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Early prediction of the mortality, neurological outcome is clinically essential after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation. To find a prognostic marker among unselected cardiac arrest survivors, we aimed to evaluate the alterations of the l-arginine pathway molecules in the early post-resuscitation care. We prospectively enrolled adult patients after successfully resuscitated in- or out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Blood samples were drawn within 6, 24, and 72 post-cardiac arrest hours to measure asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA and SDMA) and l-arginine plasma concentrations. We recorded Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, Simplified Acute Physiology Score, and Cerebral Performance Category scores. Endpoints were 72 h, intensive care unit, and 30-day mortality. Among 54 enrolled patients [median age: 67 (61–78) years, 48% male], the initial ADMA levels were significantly elevated in those who died within 72 h [0.88 (0.64–0.97) µmol/L vs. 0.55 (0.45–0.69) µmol/L, p = 0.001]. Based on receiver operator characteristic analysis (AUC = 0.723; p = 0.005) of initial ADMA for poor neurological outcome, the best cutoff was determined as > 0.65 µmol/L (sensitivity = 66.7%; specificity = 81.5%), while for 72 h mortality (AUC = 0.789; p = 0.001) as > 0.81 µmol/L (sensitivity = 71.0%; specificity = 87.5%). Based on multivariate analysis, initial ADMA (OR = 1.8 per 0.1 µmol/L increment; p = 0.002) was an independent predictor for 72 h mortality. Increased initial ADMA predicts 72 h mortality and poor neurological outcome among unselected cardiac arrest victims.

Absztrakt: Bevezetés: Citokeratin-18 (CK-18) az újraélesztés kapcsán kialakuló ischaemiás-reperfúziós károsodás kiváltotta teljes sejthalál során kerül a véráramba. Kaszpázok által hasított formája specifikus az apoptózis folyamatára. A markerek számos kórképben prognosztikus értékűnek bizonyultak. Tanulmányunkban elsőként vizsgáltuk prognosztikus értéküket reanimált betegpopulációban. Módszer: 40, sikeresen újraélesztett betegnél határoztuk meg a sejthalálmarkerek szintjét 6 órán belül, 24 és 72 óra múlva. Ezeket összevetettük a 30 napos túléléssel, a neurológiai kimenetellel, a szervfunkciós károsodást jellemző laboratóriumi, fizikális és terápiás jellemzőkkel, valamint a reanimáció körülményeivel. Eredmények: A reanimált betegek CK-18-plazmakoncentrációja a szakirodalomban leírt egészséges, posztoperatív és szeptikus populáció értékeinek a többszöröse volt (3842 vs. 242; 559; 1644 ng/l); a hasított és intakt CK-18 aránya alacsonyabb volt (0,14 vs. 0,58; 0,22; 0,24), ami jelentős sejtkárosodásra és a nekrózis dominanciájára utal. A markerek szintje azonban nem mutatott összefüggést a túléléssel, a neurológiai statusszal és a reanimáció körülményeivel sem. Veseelégtelenség esetén a CK-18 szintjének csökkenése elmaradt. Szignifikáns negatív korrelációt figyeltünk meg a 6 órás hemoglobin- és CK-18-szint között (r = –0,400, pKövetkeztetés: Várakozásunkkal ellentétben a vizsgált markerek nem bírtak prognosztikus értékkel újraélesztett betegpopulációban. A kimenetelt valószínűleg nem a teljes sejtkárosodás, hanem egy kisebb, a fenti markerekkel szenzitíven nem vizsgálható kritikus szerepű sejtpopuláció károsodása, valamint a beteg tartalékkapacitásai befolyásolják. Orv Hetil. 2020; 161(1): 26–32.

BACKGROUND: Elevated mean platelet volume (MPV) and immature platelet fraction (IPF) are predictive for vascular risk. Both can be associated with residual platelet reactivity. We aimed to explore associations among platelet characteristics and responder status in stroke patients on clopidogrel. METHODS: Blood samples from 46 patients and 15 healthy subjects were analyzed for platelet count, MPV, IPF, large cell ratio (LCR) and high-fluorsecent immature platelet fraction (H-IPF). As a novelty, not only whole blood, but upper and lower half blood samples after 1-hour gravity sedimentation were analyzed. Platelet aggregometry was used for the whole blood and separated samples to explore area under the curve (AUC) in patients and controls. RESULTS: The AUC of the whole blood showed significant differences compared to the upper and lower samples separated after 1-hour sedimentation in patients and controls (p

High rates of thrombosis are present in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Deeper insight into the prothrombotic state is essential to provide the best thromboprophylaxis care. Here, we aimed to explore associations among platelet indices, conventional hemostasis parameters, and viscoelastometry data. This pilot study included patients with severe COVID-19 (n = 21) and age-matched controls (n = 21). Each patient received 100 mg aspirin therapy at the time of blood sampling. Total platelet count, high immature platelet fraction (H-IPF), fibrinogen, D-dimer, Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time, von Willebrand factor antigen and von Willebrand factor ristocetin cofactor activity, plasminogen, and alpha2-antiplasmin were measured. To monitor the aspirin therapy, a platelet function test from hirudin anticoagulated whole blood was performed using the ASPI test by Multiplate analyser. High on-aspirin platelet reactivity (n = 8) was defined with an AUC > 40 cut-off value by ASPI tests. In addition, in vitro viscoelastometric tests were carried out using a ClotPro analyser in COVID-associated thromboembolic events (n = 8) (p = 0.071) nor the survival rate (p = 0.854) showed associations with high on-aspirin platelet reactivity status. The platelet count (p = 0.03), all subjects. COVID-19 patients presented with higher levels of inflammatory markers, compared with the controls, along with evidence of hypercoagulability by ClotPro. H-IPF (%) was significantly higher among non-survivors (n = 18) compared to survivors (p = 0.011), and a negative correlation (p = 0.002) was found between H-IPF and plasminogen level in the total population. The platelet count was significantly higher among patients with high on-aspirin platelet reactivity (p = 0.03). Neither the ECA-A10 (p = 0.008), and ECA-MCF (p = 0.016) were significantly higher, while the tPA-CFT (p < 0.001) was significantly lower among patients with high on-aspirin platelet reactivity. However, only fibrinogen proved to be an independent predictor of hypofibrinolysis in severe COVID-19 patients. In conclusion, a faster developing, more solid clot formation was observed in aspirin ‘non-responder’ COVID-19 patients. Therefore, an individually tailored thromboprophylaxis is needed to prevent thrombotic complications, particularly in the hypofibrinolytic cluster.

Background: Post-COVID manifestation is defined as persistent symptoms or long-term complications beyond 4 weeks from disease onset. Fatigue and memory impairment are common post-COVID symptoms. We aimed to explore associations between the timeline and severity of post-COVID fatigue and anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Methods: Fatigue and memory impairment were assessed in a total of 101 post-COVID subjects using the Chalder fatigue scale (CFQ-11) and a visual analogue scale. Using the bimodal scoring system generated from CFQ-11, a score ≥4 was defined as severe fatigue. Serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike (anti-S-Ig) and nucleocapsid (anti-NC-Ig) antibodies were examined at two time points: 4–12 weeks after onset of symptoms, and beyond 12 weeks. Results: The serum level of anti-S-Ig was significantly higher in patients with non-severe fatigue compared to those with severe fatigue at 4–12 weeks (p = 0.006) and beyond 12 weeks (p = 0.016). The serum level of anti-NC-Ig remained high in patients with non-severe fatigue at both time points. In contrast, anti-NC-Ig decreased significantly in severe fatigue cases regardless of the elapsed time (4–12 weeks: p = 0.024, beyond 12 weeks: p = 0.005). The incidence of memory impairment was significantly correlated with lower anti-S-Ig levels (−0.359, p &lt, 0.001). Conclusion: The systemic immune response reflected by antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 is strongly correlated with the severity of post-COVID fatigue.

Despite diagnostic advances and new evidence on how to best treat patients with ischemic stroke, the risk of stroke recurrence remains unacceptably high. Therefore, there is a great need for novel therapies and markers to guide risk stratification, reveal stroke aetiology, identify patients who may benefit most from interventions, predict risk for another stroke, and recognize the risk of short-term complications or unfavorable long-term outcomes. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an update on: (i) emerging markers in atherothrombotic stroke; (ii) role of systemic inflammation in contributing to stroke occurrence; (iii) the main antiplatelet agents that have been successfully used in the secondary prevention of non-cardiogenic ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack; (iv) screening for high-on-treatment platelet reactivity after stroke; and (v) to explore novel and effective antiplatelet strategies for the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke. Rising questions such as indications for antiplatelet therapy after a successful recanalisation following acute ischemic stroke should be answered in the future to optimize outcomes. Finally, we aim to focus on personalized antiplatelet regimens and current translational research findings in this field.

Introduction: A modified platelet function test (mPFT) was recently found to be superior compared to impedance aggregometry for selection of post-stroke patients with high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR). We aimed to explore some peripheral blood cell characteristics as predictors of recurrent ischemic episodes. The predictive value of mPFT was also assessed in a cohort followed up to 36 months regarding recurrent ischemic vascular events.Methods: As a novelty, not only whole blood (WB), but after 1-h gravity sedimentation the separated upper (UB) and lower half blood (LB) samples were analyzed including neutrophil antisedimentation rate (NAR) in 52 post-stroke patients taking clopidogrel. Area under the curve (AUC, AUCupper and AUClower, respectively) was separately measured by Multiplate in the WB, UB and LB samples to characterize ex vivo platelet aggregation in the presence of ADP. Next, the occurrence of vascular events (stroke, acute coronary syndrome, ACS) were evaluated during 36-month follow-up.Results: A total of 11 vascular events (stroke n = 5, ACS n = 6) occurred during the follow-up period. The AUCupper was significantly higher in patients with recurrent stroke compared to those with uneventful follow-up (p = 0.03). The AUCupper with a cut-off value ≥70 based on the mPFT, was able to predict all stroke events (p = 0.01), while the total vascular events were independently predicted by NAR with a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 88%.Conclusions: A combination of NAR reflecting the inflammatory state and AUCupper indicating HTPR may provide a better prediction of recurrent ischemic events suggesting a better selection of patients at risk, thus providing an individually tailored vascular therapy.

Background: The concept of frailty provides an age-independent, easy-to-use tool for risk stratification. We aimed to summarize the evidence regarding the use of frailty tools in COVID-19, assessing the risk of frail patients for in-hospital and 30-day mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and length of hospitalization (LOH).Methods: The protocol was prospectively registered via PROSPERO (CRD42021241544). Studies reporting on frailty in COVID-19 patients were eligible. We compared in-hospital and 30-day mortality, lengths of stay and ICU admission in frail and non-frail COVID-19 patients. We also compared average frailty in COVID-19 survivors and non-survivors. MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, Scopus, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched up to 3 February 2021 with terms related to COVID-19 and frail*. Search, selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were conducted in duplicate by two independent review authors. The QUIPS tool was used for the risk of bias assessment. Odds ratios (OR) and weighted mean differences (WMD) were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using a random effect model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and χ2 tests.Results: From 1693 records identified, 27 were included in the qualitative and 21 in the quantitative synthesis. Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) was used in 24 studies, the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) by one and the Frail Non-Disabled questionnaire by another one. One study reported both CFS and HFRS. We found that frail patients (CFS 5–9) compared to non-frail patients (CFS 1–4) have a higher risk for both in-hospital (OR: 2.77; CI: 1.86–4.15) and 30-day mortality (OR: 1.47; CI:1.05–2.06). Frail patients (CFS 5–9) were less likely to be admitted to ICU (OR 0.05, CI: 0.01–0.16). Statistical heterogeneity was not present for CFS 5–9 30-day mortality OR and ICU admission OR (CFS 1–3 vs 4–9), and was moderate for in-hospital mortality WMD. Quantitative synthesis for LOH was not feasible. Most studies carried a high risk of bias.Conclusions: As determined by CFS, frailty is strongly associated with in-hospital and 30-day mortality; hence, investigating its use in deciding on ICU admission further in COVID-19 is warranted.

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is associated with activation of the inflammatory cascade contributing to unfavorable outcome and secondary complications, such as delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI). Both fatty acid-binding protein 3 (FABP3) and CXC-chemokine ligand 16 (CXCL-16) have been linked to vascular inflammation and cellular death. The authors aimed to assess the 30-day prognostic value of serum levels of FABP3 and CXCL-16 and explore their associations with DCI in aSAH patients.A total of 60 patients with aSAH were prospectively enrolled. Sampling for markers was done at 24 hours after the index event. FABP3 and CXCL-16 serum concentrations were determined by MilliPlex multiplex immunoassay method. The primary endpoint was unfavorable outcome at Day 30 based on the modified Rankin Scale.Both FABP3 and CXCL-16 levels were significantly elevated in patients with unfavorable outcome compared to those with favorable outcome after aSAH (FABP3: 2133 pg/mL, IQR: 1053-4567 vs. 3773, 3295-13116; p0.003 and CXCL-16: 384 pg/mL, 313-502 vs. 498, 456-62, p0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) for serum CXCL-16 levels as a predictor of unfavorable outcome at Day 30 was 0.747 (95% CI =0.622-0.871; p0.001). Based on binary logistic regression analysis, serum CXCL-16 with a cut-off level446.7 ng/L independently predicted Day 30 unfavorable outcome with a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 62%. Neither CXCL-16 nor FABP3 showed a significant correlation with DCI.Early FABP3 and CXCL-16 levels are significantly associated with poor 30-day outcome in patients with aSAH.

Rapid changes of stroke management in recent years facilitate the need for accurate and easy-to-use screening methods for early detection of large vessel occlusion (LVO) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Our aim was to evaluate the ability of various stroke scales to discriminate an LVO in AIS.We have performed a cross-sectional, observational study based on a registry of consecutive patients with first ever AIS admitted up to 4.5 hours after symptom onset to a comprehensive stroke centre. The diagnostic capability of 14 stroke scales were investigated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.Area under the curve (AUC) values of NIHSS, modified NIHSS, shortened NIHSS-EMS, sNIHSS-8, sNIHSS-5 and Rapid Arterial Occlusion Evaluation (RACE) scales were among the highest (0.800 respectively). A total of 6 scales had cut-off values providing at least 80% specificity and 50% sensitivity, and 5 scales had cut-off values with at least 70% specificity and 75% sensitivity.Certain stroke scales may be suitable for discriminating an LVO in AIS. The NIHSS and modified NIHSS are primarily suitable for use in hospital settings. However, sNIHSS-EMS, sNIHSS-8, sNIHSS-5, RACE and 3-Item Stroke Scale (3I-SS) are easier to perform and interpret, hence their use may be more advantageous in the prehospital setting. Prospective (prehospital) validation of these scales could be the scope of future studies.Az elmúlt évek változásai a stroke-ellátásban szükségessé teszik pontos és könnyen használható módszerek kifejlesztését nagyérelzáródás (NÉO) detektá­lására akut ischaemiás stroke-ban (AIS). Kutatásunk célja számos stroke-skála NÉO detektálására való alkal­mas­sá­gának vizsgálata AIS-betegek esetében.Egy hazai stroke-regiszteren alapuló kereszt­metszeti vizsgálatot végeztünk, melybe olyan bete­ge­ket vontunk be, akik első AIS-jukat szenvedték el, és 4,5 órán belül felvételre kerültek egy komprehenzív stroke-centrumba. Összesen 14 stroke-skála diagnosztikus képességét vizsgáltuk receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analízis segítségével.A ROC-görbe alatti terület az NIHSS, modified NIHSS, shortened NIHSS-EMS, sNIHSS-8, sNIHSS-5 és Rapid Arterial Occlusion Evaluation (RACE) skálák esetében volt a legmagasabb (0,800 mindegyik esetben). Összesen hat skála esetében találtunk olyan küszöbértéket, amellyel legalább 80%-os szenzitivitás (SN) és 50%-os specificitás (SP) volt elérhető. Olyan küszöb­értéket, amely legalább 70%-os SN-t és 75%-os SP-t biztosított, öt skála esetében találtunk.Több stroke-skála is alkalmas lehet NÉO detektálására AIS-ban. Az NIHSS és a modified NIHSS elsősorban kórházi felhasználásra alkalmas. Mivel azonban a sNIHSS-EMS, sNIHSS-8, sNIHSS-5, RACE és 3 Item Stroke Scale (3I-SS) skálák rövidebbek és egyszerűbb a felvételük, alkalmazásuk akár prehospitális körülmények között is kivitelezhető lehet. További vizsgálatok szükségesek ezen skálák prospektív (prehospitális) validálásának céljából.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia diagnosed in clinical practice. We aimed to measure the L-arginine pathway metabolites as well as their ratios in patients with different types of AF or sinus rhythm and to explore the relationship among the markers and clinical variables in the subacute phase of acute ischemic stroke (AIS).A total of 46 patients with AIS were prospectively enrolled. The patients were divided into three groups based on diagnosis of either sinus rhythm, paroxysmal or permanent AF. Plasma concentration of the L-arginine pathway metabolites were analyzed at post-stroke 24 hours in the three rhythm groups. Besides, clinical variables and laboratory data were recorded.Asymmetric dimetylarginine (ADMA) was significantly higher in patients with permanent AF compared to sinus rhythm (p0.001). Both ADMA (p0.001) and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) (p0.002) at 24 hours were significantly higher among patients with permanent AF compared to those with paroxysmal AF. The L-arginine/SDMA (p0.031) ratios at 24 hours were significantly higher among patients with sinus rhythm compared to those with permanent AF. ROC analysis also revealed that plasma SDMA cut-off level over 0.639 μmol/L discriminated permanent AF from paroxysmal AF or sinus rhythm with a 90.9% sensitivity and 77.1% specificity. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio also showed significantly higher value in individuals with both paroxysmal and permanent AF (p=0.029).Plasma level of SDMA could discriminate permanent from paroxysmal AF in the subacute phase of ischemic stroke. In addition, an increased neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio may suggest inflammatory process in the evolution of atrial fibrillation.Bevezetés - A pitvari fibrilláció (PF) a klinikai gyakorlatban diagnosztizált leggyakoribb aritmia. Célul tűztük ki az L-arginin-útvonal metabolitjainak, valamint azok arányának mérését különböző típusú PF-ben szenvedő vagy sinusritmusban lévő betegeknél, és az akut ischaemiás stroke (AIS) szubakut fázisában, a fenti markerek és klinikai változók közötti kapcsolat elemzését. Módszerek - Összesen 46, AIS-ben szenvedő beteg bevo­nására került sor. A betegeket három csoportra osztottuk, sinusritmusban lévő, paroxysmalis vagy permanens PF-fel rendelkező csoportokra. Az L-arginin-útvonal metabolitjainak plazmakoncentrációját a három ritmuscsoportban az ictus kezdete után 24 órával mértük meg. Emellett a betegek klinikai és laboratóriumi adatait is rögzítettük. Eredmények - Az aszimmetrikus dimetil-arginin (ADMA) szintje szignifikánsan magasabb volt a permanens PF-ben szenvedő betegeknél a sinusritmushoz képest (p0,001). Huszonnégy órával a stroke kezdete után mind az ADMA (p0,001), mind a szimmetrikus dimetil-arginin szintje (SDMA) (p0,002) szignifikánsan magasabb volt a permanens PF-ben szenvedő betegeknél, mint paroxysmalis PF esetén. Az L-arginin / SDMA (p0,031) arány szignifikánsan magasabb volt a sinusritmusban lévő betegekhez képest, mint a permanensen pitvarfibrillálóknál. A reciever operating characteristic (ROC-) analízis alapján a plazma 0,639 μmol/l-nél nagyobb SDMA szintje (cut-off) 90,9%-os szenzitivitással és 77,1%-os specificitással megkülönbözteti a permanens PF-et a sinusritmustól, illetve a paroxysmalis PF-től. A neutrophyl-lymphocyta arány szignifikánsan magasabb értéket mutatott mind a paroxysmalis, mind a permanens PF-ben (p = 0,029). Következtetések - Az ischaemiás stroke szubakut fázisában az SDMA plazmaszintje alapján megkülönböztethető a paroxysmalis PF a permanens PF-től. Ezenkívül a megnövekedett neutrophyl-lymphocyta arány a gyulladásos folyamat szerepére világíthat rá a pitvarfibrilláció kialakulásában, fenntartásában.

Background: Several factors affect the efficacy of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT); however, the anesthesia-related factors have not been fully explored. We aimed to identify independent predictors of outcome by analyzing procedural factors based on a multicentric stroke registry. Methods: Data of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) were extracted from the prospective STAY ALIVE stroke registry. Demographic, clinical, and periprocedural factors including hemodynamic values were analyzed in patients undergoing thrombectomy with either general anesthesia (GA) or conscious sedation (CS). Independent predictors of outcome both at 30 and 90 days based on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS: 0–2 as favorable outcome) were also explored. Results: A total of 199 patients (GA: 76 (38%) vs. CS: 117 (59%); in addition, six patients were converted from CS to GA) were included. The minimum value of systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure was significantly lower in the GA compared to the CS group, and GA was associated with a longer onset to EVT time and a higher drop in all hemodynamic variables (all, p < 0.001). A higher drop in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was even independently associated with a poor 90-day outcome (p = 0.024). Conclusion: A GA-related drop in DBP may independently predict a poor long-term outcome in stroke patients undergoing thrombectomy.

Margit Tőkés-Füzesi,1 István Ruzsics,2 Orsolya Rideg,3 Péter Kustán,1 Gábor L Kovács,1,4 Tihamér Molnár5 1Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs, Hungary; 21st Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pulmonology, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs, Hungary; 3Department of Pharmacy, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary; 4Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs, Hungary; 5Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Therapy, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs, Hungary Background: Microparticles (MPs) are shedding membrane vesicles released from activated blood and endothelial cells under inflammatory conditions. The role of endothelial MPs (EMPs) in pathophysiology of COPD is relatively well known. However, the release and function of MPs of other cellular origins, eg, platelets, red blood cells and leukocytes, are not clearly evaluated in COPD. Purpose: The aim of this study was to measure EMPs and other cell-derived circulating MPs in stable and exacerbated COPD patients. Patients and methods: A total of 50 patients with COPD and 19 healthy volunteers were enrolled in the study. EMPs (CD31+, CD62E+) and platelet-derived (CD61+, CD41+, CD42a+, PAC1+), red blood cell-derived (GlyA+) and leukocyte-derived (CD45+, CD13+, CD14+, CD56+) MPs were measured. Flow cytometry (FC) was performed on Beckman Coulter FC500 analyzer. MP reference gate was set using 0.3–0.5–0.9 µm microbeads with MP size gates of 0.5–1.0 µm. Results: All the measured MPs were significantly (P

Objectives: Intravenous dipyridamole (DP) can induce transient perfusion abnormalities in the heart but also the brain indicated by brain SPECT. L-arginine can regulate the vascular tone via nitric oxide (NO). Therefore, we examined cerebral blood volume (CBV) by perfusion MRI and L-arginine level before and after DP stress in patients, who developed transient neurological signs, and compared these to unaffected patients. Design: A total of nine patients with ischemic coronary disease after myocardial perfusion scintigraphy were selected for this prospective pilot study. Four had DP-induced transient mild neurologic signs during myocardial perfusion scintigraphy, while five had no neurological signs. By using perfusion MRI in both groups in a second stage, we examined CBV in identical areas of the two hemispheres before and during DP stress. Besides, pre-and post-stress L-arginine serum levels were also analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Trial registration: NCT03688815. Results: CBV in the sensory-motor area at baseline was significantly higher in patients with DP-induced transient neurological signs compared to patients without signs (p = 0.028). Intravenous DP normalized the higher perfusion by decreasing CBV, and also increased serum L-arginine level (p = 0.001). Conclusions: Intravenous DP changed the CBV accompanied by a systemic elevation of L-arginine: this indicates a direct vasorelaxing effect on brain vessels, and an indirect vasodilator effect through L-arginine release presumably via NO. In areas with decreased CBV before DP, such double effects caused transient neurological symptoms presumably due to steal phenomenon. Therefore, intravenous DP may have a potential to identify patients with high risk for cerebral ischemia.

Introduction: We investigated the associations of cell death-related release of cytokeratin-18 (CK-18) and its caspase-cleaved form (CCCK-18) with outcomes, clinical parameters, and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) among cardiac arrest (CA) victims.Methods: We determined CK-18, CCCK-18, and NSE plasma concentrations within 6, at 24, and 72 post-CA hours of 54 successfully resuscitated patients. Baseline characteristics, laboratory, vital parameters, prognostic scores were recorded. The follow-up was 30 days.Results: Neither the absolute values of CK-18, CCCK-18, CCCK-18/CK-18 ratio, or NSE, nor their kinetics showed significant difference according to survival and neurological outcome. CK-18 decreased in good renal function in contrast to renal failure. Lactate levels were increased in non-survivors and poor neurological outcomes. In receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analyses lactate was comparable with prognostic scores in predicting 30-day mortality and neurological outcome. The ROC curve of initial lactate indicated a cut-off as 4.90 mmol/L to predict 30-day mortality (specificity=80%; sensitivity=74%) and 6.00 mmol/L (specificity=80%; sensitivity=84%) for poor neurological outcome.Conclusion: This study was the first to investigate the post-resuscitation prognostic value of CK-18 and CCCK-18 with NSE. Although we could not prove their prognostic value, we confirmed the role of initial lactate in predicting mortality and neurological outcome in unselected resuscitated patients.

Objectives Perioperative stress affects the outcome of carotid endarterectomy performed under regional anesthesia. Here we aimed to explore the temporal profile of the stress marker cortisol and its relationship to high-sensitivity troponin-T, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and S100B as an indicator of blood–brain barrier alteration in the systemic circulation. Methods Prospective part of the study: a total of 31 patients with significant carotid stenosis scheduled for carotid endarterectomy in regional anesthesia were enrolled. Follow-up part of the study and retrospective analysis of the outcome: each patient was followed up to five years and morbidity as well as mortality data were collected from an electronic database. Blood samples from each patient were serially taken; prior to surgery (T1), at the time of reperfusion (T2), 24 h (T3) and 72 h later postoperatively (T4), then the plasma concentration of each biomarker was measured. Besides, the clinical and surgical factors and perioperative adverse events were recorded. Results More positive correlations were found between: the early change of S100B (T2–T1) and late change in plasma cortisol level (T4–T3) (r = 0.403; p Conclusions A higher intraoperative change in S100B level reflecting carotid endarterectomy induced acute silent brain ischemia was associated with more pronounced post-operative change of cortisol. An early elevation of cortisol was found to be associated with a delayed increase of matrix metalloproteinase-9. Importantly, an increased high-sensitivity troponin-T even prior to carotid endarterectomy may predict clamp intolerance, and elevated matrix metalloproteinase-9 at reperfusion suggests a poor outcome.

Multiple cytokines have been implicated in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), but tumor necrosis factor superfamily 14 (LIGHT/TNFSF14) and oncostatin-M (OSM) have not been previously explored.The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between TNFSF14 and OSM levels and survival. Our secondary goal was to investigate a potential association between these markers and the incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI).We consecutively recruited 60 patients with a clinical diagnosis of aSAH. LIGHT/TNFSF14 and OSM serum concentrations were determined by ELISA. The primary endpoint was survival at Day 30, while development of DCI was assessed as secondary outcome.Patients had significantly higher levels of both markers than the control group (median of LIGHT: 18.1 pg/ml vs. 7 pg/ml; p = 0.01; median of OSM: 10.3 pg/ml vs. 2.8 pg/ml, p 0.001). Significantly lower serum level of LIGHT/TNFSF14 was found in nonsurviving patients (n = 9) compared with survivors (n = 51; p = 0.011). Based on ROC analysis, serum LIGHT/TNFSF14 with a cutoff value of7.95 pg/ml predicted 30-day survival with a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 78% (Area: 0.763; 95% CI: 0.604-0.921, p = 0.013). In addition, it was also a predictor of DCI with a sensitivity of 72.7% and a specificity of 62.5% (AUC: 0.702; 95% CI: 0.555-0.849, p = 0.018). Based on binary logistic regression analysis, LIGHT/TNFSF14 was found to be independently associated with 30-day mortality, but not with DCI.In this cohort, a higher serum level of LIGHT/TNFSF14 was associated with increased survival of patients with aSAH.

BACKGROUND: Major burn injury causes massive tissue destruction consequently enhanced platelet function and leukocyte-mediated inflammatory response. METHODS: In a prospective, observational study 23 consecutive patients with more than 20% body surface burn injury were followed for five days (T1–T5) after admission to a university intensive care (ICU). Platelet and leukocyte antisedimentation rate (PAR and LAR) was measured by one-hour gravity sedimentation. It detects the percentage of total platelet and leukocyte number crossed the half line of blood sample column, therefore, they can be regarded as cells of decreased specific gravity. We aimed to investigate the time course of PAR and LAR after burn injury, as the trend of platelet and the leukocyte activation in the early post-burn period. RESULTS: Daily mean PAR and LAR values continuously increased in the observation period (T1 to T5). Daily mean PAR and LAR were lower in ICU non-survivors (n = 7) compared to survivors (n = 16) between T2 and T4 (p

Background Selecting stroke patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) based on prehospital stroke scales could provide a faster triage and transportation to a comprehensive stroke centre resulting a favourable outcome. We aimed here to explore the detailed severity assessment of Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS) to improve its ability to detect LVO in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients. Methods A cross-sectional analysis was performed in a prospectively collected registry of consecutive patients with first ever AIS admitted within 6 h after symptom onset. On admission stroke severity was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and the presence of LVO was confirmed by computed tomography angiography (CTA) as an endpoint. A detailed version of CPSS (d-CPSS) was designed based on the severity assessment of CPSS items derived from NIHSS. The ability of this scale to confirm an LVO was compared to CPSS and NIHSS respectively. Results Using a ROC analysis, the AUC value of d-CPSS was significantly higher compared to the AUC value of CPSS itself (0.788 vs. 0.633, p p = 0.510). An optimal cut-off score was found as d-CPSS≥5 to discriminate the presence of LVO (sensitivity: 69.9%, specificity: 75.2%). Conclusion A detailed severity assessment of CPSS items (upper extremity weakness, facial palsy and speech disturbance) could significantly increase the ability of CPSS to discriminate the presence of LVO in AIS patients.

Intracranial hemorrhages (ICH) are classified as symptomatic or asymptomatic according to the presence of clinical deterioration. Here, we aimed to find predictive factors of symptomatic intracranial bleeding in a registry-based stroke research.Data of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) were extracted from the prospective STAY ALIVE stroke registry. Analysis of the total population and treatment sugroups such as endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), intravenous thrombolysis (IVT), or their combination (IVT+EVT) were also done. Outcome measures were ICH, 30- and 90-day clinical outcome based on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS:0-2 as favorable outcome). The hemorrhage was captured by a non-enhanced CT of the skull within 24 h after procedure.A total of 355 patients (mean age: 68±11; female N=177 (49.9%); EVT n=131 (36.9%); IVT n=157 (44.2%); IVT+EVT n=67 (18.9%) were included in the analysis. The total number of ICH was 47 (13%), symptomatic (sICH) 12 (3.4%) and asymptomatic (aICH) 35 (9.9%) in the whole population. NIHSS ≥15.5 at 24 post stroke hours predicted sICH with a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 92% (p0.001). Furthermore, lower age, good collateral circulation on initial CT angiography and lower NIHSS score measured at 24 h independently associated with a favorable 90-day outcome, whereas baseline NIHSS and ASPECT score were not.Although partial recanalization, ASPECT6, and poor collaterals were significantly associated with sICH, the only independent predictor was NIHSS ≥15.5 at 24 post stroke hours. This suggests a careful evaluation of patients with worsening NIHSS despite an adequate therapy.

Introduction: Activation of both the L-arginine and the lectin pathway contributes to the pathophysiology and the outcome of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, the interplay between the two systems has not yet been examined. Methods: A total of 44 patients with AIS were recruited into this study. Serial measurement of serum L-arginine, asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA, SDMA), and hsCRP, ficolin-2, ficolin-3, MAP-1, MASP-3 and mannose-binding lectin (MBL) were analyzed within 6 h after onset of stroke and 72 h later. Outcomes were assessed as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) worsening by 24 h, poststroke infection, and death by 1 month. Results: In the hyperacute stage of AIS, ficolin-3, MAP-1 and MBL were positively correlated with L-arginine within 6 h after onset of symptoms (p

Additional file 1: Table S1. Associations between baseline characteristics and LVO. Table S2. Diagnostic performance of investigated scales according to different cut-off values. Table S3. Baseline characteristics of the included and excluded patients.

Background We compared cost-effectiveness of anesthesia maintained with sevoflurane or propofol with and without additional monitoring, in the clinical setting of ear-nose-throat surgery. Methods One hundred twenty adult patients were randomized to four groups. In groups SEVO and SEVO+ anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane, in group SEVO+ with additional bispectral index (BIS) and train-of-four (TOF) monitoring. In groups PROP and PROP+ anesthesia was maintained with propofol, in group PROP+ with additional BIS and TOF monitoring. Results Total cost of anesthesia per hour was greater in group SEVO+ compared to SEVO [€ 19.95(8.53) vs. 12.15(5.32), p

OBJECTIVES: Teriflunomide 14 mg is a once-daily oral disease-modifying treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. We examined adverse event (AE) profile and efficacy in real life.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this observational cohort study, we retrospectively examined 1521 blood samples and data of 102 patients followed for up to 28 months.RESULTS: The number of female patients starting teriflunomide peaked in the fifth decade, 10 years later compared to male patients (PCONCLUSIONS: Efficacy and safety of teriflunomide in real-life setting support data obtained by the pivotal trials. Laboratory abnormalities are rare among the large number of samples, but patients may commonly have a single mild, abnormal value if frequently tested.

Background Carotid endarterectomy in regional anesthesia is often associated with increased perioperative stress. We assumed that carotid endarterectomy performed under awake sedation with propofol is more beneficial to prevent such stress than alprazolam premedication only. Methods A total of 47 consecutive patients with significant carotid artery stenosis were enrolled into this investigation and followed up for 5 years to explore vascular complications. All operations were performed under regional anesthesia. As premedication, all patients took 0.5 mg of alprazolam 30 minutes before the procedure. After randomization, 22 patients had awake sedation with target controlled propofol infusion, and the other 25 had only premedication. Cortisol plasma levels were serially analyzed: before surgery (T1), before (T2) and after release of carotid clamp (T3), and at 2 (T4) and 24 postoperative hours (T5). Alprazolam levels were also measured before and after the surgery. Results The plasma concentration of cortisol was significantly lower in the propofol sedation group at T2 (P Conclusions An additional intraoperative propofol sedation provides better stress relief than alprazolam-only premedication during awake carotid endarterectomy.

Background/Aim Migraine is a risk factor for the formation of silent brain white matter lesions (WMLs) that are possibly ischemic in nature. Although dysfunction of the L-arginine/nitric oxide (NO) pathway has been associated with oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction in migraine, its role in WML development has not been specifically investigated. Thus, this prospective study aimed to measure the serum concentrations of the NO substrate L-arginine, the NO synthase inhibitor asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and the L-arginine transport regulator symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) in migraine patients in a headache-free period. Methods All participants underwent MR imaging to assess for the presence of WMLs on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery imaging. Altogether 109 migraine patients (43 with lesions, 66 without lesions) and 46 control individuals were studied. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to quantify L-arginine, ADMA and SDMA serum concentrations. Migraine characteristics were investigated, and participants were screened for risk factors that can lead to elevated serum ADMA levels independent of migraine. Results Migraine patients and controls did not differ in regard to vascular risk factors. Migraineurs with WMLs had a longer disease duration ( p Conclusions Elevated ADMA levels may impact the pathogenesis of migraine-related WMLs by influencing cerebrovascular autoregulation and vasomotor reactivity. Higher SDMA concentrations may indirectly influence NO synthesis by reducing substrate availability. Elevated L-arginine serum levels might reflect an increased demand for NO synthesis.

Introduction: Microparticles (MP) are cell membrane-derived vesicles in the circulation. MPs inherit the surface protein characteristics of their host cells. We focused on the annexin positive MPs originated from activated cells. Objective: Search for predictors of exacerbations and survival during 7-year follow-up. Methods: A total of 50 patients with COPD (stable: n=34, acute exacerbation (AECOPD): n=16) were prospectively examined in 2010. MP number of different origin (endothelial: CD31, CD62E; platelet: CD61, CD41, CD42, PAC1; red blood cell: GlyA; leukocyte: CD45, CD13, CD14, CD56) was determined in the systemic circulation. Next, the number of severe exacerbations and mortality data were recorded during 7 years. Results: In non-survivors (n=20), the number of exacerbations (p=0.006) and the number of CD31, CD61, CD45, CD14 MPs (in all p 42.06x105 (Area:0.89, p=0.01) was the best indicator for 7-year mortality (sensitivity:86%, specificity:89%). Using multiple regression analysis, only the number of exacerbations and CD31 proved to be an independent predictor of 7-year mortality (both, p=0.04). Conclusion: Elevated blood levels of endothelial derived CD31 and monocyte derived CD14 MPs may reflect the importance of endothelial-leukocyte interaction in AECOPD.

OBJECTIVE: Here, we applied a multi-omics approach (i) to examine molecular pathways related to de- and remyelination in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions; and (ii) to translate these findings to the CSF proteome in order to identify molecules that are differentially expressed among MS subtypes.METHODS: To relate differentially expressed genes in MS lesions to de- and remyelination, we compared transcriptome of MS lesions to transcriptome of cuprizone (CPZ)-induced de- and remyelination. Protein products of the overlapping orthologous genes were measured within the CSF by quantitative proteomics, parallel reaction monitoring (PRM). Differentially regulated proteins were correlated with molecular markers of inflammation by using MesoScale multiplex immunoassay. Expression kinetics of differentially regulated orthologous genes and proteins were examined in the CPZ model.RESULTS: In the demyelinated and remyelinated corpus callosum, we detected 1239 differentially expressed genes; 91 orthologues were also differentially expressed in MS lesions. Pathway analysis of these orthologues suggested that the TYROBP (DAP12)-TREM2 pathway, TNF-receptor 1, CYBA and the proteasome subunit PSMB9 were related to de- and remyelination. We designed 129 peptides representing 51 orthologous proteins, measured them by PRM in 97 individual CSF, and compared their levels between relapsing (n = 40) and progressive MS (n = 57). Four proteins were differentially regulated among relapsing and progressive MS: tyrosine protein kinase receptor UFO (UFO), TIMP-1, apolipoprotein C-II (APOC2), and beta-2-microglobulin (B2M). The orthologous genes/proteins in the mouse brain peaked during acute remyelination. UFO, TIMP-1 and B2M levels correlated inversely with inflammation in the CSF (IL-6, MCP-1/CCL2, TARC/CCL17). APOC2 showed positive correlation with IL-2, IL-16 and eotaxin-3/CCL26.CONCLUSIONS: Pathology-based multi-omics identified four CSF markers that were differentially expressed in MS subtypes. Upregulated TIMP-1, UFO and B2M orthologues in relapsing MS were associated with reduced inflammation and reflected reparatory processes, in contrast to the upregulated orthologue APOC2 in progressive MS that reflected changes in lipid metabolism associated with increased inflammation.

Background: Increased levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) are associated with endothelial dysfunction. Here, we analyzed the relationship between L-arginine pathway metabolites and functional outcome of ischemic stroke at discharge and 6 months follow-up. Methods: Plasma concentration of L-arginine, ADMA, SDMA were investigated in 46 patients at post-stroke 24 h. Outcome measures were assessed by modified Rankin scale (mRS) at hospital discharge and 6 months follow-up. According to change in mRS score during the 6 months period, patients were divided into subgroups of improved, unchanged and worsened function. Predictive role of L-arginine pathway metabolites were explored in these outcome groups. Results: Significant inverse correlations were found between initial NIHSS and the L-arginine/ADMA, the L-arginine/SDMA ratios and L-arginine plasma concentration (all p

We conducted a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis to explore the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) in early detection or prediction of post-stroke infections. CRP, an acute-phase reactant binds to the phosphocholine expressed on the surface of dead or dying cells and some bacteria, thereby activating complement and promoting phagocytosis by macrophages. We searched PubMed up to May-2015 for studies measuring CRP in stroke and evaluating post-stroke infections. Individual participants' data were merged into a single database. CRP levels were standardized and divided into quartiles. Factors independently associated with post-stroke infections were determined by logistic regression analysis and the additional predictive value of CRP was assessed by comparing areas under receiver operating characteristic curves and integrated discrimination improvement index. Data from seven studies including 699 patients were obtained. Standardized CRP levels were higher in patients with post-stroke infections beyond 24 h. Standardized CRP levels in the fourth quartile were independently associated with infection in two different logistic regression models, model 1 [stroke severity and dysphagia, odds ratio = 9.70 (3.10-30.41)] and model 2 [age, sex, and stroke severity, odds ratio = 3.21 (1.93-5.32)]. Addition of CRP improved discrimination in both models [integrated discrimination improvement = 9.83% (0.89-18.77) and 5.31% (2.83-7.79), respectively], but accuracy was only improved for model 1 (area under the curve 0.806-0.874, p = 0.036). In this study, CRP was independently associated with development of post-stroke infections, with the optimal time-window for measurement at 24-48 h. However, its additional predictive value is moderate over clinical information. Combination with other biomarkers in a panel seems a promising strategy for future studies.

Acute exacerbation of COPD (ECOPD) remains a challenge. Recently, beta blocker (BB) pretreatment was found to be associated with a significant reduction in ECOPD. We compared serum levels of asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA, SDMA, respectively) and hsCRP in COPD patients with and without BB treatment. Methods: Serum ADMA, SDMA and hsCRP were investigated in 44 consecutive COPD patients (10 pretreated with BB). Diagnosis of ECOPD was based on GOLD criteria. The number of exacerbation episodes was registered over the past 5 years. Results: Initial ADMA, but no other markers was significantly higher in BB pretreated COPD patients independently from exacerbation There was no correlation between BB pretreatment and number of exacerbations over the follow-up period. Interestingly, initial hsCRP obtained at enrollment was significantly lower in patients with ECOPD compared to COPD patients in the BB pretreated subgroup. As expected, hsCRP was significantly higher in ECOPD compared to COPD patients in the non-BB pretreated subgroup. Both, initial ADMA and SDMA obtained at enrollment were significantly higher in patients with exacerbation independently from treatment subgroup. Moreover, ADMA and SDMA positively correlated with the number of exacerbations over the follow-up period in the total population. In contrast, hsCRP showed a positive correlation with the number of exacerbations only in the non-BB pretreated subgroup. Conclusions: ADMA and SDMA can predict subsequent exacerbations. BB pretreatment may attenuate systemic inflammatory response, thus hsCRP is less informative for monitoring this special subgroup of COPD patients.

BACKGROUND: Immune responses contribute to secondary injury after acute ischemic stroke (AIS), and metabolites of the L-arginine pathway are associated with stroke outcome. Here, we analyzed the relationship of the L-arginine pathway with thrombo-inflammatory biomarkers in AIS and their additive and independent associations to outcome.METHODS: Serial changes in P-selectin, tPA, MCP-1, sCD40L, IL-6, IL-8, L-arginine, and asymmetric and symmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA, SDMA) were investigated in 55 patients with AIS and without infection within 6 and 72 hours after stroke onset. Outcomes were assessed as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) worsening by 24 hours, poststroke infection, and death by 1 month.RESULTS: Serum levels of L-arginine showed negative correlation, whereas ADMA and SDMA showed positive correlation with thrombo-inflammatory biomarkers in the hyperacute phase. Most of these correlations disappeared by 72 poststroke hours. Correlation of MCP-1 with both ADMA and SDMA levels at 6 hours was associated with both NIHSS worsening and poststroke infections, respectively; sCD40L and SDMA correlation at 6 hours was also associated with NIHSS worsening. Negative correlation between P-selectin and L-arginine concentrations in the hyperacute phase was associated with NIHSS worsening. Strong negative correlation was found between IL-6 and L-arginine levels in the hyperacute phase in patients with poststroke infection. Only L-arginine and SDMA at 72 hours were independently associated with poststroke infection respectively.CONCLUSIONS: Concentration of L-arginine and ADMA/SDMA differentially correlates with thrombo-inflammation in the hyperacute phase of ischemic stroke. Such correlations are independently associated with poststroke infection but not with other outcomes.

Background: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)–systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) association is a rare condition characterized by multiple autoantibodies. Objective: To examine if, during the evolution of NMO, anti-AQP4 responses are part of polyclonal B cell activation, and if T cell responses contribute. Methods: In 19 samples of six patients who developed NMO during SLE, we examined the correlation of AQP4-IgG1 and IgM with (i) anti-MOG IgG and IgM, (ii) anti-nuclear, anti-nucleosome and anti-dsDNA IgG antibodies, (iii) cytokines and chemokines in the serum and (iv) longitudinal relation to NMO relapses/remission. Results: AQP4-IgG1 was present 1–2–5 years before the first NMO relapse. During relapse, AQP4-IgG1, ANA, anti-dsDNA and anti-nucleosome antibodies were elevated. Anti-MOG IgG/IgM and AQP4-IgM antibodies were not detected. AQP4-IgG1 antibodies correlated with concentration of anti-nucleosome, IFN-γ,interferon-gamma-induced CCL10/IP-10 and CCL17/TARC ( pConclusions: AQP4-IgG1 antibodies are present in the sera years before the first NMO attack in patients with SLE; elevation of anti-AQP4 is part of a polyclonal B cell response during NMO relapses; in spite of multiple autoantibodies in the serum, MOG antibodies were not present; Th1 responses accompany autoantibody responses in NMO/SLE.