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The European Union’s (EU) financial assistance is an important instrument to use in preparing Candidate Countries (CCs) for membership. The EU’s financial assistance programs are implemented under the Decentralized Implementation System (DIS) in CCs. Building up an adequate institutional capacity during the accession period is of high importance for the effective use of the available resources and also for preparing the countries for their full absorption capacity of the EU’s Structural and Cohesion Funds. The experiences and best practices obtained during the implementation of previous accession programs provide valuable lessons for the CCs. Experience shows that the financial allocations may not be used fully by the beneficiary countries because of many different reasons such as a complex implementation system, excessive controls, too much eligibility criteria and inadequate administrative capacity. Considerable attention is therefore devoted to analyzing and improving the performance of the financial assistance programs. Tackling the low absorption problem encountered in the Member States (MSs) and CCs is becoming one of the central issues discussed at the EU and the national levels. Turkey is benefiting from the EU’s Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA). In this study, Turkey’s performance in the use of the IPA funds and the elements affecting the absorption capacity are assessed based on the experiences obtained both during the setting up of the DIS structure and in the outcomes of the implementation so far.

Although mean platelet volume (MPV) is an independent correlate of impaired angiographic reperfusion and 6-month mortality in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI), there is less data regarding the association between platelet distribution width (PDW) and in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). A total of 306 patients with STEMI pPCI were evaluated. No reflow was defined as a post-PCI thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade of 0, 1, or 2 (group 1). Angiographic success was defined as TIMI flow grade 3 (group 2). The values of MPV and PDW were higher among patients with no reflow. In-stent thrombosis, nonfatal myocardial infarction, in-hospital mortality, and MACEs were significantly more frequent among patients with no reflow. In multivariate analysis, PDW, MPV, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and glucose on admission were independent correlates of in-hospital MACEs. Admission PDW and MPV are independent correlates of no reflow and in-hospital MACEs among patients with STEMI undergoing pPCI.

Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been proposed as a prognostic marker to determine systemic inflammatory response and atherosclerosis. Our aim was to determine the relationship between NLR and development of coronary collateral circulation (CCC) in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). A total of 521 consecutive patients with stable CAD who underwent coronary angiography and documented total occlusion in one of those major coronary arteries were included in this study. Levels of fasting blood glucose, white blood cell, and NLR were significantly higher in patients with poor collateral than in those with good collateral. After multivariate analysis, high level of NLR was an independent predictor of CCC together with levels of fasting blood glucose. The receiver–operating characteristic analysis provided a cutoff value of 2.75 for NLR to predict poor CCC with 65% sensitivity and 68% specificity. We demonstrated an independent association between levels of NLR and development of CCC in patients with stable CAD.

Serum uric acid (SUA) levels have been proposed as a biomarker of coronary artery disease (CAD) and coronary collateral circulation (CCC). We investigated the association between SUA levels and development of CCC in patients with stable CAD. Consecutive patients (n = 480) with stable CAD who underwent coronary angiography and documented total occlusion in 1 of the major coronary arteries were included in this study. Levels of fasting blood glucose, white blood cell (WBC), creatinine, platelet count, and SUA were significantly higher in patients with poor CCC than in those with good CCC. After multivariate analysis, high levels of SUA were an independent predictor of CCC together with levels of fasting blood glucose and WBC. The receiver–operating characteristic analysis provided a cutoff value of 5.65 mg/dL for SUA to predict poor CCC with 60% sensitivity and 66% specificity. High levels of SUA may be associated with poor CCC in patients with stable CAD.

Objectives: Several studies have evaluated a relationship between increased red cell distribution width (RDW) and morbidity and mortality of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of serum RDW levels and development of coronary collateral vessel (CCV) in patients with ACS. Study design: We evaluated 226 patients with ACS in this prospective and cross-sectional study. Traditional laboratory and clinical parameters and serum RDW levels were measured on admission. All patients underwent coronary angiography on the first day after admission and patients with >80% stenosis were included in the study. The CCV was graded according to the Rentrop scoring system, and a Rentrop grade 0 was accepted as no CCV development (Group 1), while Rentrop grades 1-2-3 were accepted as presence of CCV development (Group 2). Results: Only levels of RDW were significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (Group 1 RDW 14.6+-1.9, Group 2 RDW 14.1+-1.4, p=0.02). The predictive value of serum RDW level for absence of collaterals (sensitivity of 58% and specificity of 54%, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve = 0.573) was 13.90. Conclusion: We found that high levels of RDW were associated with absence of CCV in patients with ACS.

We aimed to elucidate the relationship between mild to moderate renal impairements and burden of atherosclerosis in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). A total of 380 patients with ACS were included in the study. Gensini and SYNTAX scores were also calculated. Kidney function was classified based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) into stage 1: eGFR >90, stage 2: 60 to 89, and stage 3: 30 to 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2. Gensini and SYNTAX scores were higher in stages 2 and 3 than in stage 1. Also, the number of diseased vessels, number of critical lesions (>50 and 70%), left main disease, and number of total occlusion vessels were higher in stages 2 and 3 than in stage 1. Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that a decreased eGFR was an independent risk factor for SYNTAX and Gensini scores together with age and male gender.

Amaç: Bu çalışmada safen ven greft hastalığı (SVGH) ile yüksek duyarlıklı C-reaktif protein (hs-CRP) seviyeleri arasındaki ilişki değerlendirildi. Çalışma planı: Çalışmaya koroner arter baypas greft ameliyatı öyküsü olan, önceden belirlenen objektif kriterlere göre koroner anjiyografi yapılan toplam 78 hasta (54 erkek, 24 kadın; ort. yaş 60.4±9.4 yıl; dağılım 37-78 yıl) dahil edildi. Ateroskleroza neden olan risk faktörleri sorgulandı ve tüm hastaların biyokimyasal testleri çalışıldı. Safen ven greftlerden herhangi birinde %50 ve daha fazla darlık olması SVGH olarak tanımlandı. Hastalar SVGH olan (grup 1) ve SVGH olmayanlar (grup 2) olmak üzere iki gruba ayrıldı. Bulgular: Her iki grubun demografik özellikleri ve laboratuvar değerleri karşılaştırıldığında, grup 1’de vücut kütle indeksi (VKİ), total kolesterol/yüksek yoğunluklu lipoprotein (HDL) kolesterol, ürik asit (ÜA) ve hs-CRP düzeyleri anlamlı oranda yüksek olup, HDL kolesterol düzeyi anlamlı oranda düşüktü. Yapılan çok değişkenli lojistik regresyon analizinde VKİ, ÜA ve hs-CRP düzeylerinin SVGH’yi öngörmede bağımsız belirteçler olduğu tespit edildi (hs-CRP OR: 1.522, p, Background: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between the levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and saphenous venous graft disease (SVGD). Methods: A total of 78 patients (54 males, 24 females; mean age 60.4±9.4 years; range 37 to 78 years) with previous history of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery who underwent coronary angiography based on predetermined objective clinical criteria were included. Risk factors leading to atherosclerosis were questioned and biochemical tests were studied in all patients. A 50% or more stenosis in at least one of the saphenous vein grafts was defined as SVGD. The patients were divided in two groups according to the presence of SVGD (group 1), and the absence of SVGD (group 2). Results: When we compared the demographic characteristics and laboratory findings of both groups, body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ratio, uric acid (UA) and hs-CRP levels were significantly higher, while HDL cholesterol level was significantly lower in group 1. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that BMI, UA and hs-CRP levels were independent predictors of SVGD (hs-CRP OR: 1.522, p

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a common complication in hemodialysis (HD) patients and its pathogenesis is not explained clearly. Arterio-venous fistulas (AVFs) creation may contribute to the development of PAH because of increased pulmonary artery blood flow. However, it was not prospectively evaluated that effect of AVF on the development of PAH. Aim: We aimed to evaluate the effects of AVF on PAH and the relationship between blood flow rate of AVF and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) in HD patients. Patients and Method: The prospective study included 50 patients with end-stage renal disease. Before an AVF was surgically created for hemodialysis, the patients were evaluated by echocardiography. Then, an AVF was surgically created in the patients. After mean 76.14 +/- 11.37 days, the second evaluation was performed by echocardiography. Results: Before AVF creation, 17 (34%) out of 50 patients had PAH. The systolic PAP was significantly higher in the patients with PAH compared with patients without PAH (47.82 +/- 9.82 mmHg vs. 30.15 +/- 5.70 mmHg, respectively, p = 0.001). In the second evaluation, 19 (38%) out of 50 patients had PAH. The systolic PAP values were significantly higher in the patients with PAH compared with patients without PAH (47.63 +/- 8.92 mmHg vs. 25.03 +/- 7.69 mmHg, P = 0.001, respectively). There was no relationship between the blood flow rate of AVF and PAP. Conclusion: PAH is a common problem in HD patients. AVF has no significant effect on the development of PAH within a short period. Similarly, blood flow rate of AVF also did not affect remarkably the systolic PAP.

Early detection of atrial fibrillation patients at high risk for stroke is important. There are some studies which indicate that mean platelet volume (MPV) determines the prognosis and risk in patients with a stroke. In this study, our aim was to investigate the association between the MPV measured in stroke patients with atrial fibrillation. Consecutive patients referred to our center between January 2010 and April 2012 were included in this study. The patients with atrial fibrillation were classified into two groups according to presence or absence of a history of stroke by combining data from the medical histories after a thorough review of the medical records. MPV determination was made within 24 h following the onset of stroke. We studied 63 consecutive stroke patients with atrial fibrillation and 77 atrial fibrillation patients without stroke history. In receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the value for MPV levels to detect stroke with a sensitivity of 63.5% and specificity of 64.4% was 9.4 fl. High MPV (>9.4 fl) was significantly associated with the occurrence of stroke [odds ratio (OR) 4.021, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1709-9464, P < 0.001]. Our study supports the hypothesis that a high MPV is associated with an increased risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation patients.

Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate whether serum asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) level is an independent predictor of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). Study design: The study involved 90 consecutive patients with stable angina pectoris who underwent coronary angiography and ventriculography. Baseline serum creatinine (SCr) levels ranged between ≥1.2 and 124.7 ng/ml had 80% sensitivity and 76% specificity in predicting the development of CIN. In addition, we found a positive correlation between SCr change and serum ADMA level (p=0.001, r=0.35). Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that increased serum ADMA level is an independent predictor of CIN.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a new and hopefully therapeutic option in patients with symptomatic severe calcific aortic valve stenosis and multiple comorbidities who are not eligible for open-heart surgery due to unacceptable conventional surgical risks. Herein is reported the case of a patient who underwent TAVI in whom an unusual CoreValve bioprosthesis embolization occurred into the abdominal aorta. While attempting to retrieve the whole system, the conical tip of the catheter delivery system also became embolized into the right iliac artery. Importantly, this case demonstrated a rare complication of CoreValve bioprosthesis embolization which was managed without surgical intervention. Video 1: Peripheral angiography demonstrating the embolized CoreValve bioprosthesis. Video 2: Fluoroscopy demonstrating completely opened CoreValve bioprosthesis at a level above the iliac artery bifurcation and the mobile conical tip in the valve system. Video 3: Peripheral angiography demonstrating prosthetic valve without any flow limitation and embolized conical tip into the right internal iliac artery. Video 4: Peripheral angiography demonstrating prosthetic valve without any flow limitation and embolized conical tip into the right internal iliac artery. Video 5: Aortography demonstrating the successfully implanted second CoreValve bioprosthesis in an optimal aortic position, with no paravalvular leak. Video 6: Peripheral angiography demonstrating the embolized conical tip into the right iliac artery with a normal external iliac artery flow. Video 7: Peripheral angiography demonstrating the embolized conical tip into the right iliac artery with a normal external iliac artery flow.

WOS: 000389354000002 PubMed: 27994390 AIMS: To evaluate a new noncontact optical biometer using partial-coherence interferometry and to compare the clinical measurements with those obtained from the device using optical low-coherence reflectometry (OLCR). SETTING AND DESIGN: Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey. Nonrandomized, prospective clinical trial SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study was performed on the healthy phakic eyes of volunteers in the year 2014. Measurements of axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), central corneal thickness (CCT), mean keratometry (K), and white-to-white (WTW) measurements obtained with the low-time coherence interferometry (LTCI) were compared with those obtained with the OLCR. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The results were evaluated using Bland-Altman analyses. The differences between both methods were assessed using the paired t-test, and its correlation was evaluated by Pearson's coefficient. RESULTS: We examined seventy participants with a mean age of 33.06 (+/- 9.7) (range: 19-53) years. AL measurements with LTCI and OLCR were 23.7 (+/- 1.08) mm and 23.7 (+/- 1.1) mm, respectively. ACD was 3.6 (+/- 0.4) mm and 3.5 (+/- 0.4) mm for LTCI and OLCR, respectively. The mean CCT measurements for both devices were 533 (+/- 28) mm and 522 (+/- 28) mm, respectively. The mean K readings measurements for LTCI and OLCR were 43.3 (+/- 1.5) D and 43.3 (+/- 1.5) D, respectively. The mean WTW distance measurements for both devices were 12.0 (+/- 0.5) mm and 12.1 (+/- 0.5) mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Measurements with LTCI correlated well with those with the OLCR. These two devices showed good agreement for the measurement of all parameters.

Background: There are few studies about predictors of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in young patients. High red cell distribution width (RDW) levels were associated with adverse outcomes in patients with STEMI. We aimed to investigate the relationship between RDW and STEMI in young patients. Methods: This study included 370 patients who presented to our hospital with acute myocardial infarction (Group 1: 198 young patients, Results: Compared with Group 3, Group 1 had a significantly higher value of RDW (Group 1 RDW 14.1 ± 1.1%, Group 3 RDW 13.4 ± 0.9, p1 Conclusions: High levels of RDW were associated with STEMI in young patients. We think that RDW is a widely available marker with no additional costs, in contrast to other novel markers of cardiovascular risk.

Increased mean platelet volume (MPV) is associated with poor clinical outcome in patients with acute coronary syndrome. We evaluated the predictive role of MPV in young patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study includes 373 patients who presented to our hospital with AMI (group 1: 134 young patients, males aged

Objective We have previously shown that acute passive smoking impaired left ventricular diastolic function in healthy volunteers. The aim of this study was to determine whether length of exposure and/or ambient smoke concentration is the key determinant of this outcome. Methods We measured blood carboxyhemoglobin (COHb)and lactate level to investigate the acute effects of passive smoking on tissue oxygenation. A total of 90 healthy nonsmoker volunteers were prospectively enrolled into the study. Each of 30 subjects were exposed to carbon monoxide (CO) less than 5.0 ppm smoke in group A for 30 minutes, to CO 5 to 10 ppm smoke in group B for 30 minutes, and to CO less than 5.0 ppm smoke in group C for 60 minutes. Hemodynamic parameters were obtained, blood samples for measuring COHb and lactate levels were taken and echocardiographic examinations were performed at baseline and after exposure to passive smoking. Results Mean ± SD CO levels in groups A, B, and C were 4.2 ± 0.5 ppm, 9.2 ± 0.3 ppm, and 4.1 ± 0.8 ppm, respectively. There was no change in left ventricular systolic functions in all groups. Left ventricular diastolic functions were impaired in groups B and C, whereas no change was observed in group A. Carboxyhemoglobin and lactate levels increased after passive smoking in groups B and C. However, group B had significantly higher COHb and lactate levels compared to group C ( P < 0.001). Conclusions Our results suggested that passive smoking at a certain dose in relation with length of exposure and ambient smoke concentration seems to cause relative left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.

We aimed to evaluate the long-term effect of hemodialysis (HD) treatment on left and right ventricular (LV and RV) functions in patients with end-stage renal disease. The study population consisted of 22 patients with newly diagnosed end-stage renal disease. Before an arteriovenous fistula was surgically created for HD, the patients were evaluated by echocardiography for systolic and diastolic functions. After the first HD session (mean 24.22 ± 2.14 months), the second echocardiographic evaluations were performed. Left ventricular and RV functions before and after long-term HD treatment were compared. The mean age was 55 ± 13 years and 10 (45%) of the patients were female. After long-term HD treatment, the isovolumic relaxation time was significantly decreased; however, the peak early (E) and late (A) diastolic mitral inflow velocities, E/A ratio, and deceleration time of E wave were not significantly different from the baseline measurements. Also, there was no significantly change in the early diastolic velocity (Ea) of the lateral mitral anulus and the E/Ea ratio. Pulmonary vein peak diastolic velocity, peak atrial reversal velocity, and peak atrial reversal velocity duration remained almost unchanged even though the pulmonary vein peak systolic velocity and the pulmonary vein peak systolic velocity/pulmonary vein peak diastolic velocity ratio were significantly lower after long-term HD treatment. In addition, LV systolic functions, LV diameters, LV mass index, left atrium size, and RV diastolic functions were not statistically different after long-term HD treatment. The myocardium is exposed to hemodynamic, metabolic, and neuro-humoral abnormalities during HD treatment; however, the long-term effects of HD on ventricular functions are not clearly known. The present study showed that the long-term effects of HD on LV and RV functions were insignificant in patients with end-stage renal disease. We have demonstrated that the LV and RV functions did not change significantly after long-term HD treatment. We suggest that this result may be due to regulated blood pressure levels of the patients, treatment of anemia and other metabolic disorders during the HD period and the prevention of weight gain and hypervolemia.

In this study, pollution in Curuksu Stream of Menderes River has been followed by measuring the chemical and biological parameters on five predetermined stations for about 20 mon. Our previous studies have shown that Limnodrilus profundicola, Eristalis sp. and Chironomus thummi taxa are valuable bioindicators for the Curuksu stream and Limnodrilus profundicola Metallo-Thionein (MT) and EthoxyResorufi n-O-deEthylase (EROD) levels are valuable and useful biomarkers for biomonitoring heavy metals and PAHs pollutions, respectively. Cu-, Cr-, Cd- and Pb-type pollution was detected in all sediment samples taken from all of the stations, including reference station. Pollution source of these heavy metals are considered to be industrial wastewater, atmosphere and soil. Similarly, PAHs level was found to be considerably higher for Curuksu and Guzelkoy stations than other stations. These heavy metal- and PAHs-pollution were also confirmed with elevated MT and EROD levels measured with Limnodrilus profundicola sampl...

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate long-term effects of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) on the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and the relationship between blood flow rate of AVF and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) in the patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This prospective study was performed in 20 patients with ESRD. Before an AVF was surgically created for hemodialysis, the patients were evaluated by echocardiography. Then, an AVF was surgically created in all patients. After mean 23.50 ± 2.25 months, the second evaluation was performed by echocardiography. Also, the blood flow rate of AVF was measured at the second echocardiographic evaluation. Pulmonary arterial hypertension was defined as a systolic PAP above 35 mmHg at rest. Mean age of 20 patients with ESRD was 55.05 ± 13.64 years; 11 of 20 patients were males. Pulmonary arterial hypertension was detected in 6 (30%) patients before AVF creation and in 4 (20%) patients after AVF creation. Systolic PAP value was meaningfully lower after AVF creation than before AVF creation (29.95 ± 10.26 mmHg vs. 35.35 ± 7.86 mmHg, respectively, P: 0.047). However, there was no significant difference between 2 time periods in terms of presence of PAH (P>0.05). Pulmonary artery pressure did not correlate with blood flow rate of AVF and duration after AVF creation (P>0.05). In hemodialysis patients, a surgically created AVF has no significant effect on the development of PAH within a long-term period. Similarly, blood flow rate of AVF also did not affect remarkably systolic PAP within the long-term period.

Objective: Behcet's disease is a chronic inflammatory vasculitis. Vascular involvement is one of the major complications of Behcet's disease, during the course of the disease. Previous studies showed that ACE inhibitors and statins may improve endothelial functions in endothelial dysfunction. The aim of our study is to compare the effects of atorvastatin and lisinopril to placebo on endothelial dysfunction in patients with Behcet's disease. Patients and methods: We prospectively studied 92 (48 female) Behcet's patients who were diagnosed according to the International Study Group criteria. Endothelial dysfunction was evaluated by brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) method using high-resolution vascular ultrasound device at baseline and after for 3-month therapy. Patients were consecutively randomized into three groups as (atorvastatin (n = 31), lisinopril (n = 31), and placebo groups (n = 30). Patients in atorvastatin group received 20 mg atorvastatin, lisinopril group received 10 mg lisinopril per day, and placebo group received placebo per day for 3 months. Results: The baseline characteristics of patients were similar among three groups; however, high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels were lower in atorvastatin group than placebo group. A significant improvement in FMD was observed in both atorvastatin (5.0 ± 1.4 vs. 12.8 ± 3.6%, P < 0.001) and lisinopril groups (5.0 ± 1.2 vs. 11.4 ± 5.0%, P < 0.001). Partial significant enhancement was observed in placebo group (4.9 ± 1.1% vs. 5.7 ± 1.0, P = 0.002). However, it was lower than the cutoff value for endothelial dysfunction. Conclusion: These findings suggest that atorvastatin and lisinopril improve endothelial functions in Behcet's disease patients. However, large studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of atorvastatin and lisinopril therapy. (Echocardiography 2010;27:997-1003)

In-stent restenosis (ISR) is a common clinical problem in patients with coronary artery disease treated with percutaneous coronary intervention. Inflammatory process plays a pivotal role in the development of ISR. Both lymphocytes and monocytes are associated with inflammatory status. Recently, it has been shown that the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) is a novel inflammatory marker. We aimed to investigate the association of serum LMR levels and ISR in patients undergoing bare-metal stent (BMS) implantation. The study included 273 patients (aged 61 ± 11 years, 66.5% men) with a history of BMS implantation and a further control coronary angiography due to stable angina pectoris. Patients were divided into 2 groups: patients with and without ISR. The LMR levels were significantly lower in patients with ISR than in those without ISR (2.50 ± 0.95 vs 3.87 ± 1.51, respectively, P < .001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the LMR was independently associated with ISR (odds ratio [OR]: 0.310, 95% confidence interval: 0.166-0.579, P < .001) together with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (OR: 1.244, P = .008), reason for stent implantation (OR: 6.566, P = .003), stent diameter (OR: 0.015, P < .001), and stent length (OR: 1.137, P = .007). In conclusion, LMR levels are inversely related to ISR in patients treated with BMS implantation.

Treatment of hemaophilia patients with inhibitor has been difficult situation especially in emergency rooms. Here, we report the successful treatment of a patient with inhibitor positive severe hemophilia A hospitalized due to intracerebral haemorrhage after traffic accident.

The no-reflow phenomenon is associated with adverse outcomes in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated by a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Procalcitonin (PCT) is a marker of systemic inflammatory states and an elevated serum PCT concentration is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. We aimed to assess whether serum PCT level at admission is an independent predictor of no-reflow in patients with STEMI treated with PPCI.Between November 2012 and December 2014, 501 consecutive patients with STEMI who underwent PPCI within the first 12 h following the onset of symptoms were enrolled. Serum PCT levels were measured on admission. Patients (age: 59±13 years, 73.5% men) were divided into the two groups: no-reflow and reflow. The no-reflow phenomenon was defined as final Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction flow grade less than 3 after PPCI.No-reflow was diagnosed in 91 (18.2%) patients. PCT levels were significantly higher in patients who developed no-reflow than in those who did not [0.102 (0.063-0.247) vs. 0.042 (0.020-0.076) μg/l, P0.001]. In receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, the cut-off value of PCT was 0.066 μg/l for the prediction of no-reflow (area under the curve: 0.776, 95% confidence interval: 0.720-0.831, P0.001, sensitivity: 73%, specificity: 70%). On multivariate analysis, serum PCT (0.066 μg/l) value was an independent predictor of no-reflow (odds ratio: 3.377, 95% confidence interval: 1.572-7.255, P=0.002), together with early patency of culprit artery (P=0.046), Killip class more than or equal to 2 at presentation (P=0.028), and total stent length (P=0.004).Increased admission PCT level is associated independently with no-reflow after PPCI in STEMI patients.

A higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is associated with poor clinical outcomes in various cardiovascular diseases, including acute coronary syndromes. However, the relationship between NLR and contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not been known. Hence, we investigated whether admission NLR is associated with CIN after PCI in patients with NSTE-ACS.A total of 478 patients (mean age 62.8±12.6 years, and 64.2% men), who were admitted to our hospital for NSTEACS and underwent PCI with stent, were recruited. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was calculated via dividing neutrophil count by lymphocyte count. The patients were divided into two groups: CIN (+) and CIN (-). Contrast-induced nephropathy was defined as a ≥0.5mg/dL and/or a ≥25% increase in serum creatinine within 48-72hours post-PCI.Admission NLR was significantly higher in patients with CIN than in patients without CIN (median 5.43, interquartile range 3.23-7.73 vs. median 2.59, interquartile range 1.83-3.88, P0.001). On multivariate analysis, NLR ≥ 3.46 value (OR=2.631, 95%CI 1.146-6.060, P=0.022), estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR=0.963, P=0.004), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (OR=1.028, P=0.016) were independent factors of CIN.Increased NLR is independently associated with risk of CIN in NSTE-ACS patients treated by PCI.

Recently, it has been shown that the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) is a novel inflammatory marker. A decreased LMR is associated significantly with a high risk for vascular endpoints in patients with peripheral arterial disease. We aimed to investigate whether LMR on admission is associated with no-reflow after a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).A total of 857 patients (mean age 58.9±13.1 years, 75.6% men), who were admitted to our hospital for STEMI and undergoing primary PCI within 12 h of onset of symptoms, were recruited. LMR was calculated by dividing the lymphocyte count by the monocyte count. The patients were divided into two groups according to the postprocedural thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flows: no-reflow and normal-reflow. No-reflow was defined as a final TIMI flow of 2 or less or final TIMI flow of 3 with a myocardial blush grade of less than 2.Admission LMR levels were significantly lower in patients with no-reflow than in patients with normal-reflow (1.85±1.01 vs. 3.64±1.74, P0.001). A receiver-operating characteristic analysis indicated that an LMR value of less than 2.292 and had a 76.3% sensitivity and a 72.5% specificity in predicting no-reflow. Multivariate analysis showed that LMR less than 2.292 [odds ratio (OR) 2.657, P=0.030], Killip class at least 2 at admission (OR 3.442, P=0.039), baseline infarct artery patency (OR 0.260, P=0.004), neutrophil count (OR 1.213, P=0.002), and total stent length (OR 1.059, P=0.001) were independent factors for predicting no-reflow.Our results suggested that LMR could be a simple and useful marker to predict high risk of patients for no-reflow in patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI.

Cardiac syndrome X (CSX) is a condition characterized by exercise-induced chest pain that occurs considering a normal coronary angiogram. We aimed to investigate the total serum antioxidant capacity (TAC) and biventricular global functions using echocardiography in patients with CSX.The study population included 55 patients with typical anginal symptoms and a positive exercise stress test, or ischemia in myocardial perfusion scintigraphy and normal coronary arteries detected angiographically, and 49 healthy volunteers with atypical chest pain and a negative stress test. TAC was assessed from blood samples. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed for the entire study population. The Tei index was calculated using the formula IVCT+IVRT/ET.TAC was found to be significantly lower in the CSX group compared with the control group (0.70±0.37 vs. 1.5±0.30, respectively, P0.001). The Tei index was significantly higher in patients with CSX than the control group (0.60±0.18 vs. 0.42±0.12, respectively, P0.001).There was a significant and inverse relationship between TAC and the Tei index (r=-0.41, P0.001). When we divided the study population according to the normal range of TAC into the decreased TAC group (1.30 mmol/l), the normal TAC group (1.30-1.77 mmol/l), and the increased TAC group (1.77 mmol/l), it was found that the Tei index was higher in the decreased TAC group compared with the other groups (0.66±0.18 vs. 0.49±0.10 and 0.46±0.13 mmol/l, P0.001, respectively).Our study suggested that TAC was significantly decreased in CSX patients and decreased antioxidant levels were related to impaired Tei index in echocardiography in patients with microvascular angina.

Background: CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores are widely used in clinical practice and include similar risk factors for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). It is known that the factors comprising the newly defined CHA2DS2-VASc-HSF score promote atherosclerosis and are associated with severity of CAD. Aim: To investigate the association of the CHA2DS2-VASc-HSF score with the severity of CAD as assessed by SYNTAX score (SxS) in patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: A total of 454 consecutive patients with STEMI (males 79%, mean age 57.3 ± 12.9 years), who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention were included in our study. The patients were divided into three groups according to the SxS tertiles: low SxS group (SxS < 14; 151 patients), intermediate SxS group (SxS 14–20; 152 patients), and high SxS group (SxS ≥ 21; 151 patients). Results: The CHADS2, CHA2DS2-VASc, and CHA2DS2VASc-HSF scores were found to be significantly different among the SxS groups (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001). After multivariate analysis, the CHA2DS2-VASc-HSF score was associated with high SxS (odds ratio [OR] 1.258, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.026–1.544; p = 0.028) together with age (OR 1.032, 95% CI 1.013–1.050; p = 0.001) and ejection fraction (OR 0.927, 95% CI 0.901–0.955; p < 0.001). Conclusions: A newly diagnosed CHA2DS2-VASc-HSF score predicts the severity of atherosclerosis in patients with STEMI.

High sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels are associated with short- and long-term mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We investigated whether baseline hs-CRP levels are associated with burden of coronary atherosclerosis assessed by SYNTAX score (SXScore).We enrolled 321 patients with ACS who underwent coronary angiography. The patients were divided into tertiles according to the SXScore: low SXScore (≤ 22), and intermediate-high SXScore (≥ 23).Subjects in the intermediate-high SXScore tertile had higher serum hs-CRP levels compare to low SXScore tertile patients (7.7 ± 3.4 mg/L versus 4.9 ± 2.5 mg/L, P < 0.001). The mean age of patients and prevalance of diabetes in the intermediate-high SXScore tertile were significantly higher than in the low SXScore tertile (63 ± 13 versus 58 ± 12 years P = 0.001 for age, P = 0.007 for diabetes). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the strongest predictors of high SXScore were increased serum hs-CRP levels (OR: 1.14) together with multivessel disease (OR: 0.23), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (OR: 0.90), and troponin levels (OR: 1.12).Serum hs-CRP levels on admission in patients with ACS could predict the severity and complexity of coronary atherosclerosis together with multivessel disease, LVEF, and troponin levels. Thus, increased serum levels of hs-CRP were one of the strong predictors of high SXScore in ACS patients.

Purpose:To report and compare the surgical, visual, and anatomical outcomes following treatment of dislocated intraocular lenses (IOLs).Methods:The medical records of 28 eyes of 28 patients were evaluated. Age, gender, pre-and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), surgical methods, and complications were recorded.Results:Pre-and postoperative BCVA ranged from counting fingers to 20/32 and from counting fingers to 20/25, respectively. Late-onset dislocations were the most frequently observed complication. The most frequent surgical method was IOL repositioning in 15 of 28 patients, followed by IOL exchange in 11 patients, and IOL removal in 2 patients. Only 1 patient required surgical re-intervention with IOL capture.Conclusions:Visual acuity improved following the use of either IOL repositioning or IOL exchange. No superiority of one method over the other was observed. In the present retrospective case series, management of dislocated IOLs with repositioning or exchange of the primary implant conferred comparable surgical and visual outcomes. RESUMOObjetivo:Relatar e comparar as abordagens cirúrgicas e os resultados visuais e anatômicos no tratamento de lentes intraoculares (IOL) deslocadas.Métodos:Foram avaliados os registros médicos de 28 olhos de 28 pacientes. Idade, sexo, melhor acuidade visual corrigida pré e pós-operatória, abordagens cirúrgicas e complicações foram registrados.Resultados:Melhor acuidade visual corrigida pré e pós-operatória variou de conta dedos a 20/32 e de conta dedos a 20/25, respectivamente. Os deslocamentos tardios foram os mais frequentemente encontrados. A cirurgia mais frequente foi o reposicionamento da IOL em 15 dos 28 pacientes, em seguida, o troca da IOL em 11 pacientes, e a remoção da IOL em dois pacientes. Apenas um caso de necessitou de reintervenção devido à captura da IOL.Conclusões:A acuidade visual melhorou em ambas as abordagens, reposicionamento e troca de IOL. Não houve superioridade de um método sobre o outro. Na presente série de casos retrospectiva, o tratamento do deslocamento de IOL com reposição ou troca do implante primário gerou resultados cirúrgicos e visuais comparáveis.

Perikardiyosentez, perikardiyal boşlukta fizyolojik sınırların üzerinde biriken sıvının boşaltılması işlemidir. Klinik pratikte daha çok kardiyak tamponat durumunda hayat kurtarıcı bir işlem olarak uygulandığı gibi tanı amaçlı da yapılmaktadır. Görüntüleme yöntemlerinde gelişmelere bağlı olarak perikardiyosentez yapmak için kullanılan yöntemler de değişkenlik göstermektedir. Bizim bu makalede amacımız; perikardiyosentez tarihçesi ve endikasyonları hakkında bilgi verdikten sonra modern gelişmeler ışığında perikardiyosentez yöntemlerini anlatmaktır, Pericardiocentesis is the evacuation of fluid (which exceeds physiologic levels) from pericardial space. Although it\'s generally used as a life saving procedure in cardiac tamponade, it is also used for diagnostic purposes. Together with the advances in imaging modalities, pericardiocentesis techniques are diversed. In this report our aim is to give an idea about the history and indications of pericardiocentesis and thereafter briefly explain the tecniques of pericardiocentesis under the light of modern advances.

High Syntax score (SXscore) is associated with more serious disease and worse prognosis in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Plasma fibrinogen levels are associated with poor cardiovascular outcomes.To investigate the relation of admission fibrinogen levels with intermediate-high SXscore in patients with ACS.A total of 752 patients (61.6 ± 12.8 years, 67.3% men) with ACS, who underwent urgent coronary angiography (CAG) were enrolled. Laboratory data including fibrinogen and high sensitivity C-reactive protein were obtained before CAG. Syntax scores of all patients were calculated from baseline CAG. The patients were divided into two groups: low SXscore (≤ 22) and intermediate-high SXscore (≥ 23).Admission fibrinogen levels were significantly higher in the SXscore ≥ 23 group when compared with the SXscore ≤ 22 group (median 492 mg/dL, interquartile range 428-581 mg/dL vs. median 370 mg/dL, interquartile range 309-428 mg/dL, respectively; p0.001). In multivariate analysis, the independent predictors of intermediate-high SXscore were fibrinogen (OR 1.008, 95% CI 1.005-1.010, p0.001), left ventricular ejection fraction (OR 0.935, p0.001), and age (OR 1.029, p = 0.041). A level of fibrinogen417 mg/dL had an 80.0% sensitivity and 71.3% specificity in predicting intermediate-high SXscore.Increased fibrinogen levels are independently associated with intermediate-high SXscore in patients with ACS.

Objective: To show etiology, diagnostic methods, and treatment options of patients with severe pericardial effusion determined after echocardiography. Methods: In this study, we retrospectively analyzed etiology, diagnosis and treatment options of 43 patients with severe pericardial effusions (i.e. effusions more than 20 mm either in front of the right ventricle or posterior to left ventricle as assessed by transthoracic echocardiography). The pericardiocentesis procedures were performed via subxiphoid approach. Glucose, protein, lactate dehydrogenase levels, polymerase chain reaction for tuberculosis, cytological, microbiological examinations and cultures were obtained from pericardial fluid. Results: Cardiac tamponade was diagnosed in 23 patients (54%) and pericardiocentesis was immediately performed in these cases. Twenty patients who were unresponsive to empirical treatment, underwent pericardiocentesis to evaluate etiology and treatment.. Pericardial fluid was found to be exudate in 36 patients (83.7%) and transudate in 7 patients (16.2%). The most common causes were malignancy (26%), and uremia (16%) while idiopathic cases constituted 23% of the patient group. While malignant pericardial effusion was more common in males, idiopathic etiology and uremia were more common in female patients. Conclusion: Pericardiocentesis is the gold standard for clarifying the etiology and is also a lifesaving measure for cardiac tamponade. Delineating the specific etiology is particularly important for cases that do not respond to empirical treatment. A thorough history and physical examination, together with pericardiocentesis in selected cases will enable the accurate diagnosis of specific etiology and starting the treatment for this etiology. Key words: Pericardiocentesis, echocardiography, effusion, Amaç: Ekokardiyografi sonrasında saptanan ciddi perikardiyal efüzyonu olan hastalarda etiyoloji, tanı metotları ve tedavi seçeneklerini göstermektir. Yöntemler: Bu çalışmada geriye dönük olarak, ciddi perikardiyal efüzyonu olan 43 hastayı (transtorasik ekokardiyografide sağ ventrikül önünde veya sol ventrikül arkasında 20 mm\'den fazla olan efüzyon, kalbi çevreleyen efüzyon) etiyoloji, tanı ve tedavi seçenekleri açısından analiz ettik. Perikardiyosentez prosedürü subksifoid yol üzerinden yapıldı. Perikardiyal sıvıdan glukoz, protein, laktat dehidrojenaz, tüberküloz için polimeraz zincir reaksiyonu, sitolojik, mikrobiyolojik testler ve kültür çalışıldı. Bulgular: Yirmi üç hastada (%54) hastada kardiyak tamponat tanısı konuldu ve erken perikardiyosentez uygulandı. Ampirik tedaviye yanıtı olmayan yirmi hastaya, etiyoloji ve tedaviyi yönetmek açısından perikardiyosentez uygulandı. Otuzaltı hastada (%83,7) perikardiyal sıvı eksüda iken, 7 hastada (%16,2) transüda idi. En sık görülen nedenler malignensi (%26), ve üremi (%16) iken etiyolojisi belirlenemeyen hastalar da %23'ü oluşturuyordu. Malign perikardiyal efüzyon erkeklerde sık görülürken, üremiye bağlı olan ve nedeni belirlenemeyen effüzyonlar kadın hastalarda sık görülmekteydi. Sonuçlar: Perikardiyosentez, kardiyak tamponatta hayat kurtarıcı bir tedavidir ve etiyolojiyi netleştirmede altın standarttır. Özellikle, ampirik tedavinin başarısız olduğu durumlarda, spesifik etiyolojiyi saptamak önemlidir. Dikkatli alınan medikal öykü, detaylı fizik muayene ve gerekirse perikardiyosentez prosedürü, spesifik etiyoloji için tanı koymada ve hastalığın yönetiminde yardımcı olacaktır.

WOS: 000373181000004 PubMed: 26115695 The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of pupil dilation on the parameters of the AL-Scan (Nidek Co., Ltd, Gamagori, Japan). We compared the measurements of axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), central corneal keratometry reading, pupil diameter, and intraocular lens (IOL) power of 72 eyes of 72 healthy volunteers and patients scheduled for cataract surgery before and 45 min after instillation of cyclopentolate hydrochloride 1 % using the AL-Scan. Intraobserver repeatability was assessed by taking three consecutive recordings of ACD and AL. Only ACD readings were significantly different between predilation and postdilation (P < 0.001). The difference of the other measurements between two sessions was not statistically significant (P > 0.001). Only two cases in the study demonstrated changes in IOL power higher than 0.5 D. The intraobserver repeatability of both devices was good (CV values for ACD and AL were 0.16 and 0.20 %, respectively). Dilated pupil size did not affect the measurement of IOL power using the A-Scan optical biometer, but increase in ACD after dilation should be taken into account when performing refractive surgeries in which ACD is very important such as phakic anterior chamber IOL implantation.

Rivaroxaban is a new anticoagulant that was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011 for stroke and systemic embolism prophylaxis in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Several characteristics have made rivaroxaban an attractive alternative to warfarin: once-daily dosing, obviating the need for monitoring the international normalized ratio (INR), noninferiority to warfarin for preventing stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation, and comparatively lower risk of intracranial hemorrhage. Both The European Summary of Product Characteristics and the US Prescribing Information recommend to discontinue warfarin and to start rivaroxaban on the following day if the initial INR level is below 3.0, yet many clinics convert patient from warfarin to rivaroxaban when INR level is

Amaç: silikon tüp implantasyonunun dakrokistorinostomi cerrahisinde başarı oranına etkisini araştırdık. Yöntemler: Üçüncü basamak bir hastanede 2012 ile 2014 yılları arasında primer nazolakrimal kanal obstrüksiyonu olup cerrahi operasyon geçiren toplam 79 hasta retrospektif olarak incelendi. Lakrimal drenaj sistem açıklığı lakrimal enjeksiyonla değerlendirildi. Silikon tüp entübasyonu 2012-2013 yıllarında cerrahi geçiren ilk 37 hastaya uygulandı, 2013-2014 yıllarında cerrahi geçiren sonraki 42 hastaya uygulanmadı. Üçüncü aydaki kontrol sırasında yaş, cinsiyet, lateralizasyon ve lakrimal irigasyon kaydedildi. Lakrimal enjeksiyon/irigasyon ile oluşturulmuş ostium açıklığı cerrahi başarı olarak kabul edildi. Bulgular: Başarı oranı silikon entübasyonu olan hastalarda %89,2 (33/37), entübasyonu olmayanlarda %88,1 (37/42) idi. Gruplar arasındaki fark istatistiksel olarak anlamlı değildi (p0,05). Sonuçlar: Bu çalışma cerrahide silikon tüp implantasyonunun gerekli olmadığını göstermektedir. Silikon çubuk kullanmama maliyeti ve cerrahi süresini azaltır. Piyojenik granülom oluşumu, punktal erozyon ve korneal erozyon gibi olası komplikasyonlarla ilgili olarak silikon çubuğun eksternal dakrokistorinostomide kullanılması gerekli değildir. Objectives: We searched the effect of silicone tube implantation to the success rate of dacryocystorhinostomy surgery. Methods: A total 79 patients with primary nasolacrimal duct obstruction had surgery between 2012 and 2014 were retrospectively reviewed in a tertiary referral hospital. The patency of lacrimal drainage system was evaluated with lacrimal syringing. Silicone tube intubation was added to surgery in 37 consecutive patients between 2012-2013 and was not used in 42 consecutive patients between 2013-2014. Age, gender, laterality, and lacrimal irrigation in the third month visit were recorded. Surgical success was accepted as the patency of the formed ostium with lacrimal syringing/irrigation. Results: Success rate was 89.2% (33/37) in patients with silicone intubation, and 88.1% (37/42) in without intubation. The difference between the groups was not found as statistically significant (p>0.05). Conclusions: This study shows that the silicone tube implantation is not necessary in the surgery. Omitting the use of silicone rod reduces both the cost and the time of the surgery. Regarding with the possible complications including pyogenic granuloma formation, punctal erosion, and corneal erosion, it is not essential to use silicone rod routinely in external dacryocystorhinostomy.

WOS: 000347412700011 PubMed: 25234425 A patient that developed paresis of the sixth cranial nerve and bilateral papilloedema after the bee sting to the periocular area is presented. Magnetic resonance venography showed a unilateral transverse and sigmoid sinus thrombosis. The patient was successfully treated with anticoagulation and intracranial pressure lowering treatment.

Prinzmetal variant angina due to epicardial coronary artery spasm is a disease usually treated with drug therapy with successful results. However, a small percentage of patients are resistant to medical therapy. In this report, we present a patient with recurrent vasospastic episodes who was refractory to conventional pharmacological treatment and successfully treated with an amiodarone treatment. We also discuss the therapeutic effectiveness of amiodarone therapy for vasospastic angina.

The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in olive oils obtained from Edremit yaglik cultivar during malaxation. For this purpose, olives were processed to olive oil in industrial scale, and during processing olive paste obtained after crushing were malaxed for eight different malaxation times. The olive oil samples were evaluated for their quality parameters, volatile compounds, fatty acid, and sterol profiles. Results showed that free fatty acids increased; peroxide values, chlorophyll and carotenoid content, hexanal concentration decreased; K232 and K270 values, total phenol and tocopherol content fluctuated throughout malaxation. Fatty acid and sterol composition remained unchanged toward kneading process. Polyphenoloxidase activity decreased to a limit and remained almost constant till the end of malaxation period; whereas peroxidase activity tended to increase up to 40 min malaxation and afterward it began to lose its activity. PCA enabled the grouping of samples obtained from long and shorter malaxing periods. Practical applications Change in quality and some compositional parameters of virgin olive oil from Edremit yaglik variety during malaxation were investigated. Results have shown that some properties of virgin olive oil are affected by malaxation time. It is also possible to regulate the volatile composition by changing the kneading time. The current work examines the relation between the enzymatic activity and oil quality throughout the process, as well. The findings of the current study might be considered useful for olive oil producers to obtain optimum quality olive oil.

The angiographical incidence of coronary anomalies was 1.3%. Anomalous origin of the left main coronary artery arising from the right sinus of Valsalva is extremely rare occurring in approximately 0.019% of angiographic series. Most of these anomalies are not clinically important. Percutaneous coronary intervention plays an important role in the management of acute myocardial infarction, and coronary anomalies may determine a lower success rate of this intervention. We report here the unusual case of a patient with single coronary ostium and acute inferior myocardial infarction who underwent successful coronary stenting.

Background To research the effectiveness of hyaluronidase in evisceration surgery. Methods A total of 34 patients were studied as three groups: conventional surgery group ( n = 13); isotonic fluid group ( n = 8); and hyaluronidase group ( n = 13). Hyaluronidase and isotonic fluid were introduced into the uveo-scleral space. Intraocular content was removed, if possible by a one-scoop method, with the aid of a spoon. Results Removing all the intraocular content as a one-scoop method was achieved in 10 of 13 (77%) in the hyaluronidase group and four of eight (50%) in the isotonic fluid group. The one-scoop method was not possible in any case without the introduction of fluid. The mean durations for the evisceration procedure were 32, 36.6 and 40.5 min in the three groups, respectively ( P Conclusions Using hyaluronidase in evisceration surgery greatly facilitates and speeds up the removal of all the intraocular content in ophthalmic evisceration surgery.

Chronic total occlusion (CTO) in a noninfarct-related artery (non-IRA) is an independent predictor of mortality in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Mean platelet volume (MPV) and serum uric acid (SUA) are associated with cardiovascular events in ACS. We investigated the relationship between the presence of non-IRA-CTO with MPV and SUA levels in patients with ACS. Patients (n = 1024) who underwent urgent coronary angiography for ACS were included in this study. Blood samples were drawn on admission. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: non-IRA-CTO (−) and non-IRA-CTO (+). The MPV and SUA levels on admission were significantly higher in the non-IRA-CTO (+) group than in the non-IRA-CTO (−) group ( P < .001). At multivariate analysis, MPV (odds ratio [OR]: 4.705, P < .001) and SUA (OR: 2.535, P < .001) were independent predictors of non-IRA-CTO together with age, hemoglobin, ejection fraction, and non-ST-segment elevation ACS. The MPV and SUA levels were significant and independent predictors for the presence of non-IRA-CTO in patients with ACS.

Objective We aimed to elucidate the relationship between mild-to-moderate renal impairment and the development of coronary collateral vessels (CCV) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Low serum albumin (SA) levels are associated with increased cardiovascular mortality. We investigated whether baseline SA levels are associated with no-reflow following primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). A total of 536 patients (aged 60 ± 13 years; 74% men) who underwent pPCI were enrolled. The patients were divided into 2 groups: no-reflow and normal-reflow. No-reflow was defined as thrombolysis in myocardial infarction ≤2 flow. Admission SA levels were significantly lower in the no-reflow group than in the normal-reflow group (3.55 ± 0.44 vs 4.01 ± 0.32 mg/dL, P < .001). Also, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), creatinine, creatine kinase myocardial band isoenzyme, and troponin T were significantly higher while hemoglobin and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were significantly lower in the no-reflow group. In multivariate analysis, SA level remained an independent predictor of angiographic no-reflow (odds ratio 0.114, 95% confidence interval 0.032-0.405, P = .001) together with LVEF, hsCRP, and baseline culprit artery patency. Admission SA level was an independent predictor of no-reflow after pPCI.

We studied 403 consecutive patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). This population was divided into tertiles according to the SYNTAX score (SXscore). The high SXscore group was defined as an SXscore ≥13, and the low SXscore group as an SXscore

OBJECTIVE We aimed to investigate effects of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction on left atrial appendage functions, spontaneous echo contrast and thrombus formation in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. METHODS In 58 patients with chronic nonvalvular atrial fibrilation and preserved left ventricular systolic function, left atrial appendage functions, left atrial spontaneous echo contrast grading and left ventricular diastolic functions were evaluated using transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiogram. Patients divided in two groups: Group D (n=30): Patients with diastolic dysfunction, Group N (n=28): Patients without diastolic dysfunction. Categorical variables in two groups were evaluated with Pearson's chi-square or Fisher's exact test. The significance of the lineer correlation between the degree of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) and clinical measurements was evaluated with Spearman's correlation analysis. RESULTS Peak pulmonary vein D velocity of the Group D was significantly higher than the Group N (p=0.006). However, left atrial appendage emptying velocity, left atrial appendage lateral wall velocity, peak pulmonary vein S, pulmonary vein S/D ratio were found to be significantly lower in Group D (p=0.028, p