The inflammation-associated cytokines TNF-alpha, IL-6 and IL-1Ra are significantly elevated in patients with MI complicated by CS when compared to patients with uncomplicated MI. Among shock-patients IL-1Ra levels are promising diagnostic markers for early identification of patients developing SIRS, heralding a poor outcome.

This study found that an easily applied repellent is moderately effective in reducing the risk of tick bites.

Temporary, biatrial synchronous pacing during the first 3 postoperative days is safe and has a significant rhythm-stabilizing effect in patients undergoing valvular cardiac surgery.

There were no differences in QRS duration during intrinsic rhythm, RA-BiV pacing, and AAI pacing. However, RA-LV and RA-RV stimulations showed a longer QRS duration (P < 0.01 vs. intrinsic rhythm, RA-BiV pacing, and AAI, respectively). Tissue Doppler velocities of the septal and lateral mitral annulus were comparable in all pacing modes. Neither CI nor PAP or PCW showed significant differences during the various pacing configurations. There was a positive correlation between regional (TDI) and global (CI) parameters of LV systolic function. Conclusions Biventricular pacing after heart surgery does not improve parameters of regional and global LV systolic function acutely in patients with heart failure and intraventricular conduction delay and, thus, may not reflect changes observed with chronic BiV pacing.

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