Inflammatory Phenotype by OCT Coronary Imaging: Specific Features Among De Novo Lesions, In-Stent Neointima, and In-Stent Neo-Atherosclerosis.

Background: Coronary stenosis can be caused de novo atherosclerosis, in-stent restenosis, and in-stent neoatherosclerosis, three entities that develop from a diverse pathophysiological milieu.

Objective: This study aims to investigate, using optical coherence tomography (OCT), whether or not coronary lesions related to these processes differ in their local inflammatory profile.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients with diagnosed or suspected coronary lesions who had undergone OCT imaging for clinical reasons.

Regional QT Interval Dispersion as an Early Predictor of Reperfusion in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction after Fibrinolytic Therapy.

Background: Patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction attending primary care centers, treated with pharmaco-invasive strategy, are submitted to coronary angiography within 2-24 hours of fibrinolytic treatment. In this context, the knowledge about biomarkers of reperfusion, such as 50% ST-segment resolution is crucial.

Objective: To evaluate the performance of QT interval dispersion in addition to other classical criteria, as an early marker of reperfusion after thrombolytic therapy.

Association of Multiple Genetic Variants with the Extension and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease.

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a condition that, when associated with ischemic heart disease and cardiovascular events, can be influenced by genetic variants and determine more severe coronary atherosclerosis.

Objectives: To examine the contribution of genetic polymorphisms to the extension and severity of coronary disease in subjects with MS and recent acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods: Patients (n = 116, 68% males) aged 56 (9) years, with criteria for MS, were prospectively enrolled to the study during the hospitalization period after an ACS.

Endothelial progenitor cell mobilization and platelet microparticle release are influenced by clopidogrel plasma levels in stable coronary artery disease.

Background: Increased numbers of endothelial (EMP) and platelet (PMP) microparticles have been related to cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery disease. Little is known about the early effects of statins and clopidogrel on these new biomarkers of vascular homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate pharmacokinetic interactions between atorvastatin and clopidogrel and their effects, alone or combined, on EMP, PMP, and endothelial progenitor cells (EPC).

Early glucometabolic profile in patients with acute coronary syndromes and metabolic syndrome.

Background: Patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) are at high coronary risk and beta-cell dysfunction or insulin resistance might predict an additional risk for early cardiovascular events.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate early glucometabolic alterations in patients with MetS, but without previously known type 2 diabetes, after acute coronary syndrome.

Methods: A total of 114 patients were submitted to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) 1-3 days after hospital discharge due to myocardial infarction or unstable angina.