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Aim      To evaluate cardiometabolic effects of empagliflozin in patients with ischemic heart disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) following elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).Materials and methods Patients meeting the inclusion/non-inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups of equal number using simple randomization with successively assigned numbers. Group 1 included 37 patients (18 men and 19 women) who gave their consent for the treatment with empagliflozin 10 mg/day in addition to their previous hypoglycemic therapy. The drug administration started one month prior to the elective PCI and continued for the next 11 months (treatment duration, 12 months). Group 2 (comparison group) consisted of age- and DM duration-matched patients (37 patients; 18 men and 19 women) who continued on their hypoglycemic therapy previously prescribed by endocrinologists during the entire study period. Before the study, 36.11 % patients of the empagliflozin group and 27.03 % of the comparison group had unsatisfactory glycemic control as shown by the level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).Results At 6 and 12 months of the study, fasting glycemia and HbA1c were significantly lower in the empagliflozin treatment group. The groups were comparable by the incidence of adverse outcomes: 8 (22.24 %) patients in the empagliflozin group and 10 (27.04 %) patients in the comparison group (р=0.787). The 12-month empagliflozin treatment reduced total cholesterol (C) by 5.56 % (p<0.05), low density lipoprotein (LDL) C by 3.67 % (p<0.05), visceral adipose tissue area (VATA) by 5.83 % (p<0.05), and subcutaneous adipose tissue area (SATA) by 3.54 % (p<0.05).Conclusion      The empagliflozin treatment for 30 days prior to and after elective PCI can enhance the effectiveness of myocardial revascularization due to the demonstrated beneficial cardiometabolic effects.

In coronary artery disease (CAD) the adipocytokine content in the heart fat depot is altered, but it has not been established whether these changes are associated with the degree of atherosclerotic damage to the coronary artery (CA). Were examined 84 patients with CAD, and according to the degree of atherosclerotic state based on the SYNTAX Score scale, were divided: 39 moderate (≤22 points), 20 severe (23-31 points) and 25 extremely severe (≥32 points). Biopsies of subcutaneous (SAT), epicardial (EAT) and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) were obtained during elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The expression of adipocytokine was determined using real-time PCR. The concentration of the studied adipocytokines in adipocyte culture medium was measured by ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression analysis. In the adipocytes of the cardiac depot of patients with CAD, an increase in the expression and secretion of leptin and IL-6 and a decrease in adiponectin, with a maximum manifestation in severe and extremely severe CA lesions, was observed. EAT adipocytes were characterized by minimal expression of the adiponectin gene maximal gene expression leptin and IL-6 compared to SAT and PVAT adipocytes., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Analysis of the relationship between the epicardial fat with adipokine and system ST2/IL-33 in-hospital period, and also with the extent of fibrosis of the atrial myocardium through the year after myocardial infarction in patients with visceral obesity. Examined 88 patients with myocardial infarction (MI). Visceral obesity (VO) is established by computed tomography. In fact the presence VO the patients divided into two groups. Determined the concentration of leptin, adiponectin, stimulating growth factor (ST-2) and interlekin-33 (IL-33) in serum on 1st, 12-day in-hospital period and 1 year after MI. Thickness epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and the percentage of cardiovirus of the myocardium was measured by the method MRI, respectively, on the 12th day of hospitalization and a year after MI. The control group consisted of 30 people. Statistical analysis of data was performed using nonparametric tests. Patients with MI is associated with an increase in the thickness of EAT, imbalance of adipokines with increased leptin, decreased adiponectin in early in-hospital period and development of cardiovirus. Higher values of IL-33 and ЅT2 in the early in-hospital period MI patients with no accompanied by a lower prevalence of cardiovirus in the post-hospital period. The thickness of epicardial fat is directly dependent on the prevalence of myocardial fibrosis, the concentrations of IL-33 and in inverse proportion to the concentration of ЅT2. The degree of cardiovirus is in inverse proportion to the concentration of IL-33 and directly dependent on the concentration of ST2. The increase in EAT closely linked to the development of fibrosis of the atrial myocardium after year. The thickness of EAT more patients MI, which is most pronounced imbalance of adipokines. The metabolic activity of EAT correlated with increased IL-33 and ST2 decrease., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Aim      To study possible correlations between echocardiography (EchoCG) indexes and markers of myocardial fibrosis, procollagen I C-terminal propeptide (PICP) and procollagen III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP) during one year following ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).Material and methods  120 patients with STEMI were evaluated. EchoCG was used to assess dimensions and volumes of heart chambers, left ventricular (LV) systolic function, mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), and indexes of LV diastolic function (Em, early diastolic lateral mitral annular velocity; e', peak early diastolic septal mitral annular velocity; E / e', ratio of peak early diastolic transmitral inflow velocity and mitral annular velocity  -, Е / А, ratio of peak early and late transmitral inflow velocities; DT, deceleration time of LV early diastolic filling). EchoCG indexes and serum concentrations of PICP and PIIINP were determined at 1 (point 1) and 12 (point 2) days of disease and one year after STEMI (point 3). The sample was divided into two groups: group 1 (n=86; 71.7 %) included patients with a LV ejection fraction (EF) ≥50 % and group 2 (n=34; 28.3 %) consisted of patients with LV EF ≤49 %.Results At one year, the number of patients with signs of diastolic dysfunction increased by 10% in group 1 whereas myocardial systolic dysfunction worsened in both groups. LV EF decreased in 15 (17.4%) patients of group 1 and in 4 (11.8%) patients of group 2. Concentrations of PIIINP were correlated with Em, E / e', mPAP, PICP, e', and LV EF.Conclusion      Direct correlations between PIIINP concentrations and Em, E / e', and mPAP were found in the group with LV EF ≥50 %. In the group with LV EF <50 %, correlations were observed between PICP concentrations, LV EF, and e'. Also, in this group, the increase in PIIINP was statistically more significant. These results indicate continuing formation of myocardial fibrosis in a year following MI, which may underlie progression of chronic heart failure.

Aim To evaluate the effect of empagliflozin on glycemia and renal filtration function in patients with stable ischemic heart disease (IHD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) who underwent a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).Materials and methods This study included 40 patients with stable IHD and DM2 (age, 63 (58; 65) years; DM2 duration, 7 (4; 15) years) who had indications for an elective PCI. At baseline in the total sample, the level of glycated hemoglobin was 7.2 (6.5; 8.3)%; 48.7 % failed to achieve glycemic goals. A decrease in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) to below 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 was observed in 10.3 % of patients. All patients were divided into two group by simple randomization with successively assigned numbers. The main group consisted of 20 patients who received empagliflozin 10 mg/day in addition to their previous hypoglycemic therapy irrespective of their baseline glycemic control. Patients of the comparison group (n=20) continued on their previous hypoglycemic therapy as prescribed by their endocrinologist. The follow-up duration was 6 months. Statistical analysis was performed with the Statistica 10.0 software.Results The empagliflozin treatment improved the glycemic control; in the comparison group, no significant changes in glycemic control were observed. In both groups, GFR significantly decreased during the follow-up period; median decreases in GFR were -6.0 (-16.0; 4.0) and -8.4 (-26.5; 2.5) ml/min / 1.73 m2 in the main and comparison groups, respectively (p = 0.646). No significant changes in 24-h proteinuria were observed for patients taking empagliflozin. In the control group, the 24-h urinary protein excretion significantly progressed (p=0.011) during the follow-up period.Conclusion In patients with DM2 and stable IHD who underwent a PCI, addition of empagliflozin 10 mg/day to their current hypoglycemic therapy was associated with a significant improvement of glycemic control. The decrease in GFR during the empagliflozin treatment did not significantly differ from the value for patient receiving the other hypoglycemic therapy.

Aim: To determine the dependence of adiponectin gene expression by subcutaneous, epicardial and perivascular adipocytes on the degree of coronary lesion in coronary heart disease., Materials and Methods: 84 patients with coronary artery disease were examined. Of these, 39 people showed a moderate degree of atherosclerotic lesion of the coronary bed (less than or equal to 22 points) on the SYNTAX Score scale, 20 severe (2231 points), and 25 extremely severe (more than 32 points). Upon admission to the hospital, all patients underwent an echocardiographic study (Echocardiography, Acuson, Germany) with the calculation of the ejection fraction (EF) of the left ventricle (LV) to assess its systolic function. During a planned surgical intervention (coronary bypass surgery, CABG), adipocytes of subcutaneous, epicardial (EAT) and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) were taken. Adiponectin gene expression was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) using TaqMan probes. Statistical analysis was performed using Statistica 9.0., Results: The maximum level of adiponectin expression was detected in adipocytes of PVAT, and the minimum EAT. With an increase in the degree of atherosclerotic lesion of the coronary bed, the expression of the adiponectin gene in adipocytes of local depots significantly decreases r=-0.82; p=0.023. Moreover, the low level of gene expression in EAT correlated with a decrease in LV EF by r=0.73; p=0.03. In adipocytes of subcutaneous and especially PVAT, gene expression was the highest in patients with a moderate degree of coronary lesion., Conclusions: Low adiponectin gene expression in EAT is associated with an increase in the degree of atherosclerotic lesion of the coronary bed and a decrease in LV EF.

Aim: To study polyvascular disease in patients with myocardial infarction (MI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD)., Materials and Methods: A total of 954 patients older than 18 years old with ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) up to 24 hours of pain onset were included in the study. Clinical and demographic data were collected for all patients, including physical examination, 16-lead electrocardiogram recording, echocardiography, laboratory assessment with the measurements of cardiospecific enzymes and serum creatinine. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated according to the CKD-EPI equation. Of them, 771 (81%) underwent coronary angiography, duplex scanning of the brachiocephalic (BCA) and lower extremity arteries (LEA). Patients with stage 1-4 CKD diagnosed according to the criteria provided by the Russian Society of Nephrologists were allocated into a separate group (n=281; 36.5%). CKD stages were determined with the level of GFR. Patients with stage 5 CKD were excluded from the study. Renal dysfunction was defined as the presence of an estimated GFR less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2., Results and Discussion: The results of the study indicate a high prevalence of PolyVD in patients with CKD. Every second patient had LEA stenosis (p.

Aim: Determination of the prognostic value of 1.5-anhydroglucitol (1.5-AG) for the development of cardiovascular events in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) within a year after a planned percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)., Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted in Federal State Budgetary Institution Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Disease among 149 patients admitted to planned PCI in the period from 2016 to 2017. Criteria for inclusion in the study: age up to 70 years, angina I-IV functional classes or post-infarction cardiosclerosis, the presence of indications for planned PCI. -Exclusion criteria from the study: previous myocardial revascularization; prosthetic heart valves; decompensation of chronic heart failure, anemia of any degree; acute coronary syndrome in index hospitalization; exacerbation of somatic diseases. The results of the research were processed by Statistica Windows 6.0., Results: During the year after planned PCI, 39 (26.14%) cardiovascular events were registered in patients with CHD, of whom more than half of the cases (51.28%) were associated with the presence of indications for PCI of de novo. Lower levels of 1.5-AG were observed in the group of patients with cardiovascular events (p=0.000). When patients were divided according to median of the studied marker patients with a concentration of 1.5-AG less 20.96 μg/ml (before PCI) were more likely to have PCI after restenosis of the stent, compared with patients whose median concentration of this marker was higher (p=0.028). The logistic regression method revealed a significant direct relationship reflecting the prognostic value of lower concentration of 1.5-AG in relation to the development of cardiovascular events in patients regardless of the presence of carbohydrate metabolism disorders [OR 0.25 (0.10-0.62)]., Conclusion: According to the results of the study, the prognostic value of the concentration of 1.5-AG less 20.96 µg/ml was established in relation to the development of cardiovascular events in patients with CHD during the year after a planned PCI, regardless of the presence of carbohydrate metabolism disorders.

The purpose of the study was to investigate the features of expression and adiponectin content in the adipocyte culture of subcutaneous, epicardial, and perivascular adipose tissue and the effect of various doses of rosuvastatin on these processes. 29 patients with coronary artery disease were examined. Adipocytes were isolated from the samples of SAT, EAT and PVAT which were taken during coronary artery bypass surgery, followed by cultivation in the presence of rosuvastatin and evaluation of gene expression and adiponectin concentration. Adipocytes SAT, EAT and PVAT differed in the level of adiponectin secretion and expression of its gene. On day 1 of cultivation the expression of the adiponectin gene in the EAT was 2.3 times lower than in the PVAT. On day 2 of cultivation the expression of the adiponectin gene was reduced both in the EAT and the PVAT as compared to the SAT. When rosuvastatin was added at a concentration of 1 mmol/L, adiponectin gene expression in PVAT was higher than when rosuvastatin was added at a concentration of 5 mmol/L, in the adipocyte culture of SAT effect was opposite. Thus, the adipocytes of EZhT and, to a greater extent, PAS, can be a therapeutic target for statins in the case of the pathological activation of adipose tissue.

Aim: To study adipokine-cytokine profile of epicardial adipocytes (EAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in conjunction with the area of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), biochemical and clinical characteristics of patients with coronary heart disease., Materials and Methods: Examined 84 patients (70 men and 14 women) with coronary artery disease. In fact the presence of visceral obesity (VO) the patients were divided into two groups. Patients VO the sampling of adipocytes of EAT and SAT, with subsequent cultivation and evaluation of adipokine and provospalitelna activity. Carried out the determination of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, adipokine and pro-inflammatory status in the blood serum., Results: It was found that adipokine-cytokine profile of adipocytes of EAT and SAT differ. Adipocytes art of the disease on the background characterized by an increase IL-1, TNF-α, leptin-adiponectin relationships and a decrease in the content of protective factors: adiponectin and anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. While the SAT adipocytes was characterized by a decrease in the concentration of soluble receptor for leptin and the more pronounced leptinresistance, and the increase in proinflammatory cytokines was offset by the increase in the concentration of IL-10. The presence associated with multi-vessel coronary bed lesion, multifocal atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, an imbalance of adipokines and markers of inflammation. So the value of the square VAT determined higher concentrations of leptin, TNF-α in adipocytes and serum, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism and a lower content of soluble receptor for leptin., Conclusion: Thus, the disease on the background of the status of the adipocytes of EAT characterized as a "metabolic inflammation", and may indicate the direct involvement of adipocytes in the pathogenesis of coronary artery disease, due to the formation of adipokine imbalance and the activation of proinflammatory reactions.

Aim: To compare dynamics of biological marker concentrations with echocardiographic data in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and preserved LV function during the hospitalization period., Materials and Methods: The study successively included 100 patients with diagnosis of STEMI and LV ejection fraction.

The content of adipokines, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were studied in adipocytes isolated from epicardial and subcutaneous adipose tissue of 24 coronary heart disease patients. The content of leptin and soluble leptin receptor in adipocytes of epicardial adipose tissue was higher by 28.6 and 56.9% and the level of adiponectin was lower by 33% than in adipocytes of the subcutaneous fat. In culture of epicardial adipocytes, the levels of proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1 were higher. Subcutaneous adipose tissue adipocytes were characterized by higher levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and FGF-β. In epicardial adipocytes of coronary heart disease patients, the concentrations of leptin, TNF-α, and IL-1 were higher, while the levels of defense regulatory molecules (adiponectin, IL-10, and FGF-β) were lower than in subcutaneous adipocytes.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess significance of serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (sNGAL) and cystatin C (sCC) in prediction of adverse cardiovascular outcome after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)., Methods: We recruited 357 consecutive patients who were admitted to the hospital within 24 h after onset of STEMI. On the 1st and 12th-14th day after hospital admission, we measured levels of sNGAL and sCC. We also determined presence of renal dysfunction (RD), defined as glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . After 3 years of follow-up, we performed a logistic regression and assessed the value of RD, sNGAL, and sCC in prediction of combined endpoint, defined as cardiovascular death or any cardiovascular complication., Results: RD, sCC level ≥ 1.9 mg/L, and sNGAL level ≥ 1.25 ng/mL on the 12th-14th day of hospitalization were associated with a 1.6-fold, 1.9-fold, and 2.9-fold higher risk of adverse cardiovascular outcome, respectively. Area under the ROC curve was the highest for the model based on sNGAL level compared to the models based on sCC level or RD presence., Conclusions: Measurement of sNGAL level in patients with STEMI on the 12th-14th day after hospital admission may improve prediction of adverse cardiovascular outcome.

Fibrosis is one of the main components in the progression of most cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, by causing structural changes in the myocardium and vascular wall. The quantitative and qualitative characteristics of fibrosis of the myocardium are responsible for decreasing its elastic properties, developing diastolic dysfunction, impairing myocardial contractility, developing systolic dysfunction and cardiac arrhythmias, and worsening coronary blood flow in patients with heart failure of different etiologies. The important aspect of studying fibrosis is not only its interpretation as a model of the typical pathological process, but also its consideration as a systemic lesion of various organs and tissues. At the same time, the identification of myocardial fibrosis biomarkers that are available for their determination in circulating blood is of particular interest. Since there was evidence for the role of fibrosis in developing dysfunction of various organs and ensuring the systematicity of most diseases, especially at their development stages, the process of fibrosis came to be regarded as a promising therapeutic target. It is relevant to further investigate myocardial fibrosis, which is aimed at increasing the efficiency of its diagnosis and predicting its course and pathogenetically sound therapy.

Purpose: to study clinical and prognostic significance of serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (s-NGAL) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)., Material and Methods: Patients with STEMI (n=85) of less than 24 hours duration admitted to the Kemerovo Cardiology Dispensary were included in the study. s-NGAL levels (ng/ml) were measured on day 1 and 12 of hospital stay by ELISA using commercial kit. Reinfarction rate and mortality were assessed over 3-year follow-up., Results: Median s-NGAL levels on day1 and 12 were 1.33 (0.36-1.90) and 1.63 (1.25-2.61) ng/ml, that corresponded to a 3.32- and 4.07-fold increase, respectively, compared to reference values. Between days 1 and 12 s-NGAL levels increased by 22.55 % (p=0.0009). Higher values of serum NGAL on day 12 of MI were associated with presence of renal structural lesions, three-vessel coronary artery disease and anterior MI. Patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) demonstrated only a negligible increase of s-NGAL level by day 12 while in those not subjected to PCI 3-fold increase was observed. Patients with s-NGAL levels >2.6 ng/ml compared with other patients had higher mortality (9.52 vs 31.83%; odds ratio 4.42 [1.30-15.16], p=0.012)., Conclusion: High values of serum NGAL in STEMI patients were associated with severe clinical status. s-NGAL level above 2.6 ng/ml on day 12 of hospital stay was associated with 4- fold increase of all-cause mortality during 3-year follow-up.

Aim: to assess value for inhospital and 1 year prognosis of unfavorable course of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) of blood serum galectin and markers of renal dysfunction (RD)., Material and Methods: Standard laboratory and instrumental examination, calculation of glomerular filtration rate using MDRD formula and by cystatin C level, determination of galectin in blood serum were carried out in 128 patients with STEMI. According to GFR by cystatin C level on day 12 of STEMI patients were divided into 2 groups - with normal renal function (GFR more or equal 60 ml/min/1.73 m2, n=47) and with RD (GFR <60 ml/min/1.73 2, n=81)., Results and Conclusion: In patients with STEMI presence of RD (lowering of GFR by cystatin C, by blood serum creatinine <60 ml/min/1.73 2, creatinine clearance <60 ml/min), and elevation of galectin concentration >17.8 hg/ml on day 12 of STEMI were independent predictors of unfavorable 1 year prognosis. Elevation of galectin level directly correlated with presence of early postinfarction angina.

Aim: to study associations of polymorphic genetic variants of inflammatory response, endothelial function, lipid metabolism, and blood coagulation with impaired renal function in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)., Material and Methods: We enrolled in the study 171 patients admitted to the Kemerovo Cardiology Dispensary within 24 hours after onset of STEMI. All patients underwent genotype identification of 25 polymorphic variants of 18 major candidate genes for cardiovascular disease. Genotyping was performed with DNA chip SINKAR-1 (Institute of Medical Genetics and LLC "Genomic Diagnosis"). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated using serum creatinine level measured at admission., Results: Comparison of allelic and genotype frequencies of the studied polymorphisms revealed that angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene rs4291 was associated with decreased GFR: odds ratio (OR) for carriers of rare TT genotype was 2.31 [1.01-5.25], =0.043. Analysis of genotype combinations of ACE rs4343 polymorphism and hepatic lipase gene (LIPC) rs1800588 showed that AA genotype of rs4343 polymorphism in combination with CC genotype of rs1800588 polymorphism was associated with lowest risk of renal dysfunction, whereas GG and AG genotypes of ACE rs4343 in combination with TT and CT genotypes of LIPC rs1800588.

Purpose of Study: To detect level ST2 in blood serum of patients with myocardium infarction in dynamics of hospital period and their relationship with remodeling of myocardium., Materials and Methods: The study sampling included 87 patients (65 males and 22 females) with myocardium infarction and the ST-segment elevation and average age of 59 years. All patients were allocated in two groups: with adaptive alternative of remodeling of myocardium (67 patients) and deadaptive alternative (20 patients). The control group consisted of 30 individuals. At the first and twelfth days after myocardium infarction in blood serum content of ST2 and NT-proBNP were detected using immune-enzyme technique with application of test-systems produced by Critical Diagnostics (USA) and Biomedica (Slovakia) correspondingly. The data statistical analysis was processed using non-parametric criteria., The Results: He content of ST2 and NT-proBNP at the first day of myocardium infarction increased in 2.4 and 4.5 times correspondingly as compared with control group. The patients with deadaptive remodeling were characterized by in 1.5 times higher content of ST2 at the first day than in group of adaptive remodeling and in 5.3 times higher that in control group. In the end of hospital period (twelfth day) in both groups decreasing of level of ST2 was observed. The concentration of NT-proBNP at the first day was increased in 1.8 times in patients of both groups and decreased at twelfth day. At that there were no differences between both groups. The high level of ST2 at the first day increases the risk of development of deadaptive remodeling in 4.5 times, NT-proBNP only in 2.3 times., Conclusion: The high level of stimulant growth factor ST2 at the first day of myocardium infarction was associated with deadaptive alternative of post-infarction remodeling that permits using ST2 as prognostic marker with high sensitivity and specificity., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Aim: To evaluate the prognostic impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) during hospital stay in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and to specify factors showing a negative impact of CKD., Subjects and Methods: 954 patients with STEMI were examined. The diagnosis of CKD was verified in 338 (35.4%). In all the patients, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated using the CKD-EPI formula with regard to serum creatinine levels on admission and before discharge (on days 10--12). In the patients who had undergone X-ray contrast intervention, serum creatinine levels were additionally determined on days 2--3 of this procedure in order to identify contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). Cardiovascular events were assessed in the hospital period., Results: Endovascular interventions into the coronary vessels were made much more rarely in the patients with CHD; but CIN cases were twice more commonly recorded. Nonfatal cardiovascular events were 1.5 times more frequently observed in the CKD patients in the hospital period. The odds of fatal outcomes in both the total sample of STEMI patients and in those with CKD increased by 3.5 and 3.1 times, respectively, in the over 60 age group and by 7.9 and 5.8 times in the presence of Killip Classes II--IV clinically relevant acute heart failure (AHF). In the total sample, the independent predictors for a fatal outcome were a decreased admission GFR less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2), CIN, and Killip II--IV AHF. The hospital nonfatal complications were also associated with a decreased admission GFR less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)., Conclusion: The independent predictor of a poor hospital period of STEMI, including fatal outcomes, was a decreased admission GFR less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2); the presence of CKD was of no independent value.

Aim: To comparatively assess formulas for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in the prediction of poor outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) within one year after myocardial infarction (MI)., Materials and Methods: The investigators examined 89 patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) within 24 hours after the onset of clinical symptoms of the disease. All the patients underwent standard laboratory and instrumental tests. GFR was calculated using the Modified of Diet in Renal Diseases (MDRD) formulas in terms of serum creatinine levels, the Hoek equation: GFR [ml/min/1.73 m2] = (80.35/cystatin C [mg/l]) - 4.3 (CKD-EPI), as well as from cystatin C levels, and the creatinine clearance rate was determined using the Cockcroft and Gault formula (ml/min). During a year after STEMI, the investigators recorded cardiovascular events (CVEs), such as death, recurrent MI, progressive angina pectoris, emergency coronary revascularization, and decompensated chronic heart failure (CHF). The examinees were divided into two groups: 1) 70 (78.6%) patients with MI and no DM; 2) 19 (21.3%) patients with MI and DM., Results: Comparative analysis revealed a tendency towards a difference in the detection rate of GFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 calculated using the Hoek formula from cystatin C levels: 42.1% in Group 2 and 21.4% in Group 1 (р=0.067). There were no great differences in the GFR estimated using other formulas. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine the most sensitive formula for estimating GFR to assess the risk of CVEs in the patients within a year after MI concurrent with and without type 2 DM. A univariate analysis showed that GFR calculations using the CKD-EPI (odds ratio (OR), 13.5; p=0.046) and MDRD (OR, 6.5; р=0.040) formulas and creatinine clearance estimation (OR, 2.4; p=0.025) were most sensitive in selecting MI patients without DM and with poor outcomes. This analysis revealed that GFR estimates using the Hoek formula from cystatin C levels (OR, 6.15; p=0.018) were most sensitive for patients with MI concurrent with type 2 DM. In both models, multivariate analysis included none of the analyzed indicators., Conclusion: To estimate cardiovascular risk in the long-term post-infarction period, the CKD-EPI formula in the patients without type 2 DM and the Hoek formula from cystatin C levels were noted to be of the greatest prognostic value in patients with DM.

Aim: To determine the concentration of the stimulating growth factor ST2 and its relationship to the clinical course of myocardial infarction (MI) over time during hospitalization., Materials and Methods: Eighty-eight MI patients whose mean age was 59±8.36 years were examined. On days 1 and 12 of MI, the serum levels of ST2 and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were determined by ELISA. A control group consisted of 30 people., Results: On day 1 of hospitalization for MI, the concentrations of ST2 and NT-proBNP were higher 2.4 and 4.5 times, respectively, than those in the controls; by day 12, there was a statistically significant decrease in the level of ST2 while that of NT-proBNP was unchanged. During hospitalization, the investigators recorded MI complications, according to which the patients were divided into favorable and unfavorable MI groups. On day 1 of hospitalization, the level of ST2 in the patients with unfavorable MI was twice higher than in those with favorable MI and 3.7 times higher than in the control group. On day 12, both favorable and unfavorable MI groups showed a reduction in the level of the marker. On day 1 of MI, the concentration of NT-proBNP in the patients with a poor prognosis was 6.8 times greater than in the controls and 1.8 times more than in the patients with a good prognosis. On day 12, NT-proBNP levels remained elevated in both groups. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the determination of ST2 in combination with NT-proBNP increased their diagnostic significance (odds ratio, 1.92; 95% CI, 1.7-3.2; area under characteristic curve, 0.89; p=0.004)., Conclusion: The level of ST2 was a more sensitive indicator of hospitalization for MI than that of NT-proBNP. The combined use of ST2 and NT-proBNP was found to have a high diagnostic sensitivity and specificity.

Purpose: To elucidate association of renal dysfunction (RD) with unfavorable outcomes of in-hospital and long-term (1 year) treatment stages of patients with ST-elevation (STE) myocardial infarction (MI) and concomitant diabetes mellitus (DM)., Material and Methods: We enrolled in this register study 954 patients (65% men, 35% women, mean age 63.4 [62.6-64.2] years) with STE acute coronary syndrome. Mean age of men was 60.3 (59.4-61.1), of women - 69.2 [68.1-70.4] years. DM was verified in 175 patients (18.3%) basing on history data and values of fasting and postprandial glycaemia. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated by MDRD formula using serum creatinine level determined at admission., Results: Four groups of patients were distinguished depending on the presence of DM and RD: with DM and RD (n=82), with DM without RD (n=93), without DM with RD (n=269) and without DM and RD (n=510). Presence of RD in acute period of MI was associated with 3.3-fold increase of risk of in-hospital and annual mortality, while the presence of DM was associated with 1.6-fold increase of in-hospital mortality without significant impact on annual mortality., Conclusion: RD had a significant impact on realization of poor outcomes in STEMI patients with concomitant DM. Prognostic significance of combination of DM and RD was proved to be higher than that of isolated DM.

Carbohydrate metabolic disturbances are an independent risk factor for not only the development, but also poor course of cardiovascular diseases, particularly those concurrent with renal dysfunction (RD). This factor acquires particular relevance due to the fact that the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus significantly continues to rise worldwide. The review considers the main mechanisms and common components of the pathogenesis of RD, as well as the constituents forming its basis in the presence of carbohydrate metabolic disturbances. Moreover, it highlights the timely detection of RD, a search for new biomarkers of prognostic value for cardiovascular events, and the early diagnosis of RD. The review unveils the present view of optimal diagnostic and management tactics for patients with myocardial infarction concurrent with background diseases.

Aim: To assess the role of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the development of unfavorable outcomes of long-term (one-year) prognosis of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)., Subjects and Methods: A total of 529 patients diagnosed with STEMI and no age limits were examined. Group 1 included 65 (12.3%) patients with previously diagnosed COPD; Group 2 consisted of 464 (87.7%) patients without COPD. One-year prognosis was studied in 384 (81.5%) patients. The investigators evaluated the following endpoints: evolving recurrent myocardial infarction (MI), progressive angina pectoris, decompensated chronic heart failure (CHF), repeat percutaneous coronary interventions, stroke, and death., Results: The prevalence of COPD was 12.3% in the patients with STEM]. Unfavorable one-year prognosis was significantly more often registered in the comorbidity group regardless of age, gender, and smoking status. COPD increased the risk of combined endpoints by 1.9 times within a year after MI and that of decompensated CHD by 2.6 times during a year after STEM., Conclusion: COPD may be an independent risk factor for unfavorable outcomes during a year after MI.

Unlabelled: PURPOSE. To elucidate association of renal dysfunction (RD) with unfavorable outcomes of in-hospital and long-term (1 year) treatment stages of patients with ST-elevation (STE) myocardial infarction (M) and concomitant diabetes mellitus (DM)., Material and Methods: We enrolled in this register study 954 patients (65% men, 35% women, mean age 63.4 [62.6-64.2] years) with STE acute coronary syndrome. Mean age of men was 60.3 (59.4-61.1), of women--69.2 [68.1-70.4] years. DM was verified in 175 patients (18.3%) basing on history data and values of fasting and postprandial glycaemia. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated by MDRD formula using serum creatinine level determined at admission., Results: Four groups of patients were distinguished depending on the presence of DM and RD: with DM and RD (n = 82), with DM without RD (n = 93), without DM with RD (n = 269) and without DM and RD (n = 510). Presence of RD in acute period of MI was associated with 3.3-fold increase of risk of in-hospital and annual mortality, while the presence of DM was associated with 1.6-fold increase of in-hospital mortality without significant impact on annual mortality., Conclusion: RD had a significant impact on realization of poor outcomes in STEMI patients with concomitant DM. Prognostic significance of combination of DM and RD was proved to be higher than that of isolated DM.

The initial rate of non-coronary atherosclerosis progression in patients of different age groups before and after myocardial infarction (MI) was studied. 168 patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) were enrolled in the study; the age of 60 was a criterion for patients distribution into the study groups. It is established that one year after MI the patients younger than 60 years of age had recurrent acute coronary syndromes (ACS), and older patients had cerebral vascular accidents. Thus in both younger and older patients a correlation, between the presence and intensity of atherosclerosis progression and the rates of cardiovascular events was observed; however, in older patients atherosclerosis progression is associated not only with higher coronary but also cerebrovascular events rates.

The present study was motivated by the lack of data on the role ofvariations in the levels of leptin and its soluble receptors and their interaction with proinflammatory factors in the development of acute coronary syndrome. The study included patients suffering myocardial infarction with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus. Hyperleptinemia and its relationship with myocardial necrosis markers (creatine phosphokinase, creatine phosphokinase-MB, troponin) give reason to suggest the important role of leptin in the development of inflammatory process associated with myocardial infarction in patients with and without diabetes mellitus. The results of the study provide a basis for the elaboration of a new therapeutic strategy for the correction of metabolic disorders in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Purpose: To assess the role of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for in-hospital and one-year prognosis of ST elevation (STE) myocardial infarction (MI) patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)., Material and Methods: This registry study included 601 STEMI patients admitted to hospital within 24 hours after STEMI onset during one year. According to medical history, dynamics of glycemia and results of oral glucose tolerance test patients were divided into 3 groups: (1) without disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism (DCM), (2) with IGT and (3) with T2DM. Primary PCI was performed in 373 (62.06%) patients while 228 (37.94%) received pharmacological treatment only. The following events were registered during one year after PCI: recurrent MI, stroke, admission for decompensated chronic heart failure (CHF), repeat emergency PCI., Results: Patients with IGT and DM compared with those without DCM had similarly more severe course of the index MI and worse one-year prognosis. PCI significantly improved one-year prognosis in patients with and without DCM., Conclusion: Use of urgent PCI in STEMI patients with both DM and IGT is prognostically more beneficial in terms of lowering rate of adverse events during one year after MI.

Aim: To evaluate the most informative parameters of adipokine, anti-inflammatory, and prothrombogenic status associated with diabetes mellitus., Materials and Methods: The study included 200 patients with myocardial infarction (MI) in whom markers of adipokine status, grelin, anti-inflammatory factors, CRP and plasminogen activator inhibitor were measured by biochemical methods on days 1 and 12 after admission., Results: In the period of acute MI, the adipokine status was disturbed, FFA and grelin levels decreased, pro-inflammatory and thrombotic potential increased. Patients who developed diabetes within 1 year after MI were characterized by more pronounced changes of the parameters of interest., Conclusion: Adiponectin, retinol-binding protein, grelin, TNF-α, and plasminogen activator inhibitor are the most informative biochemical parameters associated with diabetes mellitus developing 1 year after MI.

Aim: To estimate the prevalence of new-onset chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its clinical significance in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) on an electrocardiogram., Subjects and Methods: The trial enrolled 154 patients with STEMI who underwent external respiratory function examination with a bronchodilatation test, as well as body plethysmography. The level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) was determined 10-14 days after the onset of clinical manifestations of STEMI., Results: Thirty-four (22%) of the 154 patients were known to have a history of COPD. Our examination was first to reveal irreversible postbronchodilatation airway obstruction and to diagnose COPD in 24 (20%) of 120 patients having no evidence of lung pathology in the history. All patients with new-onset obstructive pulmonary disease had varying degrees of respiratory symptoms before this hospitalization; however, they did not seek medical advice. The patients with STEMI concurrent with COPD were recorded to have lower diffusing lung capacity, higher CRP levels, more frequent recurrences of myocardial infarction, early postinfarction angina, but the incidence rate of pneumonia in in-hospital myocardial infarction achieved significant differences., Conclusion: The trial has disclosed that screening spirometry should be performed to detect COPD in patients with ischemic lung disease, which will be able to reduce the risk of complications and to improve prognosis in this patient group.

The sampling included 133 patients with diagnosis of cardiac infarction with peak of segment ST. After a year after old cardiac infarction, in 38 patients were established such unfavorable outcomes of disease as progressive stenocardia, decompensation of cardiac failure, repeated cardiac infarction and lethal outcome. It is established that among all indicators of lipid profile detected at hospital period of cardiac infarction only three indicators are prognostically significant in groups of patients with different outcomes--levels of free fatty acids, oxidized modified lipoproteins of low density and antibodies to them. During hospital period, augmentation of concentration of free fatty acids, oxidized modified lipoproteins of low density and antibodies to them increases risk of development of distant complications of cardiac infarction. The mathematical model is proposed comprising as predictors free fatty acids and antibodies to oxidized modified lipoproteins of low density. This model makes it possible on the basis of biochemical data obtained during hospital period, to calculate individual cumulative risk and to develop long-term prognosis of probable outcome of cardiac infarction.

Aim: To identify predictors of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and evaluate its significance for the hospital prognosis of myocardial infarction with elevated ST segment., Materials and Methods: 722 (75.7%) of the total 954 patients underwent X ray examination with the use of contrast material (coronary angiography (CAG) and/or transcutaneous coronary intervention (TCI)) within 24 hr after the appearance of symptoms. In all cases, serum creatinine level was determined and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) calculated by the MDRD formula at admission, 2-3 days after CAG/TCI, and 10-14 days after hospitalization. CIN was defined as a more than 25% (44 mcmnol/l) rise in the creatinine level compared with the initial one within 48-72 hr after intravascular administration of contrast material in the absence of an alternative cause. The endpoints (adverse cardiovascular effects) were evaluated at the hospital stage of the study., Results: Significantly more patients with CIN (n=52; 7.2%) had the history ofdiabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic renal disease (CRD), clinically manifest Killip class II-IV acute cardiac failure (ACF), and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) compared with the patients having normal renal function. The risk of RAEF in the presence of CIN increased by 2.5 times (95% CI 1.26-5.05), that of MI by 5.4% (95% CI 2.69-10.64), life-threatening and other complications by 4.1% (95% CI 1.99-8.29) and 5.1% (95% CI times 2.85-9.17) times respectively. The presence of Killip class II-IV ACF increased the risk of CIN and DM by afactor of 2.2., Conclusion: CIN was diagnosed in 7.2% of the patients with myocardial infarction and elevated ST segment; it is associated with the history of DM, CRD, pronounced Killip class II-IV ACF and decreased LVEF DM and clinically manifest ACF were independent predictors of CIN in patients with myocardial infarction and elevated ST segment.

Aim: To assess value of kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) for prediction of inhospital events in CAD patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery., Material and Methods: We analyzed postoperative course of 719 patients subjected to CABG in Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases between March, 2011 and April, 2012. In all patients we measured creatinine concentrations, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by MDRD and urine KIM-1 levels before and on day 7 after CABG. Major unfavorable events (myocardial infarction, stroke or transient ischemic attack, acute or decompensated chronic renal failure or remediastinotomy) were registered during hospital stay. The EuroSCORE (European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation) risk of operative mortality was calculated for each patient., Results: Patients with different EuroSCORE risk had similar serum creatinine levels while KIM-1 concentrations in urine were significantly higher in patients with moderate and high EuroSCORE risk as compared with low-risk patients. Patients who experienced postoperative events had significantly higher KIM-1 both before and after surgery while there were no differences in such renal dysfunction markers as creatinine and GFR., Conclusion: Preoperative elevated KIM-1 can act as a marker of complicated postoperative period after CABG.

The shortage of data concerning the character of changes of leptin concentration and its role information of insulin resistance under development of acute coronary events determined the appropriateness of the present study. The cardiac infarction patients with and without diabetes type II were examined. The identified hyperleptinemia, its relationship with basal and post-prandial hyperglycemia and with increase of C-peptide concentration and free fatty acids made possible to consider leptin both as one of the important components in the series of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism disorders and the additional marker of development of insulin resistance under cardiac infarction. These study results can be applied to patients with diabetes anamnesis and to patients without this concomitant pathology. The study results can be used as a foundation for new diagnostic and therapy tactics of metabolic disorders correction in patients with acute coronary vascular pathology.

Multifocal atherosclerosis (MFA) and diabetes mellitus (DM) determine less favorable course of acute vascular catastrophes. We analyzed dependence of one year prognosis of patients with myocardial infarction (MI) with and without DM on the presence of multifocal atherosclerosis. The analysis showed that number of cardiovascular complications increased with increase of degree of severity of atherosclerosis. Negative impact of DM on prognosis was more pronounced in patients with MFA. This effect rose with rise of atherosclerosis severity. Moreover in patients with MI stenoses of extracranial arteries including those less than 50% appeared to be markers of the disease severity and unfavorable prognosis especially at the background of DM.

The aim of this work was to study the clinical picture and outcome of myocardial infarction in patients w'ith elevated STsegment and concomitant COPD. It involved 529 patients. Group I included 65 (12.3%) patients with previously diagnosed COPD. Group 2 was comprised of 464 (87.7%) patients without COPD. The study lasted 1 year. The patients of group 1 were older and smoked more heavily than in group 2. They had a higher clinical class of cardiac failure and more frequently showed reduced (by 40%) left ventricular ejection friction. Also, they required significantly longer hospital treatment, developed more complications, and showed higher inpatient mortality rate. The annual prognosis for them was less favourable than in group 2.

Aim: The estimate insulin resistance in myocardial infarction., Patients and Methods: The study involved 200 patients with myocardial infarction, in which on the 1st and 12th day of hospitalization measured glucose, insulin, insulin resistance index (IR), lipid profile, the concentration of adipokines and ghrelin., Results: IR was detected in 77% of patients and was associated with a history of factors of cardiovascular risk, adverse clinical course of the disease, lipid disorders. The most important marker was the level of free fatty acids. High risk associated with increased in 9 times the concentration of free fatty acids in blood plasma. Patients with IR observed increased concentrations of leptin, resistin, and reduced the protective effect of adiponectin. The high specificity and sensitivity characteristic of the concentration of ghrelin: its reduction by 4 times in the acute phase of myocardial infarction increases the risk of MI by 78%., Conclusions: Significant risk factors for MI myocardial infarction, along with insulinemia and glycemia, is to increase the concentration of free fatty acids and the disbalance in the system adipokines against deficiency of ghrelin in acute and early recovery periods of the disease. Free fatty acids and ghrelin are promising markers to stratify the risk of insulin myocardial infarction. resistance in patients with myocardial infarction.

Aim: To assess incidence and severity of renal dysfunction as well as its prognostic value in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multifocal atherosclerosis (MFA)., Material and Methods: We enrolled in this study 529 patients with STEMI in whom we estimated creatinine clearance rate (eGFR) and glomerular filtration rate (eCrCl) using Cockcroft-Gault equation and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula, respectively. Duplex ultrasonography of lower extremity and extracranial arteries was performed in 423 patients on day 5-10 of hospitalization. Signs of MFA were found in 95% of patients. Hospital mortality was 10.9%. One year survival of 397 patients was assessed by the telephone contacts. Thirty nine patients (9.8%) died., Results: GFR in 35.5% of patients was 30-60, and in 4.9% - less than 30 ml/min/1.73 m2. At the same time 29.5% of patients had CCr 30 - 60, and 3.0% - less than 30 ml/min. Progressive decreases of eCCr and eGFR were observed in patients with incipient MFA (stenosis <30%); relationship between MFA and eGRF was more close. Presence of renal dysfunction in patients with STEACS and MFA was associated elevation of both hospital and 1 year mortality., Conclusion: Any manifestation of peripheral atherosclerosis and impairment of renal function should be considered as independent predictors of cardiovascular events in patients after STEMI.

High mortality of patients with myocardial infarction (MI) determines pursuit of novel markers of risk as well as predictors of development of unfavorable outcome. The question of the role glycemia in development of cardiovascular complications in patients with acute coronary syndrome remains open. Analysis of in hospital mortality revealed U-shaped relacion ship between level of glycemia at admission and mortality in patients with ST elevation MI combined with diabetes mellitus (DM), and presence of direct linear relation - in patients without DM. Episodes of hypoglycemia registered in patients with MI and DM at hospital stage of treatment do not determine in hospital prognosis, but allow to distinguish a group of patients with unfavorable course of remote postinfarction period.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is not only an independent risk factor (RF) of development of atherosclerosis, but it substantially worsens prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI). Results of this study evidence that presence of disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism (DM or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in patients with ST elevation MI manifests with higher activity of the inflammatory process compared with patients with MI without abnormalities of carbohydrate metabolism. Unfavorable 1 year prognosis in patients with ST elevation MI is associated with higher concentrations of inflammation markers assessed on days 10-14 from onset of the disease: in patients with DM and IGT- of sCD40 ligand, in patients without disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism - C-reactive protein, in all patients irrespective of presence of carbohydrate metabolism abnormalities - interleukin 12.

We measured levels of several parameters of immune inflammation (interleukins [IL] 1, 6, 8, 10, 12, tumor necrosis factor [TNF], serum neopterin, C-reactive protein) on days 10-14 after onset of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI) and related them to results of 12 months follow up. Elevated titers of IL-12 and neopterin were significantly associated with unfavorable events (repetitive MI, progression of angina, stroke, decompensation of chronic heart failure) (=0.001 and =0.003, respectively). After adjustment for initial severity of MI only IL-12 retained its prognostic value (=0.05). Regression analysis identified IL-12 level &gt;108.7 g/ml and TIMI score &gt; 3 as independent predictors of combined end point formation. Prognostic value of IL-12 level was significant both among patients with TIMI scores &lt;3 and more or equal 4.

The Aim of Study: A comparative estimation of influence various thrombolytic preparations(alteplase, Streptokinase) on clinical course and the remote forecast of disease, and also of parameters of a metabolism of nitric oxide of the patient with acute myocardial infarction., Material and Methods: In research have included 70 patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) with rise of segment ST. Patients have been divided into groups depending on a kind of applied thrombolytic agent. Estimated features of clinical current by MI in both groups of patients , year forecast of disease, parameters of a metabolism nitric oxide and oxidative stress and antioxidative defence during the acute period of MI., Results: Greater efficiency thrombolytic therapies is revealed in group of patients with application of alteplase. The patients in group of alteplase were characterised by more favorable current both acute and remote periods of MI. In these patients more significant activation of parameters of oxidative stress is revealed, than in group of application of streptokinase. This is caused by more effective revascularisation and reperfusion of myocardium. In group of patients treat with the streptokinase decrease in the level of stable metabolites of nitric oxide is more marked, than in group of patients with alteplase. Statistically significant increase of this parameters is revealed in group with endothelial protection by alteplase., Conclusion: Advantages of the tissue plasminogen activator alteplase concerning influence on clinical course of the acute period of MI and the remote forecast are shown, that, apparently is connected not only with greater frequency of effective revascularisation of a myocardium, but also with optimization of endothelial functions of patients with MI.

Ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT) are responsible for many sudden deaths in postmyocardial infarction (PMI) patients. The aim of the study was to investigate clinical and prognostic significance for such patients of delayed ventricular activity and vegetative regulation of cardiac rhythm. Signal-averaged ECG, mathematical analysis of cardiac rhythm with measurement of variation range, mode, index of regulatory systems tension, 24-h ECG monitoring were made in 90 patients with acute large-focal myocardial infarction (MI) on the disease day 1, 15, 40 and 365. Signal-averaged ECG registered on MI day 15 was found most informative for identifying the risk to develop VT. Combined application of diagnostic techniques brings more information than each of them alone.