correlated with the N/L ratio (r= -0.352, p<0.001), Hs-Crp (r=-0.272, p=0.01) and SYNTAX score (r= -0.246, p=0.029). In the multivariate regression analysis, apelin-12, presence of no-reflow and the SYNTAX score were independent predictors of in-hospital MACE (odds ratio [OR] 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.27 to 1.67], p=0.001 for apelin-12, OR 1.085, [0.981 to 1.203], p<0.001 for no-reflow and OR 0.201, 95% CI [0.05 to 0.47], p= 0.004 for SYNTAX score). CONCLUSION: We have shown that lower apelin-12 level on admission is associated with higher SYNTAX scores and no-reflow phenomenon and may be used as a prognostic marker for hospital MACE in patients with STEMI.

High Left Ventricular Lead Sensing Delay Predicts QRS Narrowing and Good Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy.

BACKGROUND: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) was shown to improve heart failure (HF) prognosis. But many patients do not benefit from CRT. Optimization of left ventricular (LV) lead position to the latest activated LV area is important to increase CRT response. We aimed to detect the relationship between LV lead sensing delay and echocardiographic and electrocardiographic response to CRT treatment. METHODS: We prospectively included 156 consecutive patients with HF diagnosis, QRS ≥ 120 ms, left bundle branch block, New York Heart Association II-IV, LV ejection fraction (LVEF) < 35%, and scheduled for CRT (100 male, 56 female; mean age 65.8 ± 10.06 years). Echocardiographic CRT response was defined as ≥15% reduction in LV end-systolic volume (LVESV). LV lead sensing delay was calculated as the time interval from the onset of surface QRS wave to the onset of depolarization wave recorded from the LV lead by using the LV pacing lead as a bipolar electrode. RESULTS: LVESV reduction was associated with baseline QRS width (r = 0.292, P = 001), QRS narrowing (r = 0.332, P < 001), and LV lead sensing delay (r = 0.454, P < 001) in bivariate analysis. In logistic regression analysis, LV lead sensing delay was found to be the only independent parameter for predicting significant LVESV reduction (ß = 0.423, P < 0.001). LV lead sensing delay was also found to be significantly associated with LVEF increase (r = 0.320, P < 0.001) and QRS narrowing (r = 0.345, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: LV lead sensing delay is the only independent predictor for significant reduction in LVESV and was found to be significantly associated with LVEF increase and QRS narrowing after CRT treatment. We suggest that LV lead sensing delay may be used as a marker to predict the favorable response to CRT.

The prognostic importance of thiol/disulfide homeostasis in patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of thiol/disulfide homeostasis in acute pulmonary embolism (APE) and investigate its compliance to show hospital mortality of patients with APE. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 173 participants including 113 patients with APE, and 60 healthy individuals were included in the study. APE group was categorized into two subgroups according to Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI) clinic risk score (PESI low group [n=71, class 1-3] and PESI high group [n=42, class 4-5]). RESULTS: Mean level of native thiol was lower and disulfide level and disulfide/total thiol ratio were higher in APE group than control group. In APE group, 14 patients died during hospitalization. Native thiol and disulfide level, presence of shock, heart rate, oxygen saturation, right ventricular dysfunction, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, and creatinine levels were found to have prognostic significance in univariate analysis. On multilvariable logistic regression analysis, native thiol and disulfide level (odds ratio [OR], 1.16(0.87-1.36); P=.010 and OR, 1.49; P=.015, respectively), presence of shock (OR, 1.04; P=.012) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (OR, 1.67; P=.002) were strong predictors for APE-related hospital mortality after the adjustment of other potential confounders. CONCLUSION: We have shown that thiol/disulfide homeostasis can be altered during APE and associated with worse hemodynamic parameters, and may be used as a prognostic marker for hospital mortality.

Gamma Glutamyl Transferase Activity is Associated With Both Paraoxonase Activity and Aortic Stiffness in Hypertensive Patients.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate relationship between gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity with paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity and aortic stiffness (AS) parameters such as pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx). METHODS: Measurements were obtained from 324 patients with newly diagnosed essential hypertension (mean age: 55.0 ± 8.2 years). The patients were divided into two groups according to their median GGT values. PWV and AIx were calculated using the single-point method via the Mobil-O-Graph® ARCsolver algorithm. RESULTS: PWV, Aix, and high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) values were higher and PON1 activity values were lower in GGThigh group compared with GGTlow group (P < 0.05, for all). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that GGT activity was independently associated with PWV (ß = 0.496, P < 0.001) and PON1 activity (ß = -0.343, P < 0.001) as well as hs-CRP (ß = 0.334, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: These results may support that increased GGT activity would be associated with both impaired antioxidant system and increased AS in hypertensive patients.

Serum Elabela level is significantly increased in patients with acromegaly.

BACKGROUND: Although the bioactive peptides associated with the apelinergic system are known to be associated with heart failure and ischemic heart disease, there are no data on their association with acromegaly. AIM: We aimed to investigate the change in serum Elabela levels, a novel peptide of the apelinergic system, in patients with acromegaly. METHODS: Our study included 30 treatment naive patients who were recently diagnosed with acromegaly, and 50 age-and-sex-matched healthy controls. In addition to routine history, physical examination and laboratory examinations, serum Elabela level was measured. Participants were divided into two groups as individuals with and without acromegaly and compared to each other. RESULTS: Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were found to be higher in patients with acromegaly. Serum glucose, Hs-CRP, NT-proBNP, insulin-like growth factor-1, growth hormone and serum Elabela levels were higher in patients with acromegaly (p < 0.05 for each). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LV-EF) was found to be lower in patients with acromegaly than the patients in healthy control group (p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis; age, systolic blood pressure, NT-proBNP, Insulin-like growth factor 1 and growth hormone levels were found to be very closely and positively related to serum Elabela level (p < 0.05 for each). CONCLUSIONS: Serum Elabela level can be used as an early and objective indicator of early cardiovascular involvement in patients with acromegaly. Further research is needed to clarify the role of serum Elabela levels on cardiovascular system in acromegaly patients.

Selvester QRS Score is a Predictor of Mortality in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. / O Escore de Selvester QRS é um Preditor de Mortalidade na Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Preservada.

BACKGROUND: The Selvester QRS (S-QRS) score on a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is associated with both the amount of myocardial scar and poor prognosis in myocardial infarction patients. However, its prognostic value in heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is unknown. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the predictive value of the S-QRS score for mortality in HFpEF. METHODS: 359 patients were retrospectively enrolled in this study. Electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and laboratory features of the patients were recorded. The simplified S-QRS score was measured and recorded. The mean follow-up time of the patients was 38.1±9.5 months. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Of 359 patients, 270 were in the survivor group, and 89 were in the deceased group. Age, Hs-CRP, troponin, pro-BNP, left atrial (LA) diameter, LA volume index, QRS duration, Tpe, and S-QRS score were statistically high in the deceased group. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age, Hs-CRP, NT-proBNP, LA diameter, LA volume index, Tpe, and S-QRS score were shown to be independent risk factors for mortality. In the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the cut-off value of the S-QRS score was 5.5, the sensitivity was 80.8%, and the specificity was 77.2% (AUC:0.880, p:0.00). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, it was found that mortality was higher in the group with S-QRS score ≥ 5.5 than in the group with S-QRS score < 5.5. (Long-rank, p:0.00). CONCLUSIONS: We think that the S-QRS score can be used as a prognostic indicator of long-term mortality in patients with HFpEF.

FUNDAMENTO: O escore Selvester QRS (S-QRS) em um eletrocardiograma (ECG) de 12 derivações está associado tanto à quantidade de cicatriz miocárdica quanto ao mau prognóstico em pacientes com infarto do miocárdio. Entretanto, seu valor prognóstico na insuficiência cardíaca (IC) com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEp) é desconhecido. OBJETIVO: Este estudo tem como objetivo investigar o valor preditivo do escore S-QRS para mortalidade na ICFEp. MÉTODOS: 359 pacientes foram incluídos retrospectivamente neste estudo. As características eletrocardiográficas, ecocardiográficas e laboratoriais dos pacientes foram registradas. O escore S-QRS simplificado foi medido e registrado. O tempo médio de seguimento dos pacientes foi de 38,1±9,5 meses. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Dos 359 pacientes, 270 estavam no grupo sobrevivente e 89 no grupo falecido. Idade, PCR-us, troponina, pro-BNP, diâmetro do átrio esquerdo (AE), índice de volume do AE, duração do QRS, Tpe e escore do S-QRS foram estatisticamente altos no grupo falecido. Na análise de regressão logística multivariada, idade, PCR-us, NT-proBNP, diâmetro do AE, índice de volume do AE, Tpe e escore S-QRS mostraram-se fatores de risco independentes para mortalidade. Na análise da característica operacional do receptor (ROC), o valor de corte do escore S-QRS foi de 5,5, a sensibilidade foi de 80,8% e a especificidade foi de 77,2% (AUC: 0,880, p:0,00). Na análise de Kaplan-Meier, verificou-se que a mortalidade foi maior no grupo com escore S-QRS ≥ 5,5 do que no grupo com escore S-QRS < 5,5. (Long-rank, p:0,00). CONCLUSÃO: Acreditamos que o escore S-QRS pode ser usado como um indicador prognóstico de mortalidade a longo prazo em pacientes com ICFEp.

[The frequency of aspirin resistance by a modified thrombelastography method and its relationship with clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with stable coronary artery disease]. / Kararli koroner arter hastaligi olanlarda modifiye tromboelastogram yöntemi ile aspirin direnci sikligi ve klinik ve laboratuvar bulgularla iliskisi.

OBJECTIVES: Aspirin is the cornerstone of antiplatelet therapy in cardiovascular medicine. However, aspirin resistance has been demonstrated in 0.4% to 83.3% of aspirin-receiving patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of aspirin resistance using a modified thrombelastography (mTEG) method and related clinical and biochemical parameters in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD), who received 100 mg/day aspirin. STUDY DESIGN: The study included 168 patients (115 males, 53 females; mean age 60±8 years) with stable CAD, receiving aspirin at a dose of 100 mg/day. Aspirin responsiveness was determined using mTEG, where aspirin resistance was defined as arachidonic acid-induced whole blood platelet aggregation inhibition (PAI) of less than 50%. RESULTS: Aspirin resistance was detected in 27 patients (16.1%). Platelet aggregation inhibition showed negative correlations with hyperlipidemia, smoking, spironolactone use, systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and total cholesterol and fibrinogen levels. In multivariate regression analysis, only fibrinogen level (OR=1.063, p=0.010) and pulse pressure (OR=1.197, p=0.023) were found to be independent indicators of aspirin resistance and PAI. In ROC analysis, cut-off values of 50 mmHg for pulse pressure and 400 mg/dl for fibrinogen level predicted aspirin resistance with 88.9% and 74% sensitivity and 64.4% and 68% specificity, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that measurements of fibrinogen level and pulse pressure may be used as easy and reliable methods in predicting aspirin resistance.