Measurement of Midregional Pro-Atrial Natriuretic Peptide to Discover Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Ischemic Stroke

Premature Atrial Contractions as a Marker of Atrial Cardiopathy: A Revised Analysis of the ARCADIA Randomized Trial

INTRODUCTION

Atrial cardiopathy may be associated with an increased risk of stroke independent of atrial fibrillation (AF). In the ARCADIA trial, apixaban was not superior to aspirin in preventing recurrent stroke among patients with a cryptogenic stroke and atrial cardiopathy. We aimed to determine whether the presence of at least one premature atrial complex (PAC), a known harbinger of AF and stroke, would enhance the ability to identify individuals most likely to benefit from apixaban.

METHODS

In ARCADIA, atrial cardiopathy was defined by NT-proBNP > 250 pg/mL, a P-wave terminal force greater than 5000 μV × ms in lead V1, or a left atrial diameter index ≥ 3 cm/m² on echocardiogram. For the current analysis, the presence of any PAC on the baseline 12-lead ECG was substituted for the less atrial-specific NT-proBNP criterion. The presence of any PAC was also assessed as a sole atrial cardiopathy criterion.

RESULTS

Of the 1015 patients randomized in ARCADIA, 85 had at least one PAC. The revised atrial cardiopathy criteria were met by 593 patients; 301 were randomized to apixaban and 292 to aspirin. The annualized recurrent stroke rates were 3.1% for apixaban versus 4.4% for aspirin (HR 0.71, 95% CI: 0.38-1.34, p = 0.29). No differences in risk of recurrent stroke among participants with PACs, compared to those without PACs, were observed.

CONCLUSION

In patients enrolled in the ARCARDIA trial, utilizing the presence of PACs as a potential marker of atrial cardiopathy did not reveal definitive evidence of benefit of apixaban compared to aspirin.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03192215.

The Potential of Cardiac Biomarkers in Differentiating Disease Subtypes in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: Focus on GDF15, MR-pro ANP, and suPAR

Systemic sclerosis, a connective tissue disease of unknown etiology and unpredictable outcomes, is characterized by the fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, vasculopathy, and immune system dysregulation. The disease is classified into two main subtypes, which differ in clinical presentation, complications, and prognosis. While several biomarkers have been proposed to distinguish between these subtypes, none have achieved high sensitivity and specificity. The search for dependable markers that can differentiate between the two primary subtypes of systemic sclerosis continues. To address this gap, our study evaluated the utility of novel cardiac biomarkers, including growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), galectin-3, mid-regional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP), glutathione S-transferase π, mid-regional adrenomedullin, and soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR), in a cohort of 79 patients with both lcSSc and dSSc subtypes. The results demonstrated a significant elevation of GDF15 (medians: 2.07 vs. 1.10 ng/L; p < 0.001) and MR-proANP (92.55 vs. 65.60 pmol/L; p < 0.05) levels in SSc patients compared to healthy controls. Moreover, GDF15 (1.65 vs. 2.34 ng/mL; p < 0.05), MR-proANP (80.87 vs. 109.27 pmol/L; p < 0.05), and suPAR (1.83 vs. 2.44 ng/mL; p < 0.05) levels were notably higher in patients with dSSc compared to those with lcSSc. In the ROC analysis, only GDF-15, MR-proANP, and suPAR proved to have a statistically significant area under the curve (AUC). Patients with the GDF-15 ≥ 2182 ng/mL, MR-prANP ≥ 85.808 pmol/L, and suPAR ≥ 2.315 ng/mL have more than six-, eight-, and seven-times-higher odds for dcSSc, respectively. These findings highlight the potential of GDF15, suPAR, and MR-proANP as biomarkers for differentiating between the two main subtypes of systemic sclerosis.

Role of NT-proBNP for Atrial Fibrillation Detection After Ischemic Stroke: A Time-Dependent Relationship

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation detected after stroke (AFDAS) affects secondary stroke prevention, yet identification can be challenging. Easily accessible cardiac blood biomarkers such as NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) could guide diagnostic workup, but optimal cutoff values and the time-dependent relationship between NT-proBNP and AFDAS are unclear. We aimed (1) to externally validate earlier presented NT-proBNP cutoffs for atrial fibrillation prediction and (2) to assess the time-dependent relationship of NT-proBNP and early in-hospital AFDAS versus AFDAS after discharge.

METHODS

We conducted a pooled data analysis of patients with ischemic stroke from the prospective international multicenter BIOSIGNAL (Biomarker Signature of Stroke Aetiology) cohort study (European Stroke Centers from October 2014 to October 2017) and the prospective single-center Graz stroke pathway study (Austria from May 2018 to August 2020). AFDAS was defined as ≥30-s atrial fibrillation/flutter diagnosed within 1 year post-admission and categorized in in-hospital versus after discharge. NT-proBNP was assessed ≤24 hours of symptom onset. The association between NT-proBNP and AFDAS was evaluated by a multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

AFDAS was diagnosed in 374 (16%) of 2292 patients with ischemic stroke (median age, 74 years; 42% female), 268 (72%) during hospitalization, and 106 (28%) after discharge (median duration of hospitalization, 15 days). NT-proBNP levels at admission had a good predictive capacity for in-hospital AFDAS (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.83 [95% CI, 0.81-0.86]). For patients diagnosed with AFDAS after discharge, the predictive capacity of NT-proBNP was poor (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.60-0.70]), and 20% had normal NT-proBNP values <125 pg/mL at admission. The NT-proBNP cutoff of 505 pg/mL exhibited high sensitivity (82%) and specificity (71%) for in-hospital AFDAS, with a negative predictive value of 96%.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with ischemic stroke, the admission NT-proBNP cutoff of 505 pg/mL seems to be a reliable predictor for in-hospital AFDAS, while the predictive capacity of NT-proBNP for AFDAS after discharge is limited. Our results might influence the designs of future secondary stroke prevention trials.

Ischemic stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation and a recent ischemic stroke, TIA, or intracranial hemorrhage: A World Stroke Organization (WSO) scientific statement

BACKGROUND

Secondary stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the fastest growing areas in the field of cerebrovascular diseases. This scientific statement from the World Stroke Organization Brain & Heart Task Force provides a critical analysis of the strength of current evidence on this topic, highlights areas of current controversy, identifies knowledge gaps, and proposes priorities for future research.

METHODS

We select topics with the highest clinical relevance and perform a systematic search to answer specific practical questions. Based on the strength of available evidence and knowledge gaps, we identify topics that need to be prioritized in future research. For this purpose, we adopt a novel classification of evidence strength based on the availability of publications in which the primary population is patients with recent (<6 months) cerebrovascular events, the primary study endpoint is a recurrent ischemic stroke, and the quality of the studies (e.g. observational versus randomized controlled trial).

SUMMARY

Priority areas include AF screening, molecular biomarkers, AF subtype classification, anticoagulation in device-detected AF, timing of anticoagulation initiation, effective management of breakthrough strokes on existing anticoagulant therapy, the role of left atrial appendage closure, novel approaches, and antithrombotic therapy post-intracranial hemorrhage. Strength of currently available evidence varies across the selected topics, with early anticoagulation being the one showing more consistent data.

CONCLUSION

Several knowledge gaps persist in most areas related to secondary stroke prevention in AF. Prioritizing research in this field is crucial to advance current knowledge and improve clinical care.

Direct oral anticoagulants compared to aspirin for embolic stroke of undetermined source: A comprehensive meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The use of anticoagulation for stroke prevention in embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) is hypothesized to be beneficial over conventional antiplatelet use. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have not found clear benefits, even when assessing cardioembolic enriching features. This study aimed to perform a meta-analysis exploring the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) following ESUS.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central were systematically searched for studies comparing DOACs versus aspirin after ESUS. The primary outcome was stroke recurrence, and the safety outcome was major bleeding. A random-effects model was used for the analyses. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager Web 8.0.0 (RevMan Web).

RESULTS

14,582 patients were included from 9 studies, of which 4 were RCTs. 7,341 (50.3 %) received DOACs as secondary prevention. For stroke recurrence, there was noted non-statistically significant trends towards benefit for DOACs (OR 0.93; 95 % CI 0.81-1.06; p = 0.29; I² = 34 %). No differences were found for major bleeding (HR 1.57; 95 % CI 0.86-2.86; p = 0.15; I² = 63 %). Among the atrial cardiomyopathy subgroup, no benefit was observed (OR 0.88; 95 % CI 0.50-1.55; p = 0.67; I² = 39 %).

CONCLUSION

There is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of DOACs over aspirin following ESUS for the prevention of stroke recurrence. Nevertheless, the fears of increased bleed risks were also not seen. Further efforts should be directed towards identifying potential embolic sources and the population that benefit from OAC.

Swiss Stroke Society position paper on atrial fibrillation monitoring and management after ischaemic stroke: a shift from understanding the index stroke to preventing the next one

This position paper on the detection of atrial fibrillation after ischaemic stroke is a statement of the "Heart and Brain" committee of the Swiss Stroke Society. This position paper summarises present knowledge on the detection of atrial fibrillation after ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack. An interdisciplinary standard for monitoring on the stroke unit and after discharge is proposed respecting recent developments and Swiss particularities. The main evolution in the field is that the role of atrial fibrillation screening after stroke or transient ischaemic attack has shifted from understanding the index stroke to preventing the next stroke; it therefore should also be performed in patients with certain other stroke aetiologies, e.g. symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. The duration of atrial fibrillation monitoring should be based on an individualised risk assessment incorporating clinical characteristics as well as cardiac and laboratory biomarkers. Given the paucity of randomised controlled data on this topic, this position paper intends to give practical advice to healthcare professionals involved in stroke care in Switzerland based on a consensus between experts in the field.

Overview and Future Direction of Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source from the Insights of CHALLENGE ESUS/CS Registry

Cryptogenic stroke (CS) accounts for approximately one-fourth of acute ischemic strokes, with most cases derived from embolic etiologies. In 2014, embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) was advocated and the efficacy of anticoagulant therapy was anticipated. However, 3 large-scale clinical trials failed to demonstrate the superiority of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) over aspirin, potentially due to the heterogeneous and diverse pathologies of ESUS, including paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF), arteriogenic sources such as nonstenotic carotid plaque and aortic complicated lesion (ACL), patent foramen oval (PFO), and nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) related to active cancer.Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is one of the most effective imaging modalities for assessing embolic sources in ESUS and CS. The Mechanisms of Embolic Stroke Clarified by Transesophageal Echocardiography for Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source/Cryptogenic Stroke (CHALLENGE ESUS/CS) registry is a multicenter registry that enrolled consecutive patients with CS who underwent TEE at 8 hospitals in Japan between April 2014 and December 2016. Their mean age was 68.7±12.8 years, and 455 patients (67.2%) were male. The median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 2. Since 7 analyses have been conducted from each institution to date, novel and significant insights regarding embolic origins and pathophysiologies of ESUS and CS were elucidated from this multicenter registry. This review discusses the diagnosis and treatment of ESUS and CS, tracing their past and future directions. Meaningful insights from the CHALLENGE ESUS/CS registry are also referenced and analyzed.

MR-proANP levels in Acute ischemic stroke and clinical outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

In patients with acute ischemic stroke, midregional proatrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) has shown promise in preliminary studies for risk stratification. The objective of this study is to evaluate the prognostic utility of MR-proANP in AIS, focusing on its ability to predict 90-day functional outcomes, mortality rates, and the presence of atrial fibrillation (Afib). A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, following PRISMA guidelines. The search strategy employed a combination of keywords and index terms including "Acute Ischemic Stroke," "AIS," "Cerebral Infarction," "Atrial Fibrillation," "AFib," "stroke," "MR-proANP," "Mid-regional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide," and "proatrial natriuretic peptide." Inclusion criteria encompassed any study focusing on MR-proANP and ischemic stroke, published up to October 15, 2023. Primary end points were newly diagnosed Afib, 90-day Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, and 90-day mortality. Studies were described in narrative and tabular form. Risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Pooled estimates for our key end points were generated using a random effects model where appropriate. MR-proANP levels were significantly elevated in newly diagnosed Afib patients compared to no Afib patients (mean difference (MD): 134.4 pmol/l; 95% confidence interval (CI): 119.45 to 149.35, P < 0.0001). Unfavorable functional outcomes, as measured by mRS scores of ≥ 3 at 90 days, were associated with higher levels of MR-proANP (MD: 93.87 pmol/; 95% CI: 76.66 to 111.09, P < 0.0001). Elevated MR-proANP levels were also strongly correlated with increased 90-day mortality rates (MD: 164.43 pmol/; CI: 95.94 to 232.92, P < 0.0001). MR-proANP was significantly associated with functional outcomes, 90-day mortality, and the newly diagnosed AF. The limited number of studies included calls for further large-scale research to confirm these findings and explore the potential for expedited diagnostic procedures and targeted interventions like anticoagulant therapy.

Astrocyte-derived Interleukin-31 causes poor prognosis in elderly patients with intracerebral hemorrhage

The incidence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is increasing every year, with very high rates of mortality and disability. The prognosis of elderly ICH patients is extremely unfavorable. Interleukin, as an important participant in building the inflammatory microenvironment of the central nervous system after ICH, has long been the focus of neuroimmunology research. However, there are no studies on the role IL31 play in the pathologic process of ICH. We collected para-lesion tissue for immunofluorescence and flow cytometry from the elderly and young ICH patients who underwent surgery. Here, we found that IL31 expression in the lesion of elderly ICH patients was significantly higher than that of young patients. The activation of astrocytes after ICH releases a large amount of IL31, which binds to microglia through IL31R, causing a large number of microglia to converge to the hematoma area, leading to the spread of neuroinflammation, apoptosis of neurons, and ultimately resulting in poorer recovery of nerve function. Interfering with IL31 expression suppresses neuroinflammation and promotes the recovery of neurological function. Our study demonstrated that elderly patients release more IL31 after ICH than young patients. IL31 promotes the progression of neuroinflammation, leading to neuronal apoptosis as well as neurological decline. Suppression of high IL31 concentrations in the brain after ICH may be a promising therapeutic strategy for ICH.

Role of Cardiac Biomarkers in Stroke and Cognitive Impairment

This topical review assesses the growing role of cardiac biomarkers beyond cardiovascular health and focuses on their importance in stroke and dementia. The first part describes blood-based cardiac biomarkers in patients with stroke and highlights applications in the setting of early diagnosis, poststroke complications, outcome prediction as well as secondary prevention. Among other applications, natriuretic peptides can be helpful in differentiating stroke subtypes. They are also currently being investigated to guide prolonged ECG monitoring and secondary prevention in patients with stroke. Elevated cardiac troponin after ischemic stroke can provide information about various poststroke complications recently termed the stroke-heart syndrome. The second part focuses on the role of cardiac biomarkers in vascular cognitive impairment and dementia, emphasizing their association with structural brain lesions. These lesions such as silent brain infarcts and white matter hyperintensities often co-occur with cardiac disease and may be important mediators between cardiovascular disease and subsequent cognitive decline. ECG and echocardiogram measurements, in addition to blood-based biomarkers, show consistent associations with vascular brain changes and incident dementia, suggesting a role in indicating risk for cognitive decline. Together, the current evidence suggests that cardiac blood-based, electrophysiological, and imaging biomarkers can be used to better understand the heart and brain connection in the setting of not only stroke but also dementia.

Atrial cardiopathy biomarkers and atrial fibrillation in the ARCADIA trial

BACKGROUND

ARCADIA compared apixaban to aspirin for secondary stroke prevention in patients with cryptogenic stroke and atrial cardiopathy. One possible explanation for the neutral result is that biomarkers used did not optimally identify atrial cardiopathy. We examined the relationship between biomarker levels and subsequent detection of AF, the hallmark of atrial cardiopathy.

METHODS

Patients were randomized if they met criteria for atrial cardiopathy, defined as P-wave terminal force >5000 μV*ms in ECG lead V1 (PTFV1), NT-proBNP >250 pg/mL, or left atrial diameter index (LADI) ⩾3 cm/m2. For this analysis, the outcome was AF detected per routine care.

RESULTS

Of 3745 patients who consented to screening for atrial cardiopathy, 254 were subsequently diagnosed with AF; 96 before they could be randomized and 158 after randomization. In unadjusted analyses, ln(NT-proBNP) (RR per SD, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.85-2.13), PTFV1 (RR per SD, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.03-1.28) and LADI (RR per SD, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.20-1.50) were associated with AF. In a model containing all 3 biomarkers, demographics, and AF risk factors, age (RR per 10 years, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.09-1.41), ln(NT-proBNP) (RR per SD, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.67-2.11) and LADI (RR per SD, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.14-1.37) were associated with AF. These three variables together had a c-statistic of 0.82 (95% CI, 0.79-0.85) but only modest calibration. Discrimination was attenuated in sensitivity analyses of patients eligible for randomization who may have been more closely followed for AF.

CONCLUSIONS

Biomarkers used to identify atrial cardiopathy in ARCADIA were moderately predictive of subsequent AF.

Natriuretic Peptides to Classify Risk of Atrial Fibrillation Detection After Stroke: Analysis of the BIOSIGNAL and PRECISE Cohort Studies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Prolonged cardiac monitoring (PCM) increases atrial fibrillation (AF) detection after ischemic stroke, but access is limited, and it is burdensome for patients. Our objective was to assess whether midregional proatrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) could classify people who are unlikely to have AF after ischemic stroke and allow better targeting of PCM.

METHODS

We analyzed people from the Biomarker Signature of Stroke Aetiology (BIOSIGNAL) study with ischemic stroke, no known AF, and ≥3 days cardiac monitoring. External validation was performed in the Preventing Recurrent Cardioembolic Stroke: Right Approach, Right Patient (PRECISE) study of 28 days of cardiac monitoring in people with ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack and no known AF. The main outcome is no AF detection. We assessed the discriminatory value of MR-proANP and NT-proBNP combined with clinical variables to identify people with no AF. A decision curve analysis was performed with combined data to determine the net reduction in people who would undergo PCM using the models based on a 15% threshold probability for AF detection.

RESULTS

We included 621 people from the BIOSIGNAL study. The clinical multivariable prediction model included age, NIH Stroke Scale score, lipid-lowering therapy, creatinine, and smoking status. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for clinical variables was 0.68 (95% CI 0.62-0.74), which improved with the addition of log10MR-proANP (0.72, 0.66-0.78; p = 0.001) or log10NT-proBNP (0.71, 0.65-0.77; p = 0.009). Performance was similar for the models with log10MR-proANP vs log10NT-proBNP (p = 0.28). In 239 people from the PRECISE study, the AUROC for clinical variables was 0.68 (0.59-0.76), which improved with the addition of log10NT-proBNP (0.73, 0.65-0.82; p < 0.001) or log10MR-proANP (0.79, 0.72-0.86; p < 0.001). Performance was better for the model with log10MR-proANP vs log10NT-proBNP (p = 0.03). The models could reduce the number of people who would undergo PCM by 30% (clinical and log10MR-proANP), 27% (clinical and log10NT-proBNP), or 20% (clinical only).

DISCUSSION

MR-proANP and NT-proBNP help classify people who are unlikely to have AF after ischemic stroke. Measuring MR-proANP or NT-proBNP could reduce the number of people who need PCM by 30%, without reducing the amount of AF detected.

TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

NCT02274727; clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02274727.

Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source: New Data and New Controversies on Cardiac Monitoring and Anticoagulation

Embolic strokes of undetermined source (ESUS) represent 9%-25% of all ischemic strokes. Based on the suspicion that a large proportion of cardioembolic sources remain undetected among embolic stroke of undetermined source patients, it has been hypothesized that a universal approach of anticoagulation would be better than aspirin for preventing recurrent strokes. However, 4 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), with different degrees of patient selection, failed to confirm this hypothesis. In parallel, several RCTs consistently demonstrated that prolonged cardiac monitoring increased atrial fibrillation detection and anticoagulation initiation compared with usual care in patients with ESUS, and later in individuals with ischemic stroke of known cause (e.g., large or small vessel disease). However, none of these trials or subsequent meta-analyses of all available RCTs have shown a reduction in stroke recurrence associated with the use of prolonged cardiac monitoring. In this article, we review the clinical and research implications of recent RCTs of antithrombotic therapy in patients with ESUS and in high-risk populations with and without stroke, with device-detected asymptomatic atrial fibrillation.

Cardiac Blood-Based Biomarkers of Myocardial Stress as Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation Development in Patients With Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source/Cryptogenic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Undiagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major risk factor for stroke that can go unnoticed in individuals with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) or cryptogenic stroke (CS). Early detection is critical for stroke prognosis and secondary prevention. This study aimed to determine if blood biomarkers of myocardial stress can accurately predict AF in patients with ESUS/CS, which would allow the identification of those who would benefit from closer monitoring.

METHODS

In February 2023 we performed a systematic date-unrestricted search of three databases for studies on patients with ESUS/CS who were subsequently diagnosed with AF. We examined the relationships between AF and serum myocardial stress markers such as brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), N-terminal-pro-BNP (NT-proBNP), midregional proatrial natriuretic peptide, and troponin.

RESULTS

Among the 1,527 studies reviewed, 23 eligible studies involving 6,212 participants, including 864 with AF, were analyzed. A meta-analysis of 9 studies indicated that they demonstrated a clear association between higher NT-proBNP levels and an increased risk of AF, with adjusted and raw data indicating 3.06- and 9.03-fold higher AF risks, respectively. Lower NT-proBNP levels had a pooled negative predictive value of 91.7%, indicating the potential to rule out AF with an 8% false-negative rate.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research is required to fully determine the potential of biomarkers for AF detection after stroke, as results from previous studies lack homogeneity. However, lower NT-proBNP levels have potential in ruling out AF in patients with ESUS/CS. Combining them with other relevant biomarkers may enhance the precision of identifying patients who will not benefit from extended monitoring, which would optimize resource allocation and patient care.

Left atrial appendage closure in conjunction with radiofrequency ablation: Effects on left atrial functioning in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

Objective

In the present study, we investigated the impact of left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) following catheter ablation (CA) on the left atrial structure and functioning of patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Patients with paroxysmal AF were enrolled in this single-center prospective cohort study between April 2015 and July 2021; 353 patients received CA alone, while 93 patients received CA in combination with Watchman LAAC. We used age, gender, CHA2DS2-VASc, and HAS-BLED scores as well as other demographic variables to perform propensity score matching. Patients with paroxysmal AF were randomly assigned to the CA combined with Watchman LAAC group (combined treatment group) and the simple CA group, with 89 patients in each group. The left atrial structure, reserve, ventricular diastole, and pump functions and their changes in patients were assessed using routine Doppler echocardiography and 2D speckle tracking echocardiography over the course of a 1-year follow-up.

Results

At 1-week follow-up, the reserve, ventricular diastole, and pump functions of the left atrium (LA) increased in both groups; these functions were gradually restored at the 1- to 3-month follow-up; they were close to or returned to their pre-operative levels at the 3-month follow-up; and no significant differences were found compared with the pre-operative levels at the 12-month follow-up. In the first 3 months, the reserve (Ƹ, SRs) and pump functions (SRa) in the combined treatment group decreased significantly when compared with the simple CA group, and the differences were statistically significant.

Conclusion

Patients with paroxysmal AF may experience a short term, partial effect of LAAC on LA reserve and pump functions, which are gradually restored and the effect disappears by 12 months.

Secondary stroke prevention in people with atrial fibrillation: treatments and trials

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias and is a major cause of ischaemic stroke. Recent findings indicate the importance of atrial fibrillation burden (device-detected, subclinical, or paroxysmal and persistent or permanent) and whether atrial fibrillation was known before stroke onset or diagnosed after stroke for the risk of recurrence. Secondary prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation and stroke aims to reduce the risk of recurrent ischaemic stroke. Findings from randomised controlled trials assessing the optimal timing to introduce direct oral anticoagulant therapy after a stroke show that early start (ie, within 48 h for minor to moderate strokes and within 4-5 days for large strokes) seems safe and could reduce the risk of early recurrence. Other promising developments regarding early rhythm control, left atrial appendage occlusion, and novel factor XI inhibitor oral anticoagulants suggest that these therapies have the potential to further reduce the risk of stroke. Secondary prevention strategies in patients with atrial fibrillation who have a stroke despite oral anticoagulation therapy is an unmet medical need. Research advances suggest a heterogeneous spectrum of causes, and ongoing trials are investigating new approaches for secondary prevention in this vulnerable patient group. In patients with atrial fibrillation and a history of intracerebral haemorrhage, the latest data from randomised controlled trials on stroke prevention shows that oral anticoagulation reduces the risk of ischaemic stroke but more data are needed to define the safety profile.

Apixaban to Prevent Recurrence After Cryptogenic Stroke in Patients With Atrial Cardiopathy: The ARCADIA Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Atrial cardiopathy is associated with stroke in the absence of clinically apparent atrial fibrillation. It is unknown whether anticoagulation, which has proven benefit in atrial fibrillation, prevents stroke in patients with atrial cardiopathy and no atrial fibrillation.

Objective

To compare anticoagulation vs antiplatelet therapy for secondary stroke prevention in patients with cryptogenic stroke and evidence of atrial cardiopathy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Multicenter, double-blind, phase 3 randomized clinical trial of 1015 participants with cryptogenic stroke and evidence of atrial cardiopathy, defined as P-wave terminal force greater than 5000 μV × ms in electrocardiogram lead V1, serum N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide level greater than 250 pg/mL, or left atrial diameter index of 3 cm/m2 or greater on echocardiogram. Participants had no evidence of atrial fibrillation at the time of randomization. Enrollment and follow-up occurred from February 1, 2018, through February 28, 2023, at 185 sites in the National Institutes of Health StrokeNet and the Canadian Stroke Consortium.

Interventions

Apixaban, 5 mg or 2.5 mg, twice daily (n = 507) vs aspirin, 81 mg, once daily (n = 508).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary efficacy outcome in a time-to-event analysis was recurrent stroke. All participants, including those diagnosed with atrial fibrillation after randomization, were analyzed according to the groups to which they were randomized. The primary safety outcomes were symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and other major hemorrhage.

Results

With 1015 of the target 1100 participants enrolled and mean follow-up of 1.8 years, the trial was stopped for futility after a planned interim analysis. The mean (SD) age of participants was 68.0 (11.0) years, 54.3% were female, and 87.5% completed the full duration of follow-up. Recurrent stroke occurred in 40 patients in the apixaban group (annualized rate, 4.4%) and 40 patients in the aspirin group (annualized rate, 4.4%) (hazard ratio, 1.00 [95% CI, 0.64-1.55]). Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage occurred in 0 patients taking apixaban and 7 patients taking aspirin (annualized rate, 1.1%). Other major hemorrhages occurred in 5 patients taking apixaban (annualized rate, 0.7%) and 5 patients taking aspirin (annualized rate, 0.8%) (hazard ratio, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.29-3.52]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In patients with cryptogenic stroke and evidence of atrial cardiopathy without atrial fibrillation, apixaban did not significantly reduce recurrent stroke risk compared with aspirin.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03192215.

Disturbed atrial metabolism, shear stress, and cardiac load contribute to atrial fibrillation after ablation: AXAFA biomolecule study

AIMS

Different disease processes can combine to cause atrial fibrillation (AF). Their contribution to recurrent AF after ablation in patients is not known. Cardiovascular processes associated with recurrent AF after AF ablation were determined by quantifying biomolecules related to inflammation, metabolism, proliferation, fibrosis, shear stress, atrial pressure, and others in the AXAFA biomolecule study.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Twelve circulating cardiovascular biomolecules (ANGPT2, BMP10, CA125, hsCRP, ESM1, FABP3, FGF23, GDF15, IGFBP7, IL6, NT-proBNP, and hsTnT) were quantified in plasma samples obtained prior to a first AF ablation using high-throughput, high-precision assays. Cox regression was used to identify biomolecules associated with recurrent AF during the first 3 months after AF ablation. In 433 patients (64 years [58, 70]; 33% women), baseline concentrations of ANGPT2, BMP10, hsCRP, FGF23, FABP3, GDF15, and NT-proBNP were elevated in patients with recurrent AF (120/433; 28%). After adjustment for 11 clinical features and randomized treatment, elevated NT-proBNP [hazard ratio (HR) 1.58, 95% confidence interval (1.29, 1.94)], ANGPT2 [HR 1.37, (1.12, 1.67)], and BMP10 [HR 1.24 (1.02, 1.51)] remained associated with recurrent AF. Concentrations of ANGPT2, BMP10, and NT-proBNP decreased in patients who remained arrhythmia free, but not in patients with recurrent AF, highlighting their connection to AF. The other eight biomarkers showed unchanged concentrations.

CONCLUSION

Elevated concentrations of ANGPT2, BMP10, and NT-proBNP are associated with recurrent AF after a first AF ablation, suggesting that processes linked to disturbed cardiomyocyte metabolism, altered atrial shear stress, and increased load contribute to AF after AF ablation in patients.

HACE1 expression in heart failure patients might promote mitochondrial oxidative stress and ferroptosis by targeting NRF2

BACKGROUND

Heart failure is a prevalent and life-threatening medical condition characterized by abnormal atrial electrical activity, contributing to a higher risk of ischemic stroke. Atrial remodelling, driven by oxidative stress and structural changes, plays a central role in heart failure progression. Recent studies suggest that HACE1, a regulatory gene, may be involved in cardiac protection against heart failure.

METHODS

Clinical data analysis involved heart failure patients, while an animal model utilized C57BL/6J mice. RT-PCR, microarray analysis, histological examination, ELISA, and Western blot assays were employed to assess gene and protein expression, oxidative stress, and cardiac function. Cell transfection and culture of mouse atrial fibroblasts were performed for in-vitro experiments.

RESULTS

HACE1 expression was reduced in heart failure patients and correlated negatively with collagen levels. In mouse models, HACE1 up-regulation reduced oxidative stress, mitigated fibrosis, and improved cardiac function. Conversely, HACE1 knockdown exacerbated oxidative stress, fibrosis, and cardiac dysfunction. HACE1 also protected against ferroptosis and mitochondrial damage. NRF2, a transcription factor implicated in oxidative stress, was identified as a target of HACE1, with HACE1 promoting NRF2 activity through ubiquitination.

CONCLUSIONS

HACE1 emerges as a potential therapeutic target and diagnostic marker for heart failure. It regulates oxidative stress, mitigates cardiac fibrosis, and protects against ferroptosis and mitochondrial damage. The study reveals that HACE1 achieves these effects, at least in part, through NRF2 activation via ubiquitination, offering insights into novel mechanisms for heart failure pathogenesis and potential interventions.

The Role of Electrocardiographic Markers for Predicting Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: Data from the BIOSIGNAL Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

P-wave abnormalities in the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) have been associated with a higher risk of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) as well as atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to assess pre-determined ECG criteria during sinus rhythm in unselected AIS patients and their value for predicting newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (NDAF) after hospital admission.

METHODS

P-wave alterations were measured on 12-lead ECG on admission in all consecutively enrolled patients without known AF between October 2014 and 2017. The outcome of interest was NDAF, identified by prolonged electrocardiographic monitoring within one year after the index AIS. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was applied to assess the magnitude and independence of the association between pre-selected ECG markers and NDAF. The discriminatory accuracy was evaluated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and the incremental prognostic value was estimated with the net reclassification index.

RESULTS

NDAF was detected in 87 (10%) of 856 patients during a follow-up of 365 days. Out of the pre-selected ECG parameters, advanced interatrial block (aIAB) and PR interval in lead II were independently associated with NDAF in univariable regression analysis. Only aIAB remained a significant predictor in multivariable analysis. Adding aIAB to the best-performing multivariable regression model improved the discriminatory accuracy to predict NDAF from an AUC of 0.78 (95%-CI 0.77-0.80) to 0.81 (95%-CI 0.80-0.83, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

aIAB is independently and highly associated with NDAF in patients with AIS, has high inter-rater reliability, and therefore may be helpful to refine diagnostic work-up to search for AF in AIS.

Biomarker, Imaging, and Clinical Factors Associated With Overt and Covert Stroke in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation is a major risk factor for stroke and silent brain infarcts. We studied whether a multimodal approach offers additional insights to the CHA2DS2-VASc score in predicting stroke or new brain infarcts on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over a 2-year follow-up.

METHODS

Swiss-AF is a prospective, multicenter cohort study of patients with known atrial fibrillation. We included patients with available brain MRI both at enrollment and 2 years later. The dates of the baseline and follow-up visits ranged from March 2014 to November 2020. The primary outcome was assessed 2 years after baseline and was defined as a composite of clinically identified stroke or any new brain infarct on the 2-year MRI. We compared a multivariable logistic regression model including prespecified clinical, biomarker, and baseline MRI variables to the CHA2DS2-VASc score.

RESULTS

We included 1232 patients, 89.8% of them taking oral anticoagulants. The primary outcome occurred in 78 patients (6.3%). The following baseline variables were included in the final multivariate model and were significantly associated with the primary outcome: white matter lesion volume in milliliters (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.91 [95% CI, 1.45-2.56]), NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide; aOR, 1.75 [95% CI, 1.20-2.63]), GDF-15 (growth differentiation factor-15; aOR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.11-2.53]), serum creatinine (aOR, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.02-2.22]), IL (interleukin)-6 (aOR, 1.37 [95% CI, 1.00-1.86]), and hFABP (heart-type fatty acid-binding protein; aOR, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.31-0.73]). Overall performance and discrimination of the new model was superior to that of the CHA2DS2-VASc score (C statistic, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.77-0.87] versus 0.64 [95% CI, 0.58-0.70]).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with atrial fibrillation, a model incorporating white matter lesion volume on baseline MRI and selected blood markers yielded new insights on residual stroke risk despite a high proportion of patients on oral anticoagulants. This may be relevant to develop further preventive measures.

Atrial Natriuretic Peptides as a Bridge between Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Failure, and Amyloidosis of the Atria

ANP is mainly synthesized by the atria, and upon excretion, it serves two primary purposes: vasodilation and increasing the renal excretion of sodium and water. The understanding of ANP's role in cardiac systems has improved considerably in recent decades. This review focuses on several studies demonstrating the importance of analyzing the regulations between the endocrine and mechanical function of the heart and emphasizes the effect of ANP, as the primary hormone of the atria, on atrial fibrillation (AF) and related diseases. The review first discusses the available data on the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of ANP and then explains effect of ANP on heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) and vice versa, where tracking ANP levels could lead to understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms operating in these diseases. Second, it focuses on conventional treatments for AF, such as cardioversion and catheter ablation, and their effects on cardiac endocrine and mechanical function. Finally, it provides a point of view about the delayed recovery of cardiac mechanical and endocrine function after cardioversion, which can contribute to the occurrence of acute heart failure, and the potential impact of restoration of the sinus rhythm by extensive ablation or surgery in losing ANP-producing sites. Overall, ANP plays a key role in heart failure through its effects on vasodilation and natriuresis, leading to a decrease in the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, but it is crucial to understand the intimate role of ANP in HF and AF to improve their diagnosis and personalizing the patients' treatment.

Molecular biomarkers predicting newly detected atrial fibrillation after ischaemic stroke or TIA: A systematic review

Background:

Several molecular biomarkers are available that predict newly detected atrial fibrillation (NDAF). We aimed to identify such biomarkers that predict NDAF after an Ischaemic stroke (IS)/Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) and evaluate their performance.

Methods:

A systematic review was undertaken in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies of patients with IS, TIA, or both, who underwent ECG monitoring for ⩾24 h, which reported molecular biomarkers and frequency of NDAF after electronic searches of multiple databases were included.

Results:

Twenty-one studies (76% IS, 24% IS and TIA) involving 4640 patients were included. Twelve biomarkers were identified, with cardiac biomarkers evaluated in the majority (75%) of patients. Performance measures were inconsistently reported. Among cohorts selecting high-risk individuals (12 studies), the most studied biomarkers were N-Terminal-Pro Brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-ProBNP, five studies; C-statistics reported by three studies, 0.69–0.88) and Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP, two studies; C-statistics reported in two studies, 0.68–0.77). Among unselected cohorts (nine studies), the most studied biomarker was BNP (six studies; C-statistics reported in five studies, 0.75–0.88). Only BNP was externally validated (two studies) but using different thresholds to categorise risk of NDAF.

Conclusion:

Cardiac biomarkers appear to have modest to good discrimination for predicting NDAF, although most analyses were limited by small, heterogeneous study populations. Their clinical utility should be explored further, and this review supports the need to assess the role of molecular biomarkers in large prospective studies with standardised selection criteria, definition of clinically significant NDAF and laboratory assays.

Prolonged cardiac monitoring for stroke prevention: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled clinical trials

Introduction:

Prolonged cardiac monitoring (PCM) substantially improves the detection of subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) among patients with history of ischemic stroke (IS), leading to prompt initiation of anticoagulants. However, whether PCM may lead to IS prevention remains equivocal.

Patients and methods:

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, randomized-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) reporting IS rates among patients with known cardiovascular risk factors, including but not limited to history of IS, who received PCM for more than 7 days versus more conservative cardiac rhythm monitoring methods were pooled.

Results:

Seven RCTs were included comprising a total of 9048 patients with at least one known cardiovascular risk factor that underwent cardiac rhythm monitoring. PCM was associated with reduction of IS occurrence compared to conventional monitoring (Risk Ratio: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.59–0.96; I2 = 0%). This association was also significant in the subgroup of RCTs investigating implantable cardiac monitoring (Risk Ratio: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.58–0.97; I2 = 0%). However, when RCTs assessing PCM in both primary and secondary prevention settings were excluded or when RCTs investigating PCM with a duration of 7 days or less were included, the association between PCM and reduction of IS did not retain its statistical significance. Regarding the secondary outcomes, PCM was related to higher likelihood for AF detection and anticoagulant initiation. No association was documented between PCM and IS/transient ischemic attack occurrence, all-cause mortality, intracranial hemorrhage, or major bleeding.

Conclusion:

PCM may represent an effective stroke prevention strategy in selected patients. Additional RCTs are warranted to validate the robustness of the reported associations.