Plasma Ceramide Levels Are Elevated in Patients With Early Coronary Atherosclerosis and Endothelial Dysfunction.

Background Elevated plasma ceramides are independent predictors of cardiovascular disease and mortality in patients with advanced epicardial coronary artery disease. Our understanding of plasma ceramides in early epicardial coronary artery disease, however, remains limited. We examined the role of plasma ceramides in early coronary atherosclerosis characterized by coronary endothelial dysfunction.

CPAP is associated with decreased risk of AF recurrence in patients with OSA, especially those younger and slimmer: a meta-analysis.

Purpose: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with the management of atrial fibrillation (AF). This manuscript aims to discuss the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in patients with rhythm control strategies and patients with different ages, weights and length of follow-up.

Methods: We searched Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science and Ovid for relevant studies (from inception to 7 July 2019; English).

Increased plasma BMP-2 levels are associated with atherosclerosis burden and coronary calcification in type 2 diabetic patients.

Background: Although Bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) is a known mediator of bone regeneration and vascular calcification, to date no study has investigated the relationship between BMP-2 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its possible role in coronary artery disease (CAD). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship of BMP-2 with atherosclerosis and calcification in patients with T2DM.

Methods: 124 subjects were enrolled in this study: 29 patients with T2DM and CAD; 26 patients with T2DM and without CAD; 36 patients with CAD and without T2DMand 34 without T2DM or CAD (control group).