Higher Gensini Score Research Articles

Interleukin-35 Levels in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease.

ResumoFundamento Foi demonstrado que as subunidades de interleucina-35 (IL-35) estão fortemente expressas nas placas ateroscleróticas em humanos. Assim, considera-se que elas têm um papel na aterosclerose.Objetivos Neste estudo, os níveis de IL-35 foram comparados com o grupo controle em pacientes com doença arterial coronariana (DAC) estável, e a associação entre os níveis de IL-35 e o tipo, gravidade e extensão da lesão foram investigadas com o escore Gensini (GS) e o escore Syntax (SS) no grupo de pacientesMétodos Sessenta pacientes (18 mulheres e 42 homens) com DAC, diagnosticados por meio da angiografia coronária, que apresentaram dor no peito típica e teste de esforço não invasivo positivo, e 46 pacientes (18 mulheres e 28 homens) com luminograma normal, foram incluídos no estudo. Tanto o GS quanto o SS foram calculados para o grupo de pacientes, e esses valores foram comparados com os níveis de IL-35. Variáveis com distribuição não normal foram avaliadas com o teste U de Mann-Whitney, enquanto os parâmetros com distribuição normal foram analisados com o teste t de Student. A diferença entre as variáveis categóricas foi avaliada pelo teste de qui-quadrado ou de Fisher. Os valores de p<0,05 foram considerados como estatisticamente sinificativos.Resultados Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre pacientes e o grupo controle em termos de características demográficas e achados laboratoriais. Em comparação ao grupo controle, os níveis de IL-35 no grupo com DAC foram consideravalmente menores (36,9±63,9 ng/ml vs. 33,2±13,2 ng/ml, p<0,008). Embora não tenha sido estatisticamente significativo, os níveis de IL-35 foram maiores em pacientes com SS mais baixo do que nos com SS mais alto (33,2±13,7 vs. 31,8±8,9, p=0,51). Os valores de IL-35 em pacientes com GS alto foram significativamente mais baixos do que em pacientes com GS baixo (35±17,4 vs. 30,7±8,6, p=0,043).Conclusão Demonstrou-se que os níveis de IL-35 podem ser um novo biomarcador para a DAC estável, e que a IL-35 está associada à extensão da DAC.

Association between fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio and the presence and severity of coronary artery disease in patients with acute coronary syndrome

ObjectiveAlthough the levels of plasma fibrinogen and albumin have been proven to be in relation to coronary heart disease (CHD), the association between fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has not been adequately investigated. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between FAR and the presence and severity of CHD in patients with ACS.Methods and resultsA total of 1575 individuals who received coronary angiography (CAG) were enrolled. Patients were divided into the ACS group and the control group. The severity of ACS was determined by Gensini score, number of diseased coronary artery and the presence of myocardial infarction (MI). Data showed that the level of FAR in ACS group was higher than in the control group (81.20 ± 35.45 vs. 72.89 ± 20.24, P < 0.001). The results from subgroup analysis indicated that the values of FAR in the high Gensini score group, MI group and multiple-vessel stenosis group were higher than the matched subgroups. After adjustment for confounders, FAR was still independently related to the presence and severity of ACS (MI OR 2.097, 95%CI 1.430–3.076; High GS: OR 2.335, 95%CI 1.567–3.479; multiple-vessel disease: OR 2.088, 95%CI 1.439–3.030; P < 0.05).ConclusionThe levels of FAR are independently associated with the presence and the severity of coronary artery disease in patients with ACS. Furthermore, FAR, as a more convenient and rapid biological indicator, may provide a new idea for predicting the presence and severity of ACS.

Effect of renal function on high-density lipoprotein particles in patients with coronary heart disease

BackgroundAlthough renal insufficiency and dyslipidemia are known to be closely associated, the effect of kidney function on the size and clinical value of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles remains largely unknown, especially in patients with coronary heart disease.MethodsA total of 419 coronary heart disease patients and 105 non-coronary heart disease patients were included. HDL particle size, represented by HDL-C/apoA-I, was compared between groups stratified by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and Gensini scores using standard Student’s t test and one-way ANOVA. Pearson’s correlation test was performed to analyze the association between eGFR and HDL-C/apoA-I in patients with coronary heart disease. The relationship between HDL particle size and the occurrence of coronary heart disease was explored using Univariate logistic regression analysis.ResultsIn patients with coronary heart disease, between-group analysis revealed that HDL-C/apoA-I increased as eGFR declined, and significance appeared as eGFR declined to under 60 ml/min·1.73 m2 (P < 0.001), and Pearson's correlation test also confirmed an inverse correlation between eGFR and HDL-C/apoA-I levels in coronary heart disease patients. When stratified by Gensini scores, in coronary heart disease patients with eGFR ≥ 90 mL/(min·1.73 m2), those with higher Gensini scores had smaller HDL-C/apoA-I. However, with or without kidney insufficiency, smaller HDL-C/apoA-I was associated with a higher occurrence of coronary heart disease (P < 0.05).ConclusionWith the presence of renal insufficiency, HDL-C/apoA1 was higher in patients with coronary heart disease. Lower HDL-C/apoA1 was still associated with a higher occurrence of coronary heart disease, but the original association between lower HDL-C/apoA1 and more severe coronary artery stenosis was lost in patients with renal insufficiency.

Triglyceride to High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio in Acute Myocardial Infarction And Its Relationship with Angiographic Severity

Background: In acute myocardial infarction (AMI) the extent of the coronary artery lesion is evaluated by coronary angiogram (CAG). Recent evidences suggest that, ratio of triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) could be a non-invasive marker for the prediction of the extent of coronary artery lesion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between TG/HDL-C ratio and the extent of coronary artery lesion assessed by coronary CAG among AMI patients. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess relationship between TG to HDL-C ratio and extent of coronary artery lesion in AMI patients. Materials &amp; Method: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Cardiology, Chittagong Medical College Hospital in 224 admitted AMI patients. Blood samples were taken within 24 hours of admission following AMI for fasting lipid profile assessment, (total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and TG). Each patient was underwent CAG within 2 to 6 weeks of the events and angiographic findings were classified according to presence of significant stenosis, number of vessel involved and Gensini score. Results: The subjects consisted of 197 males and 27 females with a mean age of 51.24 (±11.22) years. Mean value of TC was 185.74 (±41.96) mg/ dL, TG was 222.17 (±99.05) mg/dL, HDL-C was 38.92 (±5.46) mg/dL, LDL-C was 127.99 (±36.94) mg/dL, TG/HDL-C was 5.91 (±2.99), median Gensini score was 28 (Range:1-146). Analysis of receiver operating characteristic curves showed that only TG/HDLC and TG were useful for detecting high Gensini score (score &gt;42), with the former more area under the curve (AUC: 0.611; 95% CI: 0.531-0.691; p=0.008). The TG/HDL-C was an independent predictive factor (Odds ratio: 2.706; 95% CI: 1.397-5.242; p = 0.003) for the presence of significant coronary artery lesion on CAG. Linear regression analysis revealed that, age and TG/HDL-C ratio significantly predicted Gensini score. Conclusion: TG and HDL-C ratio was independently associated with extent of coronary artery lesion. Bangladesh Heart Journal 2021; 36(2): 82-88

Fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio is related to the severity of coronary artery disease in chronic kidney disease patients undergoing coronary angiography

ObjectivesThis study was to explore the potential relationship between the fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR) and the presence and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in stage 3–5 predialysis chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. DesignThis study included 978 patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG). CAD was defined as the presence of obstructive stenosis>50% of the lumen diameter in any of the four main coronary arteries. Gensini scores (GSs), left main coronary artery (LMCA) and three-vessel coronary artery disease (TVD) were used to elevate the severity of CAD. ResultsThe adjusted odds ratios of CAD were 3.059 (95% CI: 1.859–5.032) and 2.670 (95% CI: 1.605–4.441) in the third and fourth quartiles of FAR compared with the first quartile, respectively. Among 759 patients diagnosed with CAD, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that FAR (at the 0.01 level) was significantly positively associated with the presence of LMCA (adjusted OR=1.177, 95% CI 1.067–1.299, P=0.001) or TVD (adjusted OR=1.154, 95% CI 1.076–1.238, P<0.001), and a higher GS (adjusted OR=1.152, 95% CI 1.073–1.238, P<0.001). ConclusionsFAR levels were independently associated with the presence and severity of CAD in stage 3–5 predialysis CKD patients.

Using the Gensini score to estimate severity of STEMI, NSTEMI, unstable angina, and anginal syndrome.

Gensini score (GS) provides valuable information on severity and prognosis of coronary artery disease (CAD).To evaluate the relationship between the severity of CAD determined by the GS and relation to ST-elevation myocardial infarction, non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), unstable angina pectoris, chest pain (suspected angina syndrome on admission) and risk-factors for CAD and predictors of severity.Observational cross-sectional study.Consecutive patients who underwent clinically-indicated coronary angiography for ST-elevation myocardial infarction, NSTEMI, unstable angina pectoris or chest pain were enrolled.Among 600 patients, 417 (average age 67.8 ± 12.2 years) had CAD–related symptoms. Mean GS was 66.7 ± 63.8. Patients presenting with NSTEMI had the highest GS (81.3 ± 42.3; P < .001) Regression analysis of risk-factors showed the best association of GS with multivessel disease and coronary artery bypass graft. Regression analysis of medications showed that clopidogrel, had the best association with low GS.GS correlated with the severity of CAD, multivessel disease, coronary artery bypass graft, and troponin. GS was related to the cardiovascular risk-factors of diabetes, hypertension, and high-density cholesterol.

Impact of diabetes on coronary severity and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: an analysis of genotype and phenotype

Abstract Aims Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the association between T2DM and coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) has not been thoroughly evaluated. Our study aimed to assess the effect of T2DM on CAD severity and hard cardiovascular endpoints in a HeFH cohort. Methods A total of 432 patients with HeFH with a molecular and/or clinical Dutch Lipid Clinic Network score ≥6 (definite and probable) were enrolled. Patients were divided into a T2DM group (n=99) and a non-T2DM group (n=333). Hard endpoints included a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiac death. Results No differences were observed regarding genetic mutations in patients with and without T2DM. Patients with T2DM demonstrated a greater number of diseased vessels (p=0.029) and more severe coronary lesions with high Gensini, SYNTAX, and Jeopardy score tertiles. Compared with patients without T2DM, patients with T2DM were at a significantly greater risk of hard endpoints (multivariate adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–4.84, p=0.025). Additionally, patients with T2DM and good glucose control (HbA1c &amp;lt;7.0%) were at a lower risk of hard endpoints compared with those with poor glucose control (HbA1c ≥7.0%, HR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01–0.56, p=0.011). Conclusions We conclude that T2DM is an independent predictor of CAD severity when assessed by four different tests and worse cardiovascular outcomes, suggesting that T2DM could be further used for risk stratification of patients with HeFH. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Graphical abstract

Effects of sleep habits on acute myocardial infarction risk and severity of coronary artery disease in Chinese population

BackgroundGrowing evidence indicates that poor sleep harms health. Early to bed and early to rise is considered as a healthy lifestyle in Chinese population. The current study aimed to examine the effects of sleep habits on acute myocardial infarction (AMI) risk and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in Chinese population from two centers.MethodsA total of 873 patients including 314 AMI cases and 559 controls were recruited from the inpatient cardiology department of the Affiliated Jiangning Hospital and the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. 559 controls included 395 CAD cases and 164 non-CAD cases. We used a 17-item sleep factors questionnaire (SFQ) to evaluate sleep habits comprehensively by face-to-face interview. The severity of CAD was assessed by Gensini score in AMI and CAD groups. The effects of sleep factors on AMI risk and Gensini score were examined by unconditional logistic regression.ResultsAfter mutually adjustment for other sleep factors and demographic characteristics, the timing of sleep (24:00 and after) and morning waking (after 7:00) and sleep duration (< 6 h) were associated with increased risk of AMI (OR = 4.005, P < 0.001, OR = 2.544, P = 0.011 and OR = 2.968, P < 0.001, respectively). Lower level of light exposure at night was correlated with reduced risk of AMI (OR = 0.243, P = 0.009). In subgroup analysis by age, both late sleep timing and short sleep duration were associated with increased risk of AMI regardless of age. In subjects with age ≤ 65 years, daytime napping was related to reduced risk of AMI (OR = 0.645, P = 0.046). In subjects with age > 65 years, the frequency of night-time waking (3 times) was associated with increased risk of AMI (OR = 3.467, P = 0.035). Short sleep duration was correlated with increased risk of high Gensini score (OR = 2.374, P < 0.001).ConclusionSleep insufficiency is an important risk factor both for AMI risk and CAD severity. Late sleeping is also associated with increased risk of AMI. In young and middle-aged people, regular naps may have a protective effect.Graphic abstract

Plasm trimethylamine-N-oxide level and association with lesion severity in coronary heart disease patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objective: To investigate the association between trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) and the degree of coronary atherosclerosis in coronary heart diseases (CHD) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: Consecutive patients, who underwent coronary angiography due to suspected CHD in Beijing Hospital from November 2016 to January 2018, were screened in this cross-sectional study. According to blood glucose level, previous medical history and coronary angiography results, they were divided into CHD without type2 diabetes mellitus(CHD-nDM) group and CHD with type2 diabetes mellitus(CHD-DM) group. Plasma TMAO levels in each group were measured by LC-MS/MS. Spearman correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between TMAO and the number of diseased vessels and Gensini scores. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the correlation between TMAO and high Gensini scores. Results: A total of 590 patients were enrolled in the study, including 238 patients in CHD-DM group and 352 patients in CHD-nDM group. Patients were older, body mass index, blood pressure level, prevalence of history of hypertension and statins use were higher in CHD-DM group than in CHD-nDM group (all P<0.05). The proportion of patients with multivessel disease (2 or more vessels) was also higher in CHD-DM group than in CHD-nDM group (P<0.001). Gensini score was higher in CHD-DM group than in CHD-nDM group (P<0.05). Fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin and urea were significantly higher, while low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hemoglobin were significantly lower in CHD-DM group than in CHD-nDM group (all P<0.05). The levels of TMAO was significantly higher in CHD-DM group than in CHD-nDM group (P<0.001). Spearman correlation analysis showed that TMAO was positively correlated with the number of diseased vessels, Gensini score, age and blood glucose level (r=0.178, 0.189, 0.260, 0.111, respectively, all P<0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that, TMAO level was still positively correlated with high Gensini score in CHD-DM group (OR=2.25, 95%CI 1.16-4.38, P=0.017), but not in CHD-nDM group (OR=1.29, 95%CI 0.72-2.31, P=0.386) after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking and statin use. Conclusions: In CHD patients with tupe 2 diabetes mellitus, the plasma TMAO level is significantly increased and is independent and positively correlated with the degree of coronary artery disease.

The Relationship Between Gensini Score and Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome.

IntroductionIn previous studies, the relationship between atherosclerosis and erectile dysfunction (ED) was examined, but the relationship and correlation between Gensini score which evaluates the extent and severity of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS), and ED severity were not investigated.AimTo evaluate the relationship between Gensini score and ED in patients with CCS.MethodsWe included 142 consecutive male patients with the diagnosed CCS and underwent an elective coronary angiography between January 2019 and March 2020.Main Outcome MeasureCorrelation analysis demonstrated that Gensini score significantly negatively correlated with the International Index Erectile Function - 5 (IIEF-5) score (r = -0.417, P < .001).ResultsSevere ED was present in 48 (33.8%) patients, moderate ED in 31 (21.8%) patients, and mild ED in 22 (15.5%) patients. 41(28.9%) patients did not have ED. Both the No ED and Mild ED groups were statistically significantly lower than the Severe ED group in terms of the Gensini score (P < .05). When the recommended optimal cut-off point and accuracy measurements were made for the Gensini score, the area under curve (AUC) value in predicting ED was 0.806 (95% CI: 0.732-0.880, P < .001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that independent predictors for ED were Gensini score and age (P < .001, and P = .026, respectively). Every 1 unit increase in Gensini score resulted in a 6% increase in the occurrence of ED (OR = 1.06, CI:1.03-1.10, P < .001).ConclusionED can be caused by endothelial dysfunction. Patients with severe CSS and high Gensini score should be evaluted for ED. ED may be a sign of severe CCS and a high Gensini score. It is also necessary to evaluate cardiological in patients with ED.Deger M, Ozmen C, Akdogan N, et al. The Relationship Between Gensini Score and Erectile Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome. Sex Med 2021;9:100376.

Fragmented QRS as a marker of coronary atherosclerosis severity evaluated by the Gensini score

BackgroundQRS fragmentation (fQRS) represents a marker of local myocardial fibrosis, especially in patients with CAD (coronary artery disease). However, little is known about the association between fQRS and the severity of coronary atherosclerosis as defined by the Gensini score. ObjectiveTo identify the angiographic and echocardiographic characteristics of patients with suspected CAD depending on the location and extent of fQRS. MethodsA total of 178 patients who underwent coronary angiography were included in the study. fQRS was defined as the presence of RSR’ and/or notching of the R/S wave (if QRS<120ms) or≥2 notches of the R/S wave (if QRS≥120ms). All patients were divided into three groups: non-fQRS; fQRS in 1-2 and≥3 leads. ResultsStatistically significant differences in the LVEF (left ventricular ejection fraction, P=0.009) and the degree of coronary atherosclerosis severity (P=0.008) were found among 3 groups. The median Gensini score was 7 in non-fQRS group (minimal CAD) and >20 in other groups (severe CAD). Both the anterior and lateral fQRS groups had a lower LVEF compared to no fQRS (P=0.039 and P=0.01, respectively). The median Gensini score was significantly higher in case of the lateral fQRS (P=0.037). fQRS in≥1 lead was associated with coronary occlusion (OR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.1–4.1, P=0.038). ConclusionsThe presence of fQRS, particularly in lateral leads, can be a useful noninvasive marker of severe coronary atherosclerosis. Patients with≥1 fragmented lead have a lower LVEF, a higher Gensini score and a two-fold increased risk of occlusion.

Association between MIF gene promoter rs755622 and susceptibility to coronary artery disease and inflammatory cytokines in the Chinese Han population

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an essential mediator of atherosclerotic plaque progression and instability leading to intracoronary thrombosis, therefore contributing to coronary artery disease (CAD). In this study, we investigated the relationship between MIF gene polymorphism and CAD in Chinese Han population. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP, rs755622, rs1007888 and rs2096525) of MIF gene were genotyped by TaqMan genotyping assay in 1120 control participants and 1176 CAD patients. Coronary angiography was performed in all CAD patients and Gensini score was used to assess the severity of coronary artery lesions. The plasma levels of MIF and other inflammatory mediators were measured by ELISA. The CAD patients had a higher frequency of CC genotype and C allele of rs755622 compared with that in control subjects (CC genotype: 6.5% vs. 3.9%, P = 0.008, C allele: 24.0% vs. 20.6%, P = 0.005). The rs755622 CC genotype was associated with an increased risk of CAD (OR: 1.804, 95%CI: 1.221–2.664, P = 0.003). CAD patients with a variation of rs755622 CC genotype had significantly higher Gensini score compared with patients with GG or CG genotype (all P < 0.05). In addition, the circulating MIF level was highest in CAD patients carrying rs755622 CC genotype (40.7 ± 4.2 ng/mL) and then followed by GC (37.9 ± 3.4 ng/mL) or GG genotype (36.9 ± 3.7 ng/mL, all P < 0.01). Our study showed an essential relationship between the MIF gene rs755622 variation and CAD in Chinese Han population. Individuals who carrying MIF gene rs755622 CC genotype were more susceptible to CAD and had more severe coronary artery lesion. This variation also had a potential influence in circulating MIF levels.

Impact of diabetes on coronary severity and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the association between T2DM and coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HeFH) has not been thoroughly evaluated. Our study aimed to assess the effect of T2DM on CAD severity and hard cardiovascular endpoints in a HeFH cohort. A total of 432 patients with HeFH with a molecular and/or clinical Dutch Lipid Clinic Network score ≥6 (definite and probable) were enrolled. Patients were divided into a T2DM group (n = 99) and a non-T2DM group (n = 333). The severity of coronary stenosis was assessed by the number of diseased vessels and Gensini, SYNTAX, and Jeopardy scores. Hard endpoints included a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, and cardiac death. Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analyses were used to evaluate the effect of T2DM on hard cardiovascular endpoints. The prevalence of CAD was higher in patients with T2DM compared with those without (96.0% vs. 77.5%, respectively; P < 0.001). Patients with T2DM demonstrated a greater number of diseased vessels (P = 0.029) and more severe coronary lesions with high Gensini, SYNTAX, and Jeopardy score tertiles (P = 0.031, P = 0.001, and P = 0.024, respectively). During a median of 3.75 years up to a maximum of 9 years of follow-up, hard endpoints occurred in 13 of 99 patients with T2DM and 16 of 333 without T2DM at baseline. Compared with patients without T2DM, patients with T2DM were at a significantly greater risk of hard endpoints [multivariate adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 2.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-4.84; P = 0.025]. Additionally, patients with T2DM and good glucose control (HbA1c < 7.0%) were at a lower risk of hard endpoints compared with those with poor glucose control (HbA1c ≥ 7.0%, HR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01-0.56; P = 0.011). We conclude that T2DM is an independent predictor of CAD severity when assessed by number of diseased vessels, Gensini, SYNTAX, Jeopardy scores, and hard cardiovascular endpoints, suggesting that T2DM could be further used for risk stratification of patients with HeFH.

The relation between ApoB/ApoA-1 ratio and the severity of coronary artery disease in patients with acute coronary syndrome

BackgroundApolipoprotein B is considered the primary protein constituent of low-density lipoprotein. LDL contains variable quantities of cholesterol, but each lipoprotein contains a single ApoB protein. Thus, ApoB is a better index for the LDL circulation if compared to LDL cholesterol. On the contrary, apolipoprotein A-1 is a main structural protein of high-density lipoprotein. It has a major role in reversing cholesterol flow and cellular cholesterol homeostasis once detected. The aim of the study is to measure apo B/apo A-1 ratio in patients with acute coronary syndrome and assess its relationship with the severity of CAD.A total of 90 patients were enrolled in the study and subdivided into 3 groups: 30 patients of STEMI, 30 patients of NSTEMI, and 30 patients presented with unstable angina. Serum levels of apolipoprotein A-1 and apolipoprotein B were properly measured upon admission, and apo B/apo A-1 ratio was calculated.ResultsBoth of Apo B and Apo B/Apo A1 ratio correlated significantly with Gensini scores (P value <0.001). High Gensini score patients had significantly high Apo B/Apo A1 ratio with the best cutoff value of 0.8 with sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 70%.ConclusionApo B is an independent risk predictor for the severity of CAD in patients with acute coronary syndromes. Moreover, the Apo B/Apo A1 ratio remains highly significant in patients with high Gensini score.

Nicotine exacerbates atherosclerosis through a macrophage-mediated endothelial injury pathway.

Evidence suggests that nicotine intake promotes atherosclerosis. We enrolled 100 patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and found that plaque burden, TXNIP expression, and inflammatory chemokine levels were higher in smokers than non-smokers. Additionally, patients with higher TXNIP expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) had a higher Gensini Scores and higher plasma IL-1β and IL-18 levels. Treating bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) with nicotine in vitro led to enhanced lipid phagocytosis, chemotaxis, and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which activated TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling and promoted pyroptosis, as evidenced by caspase-1 cleavage and increased production of IL-1β, IL-18, and gasdermin D. Nicotine intake by ApoE(-/-) mice fed a high-fat diet recapitulated those phenotypes. The effects of nicotine on pyroptotic signaling were reversed by N-acetyl-cysteine, a ROS scavenger. Silencing TXNIP in vivo reversed the effects of nicotine on macrophage invasion and vascular injury. Nicotine also induced pyroptotic macrophages that contributed to the apoptotic death of endothelial cells. These findings suggest that nicotine accelerates atherosclerosis in part by promoting macrophage pyroptosis and endothelial damage. Therefore, targeting the TXNIP/NLRP3-mediated pyroptotic pathway in macrophages may ameliorate nicotine-induced endothelial damage.

Association of Soluble Suppression of Tumorigenicity with No-Reflow Phenomenon and Long-Term Prognosis in Patients with Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

Aims: Soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) was validated to independently predict prognosis for heart failure (HF) and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relation between sST2 and coronary artery stenosis, and no-reflow phenomenon and one-year prognosis in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). Methods: This prospective study consecutively enrolled 205 patients who were diagnosed with NSTE-ACS and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). sST2 was measured for all patients during admission. Patients were divided into two groups based on the optimal cutoff value: sST2 ＞34.2 ng/ml and sST2 ≤ 34.2 ng/ml groups. Results: Patients in the sST2 ＞34.2 ng/ml group was associated with higher Gensini scores and multivessel disease. sST2 had weak predictive value for no-reflow phenomenon (area under the curve [AUC], 0.662; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53–0.79; P =0.015) with 66.7% sensitivity and 65.2% specificity, and it also had independent predictive value of no-reflow phenomenon after adjusting for confounding factors (odds ratio [OR], 3.802; 95% CI, 1.03–14.11; P =0.046). sST2 ＞34.2 ng/ml had a commendable predictive value for the one-year prognosis (AUC, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.75–0.93; P ＜0.001) with 72% sensitivity and 84% specificity, and it independently predicted one-year major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (hazard ratio [HR], 10.22; 95% CI, 4.05–25.7; P ＜0.001). Conclusion: The sST2 concentration on admission is correlated with the degree of coronary artery stenosis. sST2 can predict both no-reflow and MACCE in patients with NSTE-ACS after PCI and was an independent predictor of MACCE and no-reflow phenomenon.

The Relationship Between Chronic Kidney Disease and the Severity and Long-Term Prognosis of Patients with Coronary Artery Disease After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation.

ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the severity and long-term prognosis of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation.MethodsThere were 814 patients, who consecutively received a DES implantation, selected for this study. They were divided into two groups, according to whether or not they suffered CKD. There were 254 cases in the CKD group (31.2%), while there were 560 cases (68.8%) in the control group. The clinical characteristics, coronary artery lesions, and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) of the two groups were compared, and the relationship between risk factors and MACCEs was analyzed by multivariate logistic regression.ResultsCompared with the control group, the CKD group had more severe coronary artery stenosis, expressed as the more diseased arteries (2.15 ± 0.82 vs 1.87 ± 0.83, p = 0.001), a high incidence of three diseased arteries (42.0% vs 28.3%, p = 0.001), and a higher Gensini score [37 (18.6, 66) vs 27.5 (12, 52.5), p = 0.009]. The one-year post-implant incidence of MACCE was higher in the CKD group compared with the control group (17.6% vs 9.9%, p = 0.006).ConclusionCKD appears to be an important predictor for the prognosis of CAD.

Relationship between serum cystatin-c and coronary lesion severity in coronary artery disease patients with a normal glomerular filtration rate.

ObjectiveCardiovascular disease is a major cause of death. This study evaluated the relationship between serum cystatin-c and coronary lesion severity in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients with a normal glomerular filtration rate.MethodsNine hundred and fifty-nine patients were retrospectively included and divided into non-CAD and CAD groups according to coronary angiography results. CAD patients were classified into three groups by Gensini score tertiles. Multivariable logistic regression was used to study the relationship between serum cystatin-c and coronary lesion severity.ResultsSerum cystatin-c levels were significantly higher in CAD patients than in non-CAD patients. Correlation analysis revealed significant correlations between serum cystatin-c levels with the Gensini score and the number of diseased vessels. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of serum cystatin-c was 0.544 and 0.555 for predicting a high Gensini score and three-vessel disease, respectively. Multivariate stepwise regression analysis demonstrated that the serum cystatin-c level was an independent predictor of a high Gensini score [odds ratio (OR) = 2.177, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.140–3.930] and three-vessel disease (OR = 1.845, 95% CI 0.994–3.424) after adjusting for the conventional CAD risk factors.ConclusionsSerum cystatin-c was elevated in CAD patients and may be an independent predictor of CAD severity.

A Comparative Angiographic Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Diabetic and Non Diabetics in a Tertiary Cardiac Centre

Introduction: Diabetes is a major risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases including coronary artery disease. Coronary atherosclerosis is not only more prevalent in diabetic patients but is also more severe. Diabetics are more prone to multi vessel involvement as well as associated with poor outcomes to acute coronary events. Methods: This is a hospital based descriptive cross-sectional study including 300 patients (diabetic and non-diabetic) undergoing coronary angiography at Sahid Gangalal National Heart Centre over a period of one year (January to December 2016). Results: Out of the total 300 patients studied at angiography, majority (68.3%, 205 patients) were male with the age group ranging from 29 to 86 years of age. Significant number of diabetics had associated risk factor as hypertension (88%) as the most common. Brahmins and Madhesi (27% each) ethnic group of origin formed the major group studied. Significant coronary artery disease defined as >50 % stenosis was evident in 118 patients (78.7%) among diabetics whereas it was present in 99 patients (66%, p value 0.01, significant). Maximum number of diabetic patients had presence of triple vessel disease ( 52 patients, 34.7 %) followed by double vessel and single vessel disease ( 25.3 % and 18.7 %) respectively as well as more number of diffuse vessel disease (28 % ,p value 0.006 ) . The mean Gensini score studied was 33.07±28.7 with the highest Gensini score of 126. Diabetic group of patients had a higher Gensini scores (37.2 ± 28.4) as compared to non-diabetic (28.9 ± 28.6, p value <0.05). Conclusion: Diabetic patients had higher total Gensini scores at angiogram which reflect greater severity of coronary artery disease as compared to non-diabetics as well as higher incidence of triple vessel disease and diffuse coronary artery disease.

Investigation of serum ischemia-modified albumin levels in coronary artery disease patients.

Ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) is a novel marker for the detection of ischemia. The value of this biomarker has been studied in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the relationship between the severity of coronary stenosis and serum IMA levels remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the potential role of serum IMA levels in predicting the severity of coronary atherosclerosis. One hundred and forty-two individuals who underwent coronary angiography for coronary artery disease complaints were included in the study. Participants were divided into three groups based on their diagnosis as control (healthy subjects), group I (subjects with lower Gensini score), and group II (subjects with higher Gensini score). Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score and Gensini scores were calculated after coronary angiogram in the patient groups. Then, venous blood samples were collected from each participant. Serum IMA levels and the levels of routine laboratory markers were measured. The serum lymphocyte, neutrophil, and high-density lipid (HDL) levels were statistically insignificant between the groups. The white blood cell (WBC) count and IMA levels were significantly higher in the patient groups (p < 0.05). The GRACE and Gensini scores were significantly different in the patient groups (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between the GRACE and Gensini scores and serum IMA levels. Although IMA levels can be a significant predictor for ischemia according to previous reports, this biomarker seems to be insufficient for determining the severity of disease in patients with CAD.