ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic heart failure 2012: The Task Force for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute and Chronic Heart Failure 2012 of the European Society of Cardiology. Developed in collaboration with the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the ESC

Prediction of adverse cardiovascular events in children using artificial intelligence-based electrocardiogram

BACKGROUND

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have emerged as a novel method for evaluating heart failure (HF) in adult electrocardiograms (ECGs). However, such CNNs are not applicable to pediatric HF, where abnormal anatomy of congenital heart defects plays an important role. ECG-based CNNs reflecting neurohormonal activation (NHA) may be a useful marker of pediatric HF. This study aimed to develop and validate an ECG-derived marker of pediatric HF that reflects the risk of future cardiovascular events.

METHODS

Based on 21,378 ECGs from 8324 children, a CNN was trained using B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). The output of the model, or the electrical heart failure indicator (EHFI), was compared with the BNP regarding its ability to predict MACEs in 813 ECGs from 295 children.

RESULTS

EHFI achieved a better area under the curve than BNP in predicting MACEs within 180 days (0.826 versus 0.691, p = 0.03). On Cox univariable analyses, both EHFI and BNP were significantly associated with MACE (log10 EHFI: hazard ratio [HR] = 16.5, p < 0.005 and log10 BNP: HR = 4.4, p < 0.005). The time-dependent average precisions of EHFI in predicting MACEs were 32.4%-67.9% and 1.6-7.5-fold higher than those of BNP in the early period. Additionally, the MACE rate increased monotonically with EHFI, whereas the rate peaked at approximately 100 pg/mL of BNP and decreased in the higher range.

CONCLUSIONS

ECG-derived CNN is a novel marker of HF with different prognostic potential from BNP. CNN-based ECG analysis may provide a new guide for assessing pediatric HF.

Safety and efficacy of levosimendan in patients with cardiac amyloidosis

BACKGROUND

Patients with cardiac amyloidosis (CA) often experience heart failure (HF) episodes. No evidence is available on inotropic therapy. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the safety and efficacy of levosimendan.

METHODS

We retrieved all HF patients receiving ≥1 levosimendan infusion from 2013 to 2023. CA patients were matched with HF patients without CA (controls) based on sex, age, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The response to levosimendan was measured as changes in daily urinary output, body weight, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

RESULTS

CA patients (median age 77 years, 73% men, 59% with ATTR-CA) and controls were compared. Levosimendan infusion was stopped because of hypotension in 2 cases with CA and (in 1 case) worsening renal function, and in 2 controls because of ventricular tachycardia episodes and (in 1 case) hypotension. CA patients showed a trend toward increased daily urinary output (p = 0.078) and a significant decrease in body weight (p < 0.001), without significant changes in NT-proBNP (p = 0.497) and eGFR (p = 0.732). Both CA patients and controls displayed similar changes in urinary output, weight, and eGFR, but NT-proBNP decreased more significantly among controls (p < 0.001). No differences were noted in rehospitalization rates, but CA patients experienced higher mortality at 6 and 12 months (p = 0.003 and p = 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Levosimendan appears safe for CA patients needing inotropic support. The diuretic response and weight decrease during hospitalization were comparable between CA patients and matched HF patients, despite the greater mortality of CA patients after discharge.

Economic Considerations of Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Devices for The Treatment of Heart Failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Heart failure (HF) is a major public health problem worldwide, affecting more than 64 million people [1]. The complex and severe nature of HF presents challenges in providing cost-effective care as patients often require multiple hospitalizations and treatments. This review of relevant studies with focus on the last 10 years summarizes the health and economic implications of various HF treatment options in Europe and beyond. Although the main cost drivers in HF treatment are clinical (re)admission and decompensation of HF, an assessment of the economic impacts of various other device therapy options for HF care are included in this review. This includes: cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) such as cardiac-resynchronisation-therapy devices that include pacemaking (CRT-P), cardiac-resynchronisation-therapy devices that include defibrillation (CRT-D), implantable cardioverter/defibrillators (ICDs) and various types of pacemakers. The impact of (semi)automated (tele)monitoring as a relevant factor for increasing both the quality and economic impact of care is also taken into consideration. Quality of life adjusted life years (QALYs) are used in the overall context as a composite metric reflecting quantity and quality of life as a standardized measurement of incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) of different device-based HF interventions.

RECENT FINDINGS

In terms of the total cost of different devices, CRT-Ds were found in several studies to be more expensive than all other devices in regards to runtime and maintenance costs including (re)implantation. In the case of CRT combined with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (CRT-D) versus ICD alone, CRT-D was found to be the most cost-effective treatment in research work over the past 10 years. Further comparison between CRT-D vs. CRT-P does not show an economic advantage of CRT-D as a minority of patients require shock therapy. Furthermore, a positive health economic effect and higher survival rate is seen in CRT-P full ventricular stimulation vs. right heart only stimulation. Telemedical care has been found to provide a positive health economic impact for selected patient groups-even reducing patient mortality. For heart failure both in ICD and CRT-D subgroups the given telemonitoring benefit seems to be greater in higher-risk populations with a worse HF prognosis. In patients with HF, all CIED therapies are in the range of commonly accepted cost-effectiveness. QALY and ICER calculations provide a more nuanced understanding of the economic impact these therapies create in the healthcare landscape. For severe cases of HF, CRT-D with telemedical care seems to be the better option from a health economic standpoint, as therapy is more expensive, but costs per QALY range below the commonly accepted threshold.

Thirst symptoms in patients with heart failure: An integrative review

AIM

To identify the risk and protective factors affecting thirst symptoms in patients with heart failure (HF) and intervention strategies to alleviate thirst symptoms.

DESIGN

An integrative review.

METHODS

A total of 61 articles were retrieved. Screening yielded a total of 21 articles which were appraised for quality. The quality of studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

DATA SOURCES

Ten electronic databases were searched in October 2023, including Embase, Pubmed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Web of Science, Wiley, CNKI, VIP, CBM and WanFang. In addition, we searched grey databases and manually searched reference lists of included and relevant reviews.

RESULTS

In total, 1644 articles were retrieved, of which 21 were included. Eight studies addressed the factors. Six themes emerged as risk factors, including demographics, severity of disease, psycho-environmental, medication, fluid restriction and homeostasis. Conversely, an increase in fluid intake, a high score of sodium restriction diet attitude and using ARB were identified as protective factors. Thirteen studies focus on intervention strategies. Five unique intervention strategies were identified, including Traditional Chinese Medicine, mint-related interventions, sour-flavour interventions, improved water restriction and cluster nursing strategy.

CONCLUSION

This finding identified the factors associated with thirst symptoms in patients with HF, especially concerning the elaboration of risk factors, which suggests that healthcare professionals should focus on the risk factors for thirst in patients with HF and consciously avoid the occurrence of these risk factors. Additionally, there are considerable cultural differences in interventions, therefore, to increase adherence during symptom management, careful selection of appropriate intervention strategies based on the requirements and preferences of patients is required. While there are some therapies, there aren't enough high-quality empirical investigations. Thus, multi-centre, large-sample studies are also required in subsequent research to demonstrate the interventions' effectiveness.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION

The nurse must notice the symptoms of thirst in HF to slow down the disease's progression and improve the patient's physical and emotional well-being.

REPORTING METHOD

The review complies with the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution.

Superiority of high sensitivity cardiac troponin I over NT-proBNP and adiponectin for 7-year mortality in stable patients receiving haemodialysis

Patients on haemodialysis (HD) have high mortality risk, and prognostic values of the major cardiovascular biomarkers cardiac troponin I (cTnI), N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and adiponectin should be ascertained over longer follow-up periods using higher-sensitivity assays, which we undertook. In 221 HD patients, levels of high-sensitivity (hs)-cTnI, NT-proBNP, and adiponectin, were measured using high-sensitivity assays, and their associations with all-cause mortality (ACM) and cardiovascular mortality (CVM) were prospectively investigated for 7 years. Higher hs-cTnI and NT-proBNP levels were significant risk factors for ACM and CVM in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses in a model including hs-cTnI and NT-proBNP identified log hs-cTnI, but not log NT-proBNP, as an independent risk factor for ACM (HR 2.12, P < 0.02) and CVM (HR 4.48, P < 0.0005). Stepwise analyses identified a high hs-cTnI tertile as a risk factor for ACM (HR 2.31, P < 0.01) and CVM (HR 6.70, P < 0.001). The addition of hs-cTnI to a model including age, CRP, DM, and NT-proBNP significantly improved the discrimination of ACM and CVM each over 7 years. Conclusively, hs-cTnI was superior to NT-proBNP and adiponectin in predicting ACM and CVM over 7 years in HD patients, suggesting the significance of baseline hs-cTnI measurements in long-term management.

Circular RNAs: a small piece in the heart failure puzzle

Cardiovascular disease, specifically heart failure (HF), remains a significant concern in the realm of healthcare, necessitating the development of new treatments and biomarkers. The RNA family consists of various subgroups, including microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRAN) and long non-coding RNAs, which have shown potential in advancing personalized healthcare for HF patients. Recent research suggests that circular RNAs, a lesser-known subgroup of RNAs, may offer a novel set of targets and biomarkers for HF. This review will discuss the biogenesis of circular RNAs, their unique characteristics relevant to HF, their role in heart function, and their potential use as biomarkers in the bloodstream. Furthermore, future research directions in this field will be outlined. The stability of exosomal circRNAs makes them suitable as biomarkers, pathogenic regulators, and potential treatments for cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, acute coronary syndrome, ischemia/reperfusion injury, HF, and peripheral artery disease. Herein, we summarized the role of circular RNAs and their exosomal forms in HF diseases.

Degradation of the α-Carboxyl Terminus 11 Peptide: In Vivo and Ex Vivo Impacts of Time, Temperature, Inhibitors, and Gender in Rat

In previous research, a synthetic α-carboxyl terminus 1 (αCT1) peptide derived from connexin 43 (Cx43) and its variant (αCT11) showed beneficial effects in an ex vivo ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) heart injury model in mouse. In an in vivo mouse model of cryo-induced ventricular injury, αCT1 released from adhesive cardiac patches reduced Cx43 remodeling and arrhythmias, as well as maintained cardiac conduction. Whether intravenous injection of αCT1 or αCT11 produces similar outcomes has not been investigated. Given the possibility of peptide degradation in plasma, this study utilized in vivo I/R cardiac injury and ex vivo blood plasma models to examine factors that may limit the therapeutic potential of peptide therapeutics in vivo. Following tail vein administration of αCT11 (100 μM) in blood, no effect on I/R infarct size was observed in adult rat hearts on day 1 (D1) and day 28 (D28) after injury (p > 0.05). There was also no difference in the echocardiographic ejection fraction (EF%) between the control and the αCT11 groups (p > 0.05). Surprisingly, αCT11 in blood plasma collected from these rats was undetectable within ∼10 min after tail vein injection. To investigate factors that may modulate αCT11 degradation in blood, αCT11 was directly added to blood plasma isolated from normal rats without I/R and peptide levels were measured under different experimental conditions. Consistent with in vivo observations, significant αCT11 degradation occurred in plasma within 10 min at 22 and 37 °C and was nearly undetectable by 30 min. These responses were reduced by the addition of protease/phosphatase (PTase/PPTase) inhibitors to the isolated plasma. Interestingly, no significant differences in αCT11 degradation in plasma were noted between male and female rats. We conclude that fast degradation of αCT11 is likely the reason that no beneficial effects were observed in the in vivo I/R model and inhibition or shielding from PTase/PPTase activity may be a strategy that will assist with the viability of peptide therapeutics.

Heart Failure-Related Death in Subjects With Atrial Fibrillation in the United States, 1999 to 2020

BACKGROUND

Population-based data on heart failure (HF)-related death in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are lacking. We assessed HF-related death in people with AF in the United States over the past 21 years and examined differences by age, sex, race, ethnicity, urbanization, and census region.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data were extracted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research to determine trends in age-adjusted mortality rates per 100 000 people, due to HF-related death among subjects with AF aged ≥15 years. To calculate nationwide annual trends, we assessed the average annual percent change (AAPC) and annual percent change with relative 95% CIs using joinpoint regression. Between 1999 and 2020, 916 685 HF-related deaths (396 205 men and 520 480 women) occurred among US adults having a concomitant AF. The overall age-adjusted mortality rates increased (AAPC: +4.1% [95% CI, 3.8-4.4]; P<0.001), especially after 2011 (annual percent change, +6.8% [95% CI, 6.2-7.4]; P<0.001) in men (AAPC, +4.8% [95% CI, 4.4-5.1]; P<0.001), in White subjects (AAPC: +4.2% [95% CI, 3.9 to 4.6]; P<0.001) and in subjects aged <65 years (AAPC: +7.5% [95% CI, 6.7-8.4]; P<0.001). The higher percentage of deaths were registered in the South (32.8%). During the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant excess in HF-related deaths among patients with AF aged >65 years was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A worrying increase in the HF-related mortality rate among patients with AF has been observed in the United States over the past 2 decades.

Aberrant cortical morphology patterns are associated with cognitive impairment in patients with chronic heart failure

A mounting body of evidences suggests that patients with chronic heart failure (HF) frequently experience cognitive impairments, but the neuroanatomical mechanism underlying these impairments remains elusive. In this retrospective study, 49 chronic HF patients and 49 healthy controls (HCs) underwent brain structural MRI scans and cognitive assessments. Cortical morphology index (cortical thickness, complexity, sulcal depth and gyrification) were evaluated. Correlations between cortical morphology and cognitive scores and clinical variables were explored. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors for predicting 3-year major adverse cardiovascular events. Compared with HCs, patients with chronic HF exhibited decreased cognitive scores (p < .001) and decreased cortical thickness, sulcal depth and gyrification in brain regions involved cognition, sensorimotor, autonomic nervous system (family-wise error correction, all p values <.05). Notably, HF duration and New York Heart Association (NYHA) demonstrated negative correlations with abnormal cortex morphology, particularly HF duration and thickness in left precentral gyrus (r = -.387, p = .006). Cortical morphology characteristics exhibited positive associations with global cognition, particularly cortical thickness in left pars opercularis (r = .476, p < .001). NYHA class is an independent risk factor for adverse outcome (p = .001). The observed correlation between abnormal cortical morphology and global cognition suggested that cortical morphology may serve as a promising imaging biomarker and provide insights into neuroanatomical underpinnings of cognitive impairment in patients with chronic HF.

Long-term outcomes from upgrade to cardiac resynchronisation therapy in ischaemic versus non-ischaemic heart disease

BACKGROUND

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) can be necessary in patients with chronic heart failure, who have already been provided with transvenous cardiac implantable electrical devices. Upgrade procedures revealed controversial results, while long-term outcomes regarding underlying Ischaemic- (ICM) or Non-Ischaemic heart disease (NICM) have yet to be described.

METHODS

The Mannheim Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy Registry (MARACANA) was designed as a retrospective observational single-centre registry, including all CRT implantations from 2013-2021 (n = 459). CRT upgrades (n = 136) were retrospectively grouped to either ICM (n = 84) or NICM (n = 52) and compared for New York Heart Association classification (NYHA), paced QRS-width, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and other heart failure modification aspects in the long-term (59.3 ± 5 months).

RESULTS

Baseline-characteristics including paced QRS-width, upgrade indications or NYHA-classification were comparable for both groups (group comparison p>.05). The CRT upgrade improved NYHA (ICM: 2.98 ± 0.4 to 2.29 ± 0.7, NICM: 2.94 ± 0.5 to 2.08 ± 0.5) and the LVEF (ICM: 27.2 ± 6.6 to 38.25 ± 8.8, NICM: 30.2 ± 9.4 to 38.7 ± 13.8%) after five years, irrespective of underlying heart disease (each group p < .05, group comparison p>.05). Only ICM revealed significant improvements in TAPSE (15.9 ± 4.1 to 18.9 ± 4.1 mm) and narrowing of the paced QRS-width (185.4 ± 29 to 147.2 ± 16.3 ms) after five years (each p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Upgrade to CRT might improve heart failure symptoms and left-ventricular systolic function in the long-term, irrespective of underlying ischaemic or non-ischaemic heart disease.

Potassium: A Frontier in Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a significant public health concern, particularly in aging populations, leading to fractures, decreased mobility, and reduced quality of life. While calcium and vitamin D have long been recognized as essential for bone health, emerging research suggests that potassium may play a crucial role in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. This manuscript explores the relationship between potassium and osteoporosis, delving into the mechanisms, epidemiological evidence, and potential therapeutic implications of potassium in bone health. Furthermore, the manuscript discusses the sources of dietary potassium, its impact on bone metabolism, and the future directions in research and clinical practice regarding potassium's role in osteoporosis management.

Age-specific mortality trends in heart failure over 25 years: a retrospective Danish nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Despite advances in heart failure care reducing mortality in clinical trials, it remains unclear whether real-life cohorts have had similar improvements in life expectancy across the age spectrum. We aimed to investigate how mortality trends changed in patients with heart failure over the past 25 years, stratified by age groups.

METHODS

Using Danish nationwide registries, we identified patients with new-onset heart failure aged 18-95 years. The 5-year all-cause mortality risk and the absolute risk difference of mortality between patients with heart failure and age-matched and sex-matched heart failure-free controls were assessed using Kaplan-Meier estimates and multivariable Cox regression models. Mortality trends were analysed across five calendar periods (1996-2000, 2001-05, 2006-10, 2011-15, and 2016-20) and three age groups (<65 years, 65-79 years, and ≥80 years).

FINDINGS

194 997 patients with heart failure were included. Mortality significantly decreased from 1996-2000 (66% [95% CI 65·5-66·4]) to 2016-20 (43% [42·1-43·4]), with similar results shown in all age groups (<65 years: 35% [33·9-36·1] to 15% [14·6-16·3]; 65-79 years: 64% [63·1-64·5] to 39% [37·6-39·6]; and ≥80 years: 84% [83·1-84·3] to 73% [71·7-73·9]). Adjusted mortality rates supported these associations. The absolute risk difference declined notably in younger age groups (<65 years: 29·9% [28·8-31·0] to 12·7% [12·0-13·4] and 65-79 years: 41·1% [40·3-41·9] to 25·1% [24·4-25·8]), remaining relatively stable in those aged 80 years or older (30·6% [29·9-31·3] to 28% [27·2-28·8]).

INTERPRETATION

Over 25 years, there has been a consistent decrease in mortality among patients with heart failure across age groups, albeit less prominently in patients aged 80 years or older. Further insight is needed to identify effective strategies for improving disease burden in older patients with heart failure.

FUNDING

None.

TRANSLATION

For the Danish translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

The influence of diagnostic subgroups, patient- and hospital characteristics for the validity of cardiovascular diagnoses-Data from a Norwegian hospital trust

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular discharge diagnoses may serve as endpoints in epidemiological studies if they have a high validity. Aim was to study if diagnoses-specific characteristics like type, sub-categories, and position of cardiovascular diagnoses affected diagnostic accuracy.

METHODS

Patients (n = 7,164) with a discharge diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, heart failure or cerebrovascular disease were included. Data were presented as positive predictive values (PPV) and sensitivity.

RESULTS

PPV was high (≥88%) for acute myocardial infarction (n = 2,189) (except for outpatients). For heart failure (n = 4,026) PPV was 67% overall, but higher (>99%) when etiology or echocardiography was included. For hemorrhagic (n = 257) and ischemic (n = 1,034) strokes PPVs were 87% and 80%, respectively, with sensitivity of 79% and 75%. Transient ischemic attacks (n = 926) had PPV 56%, but sensitivity 86%. Primary diagnoses showed higher validity than subsequent diagnoses and inpatient diagnoses were more valid than outpatient diagnoses (except for transient ischemic attack). The diagnoses of acute myocardial infarction and heart failure where most valid when placed at cardiology units, while ischemic stroke when discharged from an internal medicine unit.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnoses of acute myocardial infarction and stroke had excellent validity when placed during hospital stays. Similarly, heart failure diagnoses had excellent validity when echocardiography was performed before placing the diagnosis, while overall the diagnoses of heart failure and transient ischemic attack were less valid. In conclusion, the results indicate that cardiovascular diagnoses based on objective findings such as acute myocardial infarction and stroke have excellent validity and may be used as endpoints in clinical epidemiological studies with less rigid validation.

Right Ventricular "Bubble Time" to Identify Patients With Right Ventricular Dysfunction

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We propose a novel method of evaluating right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in the emergency department (ED) using RV "bubble time"-the duration of time bubbles from a saline solution flush are visualized in the RV on echocardiography. The objective was to identify the optimal cutoff value for RV bubble time that differentiates patients with RV dysfunction and report on its diagnostic test characteristics.

METHODS

This prospective diagnostic accuracy study enrolled a convenience sample of hemodynamically stable patients in the ED. A sonographer administered a 10-mL saline solution flush into the patient's intravenous catheter, performed a bedside echocardiogram, and measured RV bubble time. Subsequently, the patient underwent a comprehensive cardiologist-interpreted echocardiogram within 36 hours, which served as the gold standard. Patients with RV strain or enlargement of the latter found on an echocardiogram were considered to have RV dysfunction. Bubble time was evaluated by a second provider, blinded to the initial results, who reviewed the ultrasound clips. The primary outcome measure was the optimal cutoff value of RV bubble time that identifies patients with and without RV dysfunction.

RESULTS

Of 196 patients, median age was 67 year, and half were women, with 69 (35.2%) having RV dysfunction. Median RV bubble time among patients with RV dysfunction was 62 seconds (interquartile range [IQR]: 52, 93) compared with 21 seconds (IQR: 12, 32) among patients without (P<.0001). The optimal cutoff value of RV bubble time for identifying patients with RV dysfunction was 40 or more seconds, with a sensitivity of 0.97 (95% CI 0.93 to 1.00) and specificity of 0.87 (95% CI 0.82 to 0.93).

CONCLUSION

In patients in the ED, an RV bubble time of 40 or more seconds had high sensitivity in identifying patients with RV dysfunction, whereas an RV bubble time of less than 40 seconds had good specificity in identifying patients without RV dysfunction. These findings warrant further investigation in undifferentiated patient populations and by emergency physicians without advanced ultrasound training.

Impact of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibition (ARNI) in improving ejection fraction and left and right ventricular remodeling in heart failure

Angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI), a new therapeutic class of agents acting on the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) and neutral endopeptidase system has been developed in treatment of ventricular remodeling and has attracted considerable attention. The first in class is LCZ696, which is a molecule that combines Valsartan (ARB) and Sacubitril (neprilysin inhibitor) within a single substance. Sacubitril-Valsartan is the first angiotensin receptor enkephalin inhibitors (ARNI), which can block angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) while inhibiting enkephalin (NEP) and effectively reverse ventricular remodeling in heart failure patients. It has been recommended by the European and American authoritative guidelines on heart failure as Class I for the treatment of chronic heart failure particularly as intensive care medicine. Sacubitril-Valsartan demonstrated significant effects in improving left ventricular performance and remodeling in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Sacubitril acts on increased levels of circulating natriuretic peptides by preventing their enzymatic breakdown and Valsartan, which acts to lessen the effects of the RAAS. However, not more research has been done on its effects on the right ventricle remodeling. This review aimed to assess the impact of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors on left and right ventricular remodeling in heart failure patients.

Exercise training response according to baseline ferrokinetics in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: A substudy of the TRAINING-HF trial

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency (ID) is associated with impaired functional capacity in patients with heart failure (HF), even in those with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of baseline ferrokinetics on peak oxygen consumption (peakVO2) improvement after a 12-week physical therapy programme in patients with stable HFpEF.

METHODS

This study is a post-hoc sub-analysis of a randomized clinical trial in which 59 stable patients with HFpEF were randomized to receive a 12-week programme of inspiratory muscle training (IMT), functional electrical stimulation (FES), IMT + FES or usual care (UC) to evaluate change in peakVO2 (NCT02638961). Serum ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) determinations were assessed at baseline. ID was defined as ferritin <100 ng/mL and/or TSAT <20% if ferritin was within 100-299 ng/mL. We used a linear mixed regression model to analyse between-treatment changes in peakVO2 across ferrokinetics status at 12 and 24 weeks.

RESULTS

The mean age was 74 ± 9 years, and 36 (61%) had ID. The mean of peakVO2 was 9.9 ± 2.5 mL/kg/min. The median of ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) was 91 (50-181) ng/mL and 23% (16-30), respectively. A total of 52 patients completed the trial (13 patients per arm). Compared with those patients on UC, patients allocated to any of the active arms showed less improvement in peak VO2 when they showed ID (P-value for interaction <0.001), lower values of ferritin (P-value for interaction <0.001), or TSAT (P-value for interaction <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Ferrokinetics status plays an essential role in modifying the aerobic capacity response to physical therapies in patients with HFpEF. Further studies are required to confirm these findings.

Long-term outcomes and reverse remodelling in recently diagnosed unexplained left ventricular systolic dysfunction

AIMS

In patients with recently diagnosed non-ischaemic LV systolic dysfunction, left ventricular reverse remodelling (LVRR) and favourable prognosis has been documented in studies with short-term follow-up. The aim of our study was to assess the long-term clinical course and stability of LVRR in these patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We prospectively studied 133 patients (37 women; 55 [interquartile range 46, 61] years) with recently diagnosed unexplained LV systolic dysfunction, with heart failure symptoms lasting <6 months and LV ejection fraction <40% persisting after at least 1 week of therapy. All patients underwent endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) at the time of diagnosis and serial echocardiographic and clinical follow-up over 5 years. LVRR was defined as the combined presence of (1) LVEF ≥ 50% or increase in LVEF ≥ 10% points and (2) decrease in LV end-diastolic diameter index (LVEDDi) ≥ 10% or (3) LVEDDi ≤ 33 mm/m2. LVRR was observed in 46% patients at 1 year, in 60% at 2 years and 50% at 5 years. Additionally, 2% of patients underwent heart transplantation and 12% experienced heart failure hospitalization. During 5-year follow-up, 23 (17%) of the study cohort died. In multivariate analysis, independent predictors of mortality were baseline right atrial size (OR 1.097, CI 1.007-1.196), logBNP level (OR 2.02, CI 1.14-3.56), and PR interval (OR 1.02, CI 1.006-1.035) (P < 0.05 for all). The number of macrophages on EMB was associated with overall survival in univariate analysis only. LVRR at 1 year of follow-up was associated with a lower rate of mortality and heart failure hospitalization (P = 0.025). In multivariate analysis, independent predictors of LVRR were left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (OR 0.97, CI 0.946-0.988), LVEF (OR 0.89, CI 0.83-0.96), and diastolic blood pressure (OR 1.04, CI 1.01-1.08) (P < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

LVRR occurs in over half of patients with recent onset unexplained LV systolic dysfunction during first 2 years of optimally guided heart failure therapy and then remains relatively stable during 5-year follow-up. Normalization of adverse LV remodelling corresponds to a low rate of mortality and heart failure hospitalizations during long-term follow-up.

Effect of Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter-2 Inhibitors on Ventricular Repolarization Markers in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors added to optimal medical therapy have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and recurrent heart failure (HF) hospitalization in HF patients. We aimed to evaluate the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on the ventricular repolarization markers (VRM) in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

METHODS

51 patients with HFrEF who had symptoms New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II-IV despite optimal medical treatment and were added SGLT2 inhibitors to their treatment were included in the study. Electrocardiography (ECG) and laboratory results obtained before the treatment and at the first-month follow-up visit were compared. QT, QTc (corrected by Bazett formula), QT dispersion (QTd), QTc dispersion (QTc-d), Tpeak to Tend (Tp-e) interval, Tp-e/QT, and Tp-e/QTc ratios were measured and defined as VRM.

RESULTS

A significant decrease was observed in HR, QT, QTc intervals, and QTd compared to pre-treatment. While the mean Tp-e interval was 101.5 ± 11.7 ms before treatment, it decreased to 93.1 ± 12.7 ms after treatment (p < 0.001). There was a significant decrease in N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels after treatment [2859 ± 681vs.1266 ± 763, respectively (p < 0.001)] and QTd, Tp-e interval, and Tp-e/QTc ratio was positively correlated with the change in NT-proBNP level.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of SGLT2 inhibitors to optimal medical therapy in HFrEF patients positively changes VRM (QT, QTc, QTd, Tp-e, and Tp-e/QTc).

Electrocardiography changes and different stages of heart failure in central Iran: A cross-sectional study from Yazd Health Study

Background and Aims

Electrocardiography (ECG) is a widely accessible, noninvasive, and cost-effective diagnostic instrument used to evaluate patients with suspected heart failure (HF). The aim of this study is to investigate electrocardiographic changes in patients with different stages of HF in a random population of Yazd city.

Methods

This prospective cross-sectional study included 319 individuals, randomly selected, aged 40 years and more, registered in the Yazd Health Study was conducted from March 2022 to May 2023 at Afshar Hospitals. In accordance with the AHA/ACC guidelines, HF was classified into four stages (A, B, C, and D).

Results

The 159 individuals were classified in the stage 0 group, 77 were in Stage A, 65 were in Stage B, and 18 were in Stage C of HF. In the Stage 0, the PR interval (PRi) was 130.5 ± 18.1 ms, while in Stage C, it was 143.3 ± 21.9 ms, with a significant difference (p = 0.047). Similarly, the QRS interval (QRSi) increased with HF staging (p = 0.001). The frequency of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), hyperlipidemia (HLP), chronic heart disease, alcoholism, and PRi, QRSi, QT interval levels were independent predictors of HF stage in multivariate regression analysis.

Conclusion

The prevalence of HF stages, as classified by the AHA/ACC guidelines, was observed, with significant correlations between ECG parameters and HF progression. abnormal rhythms, left bundle branch block, ischemia, hypertrophy, and left atrial enlargement increased with higher HF stages. Major risk factors like DM and HTN exhibited a heightened prevalence in advanced HF stages, accentuating their pivotal role in the progression of HF.

A Comprehensive Review of Cancer Drug-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Blood Cancer Patients: Current Perspectives and Therapeutic Strategies

OPINION STATEMENT

Cardiotoxicity has emerged as a serious outcome catalyzed by various therapeutic targets in the field of cancer treatment, which includes chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. The growing significance of cancer drug-induced cardiotoxicity (CDIC) and radiation-induced cardiotoxicity (CRIC) necessitates immediate attention. This article intricately unveils how cancer treatments cause cardiotoxicity, which is exacerbated by patient-specific risks. In particular, drugs like anthracyclines, alkylating agents, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors pose a risk, along with factors such as hypertension and diabetes. Mechanistic insights into oxidative stress and topoisomerase-II-B inhibition are crucial, while cardiac biomarkers show early damage. Timely intervention and prompt treatment, especially with specific agents like dexrazoxane and beta-blockers, are pivotal in the proactive management of CDIC.

Pharmacological Approach for Symptomatic Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardia

Nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) is a common arrhythmia associated with heart failure, cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease, electrolyte imbalances, and congenital heart disorders (Foth et al., 2023). NSVT is often asymptomatic depending on its burden percentage. However, typical NSVT presentation in the emergency department (ED) includes palpitations, near-syncope, dizziness, skipped beats, chest pain, and/or dyspnea (Katritsis et al., 2012). In some instances, NSVT can present with elevated or slightly elevated troponin from demand ischemia. A definite diagnosis of NSVT is not of high complexity; nevertheless, it is not always identified on electrocardiogram (ECG) by the time the patient arrives to the ED. Identification of NSVT usually requires prolonged cardiac monitoring, mobile cardiac telemetry (MCT), and in some instances internal loop recorder placement. The purpose of this case is to discuss the typical presentation and pharmacological approach of patients with stable NSVT.

Cardiac fibrogenesis: an immuno-metabolic perspective

Cardiac fibrosis is a major and complex pathophysiological process that ultimately culminates in cardiac dysfunction and heart failure. This phenomenon includes not only the replacement of the damaged tissue by a fibrotic scar produced by activated fibroblasts/myofibroblasts but also a spatiotemporal alteration of the structural, biochemical, and biomechanical parameters in the ventricular wall, eliciting a reactive remodeling process. Though mechanical stress, post-infarct homeostatic imbalances, and neurohormonal activation are classically attributed to cardiac fibrosis, emerging evidence that supports the roles of immune system modulation, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation in the initiation and progression of cardiac fibrogenesis has been reported. Adaptive changes, immune cell phenoconversions, and metabolic shifts in the cardiac nonmyocyte population provide initial protection, but persistent altered metabolic demand eventually contributes to adverse remodeling of the heart. Altered energy metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, various immune cells, immune mediators, and cross-talks between the immune cells and cardiomyocytes play crucial roles in orchestrating the transdifferentiation of fibroblasts and ensuing fibrotic remodeling of the heart. Manipulation of the metabolic plasticity, fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, and modulation of the immune response may hold promise for favorably modulating the fibrotic response following different cardiovascular pathological processes. Although the immunologic and metabolic perspectives of fibrosis in the heart are being reported in the literature, they lack a comprehensive sketch bridging these two arenas and illustrating the synchrony between them. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the intricate relationship between different cardiac immune cells and metabolic pathways as well as summarizes the current understanding of the involvement of immune-metabolic pathways in cardiac fibrosis and attempts to identify some of the previously unaddressed questions that require further investigation. Moreover, the potential therapeutic strategies and emerging pharmacological interventions, including immune and metabolic modulators, that show promise in preventing or attenuating cardiac fibrosis and restoring cardiac function will be discussed.

Safety and efficacy of Cox-Maze procedure for atrial fibrillation during mitral valve surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Cox-Maze procedure is currently the gold standard treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data on the effectiveness of the Cox-Maze procedure after concomitant mitral valve surgery (MVS) are not well established. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of Cox-Maze procedure versus no-maze procedure n in AF patients undergoing mitral valve surgery through a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic search on PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials (Cochrane Library, Issue 02, 2017) databases were performed using three databases from their inception to March 2023, identifying all relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Cox-Maze procedure versus no procedure in AF patients undergoing mitral valve surgery. Data were extracted and analyzed according to predefined clinical endpoints.

RESULTS

Nine RCTs meeting the inclusion criteria were included in this systematic review with 663 patients in total (341 concomitant Cox-Maze with MVS and 322 MVS alone). Across all studies with included AF patients undergoing MV surgery, the concomitant Cox-Maze procedure was associated with significantly higher sinus rhythm rate at discharge, 6 months, and 12 months follow-up when compared with the no-Maze group. Results indicated that there was no significant difference between the Cox-Maze and no-Maze groups in terms of 1 year all-cause mortality, pacemaker implantation, stroke, and thromboembolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our systematic review suggested that RCTs have demonstrated the addition of the Cox-Maze procedure for AF leads to a significantly higher rate of sinus rhythm in mitral valve surgical patients, with no increase in the rates of mortality, pacemaker implantation, stroke, and thromboembolism.

Combining WGCNA and machine learning to identify mechanisms and biomarkers of ischemic heart failure development after acute myocardial infarction

Background

Ischemic heart failure (IHF) is a serious complication after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Understanding the mechanism of IHF after AMI will help us conduct early diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

We obtained the AMI dataset GSE66360 and the IHF dataset GSE57338 from the GEO database, and screened overlapping genes common to both diseases through WGCNA analysis. Subsequently, we performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis on overlapping genes to elucidate the common mechanism of AMI and IHF. Machine learning algorithms are also used to identify key biomarkers. Finally, we performed immune cell infiltration analysis on the dataset to further evaluate immune cell changes in AMI and IHF.

Results

We obtained 74 overlapping genes of AMI and IHF through WGCNA analysis, and the enrichment analysis results mainly focused on immune and inflammation-related mechanisms. Through the three machine learning algorithms of LASSO, RF and SVM-RFE, we finally obtained the four Hub genes of IL1B, TIMP2, IFIT3, and P2RY2, and verified them in the IHF dataset GSE116250, and the diagnostic model AUC = 0.907. The results of immune infiltration analysis showed that 8 types of immune cells were significantly different in AMI samples, and 6 types of immune cells were significantly different in IHF samples.

Conclusion

We explored the mechanism of IHF after AMI by WGCNA, enrichment analysis, and immune infiltration analysis. Four potential diagnostic candidate genes and therapeutic targets were identified by machine learning algorithms. This provides a new idea for the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of IHF after AMI.

Overcoming barriers and stigma: new frontiers in solid organ transplantation for people with HIV

There is a growing need for solid organ transplantation (SOT) for people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). With the advent of antiretroviral therapy, people living with HIV are experiencing increased life expectancies and are, therefore, developing more comorbidities, including end-stage organ disease. In cases of advanced organ failure, SOT is often the best therapeutic option to improve quality of life and overall survival. As organ shortages persist, transplantation of organs from donors with HIV to recipients with HIV has become a potential therapeutic option. This article first reviews the current state of organ transplantation from donors without HIV to recipients with HIV (HIV D-/R+) by organ and discusses key lessons learned from these transplant trials, including those about drug-drug interactions, rejection, and opportunistic infections. It then explores transplantation from donors with HIV to recipients with HIV (HIV D+/R+), a new frontier. Finally, it investigates challenges of implementation, including public awareness and regulatory requirements, and explores future directions for SOT in people living with HIV.

Use of the energy waveform electrocardiogram to detect subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Recent guidelines propose N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) for recognition of asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction (Stage B Heart Failure, SBHF) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Wavelet Transform based signal-processing transforms electrocardiogram (ECG) waveforms into an energy distribution waveform (ew)ECG, providing frequency and energy features that machine learning can use as additional inputs to improve the identification of SBHF. Accordingly, we sought whether machine learning model based on ewECG features was superior to NT-proBNP, as well as a conventional screening tool-the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) HF risk score, in SBHF screening among patients with T2DM.

METHODS

Participants in two clinical trials of SBHF (defined as diastolic dysfunction [DD], reduced global longitudinal strain [GLS ≤ 18%] or LV hypertrophy [LVH]) in T2DM underwent 12-lead ECG with additional ewECG feature and echocardiography. Supervised machine learning was adopted to identify the optimal combination of ewECG extracted features for SBHF screening in 178 participants in one trial and tested in 97 participants in the other trial. The accuracy of the ewECG model in SBHF screening was compared with NT-proBNP and ARIC HF.

RESULTS

SBHF was identified in 128 (72%) participants in the training dataset (median 72 years, 41% female) and 64 (66%) in the validation dataset (median 70 years, 43% female). Fifteen ewECG features showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 (95% CI 0.787-0.794) in identifying SBHF, significantly better than both NT-proBNP (AUC 0.56, 95% CI 0.44-0.68, p < 0.001) and ARIC HF (AUC 0.67, 95%CI 0.56-0.79, p = 0.002). ewECG features were also led to robust models screening for DD (AUC 0.74, 95% CI 0.73-0.74), reduced GLS (AUC 0.76, 95% CI 0.73-0.74) and LVH (AUC 0.90, 95% CI 0.88-0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

Machine learning based modelling using additional ewECG extracted features are superior to NT-proBNP and ARIC HF in SBHF screening among patients with T2DM, providing an alternative HF screening strategy for asymptomatic patients and potentially act as a guidance tool to determine those who required echocardiogram to confirm diagnosis. Trial registration LEAVE-DM, ACTRN 12619001393145 and Vic-ELF, ACTRN 12617000116325.

Chronic care for heart failure patients: Who to refer back to the general practitioner?-Experiences of the Dutch integrated heart failure care model

OBJECTIVE

The number of patients with heart failure (HF) and corresponding burden of the healthcare system will increase significantly. The Dutch integrated model, 'Transmural care of HF Patients' was based on the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines and initiated to manage the increasing prevalence of HF patients in primary and secondary care and stimulate integrated care. It is unknown how many HF patients are eligible for back-referral to general practitioners (GPs), which is important information for the management of chronic HF care. This study aims to evaluate clinical practice of patients for whom chronic HF care can be referred from the cardiologist to the GP based on the aforementioned chronic HF care model.

DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective case record-based study was conducted, which included all chronic HF patients registered in the cardiology information systems of two different hospitals. Subsequently, 200 patients were randomly selected for evaluation. The following patients were considered eligible for referral to the GP: 1/Stable HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), 2/Stable HF patients with a recovered LVEF and 3/Stable HF patients with a preserved LVEF, 4/HF, palliative setting.

RESULTS

Of the 200 patients, 17% was considered eligible for referral to the GP. This group consisted of 5% patients with a reduced LVEF, 10.5% patients with recovered LVEF and 1.5% patients with a preserved LVEF. Main indicators for HF care by cardiologists were active cardiac disease other than HF (39.5%), recent admission for HF (29.5%) or a recent adjustment in HF medication (7.5%).

CONCLUSION

Applying the chronic HF care model of the 'Transmural care of HF patients' and the ESC-guidelines, results in an important opportunity to further optimise HF integrated care and to deal with the increasing number of HF patients referred to the hospital.

Chronic heart failure with reduced EF: A decade of major pharmacological innovations

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Because of its severity, prevalence, and medical economic importance, heart failure is a chronic disease that is the subject of intense medical research. The aim of this article was to review the therapeutic innovations of the last decade that have been incorporated into the latest international recommendations for the treatment of heart failure.

METHOD

Review of literature and current guidelines.

CONCLUSION

The results of the clinical trials reviewed here represent major advances that will have a significant impact on quality of life, survival, rehospitalisation and, for certain treatments, a beneficial joint effect on commonly associated comorbidities such as diabetes and chronic renal failure.

Evaluating Glass Ionomer Cement Longevity in the Primary and Permanent Teeth-An Umbrella Review

The aim of this umbrella review was to evaluate the longevity of glass ionomer cement (GIC) as a restorative material for primary and permanent teeth. Research in the literature was conducted in three databases (MedLine/PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus). The inclusion criteria were: (1) to be a systematic review of clinical trials that (2) evaluated the clinical longevity of GICs as a restorative material in primary and/or permanent teeth; the exclusion criteria were: (1) not being a systematic review of clinical trials; (2) not evaluating longevity/clinical performance of GICs as a restorative material; and (3) studies of dental restorative materials in teeth with enamel alterations, root caries, and non-carious cervical lesions. Twenty-four eligible articles were identified, and 13 were included. The follow-up periods ranged from 6 months to 6 years. Different types of GICs were evaluated in the included studies: resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC), compomers, and low- and high-viscosity glass ionomer cement. Some studies compared amalgam and composite resins to GICs regarding longevity/clinical performance. Analyzing the AMSTAR-2 results, none of the articles had positive criteria in all the evaluated requisites, and none of the articles had an a priori design. The criteria considered for the analysis of the risk of bias of the included studies were evaluated through the ROBIS tool, and the results of this analysis showed that seven studies had a low risk of bias; three studies had positive results in all criteria except for one criterion of unclear risk; and two studies showed a high risk of bias. GRADE tool was used to determine the quality of evidence; for the degree of recommendations, all studies were classified as Class II, meaning there was still conflicting evidence on the clinical performance/longevity of GICs and their recommendations compared to other materials. The level of evidence was classified as Level B, meaning that the data were obtained from less robust meta-analyses and single randomized clinical trials. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first umbrella review approaching GIC in permanent teeth. GICs are a good choice in both dentitions, but primary dentition presents more evidence, especially regarding the atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) technique. Within the limitation of this study, it is still questionable if GIC is a good restorative material in the medium/long term for permanent and primary dentition. Many of the included studies presented a high risk of bias and low quality. The techniques, type of GIC, type of cavity, and operator experience highly influence clinical performance. Thus, clinical decision-making should be based on the dental practitioner's ability, each case analysis, and the patient's wishes. More evidence is needed to determine which is the best material for definitive restorations in permanent and primary dentition.

Assessment of Right Ventricular Function by Strain Imaging in Patients Presenting with Acute Myocardial Infarction: An Original Research

Objective

This study sought to determine the relationship between right ventricular (RV) function and clinical variables and prognosis in individuals with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) utilizing strain imaging.

Materials and Methods

A prospective observational research involving 150 patients who had been admitted with AMI was carried out. Utilizing two-dimensional speckle-tracking strain imaging, RV function was assessed. Age, sex, risk factors, and comorbidities were recorded as clinical parameters. A 12-month follow-up was conducted to assess major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Results

65% of the study's participants were men, with a mean age of 58.2 years. When compared to a healthy control group, individuals with AMI had significantly lower RV longitudinal strain (RVLS) (P 0.001). RVLS and left ventricular ejection fraction had a statistically significant connection (r = 0.642, P 0.001). Patients with compromised RVLS had a greater rate of MACE over the follow-up period compared to those with maintained RV function (P = 0.014).

Conclusion

In conclusion, strain imaging offers useful information for evaluating RV function in patients with AMI. Reduced left ventricular performance and a higher likelihood of unfavorable clinical outcomes are linked to impaired RVLS. Utilizing strain imaging to detect RV dysfunction early can help direct treatment plans and enhance patient outcomes.

Uric acid is a biomarker for heart failure, but not therapeutic target: result from a comprehensive meta-analysis

AIMS

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between serum uric acid (SUA) levels and the incidence rate and prognosis of heart failure (HF), as well as the impact of uric acid-lowering treatment on HF patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

PubMed and Embase were searched for original articles reporting on the association between SUA and HF incidence, adverse outcomes, and the effect of uric acid-lowering treatment in HF patients. Data were pooled using random effects or fixed effects models. Univariable meta-regression analysis assessed the influence of study characteristics on research outcomes. Statistical analyses were conducted using RevMan software and STATA software version 15.0. Eleven studies on HF incidence and 24 studies on adverse outcomes in HF patients were included. Higher SUA levels were associated with an increased risk of HF (RR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.53-2.16), all-cause mortality (RR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.25-1.66), cardiac death (RR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.32-1.84), and HF rehospitalization (RR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.37-3.13) in HF patients. Uric acid-lowering treatment was found to increase all-cause mortality in HF patients (RR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.05-1.25).

CONCLUSIONS

Uric acid is an independent predictor of heart failure occurrence and adverse prognosis. Targeting uric acid lowering as a therapeutic intervention does not improve the prognosis of patients with heart failure. It may not be advisable to use traditional urate-lowering drugs in young patients with heart failure, and elderly patients should exercise caution when using them.

Ultra-rapid, Free-breathing, Real-time Cardiac Cine MRI Using GRASP Amplified with View Sharing and KWIC Filtering

Purpose To achieve ultra-high temporal resolution (approximately 20 msec) in free-breathing, real-time cardiac cine MRI using golden-angle radial sparse parallel (GRASP) reconstruction amplified with view sharing (VS) and k-space-weighted image contrast (KWIC) filtering. Materials and Methods Fourteen pediatric patients with congenital heart disease (mean age [SD], 9 years ± 2; 13 male) and 10 adult patients with arrhythmia (mean age, 62 years ± 8; nine male) who underwent both standard breath-hold cine and free-breathing real-time cine using GRASP were retrospectively identified. To achieve high temporal resolution, each time frame was reconstructed using six radial spokes, corresponding to acceleration factors ranging from 24 to 32. To compensate for loss in spatial resolution resulting from over-regularization in GRASP, VS and KWIC filtering were incorporated. The blur metric, visual image quality scores, and biventricular parameters were compared between clinical and real-time cine images. Results In pediatric patients, the incorporation of VS and KWIC into GRASP (ie, GRASP + VS + KWIC) produced significantly (P < .05) sharper x-y-t (blur metric: 0.36 ± 0.03, 0.41 ± 0.03, 0.48 ± 0.03, respectively) and x-y-f (blur metric: 0.28 ± 0.02, 0.31 ± 0.03, 0.37 ± 0.03, respectively) component images compared with GRASP + VS and conventional GRASP. Only the noise score differed significantly between GRASP + VS + KWIC and clinical cine; all visual scores were above the clinically acceptable (3.0) cutoff point. Biventricular volumetric parameters strongly correlated (R2 > 0.85) between clinical and real-time cine images reconstructed with GRASP + VS + KWIC and were in good agreement (relative error < 6% for all parameters). In adult patients, the visual scores of all categories were significantly lower (P < .05) for clinical cine compared with real-time cine with GRASP + VS + KWIC, except for noise (P = .08). Conclusion Incorporating VS and KWIC filtering into GRASP reconstruction enables ultra-high temporal resolution (approximately 20 msec) without significant loss in spatial resolution. Keywords: Cine, View Sharing, k-Space-weighted Image Contrast Filtering, Radial k-Space, Pediatrics, Arrhythmia, GRASP, Compressed Sensing, Real-Time, Free-Breathing Supplemental material is available for this article. © RSNA, 2024.

Off-pump minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with left ventricular dysfunction: the lampang experience

Introduction

The minimally invasive cardiac surgery off-pump coronary artery bypass (MICSOPCAB) is technically difficult; therefore, previous studies have indicated that MICSOPCAB should be contraindicated in patients with impaired left ventricular (LV) function. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of MICSOPCAB in patients with impaired LV function.

Methods

The 226 patients underwent MICSOPCAB between August 2017 and September 2022. Our study defined impaired LV function as ejection fraction (EF) in echocardiography 40% or less. The patients were divided into Low EF group (n = 39) and Normal EF group (n = 187).

Results

The Low EF group was in a more critical preoperative condition than Normal EF group (41.0% in the Low EF group vs. 14.4% in the Normal EF group; p < 0.001). For preoperative transthoracic echocardiography, LV end-diastolic diameter (5.5 ± 0.9 cm in the Low EF group vs. 5.0 ± 0.8 cm in the Normal EF group; p < 0.001) and LV end-systolic diameter (4.4 ± 1.0 cm in the Low EF group vs. 3.4 ± 1.0 cm in the Normal EF group; p < 0.001) were significantly larger in the Low EF group. No differences were found in the operative time (180 [160-240] min in the Low EF group vs. 205 [165-253] min in the Normal EF group; p = 0.231) and the median number of distal anastomoses (2 [1-2] in the Low EF group vs. 2 [1-3] in the Normal EF group; p = 0.073). Intensive care unit stay was longer in the Low EF group than in the Normal EF group (2 [1-2] in the Low EF group vs. 1 [1-2] in the Normal EF group; p = 0.010). Perioperative transfusion was more common in the Low EF group than in the Normal EF group (69.7% vs. 49.2%; p = 0.023). There were no differences in major complications, hospital stay, and 30-day mortality. The Kaplan-Meier curve showed no significant difference in postoperative major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events rates between the two groups (p = 0.185).

Conclusion

In this study, MICSOPCAB can be performed in patients with low EF having short- and mid-term outcomes similar to patients with normal EF. Therefore, low EF should not be contraindicated in MICSOPCAB.

Obesity Is a Major Determinant of Impaired Cardiac Energy Metabolism in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a major health problem with limited treatment options. Although optimizing cardiac energy metabolism is a potential approach to treating heart failure, it is poorly understood what alterations in cardiac energy metabolism actually occur in HFpEF. To determine this, we used mice in which HFpEF was induced using an obesity and hypertension HFpEF protocol for 10 weeks. Next, carvedilol, a third-generation β-blocker and a biased agonist that exhibits agonist-like effects through β arrestins by activating extracellular signal-regulated kinase, was used to decrease one of these parameters, namely hypertension. Heart function was evaluated by invasive pressure-volume loops and echocardiography as well as by ex vivo working heart perfusions. Glycolysis and oxidation rates of glucose, fatty acids, and ketones were measured in the isolated working hearts. The development of HFpEF was associated with a dramatic decrease in cardiac glucose oxidation rates, with a parallel increase in palmitate oxidation rates. Carvedilol treatment decreased the development of HFpEF but had no major effect on cardiac energy substrate metabolism. Carvedilol treatment did increase the expression of cardiac β arrestin 2 and proteins involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. Decreasing bodyweight in obese HFpEF mice increased glucose oxidation and improved heart function. This suggests that the dramatic energy metabolic changes in HFpEF mice hearts are primarily due to the obesity component of the HFpEF model. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Metabolic inflexibility occurs in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) mice hearts. Lowering blood pressure improves heart function in HFpEF mice with no major effect on energy metabolism. Between hypertension and obesity, the latter appears to have the major role in HFpEF cardiac energetic changes. Carvedilol increases mitochondrial biogenesis and overall energy expenditure in HFpEF hearts.

FACE study: 2-year follow-up of adaptive servo-ventilation for sleep-disordered breathing in a chronic heart failure cohort

BACKGROUND

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a common comorbidity in patients with heart failure (HF) and is associated with worse prognosis.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the effects of adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) on morbidity and mortality in a large heterogeneous population of HF patients with different etiologies/phenotypes.

METHODS

Consecutive HF patients with predominant central sleep apnea (± obstructive sleep apnea) indicated for ASV were included; the control group included patients who refused or stopped ASV before three months follow-up. Six homogenous clusters were determined using the latent class analysis (LCA) method. The primary endpoint was time to composite first event (all-cause death, lifesaving cardiovascular intervention, or unplanned hospitalization for worsening of chronic HF).

RESULTS

Of 503 patients at baseline, 324 underwent 2-year follow-up. Compared to control group, 2-year primary endpoint event-free survival was significantly greater in patients in ASV group only in univariable analysis (1.67, 95% [1.12-2.49]; p = 0.01). Secondary endpoints, event-free of cardiovascular death or heart failure-related hospitalization and all-cause death or all-cause hospitalization were positively impacted by ASV (univariate and multivariable analysis). LCA identified two groups, with preserved and mid-range left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and severe hypoxia, in whom ASV increase prognosis benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HF and SDB are a highly heterogeneous group identified using LCA. Systematic deep phenotyping is essential to ensure that ASV is prescribed to those benefit from therapy, as ASV use in patients with severe hypoxic burden and those with HFpEF was associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular events and mortality.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01831128.

Clinical Outcomes With Nurse-Coordinated Multidisciplinary Care in Patients With Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The American Heart Association (AHA) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommend nurse-inclusive multidisciplinary care for patients with heart failure (HF). However, there is no meta-analysis that focuses specifically on the impact of nurse-coordinated multidisciplinary care. Considering this literature gap, we conducted this review that seeks to systematically synthesize the current evidence available regarding the impact of nurse-coordinated multidisciplinary care on clinical outcomes in patients with HF. A comprehensive search was done using PubMed/Medline, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE from inception till July 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing nurse-coordinated multidisciplinary care with usual care in adult patients (>18 years) with acute or chronic HF. Data about all-cause mortality, HF-related hospitalizations, and all-cause hospitalizations was extracted, pooled, and analyzed. Forrest plots were generated using the random effects model. A total of 30 RCTs were included in the analysis with a total of 7950 HF patients. Our pooled analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in all-cause mortality in HF patients who received nurse-coordinated multidisciplinary care (RR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.72-0.88, P = 0.0001). Similarly, there was a significantly lesser risk of HF-related hospitalizations (RR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.45-0.71, P = 0.00001) and all-cause hospitalizations (RR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.70-0.87, P = 0.0001) among HF patients with nurse-coordinated multidisciplinary care as compared to the usual care. Nurse-coordinated multidisciplinary care significantly reduces the risk of all-cause mortality, HF-related hospitalizations, and all-cause hospitalizations in HF patients' posthospital discharge.

Neuropeptide Y is elevated in heart failure and is an independent predictor of outcomes

AIMS

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is the most abundant neuropeptide found in the heart and is released alongside norepinephrine following prolonged sympathetic activation, a process that is implicated in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). In patients with severely impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy, higher levels of NPY measured in coronary sinus blood, are associated with poorer outcome. The aim was to examine the association of peripheral venous NPY levels and outcomes in a HF population with a range of LVEF, using a highly sensitive and specific assay.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The association between NPY and the composite outcome of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization, its components, and all-cause mortality was examined using Cox regression analyses among 833 patients using a threshold of elevated NPY identified through binary recursive partitioning adjusted for prognostic variables including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), ejection fraction and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP). The mean value of NPY was 25.8 ± 18.2 pg/ml. Patients with high NPY levels (≥29 pg/ml) compared with low values were older (73 ± 10 vs. 71 ± 11 years), more often male (58.5% vs. 55.6%), had higher BNP levels (583 [261-1096] vs. 440 [227-829] pg/ml), lower eGFR (46.4 ± 13.9 vs. 52.4 ± 11.7 ml/min/1.73 m2 ), and were more often treated with diuretics. There was no associated risk of HF hospitalization with NPY levels ≥29 vs. <29 pg/ml. Higher NPY levels were associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular and all-cause death (adjusted hazard ratio 1.56 [95% confidence interval 1.21-2.10], p = 0.003 and 1.30 [1.04-1.62], p = 0.02, respectively). There was no associated risk of HF hospitalization with higher NPY levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Peripherally measured NPY is an independent predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular death even after adjustment for other prognostic variables, including BNP.

Ablation for atrial fibrillation improves the outcomes in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

AIMS

Patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) have worse clinical outcomes than those with sinus rhythm (SR). We aim to investigate whether maintaining SR in patients with HFpEF through a strategy such as AF ablation would improve outcomes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This is a cohort study that analysed 1034 patients (median age 69 [63-76] years, 46.2% [478/1034] female) with HFpEF and AF. Of these, 392 patients who underwent first-time AF ablation were assigned to the ablation group, and the remaining 642 patients, who received only medical therapy, were assigned to the no ablation group. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death or rehospitalization for worsening heart failure. After a median follow-up of 39 months, the cumulative incidence of the primary endpoint was significantly lower in the ablation group compared to the no ablation group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.55 [95% CI, 0.37-0.82], P = 0.003) in the propensity score-matched model. Secondary endpoint analysis showed that the benefit of AF ablation was mainly driven by a reduction in rehospitalization for worsening heart failure (adjusted HR, 0.52 [95% CI, 0.34-0.80], P = 0.003). Patients in the ablation group showed a 33% relative decrease in atrial tachycardia/AF recurrence compared to the no ablation group (adjusted HR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.54-0.84], P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Among patients with HFpEF and AF, the strategy of AF ablation to maintain SR was associated with a lower risk of the composite outcome of all-cause death or rehospitalization for worsening heart failure.

What determines who gets cardiac resynchronization therapy in Europe? A comparison between ESC-HF-LT registry, SwedeHF registry, and ESC-CRT Survey II

AIMS

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is effective in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and dyssynchrony but is underutilized. In a cohort study, we identified clinical, organizational, and level of care factors linked to CRT implantation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We included HFrEF patients fulfilling study criteria in the ESC-HF-Long Term Registry (ESC-HF-LT, n = 1031), the Swedish Heart Failure Registry (SwedeHF) (n = 5008), and the ESC-CRT Survey II (n = 11 088). In ESC-HF-LT, 36% had a CRT indication of which 47% had CRT, 53% had indication but no CRT, and the remaining 54% had no indication and no CRT. In SwedeHF, these percentages were 30, 25, 75, and 70%. Median age of patients with CRT indication and CRT present vs. absent was 68 vs. 65 years with 24% vs. 22% women in ESC-HF-LT, 76 vs. 74 years with 26% vs. 26% women in SwedeHF, and 70 years with 24% women in CRT Survey II (all had CRT). For ESC-HF-LT, independent predictors of having CRT were guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), atrial fibrillation (AF), prior HF hospitalization, and NYHA class. For SwedeHF, they were GDMT, age, AF, previous myocardial infarction, lower NYHA class, enrolment at university hospital, and follow-up at HF centre/Hospital. In SwedeHF, above median income and higher education level were also independently associated with having CRT. In the ESC-CRT Survey II (n = 11 088), all patients received CRT but with differences in the clinical characteristics between countries.

CONCLUSION

CRT was used in a minority of eligible patients and more used in ESC-HF-LT than in SwedeHF.

Mechanocardiography detects improvement of systolic function caused by resynchronization pacing

Objective.Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is commonly used to manage heart failure with dyssynchronous ventricular contraction. CRT pacing resynchronizes the ventricular contraction, while AAI (single-chamber atrial) pacing does not affect the dyssynchronous function. This study compared waveform characteristics during CRT and AAI pacing at similar pacing rates using seismocardiogram (SCG) and gyrocardiogram (GCG), collectively known as mechanocardiogram (MCG).Approach.We included 10 patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and previously implanted CRT pacemakers. ECG and MCG recordings were taken during AAI and CRT pacing at a heart rate of 80 bpm. Waveform characteristics, including energy, vertical range (amplitude) during systole and early diastole, electromechanical systole (QS2) and left ventricular ejection time (LVET), were derived by considering 6 MCG axes and 3 MCG vectors across frequency ranges of >1 Hz, 20-90 Hz, 6-90 Hz and 1-20 Hz.Main results.Significant differences were observed between CRT and AAI pacing. CRT pacing consistently exhibited higher energy and vertical range during systole compared to AAI pacing (p< 0.05). However, QS2, LVET and waveform characteristics around aortic valve closure did not differ between the pacing modes. Optimal differences were observed in SCG-Y, GCG-X, and GCG-Y axes within the frequency range of 6-90 Hz.Significance.The results demonstrate significant differences in MCG waveforms, reflecting improved mechanical cardiac function during CRT. This information has potential implications for predicting the clinical response to CRT. Further research is needed to explore the differences in signal characteristics between responders and non-responders to CRT.

Congestion in Heart Failure: From the Secret of a Mummy to Today's Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches: A Comprehensive Review

This review paper presents a review of the evolution of this disease throughout the centuries, describes and summarizes the pathophysiologic mechanisms, briefly discusses the mechanism of action of diuretics, presents their role in decongesting heart failure in patients, and reveals the data behind ultrafiltration in the management of acutely or chronically decompensated heart failure (ADHF), focusing on all the available data and advancements in this field. Acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF) presents a critical clinical condition characterized by worsening symptoms and signs of heart failure, necessitating prompt intervention to alleviate congestion and improve cardiac function. Diuretics have traditionally been the mainstay for managing fluid overload in ADHF. Mounting evidence suggests that due to numerous causes, such as coexisting renal failure or chronic use of loop diuretics, an increasing rate of diuretic resistance is noticed and needs to be addressed. There has been a series of trials that combined diuretics of different categories without the expected results. Emerging evidence suggests that ultrafiltration may offer an alternative or adjunctive approach.

Simultaneous Increases in Intracellular Sodium and Tonicity Boost Antimicrobial Activity of Macrophages

Inflamed and infected tissues can display increased local sodium (Na+) levels, which can have various effects on immune cells. In macrophages, high salt (HS) leads to a Na+/Ca2+-exchanger 1 (NCX1)-dependent increase in intracellular Na+ levels. This results in augmented osmoprotective signaling and enhanced proinflammatory activation, such as enhanced expression of type 2 nitric oxide synthase and antimicrobial function. In this study, the role of elevated intracellular Na+ levels in macrophages was investigated. Therefore, the Na+/K+-ATPase (NKA) was pharmacologically inhibited with two cardiac glycosides (CGs), ouabain (OUA) and digoxin (DIG), to raise intracellular Na+ without increasing extracellular Na+ levels. Exposure to HS conditions and treatment with both inhibitors resulted in intracellular Na+ accumulation and subsequent phosphorylation of p38/MAPK. The CGs had different effects on intracellular Ca2+ and K+ compared to HS stimulation. Moreover, the osmoprotective transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells 5 (NFAT5) was not upregulated on RNA and protein levels upon OUA and DIG treatment. Accordingly, OUA and DIG did not boost nitric oxide (NO) production and showed heterogeneous effects toward eliminating intracellular bacteria. While HS environments cause hypertonic stress and ionic perturbations, cardiac glycosides only induce the latter. Cotreatment of macrophages with OUA and non-ionic osmolyte mannitol (MAN) partially mimicked the HS-boosted antimicrobial macrophage activity. These findings suggest that intracellular Na+ accumulation and hypertonic stress are required but not sufficient to mimic boosted macrophage function induced by increased extracellular sodium availability.

Chronic breathlessness in advanced cardiorespiratory disease: patient perceptions of opioid use

OBJECTIVE

Low-dose oral opioids may improve severe chronic breathlessness in advanced cardiorespiratory diseases. Prescription of opioids for breathlessness occurs infrequently however, with little known about patients' attitudes towards their use in this setting. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore patients' perceptions regarding opioids for the management of severe chronic breathlessness in people with advanced cardiorespiratory disease.

METHODS

A cross-sectional, qualitative study was undertaken using outpatients with severe chronic breathlessness due to either severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or chronic heart failure (CHF). Indepth, semistructured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and coded. Thematic analysis was undertaken to extrapolate recurring ideas from the data.

RESULTS

Twenty-four participants were purposively sampled from three different groups: opioid-naïve patients with COPD (n=7), opioid-naïve patients with CHF (n=7) and patients with COPD using opioids currently or previously for severe chronic breathlessness (n=10). Four major themes were shared by both the opioid-naïve and opioid-experienced cohorts: (1) stigmatised attitudes and beliefs regarding opioids, (2) limited knowledge and information-seeking behaviour regarding opioids, (3) the impact of the relationships with health professionals and continuity of care, and (4) the significance of past experiences with opioids. An additional theme that was unique to the opioid-experienced cohort was (5) the perception of benefit and improved quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Lack of knowledge regarding the role of opioids in managing severe chronic breathlessness, opioid misinformation and social stigmas are major barriers to opioid therapy that may be overcome by accurate information from trusted health professionals.

Diverging role of epicardial adipose tissue across the entire heart failure spectrum

AIMS

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a metabolically highly active tissue modulating numerous pathophysiological processes. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between EAT thickness and endothelial function in patients with heart failure (HF) across the entire ejection fraction spectrum.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 258 patients with HF with an ejection fraction across the entire spectrum [HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), n = 168, age 60.6 ± 11.2 years; HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), n = 50, mean age 65.1 ± 11.9 years; HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF), n = 32, mean age 65 ± 12] were included. EAT was measured with transthoracic echocardiography. Vascular function was assessed with flicker-light-induced vasodilation of retinal arterioles (FIDart%) and flow-mediated dilatation (FMD%) in conduit arteries. Patients with HFrEF have less EAT compared with patients with HFpEF (4.2 ± 2 vs. 5.3 ± 2 mm, respectively, P < 0.001). Interestingly, EAT was significantly associated with impaired microvascular function (FIDart%; r = -0.213, P = 0.012) and FMD% (r = -0.186, P = 0.022), even after multivariate correction for confounding factors (age, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes; standardized regression coefficient (SRC) = -0.184, P = 0.049 for FIDart% and SRC = -0.178, P = 0.043 for FMD%) in HFrEF but not in HFpEF.

CONCLUSIONS

Although less EAT is present in HFrEF than in HFpEF, only in HFrEF EAT is associated with vascular dysfunction. The diverging role of EAT in HF and its switch to a functionally deleterious tissue promoting HF progression provide the rationale to specifically target EAT, in particular in patients with reduced ejection fraction.

Frailty as a predictor of mortality and readmission rate in secondary mitral regurgitation

INTRODUCTION

Selection in patients with functional mitral regurgitation (MR) to identify responders to interventions is challenging. In these patients, frailty might be used as a multidimensional parameter to summarize the resilience to stressors. Our objective was to evaluate frailty as a predictor of outcome in patients with moderate to severe secondary MR.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center retrospective observational cohort study and included 239 patients with moderate to severe secondary MR aged 65 years or older between 2014 and 2020. Echocardiography was performed at baseline; frailty was evaluated using the clinical frailty scale (CFS). The combined primary endpoint was hospitalization for heart failure and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 53% (127) of all patients were classified as CFS 4 (living with mild frailty) or higher. Frail patients had a higher risk for the combined endpoint (hazard ratio, HR 3.70, 95% confidence interval, CI 2.12-6.47; p < 0.001), 1‑year mortality (HR 5.94, 95% CI 1.76-20.08; p < 0.001) even after adjustment for EuroSCORE2. The CFS was predictive for the combined endpoint (AUC 0.69, 95% CI 0.62-0.75) and outperformed EuroSCORE2 (AUC 0.54, 95% CI 0.46-0.62; p = 0.01). In sensitivity analyses, we found that frailty was associated with adverse outcomes at least in trend in all subgroups.

CONCLUSION

For older, medically treated patients with moderate to severe secondary mitral regurgitation, frailty is an independent predictor for the occurrence of death and heart failure-related readmission within 1 year and outperformed the EuroSCORE2. Frailty should be assessed routinely in patients with heart failure to guide clinical decision making for mitral valve interventions or conservative treatment.

Profiles of patients referred to specialized palliative care from the cardiology department at a university hospital: an 11-year longitudinal retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Although the majority of patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVD) have a significant symptom burden and progressive course towards the end of life, only a small proportion of patients currently receive palliative care. The current referral practices to palliative care from the cardiology department need to be scrutinized. The current study aimed to examine: 1) the clinical profile; 2) time between referral to palliative care and death; and 3) place of death for CVD patients who were referred to palliative care from a cardiology department.

METHODS

This retrospective descriptive study included all patients who were referred to the mobile palliative care team from the cardiology unit in the University Hospital of Besançon in France between January 2010 and December 2020. Information was extracted from the medical hospital files.

RESULTS

A total of 142 patients were included, of whom 135 (95%) died. The mean age at the time of death was 76±14 years. The median time between referral to palliative care and death was 9 days. Most patients had chronic heart failure (54%). A total of 17 patients (13%) died at home.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that referral of patients to palliative care from the cardiology department is suboptimal and a large proportion of patients die in the hospital setting. Further prospective studies are warranted to investigate whether these dispositions correspond to patients' wishes and end-of-life care needs, and should investigate how the integration of palliative care into the care of cardiovascular patients can be improved.

COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis: Analysis of the suspected cases reported to the EudraVigilance and a systematic review of the published literature

Background

Myocarditis secondary to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination has been reported in the literature.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the reported cases of myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination based on age, gender, doses, and vaccine type from published literature and the EudraVigilance database.

Methods

We performed an analysis in the EudraVigilance database (until December 18, 2021) and a systematic review of published literature for reported cases of suspected myocarditis and pericarditis (until 30th June 2022) after the COVID-19 vaccination.

Results

EudraVigilance database analysis revealed 16,514 reported cases of myocarditis or pericarditis due to the vaccination with COVID-19 vaccines. The cases of myo- or pericarditis were reported predominantly in the age group of 18-64 (n = 12,214), and in males with a male-to-female (M: F) ratio of 1.7:1. The mortality among myocarditis patients was low, with 128 deaths (2 cases per 10.000.000 administered doses) being reported. For the systematic review, 72 studies with 1026 cases of myocarditis due to the vaccination with COVID-19 vaccines were included. The analysis of published cases has revealed that the male gender was primarily affected with myocarditis post-COVID-vaccination. The median (IQR) age of the myocarditis cases was 24.6 [19.5-34.6] years, according to the systematic review of the literature. Myocarditis cases were most frequently published after the vaccination with m-RNA vaccines and after the second vaccination dose. The overall mortality of published cases was low (n = 5).

Conclusion

Myocarditis is a rare serious adverse event associated with a COVID-19 vaccination. With early recognition and management, the prognosis of COVID-19 vaccine-induced myocarditis is favorable.

A Comment on: Anxiety and Depression in Heart Failure: An Updated Review

With great interest, we have read the article "Anxiety and depression in heart failure: An updated review" by Sarim Rashid et al. For its clarity and conciseness, we applaud the author for his extensive research on this delicate topic. The authors have concisely written several scenarios including the risk factors that contribute to the development and exacerbation of anxiety and depression in individuals with heart conditions, including biological, psychological, and social factors. Nonetheless, we thought it would be helpful to add a few more things to the article's conclusion to strengthen it. Exploring the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of post-sepsis related depression is of positive significance for reducing the occurrence of long-term depression and improving the prognosis of sepsis patients.

Patients pathways before and after treatments in emergency departments: A retrospective analysis of secondary data in Germany

Increasing emergency department (ED) utilization induces considerable pressure on ED staff and organization in Germany. Reasons for certain ED attendances are seen partly in insufficient continuity of care outside of hospitals. To explore the health care patterns before and after an ED attendance in Germany, we used claims data from nine statutory health insurance funds, covering around 25 % of statutory health insurees (1). We descriptively analyzed ED attendances for adult patients in 2016 according to their sociodemographic characteristics and diagnoses (2). Based on the ED attendance as initial event, we investigated health care provider utilization 180 days before and after the respective ED treatment and are presented by means of Sankey diagrams. In total, 4,757,536 ED cases of 3,164,343 insured individuals were analyzed. Back pain was the most frequent diagnosis in outpatient ED cases (5.0 %), and 80.2 % of the patients visited primary care physicians or specialists 180 days before and 78.8 % 180 days after ED treatment. Among inpatient cases, heart failure (4.6 %) was the leading diagnosis and 74.6 % used primary care physicians or specialists 180 days before and 65.1 % 180 days after ED treatment. The ED re-attendance slightly increased for back pain (4.9 % to 7.9 %) and decreased for heart failure (13.4 % to 12.6 %).