Effects of roxadustat versus recombination human erythropoietin on coronary artery calcification in maintenance hemodialysis patients / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To compare the effects of roxadustat and recombination human erythropoietin （rHuEPO） on coronary artery calcification in maintenance hemodialysis （MHD） patients. METHODS In retrospective analysis， MHD patients prescribed roxadustat in the Blood Purification Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from April 2019 to June 2021 were selected as the ROX group （56 patients）， and MHD patients prescribed rHuEPO during the same period were selected as the EPO group （60 patients）， and follow-up observation was conducted for 12 months. The differences in laboratory index， coronary artery calcification score （CACS）， and cardiac ultrasound parameters before and after treatment as well as the occurrence of cardiac and cerebrovascular adverse events during follow-up period were compared between the two groups. RESULTS There was no statistical difference in CACS between the two groups before and after treatment （P＞0.05）； but the difference of CACS in the ROX group was significantly lower than the EPO group （P＜0.05）. There was no statistically significant difference in cardiac ultrasound parameters and laboratory indexes between the two groups before and after treatment （P＜0.05）. The incidence of apoplexy and myocardial infarction in the ROX group was lower than that in the EPO group （P＜0.05）， and there was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of hospitalization due to heart failure between the two groups （P＞0.05）. CONCLUSIONS Compared with rHuEPO， roxadustat may have a positive effect on delaying coronary artery calcification in MHD patients and may be beneficial in reducing the incidence of myocardial infarction and apoplexy in MHD patients.

Predictive Value of Serum Albumin Levels for Coronary Artery Calcification in Patients with Early Chronic Kidney Disease / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveTo explore the correlation between serum albumin levels and coronary artery calcification （CAC） in patients with early-stage chronic kidney disease （CKD）， as well as the value of serum albumin levels in predicting the incidence and severity of CAC. MethodsThe study included 391 early-stage CKD patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography （CTA） at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between January 2019 and December 2022. Demographic and biochemistry data， as well as the coronary CTA results， were collected. Based on the coronary artery calcification score （CACS）， all patients were divided into non-CAC group （CACS=0， n=184） and CAC group （CACS>0， n=207）. All patients were further divided into 3 groups based on the serum albumin levels： group A （serum albumin levels<35 g/L， n=30）， group B （35 g/L≤ serum albumin levels< 40 g/L， n=198） and group C （serum albumin levels≥ 40 g/L， n=163）. Univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association between serum albumin levels and CAC in early-stage CKD patients. Differences in CAC among groups were analyzed by using post-hoc multiple comparisons and ordinal logistic regression model analysis. ResultsPatients with CAC had significantly lower serum albumin levels than those without CAC （P<0.05）. There was a negative correlation between serum albumin levels and CACS in early-stage CKD patients （P<0.01）， as serum albumin decreased in levels， CAC increased in severity. ConclusionsOur study shows that early-stage CKD patients with lower serum albumin levels have a higher incidence of CAC. Low serum albumin level is an independent risk factor for CAC progression.

Coronary intravascular lithotripsy for calcified coronary artery calcification-systematic review of researches / 中国介入心脏病学杂志

Coronary artery calcification commonly results in reduced vascular compliance,facilitating incomplete stent expansion and in-stent restenosis after stent implantation,thereby leading to the failure of interventional treatment.Conventional approaches to managing calcified lesions are constrained by the intricate nature and properties of calcified plaques,which frequently pose challenges in their manipulation,consequently giving rise to numerous approaches complications and an elevated likelihood of adverse cardiovascular events following the procedure.Percutaneous coronary intraluminal shock wave balloon catheter angioplasty,also known as coronary intravascular lithotripsy,utilizing a balloon catheter system,demonstrates the capacity to safely and efficiently modify superficial and deep-seated calcifications,regardless of their concentric or eccentric nature.This intervention significantly enhances vascular compliance,thereby facilitating subsequent interventional therapies.Presently,coronary intravascular lithotripsy has emerged as a crucial approach in the management of coronary artery calcification.This article primarily offers a comprehensive examination of the mechanism of intravascular lithotripsy and the research pertaining to the treatment of coronary artery calcification.

Correlation analysis between coronary artery calcifications and cardiovascular disease in patients with breast cancer after radiotherapy / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Coronary artery calcifications (CAC) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). It has been revealed that this condition can be automatically quantified through computerize tomographic (CT) scan contained in radiotherapy plan for patients with breast cancer, with which, physicians can identify the patients with increased risk of CVD after radiotherapy prematurely and take intervention measures in advance. In this article, the current literature and research progress on the correlation between CAC and cardiotoxicity in patients with breast cancer after radiotherapy were reviewed, expecting to provide a strategy to reduce the CVD risk in patients with breast cancer after radiotherapy.

Pretreatment Effects of Cutting Balloon on Coronary Artery Calcification Based on Finite Element Analysis / 医用生物力学

Objective To investigates the applicability of cutting balloon in the pretreatment of superficial coronary artery calcified lesions, so as to decrease the occurrence of serious consequences in the treatment of calcified lesions. Methods The effect of cutting balloon on calcified plaques with different curvatures, thickness, and length was analyzed using the finite element method, with normal balloon as a control. The thickness of calcified plaque was set to 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm, and the length was set to 2 mm and 4 mm. The calcification degree was set to 120°, 180°, 270°and 360° according to the intravenous ultrasound (IVUS) calcification severity grading, with a total of 16 types of calcified plaques. The brittle fracture module was used to simulate calcification fracture of calcified plaques, and virtual stent implantation was carried out based on pretreatment simulation. The effect of pretreatment was evaluated by calcification fracture condition and stent roundness. Results For superficial calcification lesions, in lesions less than 120°, the balloon could not remove the calcification plaque obstruction, and the stent roundness rate was 82.75%. In 180° calcified lesions with thickness of less than 0.3 mm, the calcification was broken by cutting balloon under 1 215.9 kPa expansion pressure, and the post-stent roundness rate was 74.42%; normal balloon could not cause calcification fracture under safe expansion pressure (1 418.55 kPa). In 270°calcified lesions with thickness less than 0.3 mm, the normal balloon produced 3 fractures under 1 013.25 kPa expansion pressure. The cutting balloon produced 2 fractures under 1 013.25 kPa expansion pressure, and the balloon could not fracture the circular calcified lesions with thickness of 0.3 mm. Conclusions Cutting balloon is recommended for 180°calcified lesions with thickness less than 0.3 mm, the normal balloon is recommended for 270°calcified lesions, and balloon pretreatment is not recommended for annular lesions with thickness greater than 0.3 mm.

A study of the safety and efficacy of intravascular lithotripsy in the treatment of coronary artery calcification lesions / 中国介入心脏病学杂志

Objective To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravascular lithotripsy(IVL)in the treatment of coronary artery calcification lesions.Methods A total of 53 patients who underwent endovascular imaging guided treatment of coronary artery calcified lesions with either IVL or cutting balloon(CB)at the Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical College from January 2023 to July 2023 were retrospectively analysed(IVL:n=18,CB:n=35)were retrospectively analysed to compare the technique,clinical success rate,major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE)and readmission for cardiovascular events in patients followed during hospitalisation and 1 month after the procedure.Results Clinical success rates were identical in the IVL and CB groups(100.0％vs.100.0％,P＞0.999),the minimum lumen area of lesions was similar in the VL and CB groups[(1.7±0.4)mm2 vs.(1.7±0.5 mm2),P=0.628].And there was a statistically significant difference in the overall mean lesion length between the IVL and CB groups[(28.4±9.6)mm vs.(20.9±8.6)mm,P=0.008].During the procedure,there were no complications such as aneurysm,thrombus,or emergency vessel closure.There was a statistically significant difference in the overall mean value of residual stenosis between the IVL and CB groups[(1.7±1.7)％vs.(6.9±2.0)％,P=0.049].There were no MACE in either group during hospitalisation or at the one-month follow-up(0 vs.0,P＞0.999),and 3 patients in the CB group were readmitted for angina pectoris(0 vs.8.6％,P=0.543),with no significant difference in readmission rates between the two groups.Conclusions The technique of intravascular lithotripsy is safe and effective in the treatment of coronary artery calcification lesions.

Impact of calcification on the diagnostic accuracy of quantitative flow fraction based on coronary CT angiography / 中华放射学杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of calcification on the diagnostic accuracy of the quantitative flow fraction (CT-QFR) derived from coronary CT angiography (CCTA).Methods:A total of 244 patients (471 coronary arteries) who underwent both CCTA and invasive coronary angiography (ICA) for suspected coronary artery disease between 2019 and 2021 were included in the study. All analyses were conducted at the vessel level using CCTA and ICA images, and the morphological and hemodynamic parameters of all enrolled vessels were assessed. The group was divided into severe calcification (206 cases) and non-severe calcification (265 cases) based on whether the arc of lesion calcification was greater than 180°. Subsequently, the two groups were evaluated to the degree of coronary stenosis, the length of the target lesion, the length of calcification, the ratio of the length of calcification, the remodeling index of calcification, the quantitative flow fraction (QFR), the CT-QFR, and the distribution of the involved vessels. Pearson correlation analysis and the Bland-Altman scatterplot were used to analyze the correlation and consistency between CT-QFR and QFR values from different subgroups. The benchmark for coronary ischemia was QFR≤0.80, and the criteria for diagnosing coronary ischemia were CT-QFR≤0.80 and luminal stenosis≥50%, respectively, and the effectiveness of CT-QFR for coronary ischemia was evaluated by plotting the ROC curves in various calcification subgroups.Results:The degree of luminal stenosis, lesion length, calcification length ratio, and calcification remodeling index were substantially higher in the severely calcified group than in the non-severely calcified group (all P<0.05). The results of the Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated a significant association between CT-QFR and QFR in both the severe and non-severe calcification groups ( r=0.85, 95%CI 0.81-0.88, P<0.001; r=0.91, 95%CI 0.89-0.93, P<0.001); in contrast, the Bland-Altman analysis indicated that the CT-QFR and QFR measurements in the severely calcified group exhibited a high level of agreement, with a mean difference of -0.01 (95% limits of agreement -0.22 to 0.20) for measurements in the severely calcified group and 0 (95% limits of agreement -0.15 to 0.16). The specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the curve (AUC) for the diagnosis of ischaemic lesions by CT-QFR and CCTA alone were lower in the severely calcified group than in the non-severely calcified group, but the difference in AUC between the two groups for CT-QFR was not statistically significant ( P>0.05), and the difference in AUC for the morphological assessment of CCTA was statistically significant. The diagnostic effectiveness of CCTA alone was considerably worse than the specificity and AUC of CT-QFR for the various calcified subgroups for the diagnosis of ischemic lesions (all P<0.001). Conclusions:Severe calcification somewhat affected the diagnosis of ischaemic lesions by CT-QFR, but there was still a high correlation and concordance between CT-QFR and QFR within the severely calcified group, and the diagnostic efficacy was significantly better than that assessed by CCTA morphology alone.

Complex Coronary Intervention in Elderly Patients with Post Open Heart Surgery Status with Calcified Coronaries

Elderly patients pose a big challenge for coronary revascularization due to complex lesions, multiple comorbidities. We report a case PCI in a78-year-old female with prior open-heart surgery and coronary angiogram showing severe calcific diseased vessels using new plaque modification technique, Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL). The patient is on routine follow-up, and she is stable and asymptomatic at nine months follow-up.

The relationships among atherogenic index of plasma and inflammatory adipocytokines with the severity of coronary artery calcification in coronary artery disease / 中国医师杂志

Objective:The aims of the study were to investigate the relationship among atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and inflammatory adipocytokines with the severity of coronary artery calcification (CAC) score in coronary artery disease (CAD). And then we analyzed the diagnostic value of the new markers on CAC.Methods:A total of 241 patients with CAD diagnosed by coronary CT angiography (CTA) and coronary angiography in Baoding First Central Hospital from June 2019 to June 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. According to the presence of calcification in coronary CTA, they were divided into CAC group ( n=63) and non-CAC group ( n=178). The clinical data of the patients were collected, and the levels of serum inflammatory factors were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The correlation between CAC score and AIP and inflammatory cytokines was analyzed. The diagnostic value of AIP and inflammatory factors in the formation of CAC in patients with CAD. Results:The levels of AIP, serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) in CAC group were higher than those in non-CAC group, while the levels of serum fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) were lower than those in non-CAC group, with statistically significant difference (all P<0.01). Correlation analysis showed that CAC score of CAD patients was positively correlated with AIP, OPG and COMP ( r=0.581, 0.451, 0.326, P<0.05), and negatively correlated with FGF21 ( r=-0.294, P<0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that AIP, OPG, COMP and FGF21 had diagnostic value for CAC in CAD patients (all P<0.05). AIP>0.387, OPG>5.150 ng/ml, FGF21>136.35 pg/ml, COMP>733.16 ng/ml were independent factors affecting the formation of CAC (all P<0.05). Conclusions:The increase of AIP and the change of inflammatory factors can be used as markers for the diagnosis of CAC formation in CAD patients.

Effects of different hemodialysis methods on insulin resistance, inflammatory factors and coronary artery calcification in patients with non-diabetic end-stage renal disease / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To compare the effects of low flux and high flux hemodialysis on insulin resistance (IR), inflammatory factors and coronary artery calcification(CAC) in patients with non-diabetic end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and analyze the related factors affecting the prognosis survival of patients. 【Methods】 A total of 217 patients with non-diabetic ESRD treated in our hospital from February 2015 to April 2017 were selected and randomly divided into control group (n=108) and observation group (n=109) according to the random number table. Low flux and high flux hemodialysis were adopted respectively. Baseline data, renal function, lipid metabolism, inflammatory factors, IR, CAC, complications, outcomes and health and economic benefits of the two groups were compared. The patients were followed up for 3 years and divided into survival group (n=130) and death group (n=75). The clinical data of the two groups were compared and related factors affecting the prognosis and survival were analyzed. 【Results】 Scr, BUN, UAER, TC, TG and LDL-C in the two groups were significantly lower than those before treatment [control group: Scr (μmol/L)349.62±37.16 vs 201.73±24.58, BUN (mmol/L) 28.43±5.39 vs20.81±3.47, UAER(μg /min)60.14±11.52 vs 55.73±9.86, TC (mmol/L)5.46±0.93 vs 4.75±0.69, TG (mmol/L)2.58±0.64 vs 2.13±0.57, LDL-C(mmol/L)3.69±0.73 vs 2.45±0.60; observation group: Scr (μmol/L) 352.14±38.29 vs 136.85±16.47, BUN (mmol/L) 27.96±5.25 vs17.56±3.68, UAER(μg /min) 60.32±12.07 vs 49.85±7.42, TC (mmol/L)5.48±0.97 vs 4.27±0.56, TG (mmol/L) 2.55±0.62 vs 1.49±0.35, LDL-C(mmol/L) 3.72±0.74 vs1.91±0.48), and eGFR and HDL-C were significantly higher than those before treatment [control group: eGFR(mL/min/1.73m)29.32±3.25 vs 72.54±7.86, HDL-C(mmol/L)1.13±0.24 vs1.28±0.31, observation group: eGFR(mL/min/1.73m)30.05±3.29 vs 121.63±13.34, HDL-C(mmol/L)1.09±0.22 vs 1.57±0.46), differences between groups were statistically significant (P<0.05); FBG, FINS, HOMA-IR, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and hs-CRP in the two groups were significantly lower than those before treatment [control group: FBG(mmol/L)4.99±0.95 vs 4.52±0.63, FINS(mU/L)12.93±2.54 vs10.15±2.21, HOMA-IR 2.87±0.54 vs 2.04±0.43, IL-6(pg/mL)120.16±13.54 vs 75.94±9.28, IL-8(mg/L)56.83±6.15 vs 41.52±5.38, TNF-α(ng/L)50.03±5.42 vs 45.62±4.81, hs-CRP(mg/L)26.75±2.79 vs 14.37±2.19; observation group: FBG(mmol/L)5.01±0.97 vs 4.11±0.56, FINS(mU/L)13.07±2.62 vs 8.86±1.79, HOMA-IR 2.91±0.55 vs 1.62±0.31, IL-6(pg/mL)119.85±12.91 vs 31.07±4.46, IL-8(mg/L)57.04±6.09 vs 32.65±4.27, TNF-α(ng/L)49.78±5.36 vs 40.15±4.27, hs-CRP(mg/L)23.04±2.82 vs 7.56±1.03], and the CACS score was significantly higher than that before treatment(control group: 26.75±2.79 vs 53.68±26.93, observation group: 27.04±2.82 vs 75.49±7.66), differences between groups are statistically significant (all P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the total incidence of complications during dialysis was significantly lower in the observation group (P<0.05), and has more economic advantages.Venerable age(OR=1.893, P<0.05), low HDL-C level(OR=0.575, P<0.05), high CACS score(OR=2.384, P<0.05), and high hs-CRP level(OR=3.526, P<0.05) were independent risk factors affecting the survival rate of non-diabetic ESRD patients after dialysis treatment (P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 Compared with low-flux hemodialysis, high-flux hemodialysis has significant effects in improving renal function, lipid metabolism, IR, micro-inflammatory state, and reducing CAC progression and complications, with more prominent cost-effectiveness advantages. HDL-C and Hs-CRP levels and CACS scores of patients should be closely monitored during clinical application, and active preventive measures should be taken to improve the survival rate of patients.

Association of coronary calcification with prognosis of Covid-19 patients without known heart disease

Risk factors that determine the severity of Covid-19 have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of coronary artery calcification (CAC) as a risk factor for death or mechanical ventilation (MV) of patients without known heart disease infected with Covid-19. We analyzed 283 consecutive in-patients with acute respiratory symptoms with chest computed tomography (chest-CT), without previous heart disease, and criteria for Covid-19 (RT-PCR positive and/or typical clinical and chest-CT findings). CAC was classified by the number of coronary segments affected as absent (0), mild (1-3), and severe calcification (more than 3). The association between CAC, CAC severity, and death or MV due to severe respiratory failure was assessed by logistic regression. The mean age was 58.7±15.7 years and 54.1% were men. Patients with CAC were older, more likely to have hypertension, and less likely to be obese. CAC was present in 75 patients (26.5%), of which 42 had a mild calcification and 33 had severe calcification, and was associated with death (OR=2.35, 95%CI: 1.01-5.48) or MV (OR=2.72, 95%CI: 1.20-6.20) adjusted for multiple confounders, with significant and increased odds ratio for the severe form of CAC (death: OR=3.70, 95%CI: 1.20-11.42; MV: OR=3.30, 95%CI: 1.09-9.95). We concluded that CAC was an independent risk factor for death or MV in Covid-19 patients without previous heart disease, particularly for those with severe calcification. CAC can be easily visualized on common chest-CT, widely used in evaluation of moderate to severe Covid-19.

Association of Calcium Phosphorus Product and Coronary Artery Calcification in End Stage Renal Disease Patients on Dialysis

Patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) on dialysis have 2- to 5-fold more coronary artery calcification than age-matched individuals. One hypothesis for the disproportionate calcification burden in these patients is high serum phosphate levels; patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have elevated serum phosphate and calcium phosphorus product as a consequence of both reduced phosphate filtration and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Methods: This study was done on 50 CKD – ESRD patients on maintenance dialysis sand 20 normal subjects. Blood sample were obtained for serum Calcium, Phosphate, Parathyroid hormone of all CKD-ESRD patients prior to dialysis and of normal controls. All subjects were subjected to Multi Row Spiral Computed Tomography for detection of coronary artery calcification scoring (CACS). Results: The mean value of corrected Calcium Phosphorus product was 50.9 ± 15.6 mg2/dl2 in ESRD patients. The minimum value was 26.04mg2/dl2 and maximum value of the product 85.7 mg2/dl2 in ESRD patients. The mean CACS in 50 patients with ESRD was 91.4 ± 32.7agatston units. For CACS score 0-10,11-100,101-400 agatston unit the Calcium Phosphorus product was 26.04 ± 0, 45.18 ± 12.75, 63.31 ± 10.18 mg2/dl2. With increase in CACS, the Calcium Phosphorus (CaXPO4) products increased and this association was statistically significant. The CACS values in normal subjects were 7.75 ± 6.5 Agatston units. Conclusion: Our study results suggest a positive association between Calcium Phosphorus product and CAC in ESRD patients. Controlling Calcium Phosphorus product will reduce the coronary artery calcification burden.

Vascular calcification and growth arrest specific protein 6 levels in chronic renal failure / Calcificación vascular y detención de crecimiento de proteína específica 6 niveles en insuficiencia renal crónica

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of mortality and morbidity in chronic renal failure. It's known that vascular calcification (VC) and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) are strongly associated with cardiovascular diseases. Growth arrest specific protein 6 (Gas6) is a vitamin K-dependent protein and regulates various processes such as proliferation, cell survival, migration and inflammation. Gas6 is known to protect endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells against apoptosis by inhibiting Bcl-2 induced Caspase 3 activation. The relationship between Gas6 and cardiovascular diseases has been demonstrated in many mouse models and cell cultures. However, there are conflicting reports whether Gas6 levels are increasing or decreasing in human studies of diabetic and/or chronic renal failure. In present study the aim was to examine plasma Gas6 levels and its relation with CIMT and coronary artery calcification score (CACS) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. METHODS: Total of 137 patients of which 32 chronic hemodialysis and 105 predialysis patients as well as 73 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Human Gas6 levels in serum samples were studied by ELISA method. CIMT was measured by ultrasonography. CACS was measured by multislice computed tomography. RESULTS: The mean age was 54.37±16.61 years in dialysis group, 55.20±14.80 years in predialysis group and 53.26±9.04 years in control group. Serum creatinine was 0.78±0.16 mg/dl in the control group and 1.96±1.64 mg/dl in the predialysis group and 5.94±1.55 mg/dl in the dialysis group. 24 hours urine protein levels were significally higher in the dialysis group than the predialysis and the control group. CIMT values were similar in predialysis and dialysis groups. These values were significantly higher than the control group. Although CACS was higher in dialysis group than predialysis and control group, the results were not statistically significant since the distribution range was very wide. Gas6 was 98.84±53.32 ng/mL in the control group and statistically higher than the dialysis (63.85±38.92 ng/mL) and the predialysis groups (54.96±38.49 ng/mL) (p=0.001). Gas6 levels were lower in diabetic patients than non-diabetics (53.69±35.26 ng/mL, 69.26±47.50 ng/mL, p=0.023, respectively). Negative correlation was detected between Gas6 and age, BMI, CACS, carotid IMT and proteinuria. In the logistic regression analysis, Gas6 remained significantly associated with BMI, CIMT and proteinuria. CONCLUSION: In our study, a negative correlation of Gas6 with BMI, CACS, CIMT and proteinuria and lower Gas6 levels in diabetic patients support that decreased Gas6 levels in chronic renal failure may have a role in vascular calcification through altered glucose tolerance, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and increased apoptosis. Our study has an importance because it is the first study showing a relation between Gas6 and proteinuria, CACS and carotid IMT in patients with chronic renal failure

INTRODUCCIÓN: La enfermedad cardiovascular es la principal causa de mortalidad y morbilidad en la insuficiencia renal crónica. Se sabe que la calcificación vascular (CV) y el grosor de la íntima-media de la carótida (CIMT, por sus siglas en inglés) están vinculados de forma muy estrecha con enfermedades cardiovasculares. La proteína específica del gen 6 de la detención de crecimiento (Gas6) es una proteína dependiente de la vitamina K y regula diversos procesos, como la proliferación, la supervivencia celular, la migración y la inflamación. La proteína Gas6 es conocida por proteger las células endoteliales y las células musculares lisas vasculares contra la apoptosis mediante la inhibición de la activación de la caspasa-3 inducida por la proteína Bcl-2. Se ha demostrado la relación entre la Gas6 y las enfermedades cardiovasculares en muchos modelos de ratones y cultivos celulares. Sin embargo, existen informes contradictorios acerca de si los niveles de Gas6 aumentan o disminuyen en estudios de humanos con insuficiencia renal crónica y/o diabética. En este estudio, el objetivo fue examinar los niveles plasmáticos de Gas6 y su relación con el CIMT y la puntuación de calcificación de las arterias coronarias (CACS, por sus siglas en inglés) en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Un total de 137 pacientes fueron incluidos en el estudio, de los cuales 32 estaban en hemodiálisis crónica, 105 en prediálisis, y 73 pacientes representaban controles sanos. Se esudiaron los niveles de Gas6 en muestras de suero mediante el método ELISA. El CIMT se midió por medio de ecografía. La CACS se midió mediante tomografía computarizada multicorte. RESULTADOS: La edad media fue de 54,37 ± 16,61 años en el grupo de diálisis; 55,20 ± 14,80 años en el grupo de prediálisis, y 53,26 ± 9,04 años en el grupo de control. La creatinina sérica fue de 0,78 ± 0,16 mg/dl en el grupo de control; 1,96 ± 1,64 mg/dl en el de prediálisis, y 5,94 ± 1,55 mg/dl en el de diálisis. Las concentraciones de proteína en orina de 24 horas fueron significativamente más altas en el grupo de diálisis que en los de prediálisis y control. Los valores del CIMT fueron similares en los grupos de prediálisis y de diálisis. Estos valores fueron considerablemnete más altos que en el grupo de control. Aunque la CACS fue más alta en el grupo de diálisis que en los otros dos, los resultados no fueron estadísticamente significativos, ya que el rango de distribución fue muy amplio. La proteína Gas6 fue de 98,84 ± 53,32 ng/ml en el grupo de control y estadísticamente más alta que en los grupos de diálisis (63,85 ± 38,92 ng/ml) y de prediálisis (54,96 ± 38,49 ng/ml) (p = 0,001). Los niveles de Gas6 fueron más bajos en los pacientes diabéticos que en los no diabéticos (53,69 ± 35,26 ng/ml; 69,26 ± 47,50 ng/ml, [p = 0,023], respectivamente). Se detectó una correlación negativa entre la proteína Gas6 y la edad, el IMC, la CACS, el CIMT y la proteinuria. En el análisis de regresión logística, la Gas6 se mantuvo estrechamente relacionada con el IMC, el CIMT y la proteinuria. CONCLUSIÓN: En nuestro estudio, la correlación negativa de Gas6 con IMC, CACS, CIMT y proteinuria, y los niveles más bajos de Gas6 en pacientes diabéticos sustentan la idea de que la disminución de los niveles de Gas6 en la insuficiencia renal crónica puede jugar un papel en la calcificación vascular a través de la tolerancia alterada a la glucosa, la inflamación crónica, la disfunción endotelial y el aumento de la apoptosis. La importancia de nuestro estudio radica en que es el primero que muestra una relación entre la Gas6 y la proteinuria, la CACS y el CIMT en pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica

Osteoprotegerin is an independent risk factor for coronary calcification in patients with hypertension and is associated with angiotensin Ⅱ / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between plasma osteoprotegerin (OPG) level and coronary artery calcification in patients with hypertension and the relationship between OPG and angiotensin Ⅱ (AngⅡ). Methods: A total of 348 patients with hypertension were enrolled in this study. Coronary calcification was determined by 64-row coronary CT. Patients with hypertension were divided into coronary calcification group and non-coronary calcification group according to their coronary calcification score. We compared the clinical and laboratory indications of the two groups. The odds ratio (OR) value of risk factors for coronary calcification and the correlation coefficient between OPG and AngⅡ levels were calculated. Results: The OPG and AngⅡ levels in patients with coronary calcification were higher than those in patients without coronary calcification (P0.05). Conclusion: OPG is an independent risk factor for coronary artery calcification in patients with hypertension and is related to the severity of coronary artery calcification. In hypertensive patients with coronary artery calcification, OPG and AngⅡ levels are positively correlated.

Prevalence Of Fluoroscopic Calcium In Patients With Coronary Artery Disease And Its Association With Various Risk Factors

Background: Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a predictor of coronary artery disease (CAD) and closely related to the predictor of future cardiac events. Objective: To assess the prevalence of fluoroscopic calcium in patients with CAD and to determine its association with various coronary risk factors. Methods: The CAC measurement was conducted by visual identification during fluoroscopy. The study subjects were allocated into two group, according to the presence (+) or absence (-) of CAC. The Syntax score was calculated from the results of coronary angiography. Results: Out of 846 patients, 236 patients represented CAC(+). The mean±SD age of the total study patients was 61±5.8 years with a male preponderance of 415(71.2%). Systolic/diastolic blood pressure was 132±24/80±13mm Hg in CAC(+) patients. The present study finding elucidated that diabetes (Adjusted Odds Ratio [OR], 8.52, 95% confidence interval [CI], 6.2-12.5, P=0.02), hypertension (OR, 5.52, 95% CI, 3.2- 8.4, P=0.03), and Syntax score (OR, 12.40, 95% CI, 8.82-16.56; P=0.001) were more prevalent in CAC(+) group compared to CAC(-) group. Those patients with family history of CAD had significant CAC as compared to those without CAD family history (OR, 3.32, 95% CI, 2.8-5.3, P=0.04). Conclusion: The prevalence of CAD among diabetic and hypertensive patients undergoing coronary calcification is significant. Therefore, screening of CAC should be considered in such patients for the better identify of their risk of cardiovascular complications

Correlation Study Between Plasma Level of Pro-protein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin Type 9 and Coronary Artery Calcification / 中国循环杂志

Objective: To investigate the relationship between plasma level of pro-protein convertase subtilisin kexin type9 (PCSK9) and coronary artery calcification (CAC). Methods: A total of 380 consecutive chest pain patients without lipid-lowering therapy were enrolled. All patients received CT scan and coronary artery calcification (CAC) score measurement and were divided into 2 groups: CAC group, n=156 patients with CAC score>0 and Non-CAC group, n=224 patients with CAC score=0. CAC group was further classified in 3 subgroups as CAC score (1-100) subgroup, n=53, CAC score (101-400) subgroup, n=64 and CAC score>400 subgroup, n=39. Clinical data was collected, plasma levels of PCSK9 were measured in all patients and the relationship between PCSK9 and CAC score was investigated. Results: Plasma PCSK9 level in CAC group was higher than Non-CAC group (260.23±69.34) ng/ml vs (205.46±53.21) ng/ml, P<0.001; alone with CAC score increasing, PCSK9 level was elevating accordingly as in CAC score (1-100) subgroup, CAC score (101-400) subgroup and CAC score>400 subgroup, PCSK9 levels were (247.38±72.68) ng/ml, (264.87±57.63) ng/ml and (295.33±69.06) ng/ml respectively, all P<0.05. With adjusted traditional cardiovascular risk factors, multivariate regression analysis confirmed that plasma PCSK9 level was independently related to CAC score (β=0.584, P=0.002). In addition, the optimal cut-off value for PCSK9 predicting CAC was 228.58 ng/ml with sensitivity at 67% and specificity at 71%. Conclusion: Plasma PCSK9 level was related to CAC in chest pain patients without lipid-lowering therapy.

Efficacy and safety of rotational atherectomy combined with drug eluting coronary in the treatment of severe coronary artery calcified lesions / 中国综合临床

Objective To investigate the efficacy and safety of rotational atherectomy(RA)combined with drug eluting stent(DES)implantation in the treatment of severe coronary artery calcification,and analyze key operation points.Methods The clinical data of sixty-two patients(68 lesions)treated with RA combined with DES from January 2014 to December 2015 were retrospectively analyzed,including the characteristics of operation,postoperative curative effect,complications,incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE) during hospitalization and follow-up period.Results A total of 75 rotary blur were used in the 62 cases,with an average of(1.18±0.27)per case,the blur diameter/target vessel diameter was(0.54±0.07),the success rate of RA was 98.4%(61/62);A toal of 103 DES were implanted in 61 patients,with an average of(1.67±0.55)per case,average length was(44.5 ± 11.8)mm,immediate DES success rate was 100%.After RA,target vessel diameter was(2.33± 0.52)mm,target vessel narrow degree was(29.6 ± 4.8)%,thrombolysis in myocardial infarction grade Ⅲ blood flow ratio was 66.2%,which have been significantly improved compared with preoperation((0.75±0.21)mm,(82.5±7.2)%,10.3%)(P<0.05),the target vascular lumen diameter and stenosis of target vessel continued to improve after DES((3.26 ± 0.43)mm,(8.7 ± 2.1)%,98.5%)(P<0.05);At 3 days after operation,the left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly higher than that before the operation((60.5±5.5)% vs.(56.8±4.7)%)(P<0.05).The incidence of complications associated with interventional procedures was 9.7%,in which 1 case with burr incarceration switched to coronary artery bypass grafting.The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events incidence during hospitalization was 4.8%,the follow-up period was 9.0-22.0 months.The incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events incidence during follow-up was 8.2%.Conclusion DES implantation following RA in the treatment of severe coronary artery calcification can further improve blood flow and artery stenosis,medium-term efficacy is safe and reliable;standardized RA operation is the key to ensure the success of interventional therapy.

Application and significance of coronary artery calcification score evaluated with low-dose chest computed tomography in cardiovascular risk screening / 中华健康管理学杂志

The coronary artery calcification score(CACS)is used for risk stratification independent of traditional risk factors,and can effectively predict the incidence of cardiovascular events.As part of a lung cancer screening project, subjects undergoing low-dose chest computed tomography (CT) can also be evaluated for the CACS to determine the risk of cardiovascular disease.These measures can help strengthen public health management. This paper focused on the pathological basis of coronary calcification, the significance of the calcification score,and the application and significance of CACS evaluated with low-dose chest CT in cardiovascular risk screening.

Analysis of influencing factors of coronary artery calcification in patients with chronic kidney disease / 第二军医大学学报

Objective To investigate the influencing factors of coronary artery calcification (CAC) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods A total of 181 CKD patients undergoing multi-slice spiral computed tomography for coronary artery were selected. The patients were divided into four groups of CKD 1 stage, CKD 2-3 stage, CKD 4-5 stage and maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) according to the kidney disease outcome quality initiative (K/DOQI) guidelines established by the National Kidney Foundation. According to the CAC scores assessed using the Agatston scoring method, the patients were divided into non-CAC group (CAC score≤10), mild CAC group (CAC score 11-100), moderate CAC group (CAC score 101-400), and severe CAC group (CAC score>400). The related factors and independent influencing factors of CAC in CKD patients were analyzed by Spearman linear regression analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis, respectively. Results Of the 181 patients, 44 were CKD 1, 36 were CKD 2-3, 25 were CKD 4-5, and 76 were MHD. The incidence of CAC in the CKD patients and MHD patients was 55.3% (100/181) and 80.3% (61/76), respectively. The CAC score of CKD patients was significantly increased with the aggravation of renal impairment (r＝0.526, P0.05). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that age, eGFR, serum phosphorus, calcium-phosphorus product and serum FGF23 level were the independent influencing factors of CAC in CKD patients (OR [95% CI]: 3.723 [2.521-8.363], 0.582 [0.415-0.724], 5.252 [0.415-0.724], 11.243 [10.185-16.836], and 2.469 [1.141-5.362]). Conclusion Age, eGFR, serum phosphorus, calciumphosphorus product and serum FGF23 level are independent influencing factors of CAC in CKD patients.

Prevalencia y extensión de la calcificación arterial coronaria en población mexicana asintomática cardiovascular: estudio Genética de la Enfermedad Aterosclerosa / Prevalence and extent of coronary artery calcification in an asymptomatic cardiovascular Mexican population: Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study

Resumen: Objetivo: La prevalencia de calcificación arterial coronaria (CAC), marcador específico de aterosclerosis, no es conocida en México. Nuestro objetivo fue investigar la prevalencia y extensión de CAC y su asociación con factores de riesgo cardiovascular en población mexicana. Métodos: La CAC fue medida por tomografía computarizada multidetector en individuos asintomáticos que participaron en el estudio Genética de la Enfermedad Aterosclerosa. Los factores de riesgo cardiovascular y los medicamentos fueron registrados. Resultados: La muestra incluyó 1,423 individuos (49.5% hombres), con una edad de 53.7 ± 8.4 años. Los portadores de CAC mostraron prevalencias más altas de dislipidemia, diabetes, hipertensión y otros factores de riesgo. La prevalencia de CAC > 0 unidades Agatston fue de 27%, significativamente más alta en hombres (40%) que en mujeres (13%). Los valores medios del puntaje de CAC aumentaron consistentemente con la edad y fueron más altos en hombres que en mujeres en todos los grupos etarios. La edad y el c-LDL elevado se asociaron de manera independiente con la prevalencia de CAC > 0 en hombres y mujeres, mientras que la presión arterial sistólica en las mujeres, y el incremento de la edad en ambos géneros mostró una asociación independiente con la severidad de CAC. Conclusiones: En población mexicana la prevalencia y la extensión de CAC fueron mucho más altas en hombres que en mujeres y aumentaron consistentemente con la edad. Los predictores independientes de la prevalencia de CAC fueron la edad y el c-LDL.

Abstract: Objective: The prevalence of coronary artery calcification (CAC), a specific marker of atherosclerosis, is unknown in Mexico. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence and quantity of CAC and their association with cardiovascular risk factors in a Mexican population. Methods: CAC was measured by multidetector computed tomography in asymptomatic subjects who participated in the Genetics of Atherosclerotic Disease study. Cardiovascular risk factors and medication were recorded. Results: The sample included 1,423 individuals (49.5% men), aged 53.7 ± 8.4 years. Those with CAC showed a higher prevalence of dyslipidaemia, diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors. The prevalence of CAC > 0 Agatston units was significantly higher among men (40%) than among women (13%). Mean values of CAC score increased consistently with increasing age and were higher in men than women in each age group. Age and high low density lipoprotein cholesterol were independently associated with prevalence of CAC > 0 in men and women, while increasing systolic blood pressure in women and age in both genders showed an independent association with CAC extension. Conclusions: In the Mexican population the prevalence and extent of CAC were much higher in men than in women, and strongly increased with age. Independent predictors of CAC prevalence were age and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).