bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ARE THERE ANY ADVANTAGES TO USING A POLYPILL OR FREE PILL COMBINATION TO PROTECT PATIENTS WITH ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AND DYSLIPIDEMIA?
Authors: Vachulova Anna , Simkova Adriana , Sidlo Rastislav , Filipova Slavomira 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
Arterial hypertension (AH) has been acknowledged as a leading cause of death. Treating AH alone may provide only limited benefits while it is recommendable to manage the total cardiovascular risk.
The aim was to assess the treatment of AH and dyslipidemia (DLP) in patients in specialists’ offices.

Design and method:
This project was conducted from April to June 2023 in 51 specialists’ offices (SPO) (33% cardiology, and 67% internal medicine) in Slovakia. We have enrolled all 18-year-old pts who are willing to complete a short questionnaire and take office BP.

Results:
We enrolled 514 pts with AH (42% women), mean age 61,5 ± 17,2 years from SPOs. The mean OBP was 134,9 ± 10,9/ 80,3 ± 7,2 mmHg. The average total cholesterol (TC) was 5,7 mmol/l, LDL-C 3,0 mmol/l. TC (6,12 vs 5,15 mmol/l, p<0,01) was higher in male patients, and LDL-C was higher in female patients (3,05 vs 2,91 mmol/l). 76% pts experienced both AH and DLP simultaneously. In comparison to those without HLP, AH patients with HLP were given 0.5 active substances and 0.8 pills more. In total 79% pts with AH and HLP were treated with a free pill combination with a statin, while only 16% were treated with polypill. The use of polypill was more frequent in female pts (18%) vs male pts (14%). Target BP lower than 140/90 mmHg was reached in 68% pts with polypill, and in 53% pts without polypill. Non-HDL- C was lower in pts with polypill (3,6 vs 4,03 mmol/l). The current BP and non-HDL targets were reached more frequently in pts with polypill 56% vs 44% pts.

Conclusions:
Adherence to medications is important to achieve the full effect of antihypertensive and lipid-lowering drugs. We demonstrated that the use of polypill compared to a free pill combination of statin and AH therapy is more effective. 27% of patients reached BP and LDL targets when were treated by polypill. Using polypill in our pts we aim to reach a higher rate of BP and cholesterol control in Slovakia to meet the objectives of the Charter 70/2023 initiative.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NEUTROPHILTO HIGH-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN CHOLESTEROL AND THE SEVERITY OF CORONARY STENOSIS IN PATIENT WITH CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE
Authors: Doan Long , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Quynh , Nguyen Thi Binh Minh , Tran Thi Nguyen Hieu , Vo Thi Phuong Trinh , Le Thanh Thien , Truong Tuan Khanh 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common cardiovascular disease related to atherosclerotic plaque formation. The Neutrophil to HDL-C ratio (NHR) reflects the inflammation process and dyslipidemia, affecting the atherosclerosis pathophysiology. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between NHR and the severity of coronary stenosis in CAD patients.

Design and method:
A prospective study with in-hospital follow-up in all patients admitted to Cardiology Center - Hue Central Hospital, whose were diagnosed with coronary artery disease between April 2023 and February 2024 were enrolled. The diagnostic criteria of CAD according to the recommendation of the Vietnam National Heart Association 2022. All patients received a comprehensive clinical examination and laboratory tests: complete blood count, high-sensitive Troponin-T, Total Cholesterol, HDL-Cholesterol, 12-leads EKG, transthoracic echocardiogram. All patients were undergone coronary angiography with doctor recommendation or self-requirement. Patients with history of coronary artery interventions, either balloon or stenting, or patient with history of coronary artery bypass graft were excluded from the study. Patients with acute or chronic infection state, end-stage kidney failure, end-stage renal disease, severe heart failure, severe valvular diseases and hematology diseases, patients being used corticosteroid therapy were also excluded.

Results:
Mean age was 67.12 ± 11.39 years, 58.5% male. The mean NHR increased according to Gensini score subgroups (p < 0,01). Compared to the group with unincreased hs-Troponin (4.38 ± 1.56), the group with increased hs-Troponin showed a significantly higher mean NHR (6.14 ± 3.17) (p < 0.01). There was a moderate correlation between NHR and Gensini score with r = 0.343, p<0.01. NHR demonstrated moderate ability to predict patients with significant narrowing of coronary branches with the AUC= 0.727. With the NHR at 5.324, NHR has 54.2% in sensitivity and 83.3% of specificity in predicting of the significant coronary artery stenosis.

Conclusions:
Our study demonstrated there was a moderate correlation between Neutrophil to HDL-C ratio (NHR) and Gensini score. Neutrophil to HDL-C ratio (NHR) demonstrated moderate ability to predict patients with significant narrowing of coronary branches.
SEVERITY OF NEUROLOGICAL LONG-COVID SYMPTOMS CORRELATES WITH INCREASED LEVEL OF AUTOANTIBODIES TARGETING VASOREGULATORY AND AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM RECEPTORS
Authors: Seibert Felix , Stervbo Ulrik , Wiemers Lea , Skrzypczyk Sarah , Hogeweg Maximilian , Bertram Sebastian , Kurek Julia , Anft Moritz , Westhoff Timm , Babel Nina 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
The Long-COVID syndrome is characterized by a variety of physical, cognitive and psychological symptoms. Worldwide, at least 65 million people are thought to be affected, nevertheless there is still insufficient knowledge about the pathogenesis of long-COVID. Studies on the Long-COVID related myalgicencephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) suggest autoimmune-related changes, for example the formation of autoantibodies against G protein-coupled receptors.

Design and method:
This monocentric, cross-sectional study included patients who suffered a mild to moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection up to 12 months prior to enrollment with (n = 72) or without (n = 58) Long-COVID diagnosis according to the German S1 guideline or with no known history of SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 70). Autoantibodies towards the vasoregulation associated Adrenergic Receptor (ADR) B1 and B2 and the CNS and vasoregulation associated muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (CHR) M3 and M4 were measured by ELISA. Neurological disorders and fatigue were quantified by internationally standardized questionnaires including Chalder Fatigue Scale, Short-Form-36 Questionnaire and the CERAD Neurophysiological Assessment Battery.

Results:
The prevalence and concentrations of evaluated autoantibodies were significantly higher in Long-COVID compared to the 2 other groups (p = 2.1∗10-9) with a significantly higher number of patients with simultaneous detection of more than one autoantibody in Long-COVID group (p = 0.0419). Importantly, the overall inflammatory state was low in all 3 groups. ARB1 and ARB2 correlated negatively CERAD Trail Marking A and B (R <= -0.26, p <= 0.043), while CHRM3 correlated positively with Chadler Fatigue Scale (R = 0.37, p = 0.0087).

Conclusions:
The present study shows that autoantibodies to GPCR are highly prevalent in patients with Long-COVID. These autoantibodies occur in healthy controls as well, but the prevalence is substantially lower.
Concentrations of autoantibodies correlates to intensity of neurological disorders including psychomotor speed, visual search, attention, and fatigue.
LOW HIGH-DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN LEVEL PROMOTES INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE IN LONG COVID PATIENTS UNDERGOING HEMODIALYSIS ONE YEAR AFTER INFECTION
Authors: Stepanova Natalia , Driianska Victoria , Rysyev Andriy , Snisar Lyudmyla , Chernianu Daria 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
Long COVID, a syndrome characterized by persistent symptoms post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, poses unique challenges for patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (<1.2 mmol/L) have been implicated in heightened COVID-19 risk and associated cardiovascular complications in this patient population. This study aimed to explore the potential association between low HDL and inflammatory responses in long COVID among HD patients.

Design and method:
A total of 80 hemodialysis (HD) patients, aged 55 (44-62.5) years, with a dialysis vintage of 45 (21-78.6) months and a history of COVID-19, were enrolled in this cross-sectional cohort study. Among them, 45 (56.2%) were diagnosed with long COVID, while 35 (43.8%) had fully recovered. Lipid profiles and inflammatory markers, such as serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and C-reactive protein (CRP), were assessed one year post-infection. The cytokines were measured using ELISA. Data were presented as median and interquartile interval [Me (Q25-Q75)] and compared using the Mann-Whitney test.

Results:
Patients experiencing long COVID exhibited significantly lower HDL levels compared to fully recovered individuals: 1.19 (1.06-1.76) vs 1.66 (1.32-1.92) mmol/L (p = 0.02). Among those with low HDL levels (<1.2 mmol/L), elevated concentrations of CRP, IL-6, and IL-17 were evident in comparison to patients with HDL concentrations exceeding 1.2 mmol/L (Fig. 1). Subsequent subgroup analysis revealed a more pronounced inflammatory profile in patients concurrently experiencing long COVID and exhibiting low HDL levels (Fig. 2).

Conclusions:
Our findings indicate that low HDL levels may enhance the inflammatory response in patients with long COVID undergoing HD one year post-infection, potentially promoting cardiovascular complications. Future research should focus on elucidating the pathways underlying this association and exploring novel strategies to mitigate inflammation and improve outcomes in long COVID among HD patients.
PROLONGED ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION IN POST-COVID-19 HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS
Authors: Matova Olena , Mishchenko Larysa , Talaeva Tatiana 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
to investigate the endothelial function in hypertensive patients after 1.5 ± 0.4 years after COVID-19 recovery.

Design and method:
We studied 64 treated hypertensive patients divided into 2 groups: 39 patients recovered from mild to moderate COVID-19 in 2020-2022 years (1st group) and 25 patients were not ill with COVID-19 (2nd group). All patients were vaccinated against COVID-19. The clinical characteristics and laboratory finding measurements were evaluated.

Results:
There were no significant differences in sex, duration of hypertension, frequency of family history of premature CVD, smoking, alcohol consumption, BMI, and presence of concomitant DM, CAD, stroke/TIA, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, office BP between the 2 groups. The patients in 1st group were younger and had higher GFR than patients in 2nd group (respectively, 57.9 ± 1.0 vs 61.1 ± 1.5 years, P = 0.03 and 83.2 ± 3.4 vs 71.9 ± 3.7 ml/ min/1.73m2, P = 0.03). The levels of anti-spike IgG antibodies by 21.3% were higher in vaccinated patients with prior COVID-19 than in patients without prior COVID-19. Serum IL-10 and TNF- α concentrations did not differ between groups. However, serum levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) (0.64 ± 0.02 vs 0.53 ± 0.02 μmol/l, P = 0.047), CRP (8.6 ± 2.5 vs 4.3 ± 0.6 mg/l, P = 0.049), 24-h albuminuria (28.1 ± 3.8 vs 14.1 ± 2.3 mg/day, P = 0.048) were higher in post-COVID-19 patients than in patients of 2nd group.

Conclusions:
After 1.5 ± 0.4 years of recovery from COVID-19, the hypertensive patients who received the vaccine were found to have greater activation of systemic inflammation, higher levels of albuminuria, and higher blood ADMA concentrations compared to vaccinated individuals who did not have COVID-19. This fact may indicate a long-lasting dysfunction of the endothelium after suffering from COVID-19 and the absence of such an effect after vaccination without a history of COVID-19.
IMPACT OF SARS-COV-2 INFECTION IN NEUROCOGNITIVE AND CARDIOPULMONARY FUNCTIONALITY OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS
Authors: Kariori Maria , Fragoulis Christos , Chrysohoou Christina , Tsioufis Panagiotis , Grigoriou Kalliopi , Papakonstantinou Panteleimon , Tatakis Fotios , Stathoulopoulou Maria , Siafi Eirini , Nikolopoulou Lefki , Mantzouranis Emmanouel , Manta Eleni , Konstantinidis Dimitrios , Thomopoulos Costas , Tsioufis Konstantinos 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
Few data have been published regarding the holistic approach of post-Covid patients with a history of hypertension, examining both physical and mental health. The purpose of our prospective study was to follow up cardiorespiratory status, and mental and psychological health of hypertensive patients 3 months after the first day of infection.

Design and method:
All patients with a history of Sars-Cov-2 infection and good functional status were assessed using cardiorespiratory test, transthoracic echocardiogram, and standardized questionnaires by a comprehensive team of experts (cardiologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists). The population was divided into two groups according to hypertension status.

Results:
Out of total population of 198 patients (51±15 years, 44.4% males, 6.6% history of coronary heart disease) with COVID-19 infection were assessed. Hypertensives had higher BMI (p<0.001) and BSA (p<0.001) and they were hospitalized in higher percentage (p<0.01). Out of echocardiographic parameters, diastolic dysfunction parameters including left atrial diameter (p<0.001) and E/A ratio (p<0.001) differed significantly between the two groups. LVEF (%) was significantly impaired (56±10% vs. 58±9%, p:0.04) in hypertensives that was depicted in lower values of oxygen consumption (VO2 (ml/kg/min)) both maximum (p<0.001) and during the 1st minute of recovery (p<0.006), metabolic equivalents (METS) at peak, (p<0.001) and HR1st minute recovery (p< 0.001) comparing to normotensives. Systolic blood pressure (mmHg) at rest (p: 0.002), at peak (p: 0.01), and during the 1st minute of recovery (p: 0.001) as well as Borg scale score for dyspnea (p:0.02) were higher while the exercise duration was significantly lower (p<0.001) in hypertensives comparing to normotensives. Similarly, their psychometric tests (DASI METS (p:0.008), Functionality (p:0.036)) were also affected. Finally, using linear regression analysis adjusted for age, gender, hypertension status, and hospitalization, age (p: 0.001) proved to be an independent predictive factor for VO2, VO2_AT, and VO21st minute of recovery in hypertensive patients.

Conclusions:
To conclude, the current study highlighted the reduced ability to exercise and fragility of patients with a history of hypertension. Age proved to be an independent negative predictor of functionality. Therefore, the need for a more comprehensive approach to the rehabilitation of post-covid patients is mandatory.
BIOMARKERS OF ENDOTHELIAL DYSFUNCTION AND CLOTTING DYSREGULATION POST COVID-19- A SUBSTUDY OF CARTESIAN
Authors: Fortier Catherine , Agharazii Mohsen , Lakomy Cécile , Lacolley Patrick , Regnault Véronique 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
Multiple mechanisms may contribute to a hypercoagulation state in patients with COVID-19. Endothelial cells play a key role in cellular adhesion, coagulation, smooth muscle cell proliferation, and vascular wall inflammation. We aimed to describe the activation of the coagulation system, specifically thrombin generation, plasma release of endothelial factors and NETosis, and their association with kidney function following the resolution of the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Design and method:
Plasma samples were collected from adults 3 to 9 months after a confirmed episode of COVID-19 (COVID+, hospitalized or not, n=22) or after negative testing for COVID-19 in individuals who remained free of COVID-19 (COVID-, n-22). The coagulation system was assessed using in-vivo markers such as D-dimers (ng/ml). Thrombin generation assay estimated the thrombin-generating capacity in platelet-rich and platelet-poor plasma to provide information on soluble coagulation factors and the role of platelets in this process. Plasma release of endothelial factors was assessed by the levels of procoagulant factor VIII (FVIII) and Von Willebrand factor (VWF), and NETosis was determined using DNA-histone complexes levels. Spearman and linear regressions were used, when appropriate, to assess relationships between coagulation biomarkers and clinical and demographic characteristics of the population, such as kidney function (eGFR) calculated with the CKD-EPI equation (ml/min/1.73m2).

Results:
The COVID+ group was older (mean age 53.8± 17.6 years vs 40.6 ± 17.2 years, p=0.031). Compared to the controls, the COVID+ group had higher DNA-histone levels (Spearman ρ =0.311, p=0.040) and lower platelet counts (Spearman ρ = -0.334, p=0.033), but these differences were no longer significant after adjustment for age. However, we observed a significant association between eGFR and D-dimers, VWF and FVIII. Among them, only the association of D-dimers with eGFR was independent of age (β=4.59, p=0.030).

Conclusions:
These findings do not support a persistent long-term dysregulation of coagulation and endothelial dysfunction following the resolution of COVID-19. However, they show a significant increase in D-dimers associated with renal function, independent of both age and COVID-19.
INFLUENCE OF COVID-19 ON VASCULAR REMODELING IN PATIENTS WITH ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION
Authors: Abdullaeva Guzal , Atoeva Munisa , Yusupova Khafiza , Masharipov Shukhrat , Khamidullaeva Gulnoz 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
evaluate the effect of COVID-19 on arterial stiffness and microalbuminuria (MAU) against the background of antihypertensive therapy (AHT) in patients with arterial hypertension (AH).

Design and method:
74 male and female patients with I-III degree of AH(ESH/ESC, 2018)were studied. The mean age of patients was 53.54±1.92 years, the duration of AH was 8.61 years. 2 groups of patients were identified: group I – patients with AH who had suffered COVID19, (n=42) and 2nd group – patients with AH who had not suffered COVID-19 (n=32). Vascular stiffness was determined SphygmoCor device; central systolic BP (cSBP), central diastolic BP (cDBP), central pulse pressure (cPP), aortic augmentation (AA), augmentation index (AIx), pulse wave velocity (PWV) were studied. The study was conducted before and after 6 months of AHT. significant. The results are presented as μ±SD.

Results:
Level of MAU in 2nd group of patients was 25,5±20,3 mg/l, whereas in 1st group was 32,8±27,9 mg/l. There was a significant decrease of MAU level in 1st group: 32,8±27,9 mg/l initially versus 20,1±19,2,4 mg/l in dynamics (p<0,02). In 1st group cSBP initially- 154.86±24.11 mmHg versus 134.38±13.9 mmHg (p<0.001) in dynamics and in 2 nd group -decreased from 163.84±19.87 m/s to 139.47±19.41 mmHg (p<0.001); cPP in 1st group decreased from 74.79±22.02 mmHg to 53.67±13.32 mmHg (p<0.001) and in group II of patients - from 78.84±14.48 m/s to 54.71±12.46 mmHg (p<0.001)and in group II of patients - from 78.84±14.48 m/s to 54.71±12.46 mmHg (p<0.001), having reached normative values; PWV in 1 st group of patients decreased from 10.6±2.3 m/s to 9.32±2.21 m/s (p<0.05) and in 2 nd group of patients - from 11.21±3.02 m/s to 9.89±2.12 m/s (p<0.001). However, AA was significantly reduced in 2nd group of patients: 19.24±7.67 mmHg before and 14.31±7.57 mmHg after treatment (p<0.02).

Conclusions:
In both groups there was a significant positive dynamics of such indices as cSBP, cPP and PWV, but AA index significantly decreased only in the2nd group of AH patients. At the same time, the level of MAU initially exceeded normal values in the group of AH patients who suffered COVID19.
ASSESSMENT OF RIGHT VENTRICULAR FUNCTION FOLLOWING PERMANENT PACEMAKER IMPLANTATION BY ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (INCLUDING 3D ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY)
Authors: Kumar Dinesh , Dutta Bornali , Iqbal Farhin 
Published: May 2024

Objective:
Several studies have shown that unfavorable ventricular remodelling & mechanical dyssynchrony caused by Right ventricular (RV) pacing leading to development of Left Ventricular dysfunction. Nevertheless, impact of RV pacing on Right Ventricle function has not been thoroughly assessed. Hence, prospective study was done to assess RV dimensions & function by 2D and three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography at 3 months & 6 months after pacemaker implantation

Design and method:
This study was a prospective single-centre study. All patients who underwent pacemaker implantation were assessed for RV function by 2D and 3D Echocardiography at baseline (pre-procedure), 3 months & 6 months after pacemaker implantation. The change in follow-up period was evaluated by using single factor analysis of variance ANOVA with repeated measures in normally distributed data & Bonferroni post-hoc test. A p value of <0.05 is considered to be statistically significant

Results:
From January 2022 to December 2022, a total of 66 patients with permanent pacemaker were enrolled in the study. There was statistically non-significant changes in mean LVEF (%) during follow up (62.13±3.92(Baseline) vs. 62.21±4.15(3-month) vs 62.03+3.83 (6-months), p value>0.05).However, there was statistically significant changes in mean PASP (mm Hg) during follow up (18.45±3.45 (Baseline) vs. 22.18±3.76 (3-month) vs 26.45+3.97, p value <0.05). Also, there was statistically significant changes in mean RIMP during follow up (0.48±0.04(Baseline) vs. 0.50±0.04(3-month) vs 0.50+0.03(6-month),p value<0.05).Likewise, there was statistically significant changes in mean RV E/E’ during follow up (4.47±0.57(Baseline) vs. 4.70±0.74(3-month) vs 4.95+0.82(6-month),p value <0.05).In addition, there was statistically significant changes in mean TR Jet Area (cm2) during follow up (1.68±0.26(Baseline) vs. 2.22±0.43(3-month) vs 2.56+0.53(6-month), p value <0.05). But, there was statistically non-significant changes in mean RVEF % (3D Echo) during follow up (53.51± 2.75(Baseline) vs. 53.02±2.64 (3-month) vs 53.48+2.34 (6-month), p value >0.05).Other echocardiographic parameters of RV function did not show any change in 3-months & 6-months follow-up.

Conclusions:
There is change in Right Ventricular function after Pacemaker implantation which can be documented as early as 6 months post implantation. Permanent pacemaker was associated with changes in RIMP, RV E/E’, PASP, TR JET AREA during 6 months after Right ventricular pacing