Determinants of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity progression in hypertensive patients over a 3.7 years follow-up

Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity progression in hypertensive patients is associated with subsequent cardiovascular outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is associated with cardiovascular events and mortality. However, little is known on the relationship of its progression (ΔPWV) over time with cardiovascular outcomes. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between ΔPWV and all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events in hypertensive patients.

METHODS

We enrolled 402 consecutive hypertensive outpatients. At baseline, anamnestic, clinical, blood pressure (BP), laboratory data and PWV were assessed. PWV examination was repeated after 3.8 (I-III quartiles 3.5-4.2) years. Patients were subsequently followed for a median time of 10.1 (I-III quartiles 9.5-10.5) years recording all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events.

RESULTS

At baseline, mean age was 53.2 ± 13.0 years, SBP and DBP were 141.8 ± 17.5 and 86.8 ± 10.5 mmHg and PWV was 8.5 ± 1.9 m/s. Despite an improvement in BP control (-9.2 ± 19.5 and -8.0 ± 12.3 for SBP and DBP, respectively), at follow-up, the population showed a PWV increase (ΔPWV +0.6 ± 1.9 m/s). Progressors (ΔPWV ≥0.5 m/s, 204 patients, 50.7%) had a significantly lower survival probability and higher cumulative incidence of composite events, while no differences were seen for cardiovascular events (unadjusted analysis). At Cox multivariable analysis, neither ΔPWV at least 0.5 m/s (progressors) nor ΔPWV (as a spline function) were associated with cardiovascular events and with all-cause mortality. However, the association with survival probability and cumulative incidence of cardiovascular events, as a composite outcome, was significant (hazard ratio = 2.33, 95% CI 1.34-4.05, P  = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that PWV progression at least 0.5 m/s is frequent in hypertensive patients and is associated with a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular events or dying (composite outcome).

Arterial Stiffness and Wave Reflection Responses Following Heavy and Moderate Load Resistance Training Protocols

This study compared the acute effects of resistance training (RT) between a moderate (ML) and a high loading (HL) intensity (12RM vs. 4RM, respectively), with the same intensity of effort on arterial stiffness and wave reflection in young healthy adults. Eleven healthy adults (age 36.4 ± 6.8 years) performed two RT protocols, ML and HL, in a randomized order. Both RT sessions consisted of three sets of deadlifts and three sets of bench presses, with 2 min rest between sets and exercises. Loading intensity was 12RM and 4RM for the ML and HL conditions, respectively. Measurements of pulse wave velocity (PWV) and pulse wave analysis (PWA; e.g., augmentation index) were collected at baseline, immediately post, and 15 min post-training. ML elicited significantly greater increases in carotid-femoral PWV (from 6.4 ± 0.3 to 7.3 ± 0.5), and augmentation index normalized to 75 bpm (from -5.1 ± 1.1) than HL (all p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that an acute bout of RT performed to volitional failure using lower loads and higher repetitions impose a greater workload on the arterial and cardiovascular system in comparison to a RT scheme with heavier loads and lower repetitions.

The Relationships Among Atherogenic Index of Plasma and Carotid-Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity in Adults

The relationships between the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) in adults were investigated. A total of 1398 subjects were included according to the inclusion criteria. Demographic data, medical history, and biochemical indicators were collected. The cfPWV was measured using the Complior Analyse device. AIP was calculated using the following formula: AIP = log (triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, and logistic regression were performed to explore the relationships between AIP and cfPWV. Compared to the cfPWV normal group, the cfPWV elevated group had a higher level of AIP (p < 0.05). In all subjects, mild-to-moderate correlations were found between AIP and cfPWV (p < 0.05). Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis revealed that AIP was an independent factor associated with cfPWV (β = 0.156, p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that the prevalence of cfPWV ≥ 10 m/s increased with the rise of AIP (OR = 18.291, p < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve for AIP was 0.697. The critical point for AIP was determined as 0.00 by the Youden index (sensitivity of 76.2% and specificity of 54.3%). Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that in the young and middle-aged group with normal cfPWV, AIP was an independent factor associated with cfPWV (p < 0.05). In adults, AIP is an independent factor associated with an increased cfPWV. When AIP > 0.00, it has a certain predictive value in the screening of atherosclerosis.

Cardiovascular Structural and Functional Parameters in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis at Disease Diagnosis

INTRODUCTION

Prevalence of cardiac and vascular fibrosis in patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) has not been extensively evaluated.

AIM

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the heart and vessels functional and structural properties in patients with IPF compared to healthy controls. An exploratory analysis regarding disease severity in IPF patients has been done.

METHODS

We enrolled 50 patients with IPF (at disease diagnosis before antifibrotic therapy initiation) and 50 controls matched for age and gender. Heart was evaluated through echocardiography and plasmatic NT-pro-brain natriuretic peptide that, together with patients' symptoms, allow to define the presence of Heart Failure (HF) and diastolic dysfunction. Vessels were evaluated through Flow Mediated Dilation (FMD - endothelial function) and Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV-arterial stiffness) RESULTS: Patients with IPF had a prevalence of diastolic disfunction of 83.8%, HF of 37.8% and vascular fibrosis of 76.6%. No statistically significant difference was observed in comparison to the control group who showed prevalence of diastolic disfunction, HF and vascular fibrosis of 67.3%, 24.5% and 84.8%, respectively. Disease severity seems not to affect PWV, FMD, diastolic dysfunction and HF.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with IPF early in the disease course do not present a significant CV fibrotic involvement when compared with age- and sex-matched controls. Bigger and adequately powered studies are needed to confirm our preliminary data and longitudinal studies are required in order to understand the time of appearance and progression rate of heart and vascular involvement in IPF subjects.

Relationship between normal weight central obesity and arterial stiffness in Chinese adults with hypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Normal weight central obesity (NWCO) is a category of obesity that is characterized by having a normal BMI and presence of abdominal obesity. Recently, studies have reported that NWCO was associated with the cardiovascular diseases. The researches exploring the relationship between NWCO and arterial stiffness are limited. So this study intended to investigate the relationship between NWCO and arterial stiffness in Chinese adults with hypertension.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study is a sub-study of the China H-type Hypertension Registry Study. We included 8580 Chinese hypertensive patients with normal weight (18.5 kg/m2 ≤BMI <24 kg/m2). Central obesity was defined as waist-height ratio ≥0.5, and participants were categorized into two groups: NWCO and normal weight and no central obesity (NWNO). Using the brachial-ankle pulse wave conduction velocity (baPWV) assessed the arterial stiffness. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate relationship between NWCO and baPWV. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate relationship between NWCO and arterial stiffness. Of 8580 participants, 4327 (50.4 %) were NWCO. The multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that people with NWCO had higher baPWV value (total people: β = 38.33, 95%CI 22.82-53.84; men: β = 39.87, 95%CI 18.43-61.32; women: β = 29.65, 95%CI 7.20-52.09) compared with NWNO. The baPWV ≥1800 cm/s was defined as arterial stiffness, and the multiple logistic regression analysis showed that people with NWCO associated higher arterial stiffness risk (total people: OR = 1.25, 95%CI 1.12-1.39; men: OR = 1.29, 95%CI 1.11-1.50; women: OR = 1.18, 95%CI 1.01-1.38).

CONCLUSION

NWCO is significantly related to increased risk of arterial stiffness in Chinese adults with hypertension.

Blood pressure levels within normotensive range are independently associated with increased risk of arterial stiffness in adults without hypertension or prehypertension

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

High blood pressure (BP) indices, including systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and pulse pressure (PP) predict cardiovascular diseases and mortality. However, the association of these BP indices with arterial stiffness (AS) in the normotensive population (BP < 120/80 mmHg) remains unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Study participants who underwent health checkups at a tertiary referred center were recruited between November 2018 to December 2019. 2129 participants were enrolled after excluding those aged <18 years old, with elevated BP, history of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, or with incomplete data. The brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) values were examined for evaluation of AS. Participants with higher blood pressure indices had significantly higher baPWV. Multiple linear regression revealed that all BP indices were positively associated with baPWV. According to the binary logistic regression analysis, participants in the higher SBP and MAP quartiles were significantly related to AS. The odds ratio (OR) for SBP Q2, Q3 and Q4 vs. Q1 were 6.06, 10.06 and 17.78 whereas the OR for MAP Q2, Q3 and Q4 vs. Q1 were: 5.07, 5.28 and 10.34. For DBP and PP, only participants belonging to the highest quartile were associated with AS(OR for DBP Q4 vs. Q1: 2.51; PP Q4 vs Q1: 1.94).

CONCLUSIONS

BP indices were linearly related to the baPWV. Normotensive participants with higher quartiles of SBP, DBP, MAP, and PP, remained associated with increased AS. The SBP and MAP levels exhibited a more prominent relationship with AS.

Relationship between arterial stiffness, left ventricular diastolic function, and renal function in chronic kidney disease

AIM

In chronic kidney disease, IgA nephropathy, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction have prognostic significance as well. However, the relationship between diastolic dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and renal function has not been fully elucidated.

METHODS

79 IgA nephropathy patients (aged 46 ± 11 years) and 50 controls were investigated. Tissue Doppler imaging was used to measure early (Ea) and late (Aa) diastolic velocities. Arterial stiffness was measured by a photoplethysmographic (stiffness index (SI)) and an oscillometric method (aortic pulse wave velocity (PWVao)).

RESULTS

We compared the IgAN patients to a similar cardiovascular risk group with a preserved eGFR. A strong correlation was found between Ea/Aa and SI (p < 0.001), also with PWVao (p < 0.001), just in IgAN, and with eGFR (p < 0.001) in both groups. IgAN patients were divided into groups CKD1-2 vs. CKD3-5. In the CKD 3-5 group, the incidence of diastolic dysfunction increased significantly: 39% vs. 72% (p = 0.003). Left ventricle rigidity (LVR) was calculated, which showed a close correlation with SI (p = 0.009) and eGFR (p = 0.038). By linear regression analysis, the independent predictors of SI were age, E/A, and E/Ea; SI was the predictor of LVR; and E/A and hypertension were the predictors of eGFR.

CONCLUSION

In chronic kidney disease, increased cardiac rigidity and vascular stiffness coexist with decreased renal function, which is directly connected to diastolic dysfunction and vascular stiffness. On the basis of comparing the CKD group to the control group, vascular alterations in very early CKD can be identified.

What Is the Smallest Change in Pulse Wave Velocity Measurements That Can Be Attributed to Clinical Changes in Arterial Stiffness with Certainty: A Randomized Cross-Over Study

Pulse wave velocity (PWV), a direct measure of arterial stiffness, is a promising biomarker of cardiovascular risk and a cardiovascular surrogate outcome. The resolution for detecting its smallest clinically significant change is dependent on the expected reproducibility, but there is currently no consensus on this. We estimated the PWV reproducibility in a range of intra-subject values that were observed over a 2 week period in a broad range of participants and under clinically relevant experimental conditions (two observers, morning/afternoon sessions, and number of visits) using SphygmoCor and Arteriograph devices. Each participant was recorded 12 times with each device over three visits, one week apart, and two morning and two afternoon recordings were taken per visit. The factors affecting reproducibility and the discrepancies between the consecutive PWV measurements for each device were also examined using multilevel mixed-effect models. We show that current PWV estimation guidance recommending 2 + 1 measurements is suboptimal because the PWV range was outside of the 1 m/s threshold for most of the participants, which is proposed as a minimal clinically important difference. The best reproducibility was yielded with median of four measurements and a 1.1 m/s threshold. Although PWV reproducibility and repeatability are frequently used interchangeably in studies, we demonstrated that despite their relative measures of variability (e.g., coefficient of variation) being comparable, their ranges revealed a clinically significant difference between them. We also found that different physiological variables were predictors of the discrepancy between the consecutive measurements made by the two devices, which is likely due to their distinct modes of operation. The evidence base for PWV reproducibility is limited, and more research is needed to deepen our understanding of the variation in arterial stiffness over time, as well as fluctuations within a population group and in an intervention setting.

Estimated pulse wave velocity is associated with all-cause and cardio-cerebrovascular disease mortality in stroke population: Results from NHANES (2003-2014)

Background

Arterial stiffness is a significant determinant and evaluation of cardio-cerebrovascular disease and all-cause mortality risk in the stroke population. Estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV) is a well-established indirect measure of arterial stiffness. We examined the association of ePWV with all-cause and cardio-cerebrovascular disease (CCD) mortality in the stroke population in a large sample of US adults.

Methods

The study design was a prospective cohort study with data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2003 to 2014, between the ages of 18-85 years, with follow-up through December 31, 2019. 1,316 individuals with stroke among 58,759 participants were identified and ultimately, 879 stroke patients were included in the analysis. ePWV was calculated from a regression equation using age and mean blood pressure according to the following formula: ePWV = 9.587 - (0.402 × age) + [4.560 × 0.001 × (age²)] - [2.621 × 0.00001 × (age²) × MBP] + (3.176 × 0.001 × age × MBP) - (1.832 × 0.01 × MBP). Survey-weighted Cox regression models were used to assess the association between ePWV and all-cause and CCD mortality risk.

Results

The high ePWV level group had a higher increased risk of all-cause mortality and CCD mortality compared to the low ePWV level group after fully adjusting for covariates. With an increase in ePWV of 1 m/s, the risk of all-cause and CCD mortality increased by 44%-57% and 47%-72% respectively. ePWV levels were linearly correlated with the risk of all-cause mortality (P for nonlinear = 0.187). With each 1 m/s increase in ePWV, the risk of all-cause mortality increased by 44% (HR 1.44, 95% CI: 1.22-1.69; P < 0.001). When ePWV was <12.1 m/s, an increase in ePWV per 1 m/s was associated with a 119% (HR 2.19, 95% CI: 1.43-3.36; P < 0.001) increase in CCD mortality risk; when ePWV was ≥12.1 m/s, an increase in ePWV per 1 m/s was not associated with in CCD mortality risk.

Conclusion

ePWV is an independent risk factor for all-cause and CCD mortality in stroke patients. Higher levels of ePWV are associated with higher all-cause mortality and CCD mortality in stroke patients.

The association between orthostatic blood pressure changes and arterial stiffness

OBJECTIVE

Although orthostatic hypotension (OH) and orthostatic hypertension (OHT) can independently predict cardiovascular events, the underlying mechanisms remain controversial. Our study aimed to examine the relationships between orthostatic blood pressure (BP) changes and arterial stiffness.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional analysis, 1820 participants were divided into three groups according to BP changes within 3 min of orthostatism: the OH group had a decrease of >20 mmHg in SBP or >10 mmHg in DBP, the OHT group had an increase of ≥20 mmHg in SBP, and the orthostatic normotensive (ONT) group had normal changes. Arterial stiffness was assessed by measuring the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV).

RESULTS

OH and OHT were observed in 257 (14.1%) and 62 (3.4%) participants, respectively. Subjects in the OH group were significantly older, were more likely to have hypertension and diabetes, and had higher cfPWV than those in the ONT group ( P  < 0.05); however, no differences were found between the ONT and OHT groups. Stepwise multiple regression analysis of the subgroups stratified by hypertension and diabetes revealed that age was related to increased cfPWV in all stratifications, and the change in SBP was significantly positively correlated with cfPWV in hypertensive subjects; however, this association was not observed in nonhypertensive subjects.

CONCLUSION

We found that arterial stiffness was closely related to OH but not to OHT. In addition to expanding current knowledge of the relationship between orthostatic BP changes and arterial stiffness, our study underlines the importance of age, SBP changes, and hypertension in evaluating arterial stiffness.

Relationship of Different Anthropometric Indices with Vascular Ageing in an Adult Population without Cardiovascular Disease-EVA Study

The objectives of this study were to analyse the capacity of different anthropometric indices to predict vascular ageing and this association in Spanish adult population without cardiovascular disease. A total of 501 individuals without cardiovascular disease residing in the capital of Salamanca (Spain) were selected (mean age: 55.9 years, 50.3% women), through stratified random sampling by age and sex. Starting from anthropometric measurements such as weight, height, and waist circumference, hip circumference, or biochemical parameters, we could estimate different indices that reflected general obesity, abdominal obesity, and body fat distribution. Arterial stiffness was evaluated by measuring carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) using a SphygmoCor^® device. Vascular ageing was defined in three steps: Step 1: the participants with vascular injury were classified as early vascular ageing (EVA); Step 2: classification of the participants using the 10 and 90 percentiles of cf-PWV in the study population by age and sex in EVA, healthy vascular ageing (HVA) and normal vascular ageing (NVA); Step 3: re-classification of participants with arterial hypertension or type 2 diabetes mellitus included in HVA as NVA. The total prevalence of HVA and EVA was 8.4% and 21.4%, respectively. All the analysed anthropometric indices, except waist/hip ratio (WHpR), were associated with vascular ageing. Thus, as the values of the different anthropometric indices increase, the probability of being classified with NVA and as EVA increases. The capacity of the anthropometric indices to identify people with HVA showed values of area under the curve (AUC) ≥ 0.60. The capacity to identify people with EVA, in total, showed values of AUC between 0.55 and 0.60. In conclusion, as the values of the anthropometric indices increased, the probability that the subjects presented EVA increased. However, the relationship of the new anthropometric indices with vascular ageing was not stronger than that of traditional parameters. Therefore, BMI and WC can be considered to be the most useful indices in clinical practice to identify people with vascular ageing in the general population.

Analysis of Systolic Blood Pressure Level and Short-Term Variability in Masked Hypertension

Background

Patients with masked hypertension are at an elevated risk of cardiovascular events and all-cause death. This risk is close to that of sustained hypertension. The mean value and short-term variability of systolic blood pressure are considered to be risk factors for organ damage in hypertension.

Objective

To investigate the mean value and short-term variability of systolic blood pressure in patients with masked hypertension.

Methods

According to the results of in-clinic and ambulatory blood pressure measurement, participants were divided into four groups: normotension group, controlled hypertension group, masked hypertension group, and sustained hypertension group. The mean value and short-term variability of systolic blood pressure of masked hypertension group were evaluated by comparison with the other three groups.

Results

A total of 250 subjects were enrolled, with an average age of 65.46 ± 8.76 years, and 166 (66.4%) were male, including 62 in the normotension group, 78 in the controlled hypertension group, 69 in the masked hypertension group, and 41 in the sustained hypertension group. Compared with the normotension group and controlled hypertension group, the mean value, blood pressure load, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation of systolic blood pressure over 24 hours and during the day and night, were all higher in the masked hypertension group (P < 0.05), while the rate of the nocturnal systolic blood pressure decline was lower (P < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the above indexes between the masked hypertension group and sustained hypertension group (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

There are higher mean value of systolic blood pressure and greater short-term variability in masked hypertension patients. Identification of masked hypertension is an important challenge in the clinic.

The Effect of a Single Bout of Resistance Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction on Arterial Stiffness in Older People with Slow Gait Speed: A Pilot Randomized Study

Purpose: Low-intensity resistance exercise with moderate blood-flow restriction (LIRE-BFR) is a new trending form of exercises worldwide. The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effect of a single bout of traditional resistance exercise (TRE) and LIRE-BFR on arterial stiffness in older people with slow gait speeds. Methods: This was a randomized, controlled clinical study. Seventeen older adults (3 men; 14 women; 82 ± 5 years old) completed a session of TRE (n = 7) or LIRE-BFR (n = 10). At baseline and after 60 min post-exercise, participants were subject to blood pressure measurement, heart rate measurements and a determination of arterial stiffness parameters. Results: There was no significant difference between the TRE and LIRE-BFR group at baseline. Pulse-wave velocity increased in both groups (p < 0.05) post-exercise with no between-group differences. Both exercise modalities did not produce any adverse events. The increase in systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, augmentation pressure and pulse wave velocity (all p > 0.05) were similar after both TRE and LIRE-BFR. Conclusion: TRE and LIRE-BFR had similar responses regarding hemodynamic parameters and pulse-wave velocity in older people with slow gait speed. Long-term studies should assess the cardiovascular risk and safety of LIRE-BFR training in this population.

Association between measurements of arterial stiffness and target organ damage in a general Spanish population

INTRODUCTION

Little is known about the relationship between arterial stiffness and cardiovascular target organ damage (TOD) in the general population. The aim was to analyse the relationship between different measurements of arterial stiffness and TOD, in a general Spanish population without a history of cardiovascular event.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Transversal descriptive study. Through stratified random sampling, a total of 501 individuals were included. Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) was measured using a SphygmoCor System®, the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) was determined with aVasera VS-1500® and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (ba-PWV)was calculated through a validated equation.

RESULTS

The average age was 55.84 ± 14.26.The percentage of vascular TOD, left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and renal TOD was higher in men (p < .001). A positive correlation was obtained between carotid intima-media thickness (c-IMT) and the measurements of vascular function. In the model 1 of the logistic regression analysis, cf-PWV was associated with vascular TOD (OR = 1.15, p = .040), ba-PWV was associated with vascular TOD (OR = 1.20, p = .010) and LVH (OR = 1.12, p = .047).

CONCLUSIONS

The different measurements of arterial stiffness are highly associated with each other. Moreover, cf-PWV and ba-PWV were associated with vascular TOD, and ba-PWV with LVH, although they disappear when adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors. Key Messages There is a strong correlation between the different measurements of vascular structure and function. Carotid-femoral and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity were positively associated with vascular target organ damage, the latter was also positively associated with left ventricular hypertrophy. This associations disappear when adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors.

Association Between Lipid Accumulation Product and Target Organ Damage in Elderly Population: The Northern Shanghai Study

Introduction

Lipid accumulation product (LAP), calculated from waist circumference (WC) and triglycerides (TG), is a novel index that correlates cardiovascular disease. We aimed to investigate the relationship between LAP and target organ damage (TOD) in elderly Chinese community-dwelling individuals.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 3363 participants whose age was ≥65 years old. TOD, including left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), arterial stiffness (AS), lower extremity atherosclerotic (LEA), micro-albuminuria (MAU) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), was measured using standard methods. LAP was calculated as (WC–65) × TG in men and (WC–58) × TG in women. Both quartiles and continuation of LAP were analyzed.

Results

Age-sex adjusted partial correlation analysis showed that LAP was significantly associated with CVD risk factors. With the first quartile (Q1) as a reference, in univariate logistic regression, the fourth quartile (Q4) of LAP was associated with all TOD. In multivariate model, Q4 of LAP was only associated with an increased risk of AS (odds ratio (OR) = 1.88, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.37–2.58, P_{for trend}< 0.001), MAU (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.01–1.75, P_{for trend}= 0.02) and CKD (OR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.39–4.12, P_{for trend}< 0.001). But, Q4 of LAP was not associated with an increased risk of LVH (OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 0.85–1.65, P_{for trend}= 0.25) or LEA (OR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.58–1.29, P_{for trend}= 0.96). Similar associations were found when analyzed continuously.

Conclusion

The novel metabolic parameter LAP is significantly and independently associated with an increased risk of arterial stiffness, chronic kidney disease and micro-albuminuria in Chinese community-dwelling elderly individuals.

Effects of Trandolapril on Structural, Contractile and Electrophysiological Remodeling in Experimental Volume Overload Heart Failure

Chronic volume overload induces multiple cardiac remodeling processes that finally result in eccentric cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. We have hypothesized that chronic angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition by trandolapril might affect various remodeling processes differentially, thus allowing their dissociation. Cardiac remodeling due to chronic volume overload and the effects of trandolapril were investigated in rats with an aortocaval fistula (ACF rats). The aortocaval shunt was created using a needle technique and progression of cardiac remodeling to heart failure was followed for 24 weeks. In ACF rats, pronounced eccentric cardiac hypertrophy and contractile and proarrhythmic electrical remodeling were associated with increased mortality. Trandolapril substantially reduced the electrical proarrhythmic remodeling and mortality, whereas the effect on cardiac hypertrophy was less pronounced and significant eccentric hypertrophy was preserved. Effective suppression of electrical proarrhythmic remodeling and mortality but not hypertrophy indicates that the beneficial therapeutic effects of ACE inhibitor trandolapril in volume overload heart failure might be dissociated from pure antihypertrophic effects.

Prevalence of hypertension mediated organ damage in subjects with high-normal blood pressure without known hypertension as well as cardiovascular and kidney disease

Purpose of our study was to assess the prevalence of hypertension mediated organ damage (HMOD) in healthy subjects with high-normal Blood Pressure (BP) comparing them with subjects with BP values that are considered normal (<130/85 mmHg) or indicative of hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg). Seven hundred fifty-five otherwise healthy subjects were included. HMOD was evaluated as pulse wave velocity (PWV), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque. When subjects were classified according to BP levels we found that the high-normal BP group showed intermediate values of PWV and higher values of IMT. This corresponds to intermediate prevalence of arterial stiffness, while there were no differences for increased IMT or carotid plaque. No subjects showed left ventricular hypertrophy. At multivariable analysis, the odds of having arterial stiffness or carotid HMOD in the high-normal group resulted not different to the normal group. In conclusion, in our otherwise healthy population, high-normal BP values were not related to aortic, carotid or cardiac HMOD.

Mediation effect of arterial stiffness on ideal cardiovascular health and stroke

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) metrics was associated with stroke, but the causal pathway was poorly investigated. Arterial stiffness was a major factor associated with both ideal CVH metrics and stroke. This study aimed to investigate whether the effect of ideal CVH metrics on stroke was mediated and enhanced by arterial stiffness.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 15,297 participants were included in current study. Arterial stiffness was measured by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Causal mediation analyses were used to separate the overall effects of ideal CVH metrics on stroke into indirect effects (mediated by arterial stiffness) and direct effects (mediated through pathways other than arterial stiffness). After a median follow-up of 5.88 years, 324 total stroke events (292 ischemic stroke and 31 hemorrhagic stroke) occurred. Mediation analysis showed 23.94% of the relation between ideal CVH and total stroke was mediated by baPWV (95% confidence interval [CI] of the indirect effect: 0.93-0.95). Further analysis showed the ideal CVH < median combined with baPWV ≥1400 cm/s was associated with the highest risk of total stroke (hazard ratio: 5.62; 95% CI, 3.53-8.96), compared with CVH ≥ median combined with baPWV < 1400 cm/s. Similar results were observed for ischemic stroke, but not for hemorrhagic stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Arterial stiffness played a mediating role in the associations between ideal CVH metrics and risk of total and ischemic stroke. Combined ideal CVH metrics and baPWV is a reasonable and useful tool for the assessment and prevention of stroke.

Ultrasonography to detect cardiovascular damage in children with essential hypertension

Background

Essential hypertension in adults may begin in childhood. The damages to the heart and blood vessels in children with essential hypertension are hidden and difficult to detect. We noninvasively examined changes in cardiovascular structure and function in children with hypertension at early stage using ultrasonography.

Methods

All patients with essential hypertension admitted from March 2020 to May 2021 were classified into simple hypertension (group 1, n = 34) and hypertension co-existing with obesity (group 2, n = 11) isolation. Meanwhile 32 healthy children were detected as control heathly group (group 3). We used pulse-wave Doppler to measure carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), intimal–medial thickness (cIMT) and distensibility of carotid artery (CD). Cardiac structure and function (left atrial diameter [LAD], left ventricular mass [LVM], LVM index [LVMI], relative wall thicknes [RWT], end-diastolic left ventricular internal diameter [LVIDd], diastolic interventricular septum thickness [IVSd], diastolic left ventricular posterior wall thickness [LVPWd], root diameter of aorta [AO], E peak, A peak, E' peak, A' peak, E/E' ratio, and E/A ratio) were measured by echocardiography.

Results

The cfPWV of children in group 1 and group 2 were significantly higher than healthy children in group 3. Significant differences were observed in LVM, LVMI, RWT, LVIDd, IVSd, LVPWd, LAD, A peak, E' peak, A' peak, and E/E’ among three groups.

Conclusion

Children and adolescents with essential hypertension demonstrate target organ damages in the heart and blood vessels.

Metabolic syndrome is related to vascular structural alterations but not to functional ones both in hypertensives and healthy subjects

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Metabolic Syndrome (MS) has been related to an impairment in arterial structural and functional properties with heterogeneous results. In this paper we focused on the effects of MS on arterial carotid-femoral PWV and common carotid IMT in two different populations, one of hypertensive patients and one of healthy controls.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 816 consecutive HT and 536 healthy controls. Vascular structural (IMT) and functional (PWV) properties were evaluated. NCEP-ATP-III criteria were used for diagnosis of MS. MS was diagnosed in 26.9% and 6.9% in hypertensive and control subjects, respectively. PWV was similar in controls with and without MS (7.7 ± 1.9 vs 7.6 ± 1.1 m/s, p = 0.69), while IMT was higher in controls with than those without MS (0.64 ± 0.18 vs 0.57 ± 0.13 mm, p = 0.02). Hypertensives with MS were older (57.9 ± 12.2 vs 52.7 ± 14.1 years, p < 0.001) and showed higher PWV (9.0 ± 2.3 vs 8.4 ± 2.1 m/s, p = 0.001) and IMT (0.72 ± 0.22 vs 0.65 ± 0.17 mm, p < 0.001) than those without MS, however at the age-adjusted analysis only the difference in IMT was confirmed (p = 0.007). Regression models showed that MS was an independent determinant of IMT in both controls (β = 0.08, p = 0.03) and hypertensives (β = 0.08, p = 0.01), but not of PWV either in controls (β = 0.006, p = 0.886 and β = 0.04, p = 0.19, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

the main finding of our work is that MS is a significant determinant of IMT while this is not the case for PWV. This result have been confirmed both in hypertensive subjects and in healthy controls.

Cardiorespiratory fitness diminishes the effects of age on white matter hyperintensity volume

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are among the most commonly observed marker of cerebrovascular disease. Age is a key risk factor for WMH development. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is associated with increased vessel compliance, but it remains unknown if high CRF affects WMH volume. This study explored the effects of CRF on WMH volume in community-dwelling older adults. We further tested the possibility of an interaction between CRF and age on WMH volume. Participants were 76 adults between the ages of 59 and 77 (mean age = 65.36 years, SD = 3.92) who underwent a maximal graded exercise test and structural brain imaging. Results indicated that age was a predictor of WMH volume (beta = .32, p = .015). However, an age-by-CRF interaction was observed such that higher CRF was associated with lower WMH volume in older participants (beta = -.25, p = .040). Our findings suggest that higher levels of aerobic fitness may protect cerebrovascular health in older adults.

Systolic Blood Pressure and Longitudinal Progression of Arterial Stiffness: A Quantitative Meta-Analysis

Background

Arterial stiffness predicts the risk of cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality and is associated with age and hypertension. However, the magnitude of the relationship between blood pressure (BP) and progression of arterial stiffness is unclear, limiting our understanding of how arterial stiffness mediates clinical effects of hypertension and planning of clinical trials.

Methods and Results

Medline and EMBASE were searched for prospective studies reporting linear models between baseline BP and progression of arterial stiffness, with and without adjustment for demographic characteristics and baseline stiffness. Standardized and unstandardized β coefficients for pulse wave velocity were combined by fixed and random effects meta‐analysis, weighted by the inverse variance. Of 566 fully reviewed articles from 30, 524 titles, 22 populations from 21 reports were included. In 9 cohorts, there were consistent, adjusted associations between baseline systolic BP and progression of arterial stiffness (11 781 patients; standardized β=0.041; 95% CI, 0.026–0.055; P<0.001; P value for heterogeneity=0.70), equivalent to a 1.14‐m/s increase in standard carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity per decade per 20–mm Hg systolic BP, independent of age. Unstandardized, adjusted associations were similar (1762 patients; β=0.0047; 95% CI, 0.004–0.006; P<0.001; P value for heterogeneity=0.64), equivalent to a 0.94‐m/s increase per decade per 20–mm Hg systolic BP. In limited studies, standardized associations between mean BP and arterial stiffness progression were not significant and heterogeneous (913 patients; β=0.039; 95% CI, −0.008 to 0.086; P=0.11; P value for heterogeneity=0.03).

Conclusions

Baseline systolic BP was associated with a clinically important progression of arterial stiffness, independent of age, providing a reference for the potential effect of arterial stiffness in mediating changes in clinical outcomes associated with hypertension and providing a reference value to aid clinical trial design.

Predictors for progressions of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and carotid intima-media thickness over a 12-year follow-up: Hanzhong Adolescent Hypertension Study

Objective:

Atherosclerotic diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the predictors of brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) progression in a Chinese cohort over a 12-year follow-up period and to determine whether these predictors differ by follow-up time.

Methods:

A total of 202 participants were recruited from a previously established cohort in Shaanxi Province, China. Both baPWV and CIMT were measured in 2013 and 2017. Multivariable regression was used to determine the predictors of CIMT and baPWV progression.

Results:

Men had higher CIMT and baPWV and a higher rate of CIMT progression during two follow-ups than women. A 4-year change in SBP was associated with baPWV progression, whereas a 12-year change in DBP was associated with baPWV progression. The increased progression of baPWV presented a linear trend when subgrouping all the participants according to SBP and DBP changes over 4 and 12 years, respectively. In addition, heart rate (HR) change over 4 and 12 years was consistently associated with CIMT progression, and a linear trend was also seen when subgrouping the population.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated that SBP and DBP contributed differently in different stages to the progression of arterial stiffness in this Chinese cohort. Moreover, HR was consistently involved in the increased progression of CIMT in all periods. These findings underline the importance of early detection and control of blood pressure and resting HR for the prevention of arterial stiffness progression.

Central Versus Peripheral Artery Stiffening and Cardiovascular Risk

The large elastic arteries fulfill an important role in buffering the cyclical changes in blood pressure, which result from intermittent ventricular ejection. With aging and accrual of cardiovascular risk factors, the elastic arteries stiffen, and this process holds a number of deleterious consequences for the cardiovascular system and major organs. Indeed, arterial stiffness is now recognized as an important, independent determinant of cardiovascular disease risk. Additional, important information concerning the mechanisms underlying arterial stiffening has come from longitudinal studies of arterial stiffness. More recently, attention has focused on the role of peripheral, muscular arteries in cardiovascular disease risk prediction and, in particular, the clinical consequences of reversal of the normal gradient of arterial stiffness between central and peripheral arteries, with aging and disease.

Association between uric acid and pulse wave velocity in hypertensive patients and in the general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose: The association between serum uric acid (SUA) and pulse wave velocity (PWV), has been extensively evaluated but with some discrepancies in results. A further limitation refers to the fact that only few data were analyzed taking into account the possible effects of gender. The purpose of this study was to estimate the association between SUA and arterial stiffness in general population and hypertensive patients, as a whole population and as divided by gender, by pooling results from existing studies.Materials and methods: Carotid-femoral and brachial-ankle PWV (cf- and ba-PWV) have been analyzed separately and subgroup analyses by gender are reported. Among 692 potentially relevant works, 24 articles were analyzed.Results: Seven studies referred to cf-PWV in the general population with an overall positive association at adjusted analysis for both males and females (beta regression coefficient (ß): 0.07; 95%CI: 0.03; 0.11 and ß: 0.06; 95%CI: 0.03; 0.09, respectively). Twelve studies referred to ba-PWV in the general population with the finding of a positive association at adjusted analysis for females (ß: 0.04; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01;0.07), but not for males (ß: 0.13; 95%CI: -0.09; 0.34). In hypertensive patients only four studies evaluated cf-PWV and one ba-PWV with only one study (with cf-PWV) finding positive association.Conclusion: The association between SUA and cf-PWV resulted significant in general population in both males and females while it was only significant for female regarding ba-PWV. Furthermore, the few available studies found no significant relationship between SUA and both cf- and ba-PWV in hypertensive subjects.

Body fat percentage and CRP correlates with a composite score of vascular risk markers in healthy, young adults - The Lifestyle, Biomarkers, and Atherosclerosis (LBA) study

BACKGROUND

Identification of early signs of atherosclerosis in young adults have the potential to guide early interventions to prevent later cardiovascular disease. We therefore analyzed measures of vascular structure and function and biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in a sample of young healthy adults.

METHODS

Pulse-wave velocity (PWV), carotid-intima media thickness (cIMT) and augmentation index (AIX) were measured in 834 healthy non-smokers (ages 18.0-25.9). Emphasis was put on discriminating between individuals having a vascular structure and function associated with a higher or lower risk, and cluster analysis algorithms were employed to assign the subjects into groups based on these vascular measurements. In addition, a vascular status score (VSS) was calculated by summarizing the results according to quintiles of the vascular measurements. The associations between VSS and cardiovascular biomarkers were examined by regression analyses.

RESULTS

The cluster analyses did not yield sufficiently distinct clustering (groups of individuals that could be categorized unequivocally as having either a vascular structure and function associated with a higher or lower CVD risk). VSS proved a better classificatory variable. The associations between VSS and biomarkers of cardiovascular risk were analyzed by univariable and multivariable regressions. Only body fat percentage and C-reactive protein (CRP) were independently associated with VSS.

CONCLUSIONS

A VSS calculation, which integrates PWV, cIMT, and AIX measurements is better suited for cardiovascular risk evaluation in young adults than cluster analyses. The independent associations of VSS with body fat percentage and CRP highlight the decisive role of adiposity and systemic inflammation in early atherosclerotic progression and suggests a subordinate role of insulin and lipid metabolism in this age span.

Association Between Glucose Metabolism And Vascular Aging In Chinese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis In The Tianning Cohort Study

Aim

Fasting glucose has been associated with vascular aging, but the association between HbA1c and vascular aging has been limitedly studied in Chinese and other ethnic populations. We aimed to examine this association in a large sample of Chinese adults.

Methods

In the Tianning Cohort (N=5142), fasting glucose, HbA1c, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), and pulse pressure (PP) were measured. Vascular aging was defined as having the highest quartile level of cfPWV or PP. We applied quantile regression models to examine the association between glucose metabolism and vascular aging.

Results

The median cfPWV was significantly increased as increasing quintiles of fasting glucose (β=0.14, P<0.001) and HbA1c (β=0.07, P=0.0056), respectively. Per 1-mmol/L increment of fasting glucose was significantly associated with a higher risk of having vascular aging defined by cfPWV (OR=1.05, P=0.022), PP (OR=1.06, P=0.048), or either (OR=1.08, P=0.002). Similarly, per 1% increment of HbA1c was significantly associated with a higher risk of having vascular aging defined by cfPWV (OR=1.06, P=0.044), PP (OR=1.10, P=0.012), or either (OR=1.12, P=0.042).

Conclusion

Glucose metabolism was significantly and positively associated with vascular aging in Chinese adults, but the causality is uncertain.

Association of Low Serum l-Carnitine Levels with Peripheral Arterial Stiffness in Patients Who Undergo Kidney Transplantation

l-carnitine is an important co-factor in fatty-acid metabolism, and its deficiency is associated with insulin resistance, which is independently associated with arterial stiffness. This study evaluated the relationship between serum l-carnitine level and peripheral arterial stiffness (PAS) in kidney transplantation (KT). Fasting blood samples were collected from 65 patients who underwent KT. We measured the brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity, and 36 patients (55.4%) had PAS. Patients with PAS had a significantly higher percentage of diabetes (p = 0.001), hypertension (p = 0.033), and metabolic syndrome (p = 0.044); higher waist circumference (p = 0.010), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.002), serum triglyceride level (p = 0.040), insulin level (p = 0.002), and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (p = 0.002); lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.036) and serum l-carnitine levels (p < 0.001); older age (p = 0.041); and a longer KT duration (p = 0.025) than those without PAS. Statistical analysis revealed an independent association between PAS in KT and KT duration (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.003–1.054, p = 0.029) and serum l-carnitine levels (95% CI: 0.842–0.998, p = 0.044). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that the diagnostic power of l-carnitine to predict PAS was 0.789 (95% CI: 0.670–0.881, p < 0.001). Serum-free l-carnitine level is negatively associated with PAS in patients who undergo KT.

Local Pulse Wave Velocity: Theory, Methods, Advancements, and Clinical Applications

Local pulse wave velocity (PWV) is evolving as one of the important determinants of arterial hemodynamics, localized vessel stiffening associated with several pathologies, and a host of other cardiovascular events. Although PWV was introduced over a century ago, only in recent decades, due to various technological advancements, has emphasis been directed toward its measurement from a single arterial section or from piecewise segments of a target arterial section. This emerging worldwide trend in the exploration of instrumental solutions for local PWV measurement has produced several invasive and noninvasive methods. As of yet, however, a univocal opinion on the ideal measurement method has not emerged. Neither have there been extensive comparative studies on the accuracy of the available methods. Recognizing this reality, makes apparent the need to establish guideline-recommended standards for the measurement methods and reference values, without which clinical application cannot be pursued. This paper enumerates all major local PWV measurement methods while pinpointing their salient methodological considerations and emphasizing the necessity of global standardization. Further, a summary of the advancements in measuring modalities and clinical applications is provided. Additionally, a detailed discussion on the minimally explored concept of incremental local PWV is presented along with suggestions of future research questions.

Cardiovascular Remodeling after Endovascular Treatment for Thoracic Aortic Injury

BACKGROUND

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) currently represents the gold standard of treatment for thoracic aortic injury (TAI). Nevertheless, there is an ongoing debate surrounding its safety and subsequent cardiovascular effects. Our aim is to assess heart and vascular structure and function remodeling after TEVAR in TAI young patients.

METHODS

We evaluated 20 patients (18 men, age 41 ± 14 years, 11 treated with Gore CTAG, 9 with Medtronic Valiant) with office and 24-hr blood pressure (BP) with specific vascular stiffness analysis (Mobil-O-Graph), aortic diameters (computed tomography scan) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI echocardiogram). Evaluation was done after a median time of 5.0 ± 3.5 years from the trauma.

RESULTS

After TAI 12 patients (55%) developed hypertension. When patients were divided according to treating time, those treated for more than 3 years show higher LVMI, PWV, and ascending aorta dilatation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that TEVAR for TAI is associated with heart and vascular remodeling. The presence of TEVAR modifies aortic functional properties and could induce an increase in BP that can promote aortic and cardiac damage, even in young patients.

Pulse wave velocity progression over a medium-term follow-up in hypertensives: Focus on uric acid

The role of uric acid (UA) on the arterial stiffness progression has been evaluated only in three studies. Our aim was to evaluate its role as a possible determinant of the pulse wave velocity (PWV) progression over a 3.7 ± 0.5 years follow-up period in hypertensive patients. Specific sex analysis was done due to the well-known sex interaction with UA levels. We enrolled 422 consecutive hypertensive outpatients. At baseline anamnestic, blood pressure (BP) and laboratory data as well as PWV were assessed. PWV was performed again at follow-up examination. Hyperuricemia was defined as a UA > 6 mg/dL for women and > 7 mg/dL for men. Baseline age was 53.2 ± 13 years, 58% were males, systolic and diastolic BP (SBP/DBP) 141.7 ± 17.7/86.8 ± 10.8 mm Hg, UA 5.2 ± 1.4 mg/dL, and PWV 8.5 ± 1.9 m/s. At follow-up, despite better BP values (-8.5 ± 24.6 for SBP and -7.5 ± 15.4 for DBP), PWV increases to 9.1 ± 2.3 m/s (P < 0.001) with mean ΔPWV of+ 0.5 ± 2.2 m/s. A total of 61 patients were hyperuricemic (14.4%), and they present higher PWV baseline (9.0 ± 2.5 vs 8.5 ± 1.8 m/s, P = 0.03) without significant differences in ΔPWV. Hyperuricemic female (6.2%, 11 patients) presents higher baseline PWV without significant differences in ΔPWV. No differences were found in arterial stiffness in hyperuricemic males (20.4%, 50 patients). UA showed association with baseline and ΔPWV in the whole population but it loses statistical significance at the linear regression model. Same figures were also for sex analysis. Our findings provide evidence that baseline UA levels are not determinants of PWV progression over a median follow-up of 3.8 years' in hypertensive patients.

A multilocus genetic risk score is associated with arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients: the CARE NORTH study

INTRODUCTION

Arterial stiffness is recognized as an intermediate phenotype and predictor of cardiovascular disease. Arterial stiffness is complex in origin with contributions from lifestyle and genetic factors. However, the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and arterial stiffness remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to assess whether a multilocus genetic risk score (GRS), composed of selected SNPs linked to cardiovascular traits and outcomes, is associated with arterial stiffness in patients with hypertension.

DESIGN AND METHODS

This study included 730 participants derived from the CARE NORTH study. The arterial stiffness was evaluated by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV). An adjusted linear regression was used to evaluate the association between cfPWV and each individual SNP using multiple genetic models. The association between a constructed GRS and cfPWV was tested in an unadjusted and adjusted model.

RESULTS

We selected 13 SNPs found to be associated with cfPWV (P < .05): 6 SNPs in additive, 4 SNPs in recessive and 3 SNPs in dominant mode of inheritance. The GRS based on these SNPs was positively associated with cfPWV both in unadjusted and adjusted models (β = 0.2 m/s, 95% CI 0.11 - 0.29, P = 7.6 × 10 and β = 0.22 m/s, 95% CI 0.15 - 0.28, P = 1.4 × 10, respectively). The GRS explained an additional 3.6% cfPWV variance above clinical covariates.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate that the GRS composed of 13 SNPs related to cardiovascular phenotypes is associated with an increased arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients. Our findings may help to clarify genetic basis of arterial stiffening and provide insight into mechanisms underlying this phenotype.

Difference in the risk profiles of carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity: results from two community-based studies in China and Sweden

Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) and its risk factors may differ between various populations. Few studies have compared the risk profiles associated with cfPWV in different ethnic populations. The study population included 4321 subjects from Shanghai, China (n = 1272, age 75.0 ± 6.5 years, female 57.3%) and Malmö, Sweden (n = 3049, age 72.5 ± 5.5 years, female 60.4%). cfPWV was measured using the SphygmoCor device in both cohorts, with some difference in the determination of pulse transmission distance. The median cfPWV was 8.9 and 10.1 m/s (P < 0.001) respectively in the Chinese and Swedish subjects. cfPWV was associated (P < 0.05) with age, body mass index (BMI), mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate, fasting plasma glucose and serum triglycerides in both populations. The standardized effect size (m/s) associated with age (0.091 vs. 0.048, P < 0.001) and fasting plasma glucose (0.025 vs. 0.012, P = 0.046) was greater in the Swedish than Chinese subjects, whereas those with BMI (0.046 vs. 0.008, P < 0.001), MAP (0.079 vs. 0.067, P = 0.016), and heart rate (0.057 vs. 0.046, P = 0.036) were greater in Chinese. No difference was observed in those associated with serum triglycerides (P = 0.128). cfPWV was additionally associated with sex, serum total cholesterol, and on antihypertensive medication in the Swedish subjects, and with serum uric acid in the Chinese subjects (P ≤ 0.041). In conclusion, Chinese and Swedish subjects shared similar major risk factors of arterial stiffness, but with some differences in the strength of associations.

Determining Factors of Arterial Stiffness in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a clustering entity characterized by obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. Early detection of atherosclerosis is important in patients with MS because cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of mortality in these patients.

METHODS

We aimed to investigate the factors influencing arterial stiffness, pulse wave velocity, and the augmentation index, respectively, in 150 subjects with MS (94 women and 56 men; mean age 60.56 ± 9.8 years). Arterial stiffness was measured using the TensioMed™ Arteriograph. We tested the relationship between arterial parameters and insulin resistance measured by the determination of insulinemia (the ELISA method) and the homeostasis model assessment index (HOMA).

RESULTS

In multivariate analysis we identified the independent factors that influence arterial stiffness: systolic blood pressure (coefficient of determination 3.586; P < 0.0001), serum triglycerides (coefficient of determination 3.579; P < 0.0001), and age (coefficient of determination 3.510; P = 0.001) are independent predictive factors for pulse wave velocity. The independent predictive factors of the augmentation index were the body mass index (coefficient of determination 0.55; P = 0.009), the presence of diabetes mellitus (coefficient of determination 4.7; P = 0.03), mean arterial pressure (coefficient of determination 0.44; P < 0.0001), gender (coefficient of determination 9.2; P < 0.0001), age (coefficient of determination 0.3; P < 0.0001), and heart rate (coefficient of determination 0.66; P < 0.0001). Insulin resistance (HOMA index) was a predictor of the brachial augmentation index (β coefficient 3.4; P < 0.001) and was not a predictor of pulse wave velocity (β = -0.3; P = 0.6) in our study.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the known predictive value of pulse wave velocity for cardiovascular events, identifying the factors responsible for the increase in arterial stiffness is extremely important.