NPPB and atrial fibrillation: There were statistically significant differences between the AF and non-AF groups in CRP levels [4.94 ± 5.31 vs. 7.62 ± 25.83 (mg/l), respectively, p = 0.012], NT-proBNP levels (664.82 ± 773.48 vs. 286.84 ± 297.27, respectively, p = 0.026), Apelin levels (0.69 ± 0.15 vs. 0.98 ± 0.45, respectively, p = 0.032) and antithrombotic therapy (see Tables 1, 2A,B).