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The aim of this study was to determine whether markers of inflammation and coagulation are associated with short-term particulate matter exposure and predict major adverse cardiovascular events at 360 d in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We included 307 consecutive patients, and assessed the average concentrations of data on atmospheric pollution in ambient air and meteorological variables from 1 d up to 7 d prior to admission. In patients with ACS, the markers of endothelial activation and coagulation, but not black carbon exposure, are associated with major adverse cardiovascular events at one-year follow-up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism of coronary thrombus formation is a complex phenomenon that involves different cellular components. ARTERIA is a prospective, multicenter study that will include patients presenting with a diagnosis of ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome undergoing thrombus aspiration during an emergency primary percutaneous coronary revascularization. The purpose of the ARTERIA study is to try to clarify whether there is an association between inflammatory markers measured in blood and in intracoronary thrombi and, if any, what set of molecules provides better prognostic information in these patients. Our study will help to elucidate the complex relationship between thrombus and circulating blood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Neopterin serum concentration increases in the presence of renal dysfunction. Objective: We sought to determine the relationship between admission serum neopterin levels and worsening renal function (WRF) in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods: We prospectively measured serum neopterin levels in patients with HF and the patients were subdivided into two groups: with and without WRF during hospital admission. Results: Logistic regression analysis showed that high serum neopterin levels at admission were associated with a greater likelihood of developing WRF. Conclusions: Patients admitted to hospital with HF, elevated serum neopterin levels are associated with an increased risk of developing WRF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognition of inflammation as a critical contributor to atherothrombosis has led to the pursuit of new approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with coronary heart disease. As the intricate relationships between cellular and noncellular participants in the inflammatory aspects of atherogenesis, plaque destabilization and thrombosis have been defined, specific constituents have emerged as potential noninvasive indicators of these processes. Myeloperoxidase is a protein released during degranulation of neutrophils and monocytes. The available experimental and epidemiologic data provide compelling evidence to sustain strong interest in myeloperoxidase as a candidate for clinical application. Nevertheless, additional investigation will be important to fully evaluate myeloperoxidase as a sensitive predictor for myocardial infarction in patients with chest pain. INSET: Key issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]