MicroRNAs and other biomarkers of atrial fibrillation in ischemic stroke patients.

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of selected microRNAs as biomarkers of atrial fibrillation (AF) in ischemic stroke patients in comparison with other established biochemical biomarkers. A prospective case-control study of consecutive ischemic stroke patients with AF admitted to a comprehensive stroke center was conducted. The control group consisted of patients with ischemic stroke with no AF detected on prolonged (at least 3 weeks) Holter ECG monitoring.

The Effect of ABCB1 and CES1 Polymorphisms on Plasma Levels of Dabigatran and Risk of Hemorrhagic Complications in Ischemic Stroke Patients.

Background: Dabigatran directly inhibits thrombin and is used in primary and secondary stroke prevention in individuals with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. The prodrug dabigatran etexilate is absorbed by enteral P-glycoprotein (ABCB1) and then activated by hepatic and intestinal carboxylesterases (CES1) to produce active metabolites. Variations in dabigatran metabolism because of genetics may affect concentration levels and clinical outcomes.

IL-2, IL-6 and chitinase 3-like 2 might predict early relapse activity in multiple sclerosis.

Background: The possibility to better predict the severity of the disease in a patient newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis would allow the treatment strategy to be personalized and lead to better clinical outcomes. Prognostic biomarkers are highly needed.

Objective: To assess the prognostic value of intrathecal IgM synthesis, cerebrospinal fluid and serum IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, chitinase 3-like 2 and neurofilament heavy chains obtained early after the onset of the disease.

Clinical dynamic visual acuity in patients with cerebellar ataxia and vestibulopathy.

Deterioration of dynamic visual acuity (DVA) as a result of impaired vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) has been well described in peripheral vestibulopathies, however, changes in DVA in patients with degenerative cerebellar ataxias (CA) and its relation to VOR impairment in these patients has not yet been evaluated. Our aim was to assess the alterations of DVA in CA and to evaluate its relation to vestibular function. 32 patients with CA and 3 control groups: 13 patients with unilateral and 13 with bilateral vestibulopathy and 21 age matched healthy volunteers were examined by clinical DVA test, VOR was assessed by video Head Impulse Test and caloric irrigation.