Consequences of comorbid sleep apnea in the metabolic syndrome--implications for cardiovascular risk

Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Sympathetic Nervous System on Cardiac Health: A Comprehensive Review

A prevalent condition linked to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease is sleep apnea. This review examines the connections between cardiac risk, the sympathetic nervous system, and sleep apnea. The increased risk of hypertension, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and heart failure was highlighted in the pathophysiology of sleep apnea and its effect on sympathetic activation. It is also important to consider potential processes such as oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and autonomic imbalance that may relate sleep apnea-induced sympathetic activation to cardiac risk. With implications for creating innovative diagnostic and treatment approaches to lessen the cardiovascular effects of sleep apnea, the goal of this investigation is to improve the understanding of the intricate link between sympathetic activity, cardiac risk, and sleep apnea. This study aimed to clarify the complex relationship between cardiovascular health and sleep apnea by synthesizing the available research and highlighting the crucial role played by the sympathetic nervous system in moderating this relationship. Our thorough investigation may have important therapeutic ramifications that will direct the creation of focused therapies to enhance cardiovascular outcomes in sleep apnea sufferers.

Influence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Severity on Muscle Sympathetic Nerve Activity and Blood Pressure: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

We conducted meta-analyses to identify relationships between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), and blood pressure (BP). We quantified the effect of OSA treatment on MSNA.

METHODS

Structured searches of electronic databases were performed until June 2021. All observational designs (except reviews) were included: population (individuals with OSA); exposures (OSA diagnosis and direct measures of MSNA); comparator (individuals without OSA or different severity of OSA); outcomes (MSNA, BP, and heart rate).

RESULTS

Fifty-six studies (N=1872) were included. MSNA burst frequency was higher in OSA (27 studies; n=542) versus controls (n=488; mean differences [MDs], +15.95 bursts/min [95% CI, 12.6-17.6 bursts/min]; I²=86%). As was burst incidence (20 studies; n=357 OSA, n=312 Controls; MD, +22.23 bursts/100 hbs [95% CI, 18.49-25.97 bursts/100 hbs]; I²=67%). Meta-regressions indicated relationships between MSNA and OSA severity (burst frequency, R²=0.489; P<0.001; burst incidence, R²=0.573; P<0.001). MSNA burst frequency was related to systolic pressure (R²=0.308; P=0.016). OSA treatment with continuous positive airway pressure reduced MSNA burst frequency (MD, 11.91 bursts/min [95% CI, 9.36-14.47 bursts/min] I²=15%) and systolic (n=49; MD, 10.3 mm Hg [95% CI, 3.5-17.2 mm Hg]; I²=42%) and diastolic (MD, 6.9 mm Hg [95% CI, 2.3-11.6 mm Hg]; I²=37%) BP.

CONCLUSIONS

MSNA is higher in individuals with OSA and related to severity. This sympathoexcitation is also related to BP in patients with OSA. Treatment effectively reduces MSNA and BP, but limited data prevents an assessment of the link between these reductions. These data are clinically important for understanding cardiovascular disease risk in patients with OSA.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: CRD42021285159.

Exaggerated Exercise Blood Pressure as a Marker of Baroreflex Dysfunction in Normotensive Metabolic Syndrome Patients

Introduction

Exaggerated blood pressure response to exercise (EEBP = SBP ≥ 190 mmHg for women and ≥210 mmHg for men) during cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) is a predictor of cardiovascular risk. Sympathetic hyperactivation and decreased baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) seem to be involved in the progression of metabolic syndrome (MetS) to cardiovascular disease.

Objective

To test the hypotheses: (1) MetS patients within normal clinical blood pressure (BP) may present EEBP response to maximal exercise and (2) increased muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and reduced BRS are associated with this impairment.

Methods

We selected MetS (ATP III) patients with normal BP (MetS_NT, n = 27, 59.3% males, 46.1 ± 7.2 years) and a control group without MetS (C, n = 19, 48.4 ± 7.4 years). We evaluated BRS for increases (BRS+) and decreases (BRS−) in spontaneous BP and HR fluctuations, MSNA (microneurography), BP from ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), and auscultatory BP during CPET.

Results

Normotensive MetS (MetS_NT) had higher body mass index and impairment in all MetS risk factors when compared to the C group. MetS_NT had higher peak systolic BP (SBP) (195 ± 17 vs. 177 ± 24 mmHg, P = 0.007) and diastolic BP (91 ± 11 vs. 79 ± 10 mmHg, P = 0.001) during CPET than C. Additionally, we found that MetS patients with normal BP had lower spontaneous BRS− (9.6 ± 3.3 vs. 12.2 ± 4.9 ms/mmHg, P = 0.044) and higher levels of MSNA (29 ± 6 vs. 18 ± 4 bursts/min, P < 0.001) compared to C. Interestingly, 10 out of 27 MetS_NT (37%) showed EEBP (MetS_NT+), whereas 2 out of 19 C (10.5%) presented (P = 0.044). The subgroup of MetS_NT with EEBP (MetS_NT+, n = 10) had similar MSNA (P = 0.437), but lower BRS+ (P = 0.039) and BRS− (P = 0.039) compared with the subgroup without EEBP (MetS_NT−, n = 17). Either office BP or BP from ABPM was similar between subgroups MetS_NT+ and MetS_NT−, regardless of EEBP response. In the MetS_NT+ subgroup, there was an association of peak SBP with BRS− (R = −0.70; P = 0.02), triglycerides with peak SBP during CPET (R = 0.66; P = 0.039), and of triglycerides with BRS− (R = 0.71; P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Normotensive MetS patients already presented higher peak systolic and diastolic BP during maximal exercise, in addition to sympathetic hyperactivation and decreased baroreflex sensitivity. The EEBP in MetS_NT with apparent well-controlled BP may indicate a potential depressed neural baroreflex function, predisposing these patients to increased cardiovascular risk.

Visceral Obesity and High Systolic Blood Pressure as the Substrate of Endothelial Dysfunction in Obese Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Obesity affects adolescence and may lead to metabolic syndrome (MetS) and endothelial dysfunction, an early marker of cardiovascular risk. Albeit obesity is strongly associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is not clear the role of OSA in endothelial function in adolescents with obesity.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether obesity during adolescence leads to MetS and/or OSA; and causes endothelial dysfunction. In addition, we studied the possible association of MetS risk factors and apnea hypopnea index (AHI) with endothelial dysfunction.

METHODS

We studied 20 sedentary obese adolescents (OA; 14.2±1.6 years, 100.9±20.3kg), and 10 normal-weight adolescents (NWA, 15.2±1.2 years, 54.4±5.3kg) paired for sex. We assessed MetS risk factors (International Diabetes Federation criteria), vascular function (Flow-Mediated Dilation, FMD), functional capacity (VO2peak) and the presence of OSA (AHI>1event/h, by polysomnography). We considered statistically significant a P<0.05.

RESULTS

OA presented higher waist (WC), body fat, triglycerides, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), LDL-c and lower HDL-c and VO2peak than NWA. MetS was presented in the 35% of OA, whereas OSA was present in 86.6% of OA and 50% of EA. There was no difference between groups in the AHI. The OA had lower FMD than NWA (6.17±2.72 vs. 9.37±2.20%, p=0.005). There was an association between FMD and WC (R=-0.506, p=0.008) and FMD and SBP (R=-0.493, p=0.006).

CONCLUSION

In adolescents, obesity was associates with MetS and caused endothelial dysfunction. Increased WC and SBP could be involved in this alteration. OSA was observed in most adolescents, regardless of obesity. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(4):795-803).

Sympathetic overdrive in the metabolic syndrome: meta-analysis of published studies

OBJECTIVE

The microneurographic technique has shown that sympathetic overactivity may characterize patients with the metabolic syndrome. However, technical and methodological limitations of the studies prevented to draw definite conclusions. The present meta-analysis evaluated 16 microneurographic studies including 650 individuals, 444 metabolic syndrome patients and 206 healthy controls, respectively. The analysis was primarily based on muscle sympathetic nerve traffic (MSNA) quantified by microneurography in metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

Assessment was extended to the relationships of MSNA with an indirect neuroadrenergic marker, such as heart rate (HR), anthropometric variables, as BMI, waist-hip ratio and metabolic profile.

RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome individuals displayed MSNA values (means ± SEM) significantly greater than controls (58.6 ± 4.8 versus 41.6 ± 4.1 bursts/100 heart beats, P < 0.01). This result was independent on the concomitant presence of sleep apnea and drug treatment. MSNA was directly and significantly related to clinic SBP (r = 0.91, P < 0.01) but not to BMI (r = 0.17, P = NS), whereas no significant relationship was found between MSNA and metabolic variables included in the definition of metabolic syndrome. No significant correlation was found between MSNA and HR.

CONCLUSION

These data provide evidence that metabolic syndrome is characterized by a marked increase (about 30%) in MSNA. They also show that among the variables included in metabolic syndrome definition and related to the sympathetic overdrive blood pressure appears to be the most important one, at variance from what described in obesity in which metabolic and anthropometric factors play a major role. Finally in metabolic syndrome HR does not appear to represent a faithful mirror of the occurring sympathetic activation.

Translational insight into prothrombotic state and hypercoagulation in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an emerging and threatening pathological condition, ranging from fatty liver (FL) to chronic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver cirrhosis, and eventually to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent findings suggest that patients with NAFLD have a higher risk of cardiovascular events and thromboembolism and that this risk is independent of metabolic diseases that are frequently associated with NAFLD, such as diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, and obesity. The vascular involvement of NAFLD might be considered its systemic burden, conditioning higher mortality in patients affected by the disease. These clinical findings suggested the existence of a prothrombotic state in NAFLD, which is partially unexplored and whose underlying mechanisms are to date not completely understood. Here, we review the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of the prothrombotic state in NAFLD across the progression from the healthy liver through the different stages of the disease. We focused on the possible role of several metabolic features of NAFLD possibly leading to hypercoagulation other than endothelial and platelet activation, such as insulin-resistance, nitric oxide production regulation, and gut microbiota homeostasis. Also, we analysed the involvement of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and thromboinflammation taking place in NAFLD. Finally, we described factors striking a prothrombotic imbalance in NASH cirrhosis, with a particular focus on the pathogenesis of portal vein thrombosis.

Examination of the Relationship Between Metabolic Syndrome and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Iranian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Case-Control Study

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common risk factor for metabolic syndrome (MS) that increases the chance of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and mortality. Many studies have been conducted on this matter, but the results are still conflicting. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in Iranian patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This matched case-control study was conducted with 190 patients with T2D in Sanandaj, Iran. The data were selected using the demographic questionnaire, clinical and anthropometric measures, the Berlin Questionnaire (BQ), and the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III). Participants were divided into two groups of high risk of OSA (experimental) and low risk of OSA (control). The data were analyzed using Stata, version 14.

RESULTS

The frequency of MS was higher in the OSA group than the control group (81.1% vs 70.5%), but the group difference was not statistically significant (p=0.127). The results of crude and age-sex adjusted logistic regression analysis revealed no significant association between OSA and the other variables under study (P>0.05). Sensitivity analysis and external adjustment for BMI showed no significant relationship between OSA and the other variables under study (P=0.319).

CONCLUSION

In the present study, no significant association was found between metabolic syndrome (MS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with T2D; therefore, more studies should be conducted on this subject.

Left ventricular remodeling and dysfunction in obstructive sleep apnea : Systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is associated with cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Several studies have reported that it affects the left ventricle; however, large randomized controlled trials are lacking. The current study aimed to summarize the association between OSAS and left ventricular (LV) structure and function.

Methods

Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane) and references were searched for articles published until March 2018. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to assess LV structure and function in OSAS patients based on echocardiography.

Results

In total, 17 studies with 747 OSAS patients and 426 control participants were included. Patients with OSAS showed an increase in LV diastolic diameter (weighted mean difference [WMD], 95% CI: 1.24 [0.68, 1.80]; p < 0.001), LV systolic diameter (WMD, 95% CI: 1.14 [0.47, 1.81]; p = 0.001), and LV mass (WMD, 95% CI: 35.34 [20.67, 50.00]; p < 0.001). In addition, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) significantly decreased in the OSAS group compared with the controls (WMD, 95% CIs: −1.82 [−2.76, −0.87]; p < 0.001), and the reduction in LVEF was consistent with the severity of OSAS. The OSAS group also showed an increase in left atrial diameter (WMD, 95% CI: 2.13 [1.48, 2.77]; p < 0.001) and left atrial diameter volume index (WMD, 95% CIs: 3.96 [3.32, 4.61]; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome leads to atrial dilatation, left ventricular hypertrophy, enlargement, mass increase and reduction of systolic function. Treatments for OSAS might be beneficial for the preservation of left cardiac structure and function.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00059-019-04850-w) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Identifying the risk of obstructive sleep apnea in metabolic syndrome patients: Diagnostic accuracy of the Berlin Questionnaire

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a risk factor frequently present in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Additionally, moderate and severe OSA are highly prevalent in patients with cardiac disease, as they increase the riskfor cardiovascular events by 80%. The gold standard diagnostic method for OSA is overnight polysomnography (PSG), which remains unaffordable for the overall population. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the Berlin Questionnaire (BQ) is anuseful tool for assessing the risk of OSA in patients with MetS.

METHODS

97 patients, previously untreated and recently diagnosed with MetS (National Cholesterol Education Program, Adult Treatment Panel III, ATP-III) underwent a PSG. OSA was characterized by the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). BQ was administered before PSG and we evaluated sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and accuracy.

RESULTS

Of the 97 patients with MetS, 81 patients had OSA, with 47 (48.5%) presenting moderate and severe OSA. For all MetS with OSA (AHI≥5 events/hour), the BQ showed good sensitivity (0.65, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.76) and fair specificity (0.38, 95% CI 0.15-0.65) with a positive predictive value of 0.84, a negative predictive value of 0.18 and an 84% accuracy. Similarly, for moderate-to-severe OSA (AHI≥15 events/hour) we found good sensitivity (0.73, 95% CI 0.58-0.85) and fair specificity (0.40, 95% CI 0.27-0.55). Interestingly, for severe OSA (AHI≥30 events/hour), there was a very good sensitivity (0.91, 95% CI 0.72-0.99) and moderate specificity (0.42, 95% CI 0.31-0.54).

CONCLUSION

The BQ is a valid tool for screening the risk of OSA in MetS patients in general, and it is particularly useful in predicting severe OSA.

Gender Differences in the Clinical Features of Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Objective Sleep apnea syndrome is more prevalent among men than women and is frequently accompanied by metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, gender differences in the effect of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) leading to the risk of MetS remain unclear. The aim of our study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of SDB in women and the differential influence of SDB on MetS between genders. Methods In a single-center retrospective study, we compared the data of 1,809 consecutive SDB patients by gender to clarify the characteristics of sleep disorders in women. We also compared the prevalence of MetS and its related abnormalities by gender. A logistic regression analysis was used to determine the contributory factors for MetS. Results The mean age and proportion of patients over 50 years of age were higher in women than in men. SDB was milder in women than in men according to polysomnography findings. Elevated Hemoglobin A1c levels and hyperlipidemia were less frequent in women than in men. The MetS prevalence was similar in women and men (30.0% vs. 35.2%). A logistic regression analysis showed that the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was an independent risk factor for MetS in both genders, but that female gender was independently associated with a decreased prevalence of MetS and its related abnormalities. Conclusion Female SDB patients tend to be older with milder apnea and sleepiness than male SDB patients. A higher AHI is a significant risk factor for MetS in both genders, although female gender is an independent inhibitory factor for developing MetS in SDB patients.

Diet associated with exercise improves baroreflex control of sympathetic nerve activity in metabolic syndrome and sleep apnea patients

PURPOSE

We tested the hypothesis that (i) diet associated with exercise would improve arterial baroreflex (ABR) control in metabolic syndrome (MetS) patients with and without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and (ii) the effects of this intervention would be more pronounced in patients with OSA.

METHODS

Forty-six MetS patients without (noOSA) and with OSA (apnea-hypopnea index, AHI > 15 events/h) were allocated to no treatment (control, C) or hypocaloric diet (- 500 kcal/day) associated with exercise (40 min, bicycle exercise, 3 times/week) for 4 months (treatment, T), resulting in four groups: noOSA-C (n = 10), OSA-C (n = 12), noOSA-T (n = 13), and OSA-T (n = 11). Muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), beat-to-beat BP, and spontaneous arterial baroreflex function of MSNA (ABR_MSNA, gain and time delay) were assessed at study entry and end.

RESULTS

No significant changes occurred in C groups. In contrast, treatment in both patients with and without OSA led to a significant decrease in weight (P < 0.05) and the number of MetS factors (P = 0.03). AHI declined only in the OSA-T group (31 ± 5 to 17 ± 4 events/h, P < 0.05). Systolic BP decreased in both treatment groups, and diastolic BP decreased significantly only in the noOSA-T group. Treatment decreased MSNA in both groups. Compared with baseline, ABR_MSNA gain increased in both OSA-T (13 ± 1 vs. 24 ± 2 a.u./mmHg, P = 0.01) and noOSA-T (27 ± 3 vs. 37 ± 3 a.u./mmHg, P = 0.03) groups. The time delay of ABR_MSNA was reduced only in the OSA-T group (4.1 ± 0.2 s vs. 2.8 ± 0.3 s, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Diet associated with exercise improves baroreflex control of sympathetic nerve activity and MetS components in patients with MetS regardless of OSA.

Sleep-disordered breathing and epicardial adipose tissue in patients with heart failure

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is common in patients with heart failure (HF), contributes to the progression of cardiac disease, and is associated with adverse prognosis. Previous evidence indicates that epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is independently associated with sleep apnea in obese individuals. We explored the relationship between SDB and EAT in HF patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

EAT thickness was assessed by echocardiography in 66 patients with systolic HF undergoing nocturnal cardiorespiratory monitoring. A significantly higher EAT thickness was found in patients with SDB than in those without SDB (10.7 ± 2.8 mm vs. 8.3 ± 1.8 mm; p = 0.001). Among SDB patients, higher EAT thickness was found in both those with prevalent obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and those with prevalent central sleep apnea (CSA). Of interest, EAT thickness was significantly higher in CSA than in OSA patients (11.9 ± 2.9 vs. 10.1 ± 2.5 p = 0.022). Circulating plasma norepinephrine levels were higher in CSA than in OSA patients (2.19 ± 1.25 vs. 1.22 ± 0.92 ng/ml, p = 0.019). According to the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), patients were then stratified in three groups of SDB severity: Group 1, mild SDB; Group 2, moderate SDB; Group 3, severe SDB. EAT thickness progressively and significantly increased from Group 1 to Group 3 (ANOVA p < 0.001). At univariate analysis, only left ventricular ejection fraction and AHI significantly correlated with EAT (p = 0.019 and p < 0.0001, respectively). At multivariate analysis, AHI was the only independent predictor of EAT (β = 0.552, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest an association between the presence and severity of sleep apneas and cardiac visceral adiposity in HF patients.

Associations between Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Metabolic Risk Factors beyond Obesity

OBJECTIVE

Individuals with multiple metabolic risk factors often experience concomitant sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). We aimed to determine the associations of SDB with individual components of metabolic syndrome independent of obesity.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1137 employees aged 30-64 years. Apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was assessed using a portable monitor for obstructive sleep apnea by admission. Of these, 451 participants took an oral glucose tolerance test to assess homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and Matsuda insulin sensitivity index (ISI).

RESULTS

The odds ratio (OR) of the highest category of the AHI (≥15 episodes per hour) compared to the lowest one (<5 episodes per hour) was significantly elevated for hypertension, for hypertriglyceridemia, and for low HDL-cholesterolemia when adjusted for age, sex, and alcohol and smoking status (p < 0.05). After further adjustment for body mass index (BMI) or waist circumference, the associations for hypertension still remained statistically significant (p < 0.05) while those for hypertriglyceridemia and low HDL-cholesterolemia were no longer significant. The association between higher insulin resistance as assessed by HOMA-IR and Matsuda ISI and higher categories of the AHI was also lost after adjustment for BMI.

CONCLUSION

Obesity was a strong confounding factor in the association between SDB and most metabolic risk factors including insulin resistance, except for hypertension. Further longitudinal study is needed to examine the temporal or causal relationships between SDB and metabolic risk factors. This trial is registered with UMIN-CTR UMIN000028067.

The role of increased glucose on neurovascular dysfunction in patients with the metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) causes autonomic alteration and vascular dysfunction. The authors investigated whether impaired fasting glucose (IFG) is the main cause of vascular dysfunction via elevated sympathetic tone in nondiabetic patients with MetS. Pulse wave velocity, muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), and forearm vascular resistance was measured in patients with MetS divided according to fasting glucose levels: (1) MetS+IFG (blood glucose ≥100 mg/dL) and (2) MetS-IFG (<100 mg/dL) compared with healthy controls. Patients with MetS+IFG had higher pulse wave velocity than patients with MetS-IFG and controls (median 8.0 [interquartile range, 7.2-8.6], 7.3 [interquartile range, 6.9-7.9], and 6.9 [interquartile range, 6.6-7.2] m/s, P=.001). Patients with MetS+IFG had higher MSNA than patients with MetS-IFG and controls, and patients with MetS-IFG had higher MSNA than controls (31±1, 26±1, and 19±1 bursts per minute; P<.001). Patients with MetS+IFG were similar to patients with MetS-IFG but had higher forearm vascular resistance than controls (P=.008). IFG was the only predictor variable of MSNA. MSNA was associated with pulse wave velocity (R=.39, P=.002) and forearm vascular resistance (R=.30, P=.034). In patients with MetS, increased plasma glucose levels leads to an adrenergic burden that can explain vascular dysfunction.

Cardiac and peripheral autonomic control in restrictive cardiomyopathy

AIMS

Autonomic dysfunction determines the advance of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and is related to poor outcomes. However, this autonomic imbalance is unknown in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) even though they have similar symptoms and poor quality of life as DCM patients have. The aim of this study was to evaluate if autonomic and neurovascular controls were altered in RCM patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Fifteen RCM patients, 10 DCM patients, and 10 healthy subjects were evaluated. Heart rate and blood pressure (BP) were recorded. Peripheral sympathetic activity [muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA)] by microneurography and cardiac sympathetic activity by power spectrum analysis of heart rate variability. Spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) was evaluated by the sequence method and forearm blood flow by venous occlusion plethysmography. Both cardiomyopathy groups had higher MSNA frequency (P < 0.001) and MSNA incidence (P < 0.001), higher cardiac sympathovagal balance (P < 0.02), reduced BRS for increase (P = 0.002) and for decrease in BP (P = 0.002), and lower forearm blood flow (P < 0.001) compared with healthy subjects. We found an inverse correlation between BRS for increase and decrease in BP and peripheral sympathetic activity (r = -0.609, P = 0.001 and r = -0.648, P < 0.001, respectively) and between BRS for increase and decrease in BP and cardiac sympathetic activity (r = -0.503, P = 0.03 and r = -0.487, P = 0.04, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The RCM patients had cardiac and peripheral autonomic dysfunctions associated with peripheral vasoconstriction. Nonetheless, the presence of normal ejection fraction underestimates the evolution of the disease and makes clinical treatment difficult. These alterations could lead to a similar cardiovascular risk as that observed in DCM patients.

Contribution of Autonomic Reflexes to the Hyperadrenergic State in Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) is a complex syndrome representing the clinical endpoint of many cardiovascular diseases of different etiology. Given its prevalence, incidence and social impact, a better understanding of HF pathophysiology is paramount to implement more effective anti-HF therapies. Based on left ventricle (LV) performance, HF is currently classified as follows: (1) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF); (2) with mid-range EF (HFmrEF); and (3) with preserved EF (HFpEF). A central tenet of HFrEF pathophysiology is adrenergic hyperactivity, featuring increased sympathetic nerve discharge and a progressive loss of rhythmical sympathetic oscillations. The role of reflex mechanisms in sustaining adrenergic abnormalities during HFrEF is increasingly well appreciated and delineated. However, the same cannot be said for patients affected by HFpEF or HFmrEF, whom also present with autonomic dysfunction. Neural mechanisms of cardiovascular regulation act as “controller units,” detecting and adjusting for changes in arterial blood pressure, blood volume, and arterial concentrations of oxygen, carbon dioxide and pH, as well as for humoral factors eventually released after myocardial (or other tissue) ischemia. They do so on a beat-to-beat basis. The central dynamic integration of all these afferent signals ensures homeostasis, at rest and during states of physiological or pathophysiological stress. Thus, the net result of information gathered by each controller unit is transmitted by the autonomic branch using two different codes: intensity and rhythm of sympathetic discharges. The main scope of the present article is to (i) review the key neural mechanisms involved in cardiovascular regulation; (ii) discuss how their dysfunction accounts for the hyperadrenergic state present in certain forms of HF; and (iii) summarize how sympathetic efferent traffic reveal central integration among autonomic mechanisms under physiological and pathological conditions, with a special emphasis on pathophysiological characteristics of HF.

The Role of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia in Neutrophil-Generated Superoxide, Sympathovagal Balance, and Vascular Function in Healthy Subjects

Introduction: Recurrent hypoxia (HPX), a hallmark of the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), impairs autonomic balance, and increases arterial blood pressure (BP). Oxidative stress is one of the mechanisms involved in these alterations. The cumulative effect of acute intermittent HPX and the chronicity may determine whether the response crosses the threshold from having protective value to pathology. However, the impact of acute intermittent HPX–reoxygenation on markers of oxidative stress in healthy individuals remains to be fully understood.

Objective: To analyze the effects of the acute intermittent HPX on the generation of neutrophil-derived superoxide, sympathovagal balance, and vascular function in healthy subjects.

Methods: We applied six cycles of intermittent HPX (10% O₂ and 90% N₂) for 5 min followed by 2 min of room-air in 15 healthy volunteers (34 ± 2 years; 22.3 ± 0.46 kg/m²), without OSA (polysomnography), during wakefulness. During the experimental protocol, we recorded O₂ saturation, end-tidal CO₂, heart rate (HR), systolic, and diastolic BP, cardiac output (CO) and peripheral resistance (PR). Cardiac sympathovagal balance was determined by HR variability analysis (low frequency and high frequency bands, LF/HF). Superoxide generation in polymorphonuclear neutrophil cells were established using relative luminescence units (PMNs RLU) at baseline (pre-HPX) and immediately after hypoxia induction (post-HPX6).

Results: The studied subjects had normal levels of BP, plasma glucose, lipid profile, and inflammatory marker (C-reactive protein). Acute intermittent HPX increased HR, systolic BP, CO, and decreased PR. Additionally, acute intermittent HPX increased PMNs RLU, measured post-HPX6 (470 ± 50 vs. 741 ± 135, P < 0.05). We found a similar increase in LF/HF post-HPX6 (0.91 ± 0.11 vs. 2.85 ± 0.40, P < 0.05). PR was diminished from pre-HPX to post-HPX6 (1.0 ± 0.03 vs. 0.85 ± 0.06, P < 0.05). Further analysis showed significant association between O₂ saturation and PMNs RLU (R = −0.62, P = 0.02), and with LF/HF (R = −0.79, P = 0.02) post-HPX6. In addition, an association was found between PMNs RLU and PR post-HPX6 (R = 0.58, P = 0.04).

Conclusion: Acute exposure to intermittent HPX not only increased superoxide generation in neutrophils, but also impaired cardiac sympathovagal balance in healthy subjects. These data reinforce the role of intermittent HPX in superoxide generation on neutrophils, which may lead to an impairment in peripheral vascular resistance.

Prevalence and severity of syndrome Z in women with metabolic syndrome on waiting list for bariatric surgery: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

In recent years, obesity has become one of the most important public health problems in the world, with a growing prevalence in both developed and developing countries. Recent studies show that sleep disturbances, especially obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) may be a manifestation of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Although the association of OSA with the MetS is largely attributed to obesity, the exact pathophysiological mechanisms and their individual characteristics still need to be identified. This study investigated the prevalence and severity of syndrome Z in obese women with MetS on waiting list for bariatric surgery.

METHODS

In this double-center cross-sectional study, female patients aged ≥18 years, stage III severe obesity with MetS, on waiting list for bariatric surgery were recruited. The diagnosis for MetS was made according to the criteria of the national cholesterol education program, adult treatment panel III. Clinical, anthropometric, demographic, biochemistry, and sleep measurements were collected. Correlations between continuous variables with sleep parameters were performed using the Pearson correlation test or Spearman correlation test.

RESULTS

The mean age of 83 patients was 44.8 ± 11.2 years and mean BMI was 42.6 ± 8.1 kg/m². There was a significant correlation between OSA and metabolic score (r = 0.336; P = 0.002), neck circumference (r = 0.218; P = 0.048), basal systolic blood pressure (r = 0.280; P = 0.01), total cholesterol (r = 0.277; P = 0.011) and abdomen circumference (r = 0.284; P = 0.009). The mean values of excessive daytime sleepiness were 10.5 ± 7 demonstrating a value considered normal for its presence. However, a high risk for OSA was observed in practically the entire population. It was observed that the prevalence of Syndrome Z (75.9%) increased significantly according to apnoea hypopnoea index (AHI) (P for trend <0.0000). A prevalence of 27.71% for mild OSA, 20.48% for moderate OSA, and 27.71% for severe OSA was observed. An association of AHI severity with all components of MetS was also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

We can conclude that syndrome Z presents a high prevalence in a female population with MetS and a considerable severity according to the presence of OSA. Therefore, patients with MetS should be investigated for the presence of sleep disorders. Trial registration The study has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02409160 and followed the standards of The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) Statement: guidelines for reporting observational studies.

Arousal From Sleep and Sympathetic Excitation During Wakefulness

Obstructive apnea during sleep elevates the set point for efferent sympathetic outflow during wakefulness. Such resetting is attributed to hypoxia-induced upregulation of peripheral chemoreceptor and brain stem sympathetic function. Whether recurrent arousal from sleep also influences daytime muscle sympathetic nerve activity is unknown. We therefore tested, in a cohort of 48 primarily nonsleepy, middle-aged, male (30) and female (18) volunteers (age: 59±1 years, mean±SE), the hypothesis that the frequency of arousals from sleep (arousal index) would relate to daytime muscle sympathetic burst incidence, independently of the frequency of apnea or its severity. Polysomnography identified 24 as having either no or mild obstructive sleep apnea (apnea–hypopnea index <15 events/h) and 24 with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (apnea–hypopnea index >15 events/h). Burst incidence correlated significantly with arousal index ( r =0.53; P <0.001), minimum oxygen saturation ( r =−0.43; P =0.002), apnea–hypopnea index ( r =0.41; P =0.004), age ( r =0.36; P =0.013), and body mass index ( r =0.33; P =0.022) but not with oxygen desaturation index ( r =0.28; P =0.056). Arousal index was the single strongest predictor of muscle sympathetic nerve activity burst incidence, present in all best subsets regression models. The model with the highest adjusted R 2 (0.456) incorporated arousal index, minimum oxygen saturation, age, body mass index, and oxygen desaturation index but not apnea–hypopnea index. An apnea- and hypoxia-independent effect of sleep fragmentation on sympathetic discharge during wakefulness could contribute to intersubject variability, age-related increases in muscle sympathetic nerve activity, associations between sleep deprivation and insulin resistance or insomnia and future cardiovascular events, and residual adrenergic risk with persistence of hypertension should therapy eliminate obstructive apneas but not arousals.

Obstructive sleep apnea and weight loss treatment outcome among adults with metabolic syndrome

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine whether adults with obesity and metabolic syndrome who screen as high risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) lose less weight as part of a weight loss intervention than those who screen as low risk.

METHOD

We conducted a secondary analysis of a randomized trial comparing 2 weight loss interventions consisting of dietary counseling for adults with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Participants were screened for sleep apnea using a validated screening questionnaire. Percent weight loss was calculated from weight measured at baseline and intervention end (12 months). Weight loss of 5% or greater was considered clinically significant. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models estimated the association between OSA screening status (high vs. low risk) and percent weight loss and clinically significant weight loss, adjusting for relevant covariates including body mass index and sleep duration.

RESULTS

Nearly half of participants (45.8%) screened as high risk for OSA. Participants who screened as high risk for OSA lost less weight (1.2% ± 4.2% vs. 4.2% ± 5.3%) and were less likely to lose 5% or greater (24.4% vs. 75.6%) than participants without OSA.

CONCLUSION

Among adults with obesity and metabolic syndrome, those at high risk for OSA lost less weight in response to a dietary counseling intervention than adults with low risk of OSA. Routine OSA screening should be considered as part of weight loss treatment programs. Additional research is needed to determine how to tailor weight loss treatment for those with high risk for OSA. (PsycINFO Database Record

Morbidity and Mortality Rates After Maxillomandibular Advancement for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

PURPOSE

To compare morbidity and mortality rates in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) versus dentofacial deformity (DFD) patients undergoing equivalent maxillofacial surgical procedures.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with OSA who underwent maxillomandibular advancement with genial tubercle advancement in the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from December 2002 to June 2011 were matched to patients with DFD undergoing similar maxillofacial procedures during the same period. They were compared regarding demographic variables, medical comorbidities, perioperative management, intraoperative complications, early and late postoperative complications, and mortality rate.

RESULTS

A study group of 28 patients with OSA and a control group of 26 patients with DFD were compared. The patients with OSA were older (41.9 ± 12.5 years vs 21.7 ± 8.6 years), had a higher American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (2.0 ± 0.5 vs 1.3 ± 0.6), and had a higher body mass index (29.6 ± 4.7 kg/m(2) vs 23.0 ± 3.1 kg/m(2)). They also had a greater number of medical comorbidities (2.4 ± 2.3 vs 0.7 ± 1.0). More OSA patients than DFD patients had complications (28 [100%] vs 19 [73%], P = .003), and the total number of complications in the OSA group was higher (108 vs 33, P < .001). Of the complications, 13.9% in the OSA group and 3.0% in the DFD group were classified as major. The absolute risk of a complication was 3.9 for the OSA group versus 1.3 for the DFD group. The relative risk of complications in OSA patients compared with DFD patients was 3.0. No difference in mortality rate was found.

CONCLUSIONS

The patients in the OSA group were older, had more comorbidities, and ultimately had a greater number of early, late, minor, and major complications than those in the DFD group. The incidence of death in both groups was zero. Maxillomandibular advancement appears to be a safe procedure regarding mortality rate, but OSA patients should be counseled preoperatively regarding the relative increased risk of complications.

Blood Pressure Increases in OSA due to Maintained Neurovascular Sympathetic Transduction: Impact of CPAP

STUDY OBJECTIVES

To test the hypothesis that greater resting sympathetic activity in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome would not induce a lesser sympathetic neurovascular transduction.

DESIGN

Case-controlled cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

33 patients with newly diagnosed OSA without comorbidities and 14 healthy controls.

INTERVENTIONS

6 months of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for OSA patients and follow-up for 9 healthy controls.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

We assessed resting sympathetic outflow and sympathetic neurovascular transduction. Sympathetic activity was directly measured (microneurography) at rest and in response to sustained isometric handgrip exercise. Neurovascular transduction was derived from the relationship of sympathetic activity and blood pressure to leg blood flow during exercise. Despite an elevated sympathetic activity of ∼50% in OSA compared to controls, neurovascular transduction was not different (i.e., absence of tachyphylaxis). After six months of CPAP, there were significant declines in diastolic pressure, averaging ∼4 mm Hg, and in sympathetic activity, averaging ∼20% with no change in transduction.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater sympathetic activity in obstructive sleep apnea does not appear to be associated with lesser neurovascular transduction. Hence, elevated sympathetic outflow without lesser transduction may underlie the prevalent development of hypertension in this population that is well controlled by continuous positive airway pressure treatment.

Diet and exercise improve chemoreflex sensitivity in patients with metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea

OBJECTIVE

Chemoreflex hypersensitity was caused by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study tested the hypothesis that hypocaloric diet and exercise training (D+ET) would improve peripheral and central chemoreflex sensitivity in patients with MetS and OSA.

METHODS

Patients were assigned to: (1) D+ET (n = 16) and (2) no intervention control (C, n = 8). Minute ventilation (VE, pre-calibrated pneumotachograph) and muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA, microneurography) were evaluated during peripheral chemoreflex sensitivity by inhalation of 10% O2 and 90% N2 with CO2 titrated and central chemoreflex by 7% CO2 and 93% O2 for 3 min at study entry and after 4 months.

RESULTS

Peak VO2 was increased by D+ET; body weight, waist circumference, glucose levels, systolic/diastolic blood pressure, and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) (34 ± 5.1 vs. 18 ± 3.2 events/h, P = 0.04) were reduced by D+ET. MSNA was reduced by D+ET at rest and in response to hypoxia (8.6 ± 1.2 vs. 5.4 ± 0.6 bursts/min, P = 0.02), and VE in response to hypercapnia (14.8 ± 3.9 vs. 9.1 ± 1.2 l/min, P = 0.02). No changes were found in the C group. A positive correlation was found between AHI and MSNA absolute changes (R = 0.51, P = 0.01) and body weight and AHI absolute changes (R = 0.69, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sympathetic peripheral and ventilatory central chemoreflex sensitivity was improved by D+ET in MetS+OSA patients, which may be associated with improvement in sleep pattern.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Impairs Postexercise Sympathovagal Balance in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVES

The attenuation of heart rate recovery after maximal exercise (ΔHRR) is independently impaired by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Therefore, we tested the hypotheses: (1) MetS + OSA restrains ΔHRR; and (2) Sympathetic hyperactivation is involved in this impairment.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

PARTICIPANTS

We studied 60 outpatients in whom MetS had been newly diagnosed (ATP III), divided according to apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 15 events/h in MetS + OSA (n = 30, 49 ± 1.7 y) and AHI < 15 events/h in MetS - OSA (n = 30, 46 ± 1.4 y). Normal age-matched healthy control subjects (C) without MetS and OSA were also enrolled (n = 16, 46 ± 1.7 y).

INTERVENTIONS

Polysomnography, microneurography, cardiopulmonary exercise test.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

We evaluated OSA (AHI - polysomnography), muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA - microneurography) and cardiac autonomic activity (LF = low frequency, HF = high frequency, LF/HF = sympathovagal balance) based on spectral analysis of heart rate (HR) variability. ΔHRR was calculated (peak HR minus HR at first, second, and fourth minute of recovery) after cardiopulmonary exercise test. MetS + OSA had higher MSNA and LF, and lower HF than MetS - OSA and C. Similar impairment occurred in MetS - OSA versus C (interaction, P < 0.01). MetS + OSA had attenuated ΔHRR at first, second, and at fourth minute than did C, and attenuated ΔHRR at fourth minute than did MetS - OSA (interaction, P < 0.001). Compared with C, MetS - OSA had attenuated ΔHRR at second and fourth min (interaction, P < 0.001). Further analysis showed association of the ΔHRR (first, second, and fourth minute) and AHI, MSNA, LF and HF components (P < 0.05 for all associations).

CONCLUSIONS

The attenuation of heart rate recovery after maximal exercise is impaired to a greater degree where metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) than by MetS with no or mild or no OSA. This is at least partly explained by sympathetic hyperactivity.

Uncoupling protein-2 mRNA expression in mice subjected to intermittent hypoxia

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of intermittent hypoxia-a model of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-on pancreatic expression of uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2), as well as on glycemic and lipid profiles, in C57BL mice.

METHODS

For 8 h/day over a 35-day period, male C57BL mice were exposed to intermittent hypoxia (hypoxia group) or to a sham procedure (normoxia group). The intermittent hypoxia condition involved exposing mice to an atmosphere of 92% N and 8% CO2 for 30 s, progressively reducing the fraction of inspired oxygen to 8 ± 1%, after which they were exposed to room air for 30 s and the cycle was repeated (480 cycles over the 8-h experimental period). Pancreases were dissected to isolate the islets. Real-time PCR was performed with TaqMan assays.

RESULTS

Expression of UCP2 mRNA in pancreatic islets was 20% higher in the normoxia group than in the hypoxia group (p = 0.11). Fasting serum insulin was higher in the hypoxia group than in the normoxia group (p = 0.01). The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance indicated that, in comparison with the control mice, the mice exposed to intermittent hypoxia showed 15% lower insulin resistance (p = 0.09) and 21% higher pancreatic β-cell function (p = 0.01). Immunohistochemical staining of the islets showed no significant differences between the two groups in terms of the area or intensity of α- and β-cell staining for insulin and glucagon.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first report of the effect of intermittent hypoxia on UCP2 expression. Our findings suggest that UCP2 regulates insulin production in OSA. Further study of the role that UCP2 plays in the glycemic control of OSA patients is warranted.

Sleepiness, inflammation and oxidative stress markers in middle-aged males with obstructive sleep apnea without metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The simultaneous occurrence of metabolic syndrome and excessive daytime sleepiness are very common in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. Both conditions, if present in OSA, have been reported to be associated with inflammation and disruption of oxidative stress balance that impair the cardiovascular system. To verify the impact of daytime sleepiness on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, we evaluated OSA patients without significant metabolic disturbance.

METHODS

Thirty-five male subjects without diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome (Adult Treatment Panel III) were distributed into a control group (n = 10) (43 ± 10.56 years, apnea-hypopnea index - AHI 2.71 ± 1.48/hour), a non-sleepy OSA group (n = 11) (42.36 ± 9.48 years, AHI 29.48 ± 22.83/hour) and a sleepy OSA group (n = 14) (45.43 ± 10.06 years, AHI 38.20 ± 25.54/hour). Excessive daytime sleepiness was considered when Epworth sleepiness scale score was ≥ 10. Levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, homocysteine and cysteine, and paraoxonase-1 activity and arylesterase activity of paraoxonase-1 were evaluated.

RESULTS

Patients with OSA and excessive daytime sleepiness presented increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels even after controlling for confounders. No significant differences were found among the groups in paraoxonase-1 activity nor arylesterase activity of paraoxonase-1. AHI was independently associated and excessive daytime sleepiness tended to have an association with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein.

CONCLUSIONS

In the absence of metabolic syndrome, increased inflammatory response was associated with AHI and daytime sleepiness, while OSA was not associated with abnormalities in oxidative stress markers.

Morning pentraxin3 levels reflect obstructive sleep apnea-related acute inflammation

This study investigated morning levels of pentraxin3 (PTX3) as a sensitive biomarker for acute inflammation in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A total of 61 consecutive patients with OSA were divided into two groups: non-to-mild (n = 20) and moderate-to-severe (n = 41) OSA based on their apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) score. Those patients with moderate-to-severe OSA were further divided into continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treated (n = 21) and non-CPAP-treated (n = 20) groups. Morning and evening serum PTX3 and high-sensitivity (hs) C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured before and after 3 mo of CPAP therapy. The baseline hs-CRP and PTX3 levels were higher in patients with moderate-to-severe OSA than in those with non-to-mild OSA. Moreover, the serum PTX3 levels, but not the hs-CRP levels, were significantly higher after than before sleep in the moderate-to-severe OSA group (morning PTX3, 1.96 ± 0.52; evening PTX3, 1.71 ± 0.44 ng/ml). OSA severity as judged using the AHI was significantly correlated with serum PTX3 levels but not hs-CRP levels. The highest level of correlation was found between the AHI and morning PTX3 levels (r = 0.563, P < 0.001). CPAP therapy reduced evening and morning serum hs-CRP and PTX3 levels in patients with moderate-to-severe OSA; however, the reduction in PTX3 levels in the morning was greater than that in the evening (morning -29.8 ± 16.7% vs. evening -12.6 ± 26.8%, P = 0.029). Improvement in the AHI score following CPAP therapy was strongly correlated with reduced morning PTX3 levels(r = 0.727, P < 0.001). Based on these results, morning PTX3 levels reflect OSA-related acute inflammation and are a useful marker for improvement in OSA following CPAP therapy.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS), metabolic syndrome and mental health in small enterprise workers. feasibility of an Action for Health

Objective

To determine the frequency of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), metabolic syndrome and common mental disorders in the working population of 11 small enterprises and the feasibility of a program of action for health.

Method

The clinical risk of OSAS, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, and the level of psychological disorders were assessed during routine medical examination at the workplace in 2012. The response to medical advice was assessed in 2013.

Results

12.3% of the workers were suspected of being affected by OSAS. One or more components of metabolic syndrome were present in 24.5% of cases. OSAS in “healthy” workers was significantly associated with the presence of one or more components of metabolic syndrome (OR = 3.83; 95%CI 1.45–10.13) and with a psychological disorders score in the highest quartile (OR = 4.67; 95%CI = 1.72–12.64). Workers with suspected OSAS were reluctant to follow advice about undergoing further tests under the NHS. However, in some cases, confirmation of the OSAS diagnosis and subsequent treatment led to an improvement in metabolic condition.

Conclusion

Although participation in treatment was limited, anecdotal cases support the idea that prevention of obstructive sleep apnea in the workplace might be useful for workers’ health.

Impact of OSA on biological markers in morbid obesity and metabolic syndrome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

There is compelling evidence that obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) can affect metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular risk, but the intermediate mechanisms through which it occurs have not been well defined. We explored the impact of OSA in morbidly obese patients with MetS on adipokines, pro-inflammatory markers, endothelial dysfunction, and atherosclerosis markers.

METHODS

We included 52 morbidly obese patients in an observational study matched for age, gender and central obesity in 3 groups (OSA-MetS, Non-OSA-MetS, and Non OSA-non-MetS). Anthropometrical, blood pressure, and fasting blood measurements were obtained the morning after an overnight polysomnography. VEGF, soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), TNF-α, IL-6, leptin, adiponectin, and chemerin were determined in serum by ELISA. OSA was defined as apnea/ hypopnea index ≥ 15 and MetS by NCEP-ATP III.

RESULTS

Cases and control subjects did not differ in age, BMI, waist circumference, and gender (43 ± 10 years, 46 ± 5 kg/m(2), 128 ± 10 cm, 71% females). The cases had severe OSA with 47 (32-66) events/h, time spent < 90% SpO2 7% (5%-31%). All groups presented similar serum cytokines, adipokines, VEGF, and sCD40L levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In a morbidly obese population with established MetS, the presence of OSA did not determine any differences in the studied mediators when matched by central obesity. Morbidly obese NonOSA-NonMetS had a similar inflammatory, adipokine VEGF, and sCD40L profile as those with established MetS, with or without OSA. Obesity itself could overwhelm the effect of sleep apnea and MetS in the studied biomarkers.

CITATION

Salord N; Gasa M; Mayos M; Fortuna-Gutierrez AM; Montserrat JM; Sánchez-de-la-Torre M; Barceló A; Barbé F; Vilarrasa N; Monasterio C. Impact of OSA on biological markers in morbid obesity and metabolic syndrome.

The impact of metabolic syndrome on metabolic, pro-inflammatory and prothrombotic markers according to the presence of high blood pressure criterion

OBJECTIVES

We explored whether high blood pressure is associated with metabolic, inflammatory and prothrombotic dysregulation in patients with metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

We evaluated 135 consecutive overweight/obese patients. From this group, we selected 75 patients who were not under the regular use of medications for metabolic syndrome as defined by the current Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults criteria. The patients were divided into metabolic syndrome with and without high blood pressure criteria (≥130/≥85 mmHg).

RESULTS

Compared to the 45 metabolic syndrome patients without high blood pressure, the 30 patients with metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure had significantly higher glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance index, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglycerides, uric acid and creatinine values; in contrast, these patients had significantly lower high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol values. Metabolic syndrome patients with high blood pressure also had significantly higher levels of retinol-binding protein 4, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, interleukin 6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 and lower levels of adiponectin. Moreover, patients with metabolic syndrome and high blood pressure had increased surrogate markers of sympathetic activity and decreased baroreflex sensitivity. Logistic regression analysis showed that high-density lipoprotein, retinol-binding protein 4 and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 levels were independently associated with metabolic syndrome patients with high blood pressure. There is a strong trend for an independent association between metabolic syndrome patients with high blood pressure and glucose levels.

CONCLUSIONS

High blood pressure, which may be related to the autonomic dysfunction, is associated with metabolic, inflammatory and prothrombotic dysregulation in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Obstructive sleep apnea: a cardiometabolic risk in obesity and the metabolic syndrome

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an underdiagnosed condition characterized by recurrent episodes of obstruction of the upper airway leading to sleep fragmentation and intermittent hypoxia during sleep. Obesity predisposes to OSA, and the prevalence of OSA is increasing worldwide because of the ongoing epidemic of obesity. Recent evidence has shown that surrogate markers of cardiovascular risk, including sympathetic activation, systemic inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, are significantly increased in obese patients with OSA versus those without OSA, suggesting that OSA is not simply an epiphenomenon of obesity. Moreover, findings from animal models and patients with OSA show that intermittent hypoxia exacerbates the metabolic dysfunction of obesity, augmenting insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. In patients with the metabolic syndrome, the prevalence of moderate to severe OSA is very high (∼60%). In this population, OSA is independently associated with increased glucose and triglyceride levels as well as markers of inflammation, arterial stiffness, and atherosclerosis. A recent randomized, controlled, crossover study showed that effective treatment of OSA with continuous positive airway pressure for 3 months significantly reduced several components of the metabolic syndrome, including blood pressure, triglyceride levels, and visceral fat. Finally, several cohort studies have consistently shown that OSA is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality, independent of obesity. Taken together, these results support the concept that OSA exacerbates the cardiometabolic risk attributed to obesity and the metabolic syndrome. Recognition and treatment of OSA may decrease the cardiovascular risk in obese patients.

Time delay of baroreflex control and oscillatory pattern of sympathetic activity in patients with metabolic syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea

The incidence and strength of muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) depend on the magnitude (gain) and latency (time delay) of the arterial baroreflex control (ABR). However, the impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on oscillatory pattern of MSNA and time delay of the ABR of sympathetic activity is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that MetS and OSA would impair the oscillatory pattern of MSNA and the time delay of the ABR of sympathetic activity. Forty-three patients with MetS were allocated into two groups according to the presence of OSA (MetS + OSA, n = 21; and MetS - OSA, n = 22). Twelve aged-paired healthy controls (C) were also studied. OSA (apnea-hypopnea index > 15 events/h) was diagnosed by polysomnography. We recorded MSNA (microneurography), blood pressure (beat-to-beat basis), and heart rate (EKG). Oscillatory pattern of MSNA was evaluated by autoregressive spectral analysis and the ABR of MSNA (ABRMSNA, sensitivity and time delay) by bivariate autoregressive analysis. Patients with MetS + OSA had decreased oscillatory pattern of MSNA compared with MetS - OSA (P < 0.01) and C (P < 0.001). The sensitivity of the ABRMSNA was lower and the time delay was greater in MetS + OSA compared with MetS - OSA (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively) and C (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). Patients with MetS - OSA showed decreased oscillatory pattern of MSNA compared with C (P < 0.01). The sensitivity of the ABRMSNA was lower in MetS - OSA than in C group (P < 0.001). In conclusion, MetS decreases the oscillatory pattern of MSNA and the magnitude of the ABRMSNA. OSA exacerbates these autonomic dysfunctions and further increases the time delay of the baroreflex response of MSNA.

Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with increased chemoreflex sensitivity in patients with metabolic syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is often observed in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). In addition, the association of MetS and OSA substantially increases sympathetic nerve activity. However, the mechanisms involved in sympathetic hyperactivation in patients with MetS + OSA remain to be clarified. We tested the hypothesis that chemoreflex sensitivity is heightened in patients with MetS and OSA.

DESIGN

Prospective clinical study.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-six patients in whom MetS was newly diagnosed (ATP-III) were allocated into: (1) MetS + OSA (n = 24, 48 ± 1.8 yr); and (2) MetS - OSA (n = 22, 44 ± 1.7 yr). Eleven normal control subjects were also studied (C, 47 ± 2.3 yr).

MEASUREMENTS

OSA was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index ≥ 15 events/hr (polysomnography). Muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) was measured by microneurography technique. Peripheral chemoreflex sensitivity was assessed by inhalation of 10% oxygen and 90% nitrogen (carbon dioxide titrated), and central chemoreflex sensitivity by 7% carbon dioxide and 93% oxygen.

RESULTS

Physical characteristics and MetS measures were similar between MetS + OSA and MetS - OSA. MSNA was higher in MetS + OSA patients compared with MetS - OSA and C (33 ± 1.3 versus 28 ± 1.2 and 18 ± 2.2 bursts/min, P < 0.05). Isocapnic hypoxia caused a greater increase in MSNA in MetS + OSA than MetS - OSA and C (P = 0.03). MSNA in response to hyperoxic hypercapnia was greater in MetS + OSA compared with C (P = 0.005). Further analysis showed a significant association between baseline MSNA and peripheral (P < 0.01) and central (P < 0.01) chemoreflex sensitivity. Min ventilation in response to hyperoxic hypercapnia was greater in MetS + OSA compared with C (P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

OSA increases sympathetic peripheral and central chemoreflex response in patients with MetS, which seems to explain, at least in part, the increase in sympathetic nerve activity in these patients. In addition, OSA increases ventilatory central chemoreflex response in patients with MetS.

Association of metabolic factors with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in patients with sleep-disordered breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) such as snoring or obstructive sleep apnea and metabolic syndrome are both related to cardiovascular diseases. Being a surrogate marker of high risk for cardiovascular disorder, the high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) level is thought to be elevated in patients with both SDB and metabolic syndrome. To understand better the development of cardiovascular disease in patients with SDB, we examined the association of metabolic variables with hs-CRP levels in adult patients with symptoms of SDB and without any previous treatment, who were selected to participate in the study. Metabolic parameters including fasting blood glucose, lipid profile and hs-CRP were measured following an overnight polysomnography. Laboratory and polysomnographic data were analyzed to identify variables related to high hs-CRP levels. A total of 309 patients with SDB participated in this study. Of these, 139 presented with hs-CRP <1 mg/L and 52 presented with hs-CRP >3 mg/L. Patients with high hs-CRP showed a higher apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), body mass index (BMI), fasting glucose, and triglyceride level, and a lower mean and minimal oxygen saturation and HDL-cholesterol level. However, ordinal regression analysis demonstrated that only a higher BMI and fasting glucose level and a lower HDL-cholesterol level were independent risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (OR = 1.076, 95 % CI = 1.009-1.147, p = 0.005; OR = 1.011, 95 % CI = 1.004-1.019, p = 0.008; OR = 0.966, 95 % CI = 0.947-0.984, p < 0.001, respectively). The results showed that elevated hs-CRP is common in patients with SDB but is not independently associated with the severity of SDB. Metabolic factors such as a higher BMI and fasting blood glucose and a lower HDL-cholesterol level were more strongly associated with elevated hs-CRP rather than with SDB severity, suggesting that metabolic parameters are important contributors to cardiovascular diseases and should be corrected in patients with SDB.

Chemoreceptors, baroreceptors, and autonomic deregulation in children with obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent sleep disorder of breathing in both adults and children that is fraught with substantial cardiovascular morbidities, the latter being attributable to a complex interplay between intermittent hypoxia (IH), episodic hypercapnia, recurrent large intra-thoracic pressure swings, and sleep disruption. Alterations in autonomic nervous system function could underlie the perturbations in cardiovascular, neurocognitive, immune, endocrine and metabolic functions that affect many of the patients suffering from OSA. Although these issues have received substantial attention in adults, the same has thus far failed to occur in children, creating a quasi misperception that children are protected. Here, we provide a critical overview of the evidence supporting the presence of autonomic nervous system (ANS) perturbations in children with OSA, draw some parallel assessments to known mechanisms in rodents and adult humans, particularly, peripheral and central chemoreceptor and baroreceptor pathways, and suggest future research directions.

Obesity, obstructive sleep apnoea and metabolic syndrome

OSA is increasingly recognized as a major health problem in developed countries. Obesity is the most common risk factor in OSA and hence, the prevalence of OSA is undoubtedly rising given the epidemic of obesity. Recent data also suggest that OSA is highly associated with the metabolic syndrome, and it is postulated that OSA contributes to cardiometabolic dysfunction, and subsequently vasculopathy. Current evidence regarding the magnitude of impact on ultimate cardiovascular morbidity or mortality attributable to OSA-induced metabolic dysregulation is scarce. Given the known pathophysiological triggers of intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation in OSA, the potential mechanisms of OSA-obesity-metabolic syndrome interaction involve sympathetic activation, oxidative stress, inflammation and neurohumoral changes. There is accumulating evidence from human and animal/cell models of intermittent hypoxia to map out these mechanistic pathways. In spite of support for an independent role of OSA in the contribution towards metabolic dysfunction, a healthy diet and appropriate lifestyle modifications towards better control of metabolic function are equally important as CPAP treatment in the holistic management of OSA.

Sympathetic and catecholaminergic alterations in sleep apnea with particular emphasis on children

Sleep is involved in the regulation of major organ functions in the human body, and disruption of sleep potentially can elicit organ dysfunction. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent sleep disorder of breathing in adults and children, and its manifestations reflect the interactions between intermittent hypoxia, intermittent hypercapnia, increased intra-thoracic pressure swings, and sleep fragmentation, as elicited by the episodic changes in upper airway resistance during sleep. The sympathetic nervous system is an important modulator of the cardiovascular, immune, endocrine and metabolic systems, and alterations in autonomic activity may lead to metabolic imbalance and organ dysfunction. Here we review how OSA and its constitutive components can lead to perturbation of the autonomic nervous system in general, and to altered regulation of catecholamines, both of which then playing an important role in some of the mechanisms underlying OSA-induced morbidities.