Poor reliability of P-wave terminal force V in ischemic stroke.

Introduction: Several ECG markers are postulated to represent underlying atrial remodelling and have been associated with ischemic stroke. P-wave terminal force in lead V (PTFV) is one such marker. We examined the factors that contribute to the reliability of PTFV and its association with ischemic stroke.

In vitro inhibitory effects of atorvastatin on cardiac fibroblasts: implications for ventricular remodelling.

1. Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) reduce mortality after myocardial infarction (MI). Although this may be predominantly due to their known anti-ischaemic actions, these drugs are known to have other beneficial effects.

Physiologic determinants of endothelin concentrations in human saliva.

Background: Salivary endothelin (ET) concentrations have been shown to correlate with disease severity in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). We undertook the present study to evaluate the stability of salivary ET under different handling conditions to assess its suitability as a biochemical marker in screening, diagnosis, and management of CHF.

Methods: Saliva samples were collected from healthy individuals and/or CHF patients, subjected to different handling conditions, and then stored at -80 degrees C until assayed by an ELISA for ET.