Left ventricular fibrosis as a main determinant of filling pressures and left atrial function in advanced heart failure

AIMS

Advanced heart failure (AdHF) is characterized by variable degrees of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, myocardial fibrosis, and raised filling pressures which lead to left atrial (LA) dilatation and cavity dysfunction. This study investigated the relationship between LA peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), assessed by speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE), and invasive measures of LV filling pressures and fibrosis in a group of AdHF patients undergoing heart transplantation (HTX).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We consecutively enrolled patients with AdHF who underwent HTX at our Department. Demographic and basic echocardiographic data were registered, then invasive intracardiac pressures were obtained from right heart catheterization, and STE was also performed. After HTX, biopsy specimens from explanted hearts were collected to quantify the degree of LV myocardial fibrosis. Sixty-four patients were included in the study (mean age 62.5 ± 11 years, 42% female). The mean LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was 26.7 ± 6.1%, global PALS was 9.65 ± 4.5%, and mean pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) was 18.8 ± 4.8 mmHg. Seventy-three % of patients proved to have severe LV fibrosis. Global PALS was inversely correlated with PCWP (R = -0.83; P < 0.0001) and with LV fibrosis severity (R = -0.78; P < 0.0001) but did not correlate with LVEF (R = 0.15; P = 0.2). Among echocardiographic indices of LV filling pressures, global PALS proved the strongest [area under the curve 0.955 (95% confidence interval 0.87-0.99)] predictor of raised (>18 mmHg) PCWP.

CONCLUSION

In patients with AdHF, reduced global PALS strongly correlated with the invasively assessed LV filling pressure and degree of LV fibrosis. Such relationship could be used as non-invasive indicator for optimum patient stratification for therapeutic strategies.

New perspectives in the echocardiographic hemodynamics multiparametric assessment of patients with heart failure

International Guidelines consider left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as an important parameter to categorize patients with heart failure (HF) and to define recommended treatments in clinical practice. However, LVEF has some technical and clinical limitations, being derived from geometric assumptions and is unable to evaluate intrinsic myocardial function and LV filling pressure (LVFP). Moreover, it has been shown to fail to predict clinical outcome in patients with end-stage HF. The analysis of LV antegrade flow derived from pulsed-wave Doppler (stroke volume index, stroke distance, cardiac output, and cardiac index) and non-invasive evaluation of LVFP have demonstrated some advantages and prognostic implications in HF patients. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is able to unmask intrinsic myocardial systolic dysfunction in HF patients, particularly in those with LV preserved EF, hence allowing analysis of LV, right ventricular and left atrial (LA) intrinsic myocardial function (global peak atrial LS, (PALS)). Global PALS has been proven a reliable index of LVFP which could fill the gaps "gray zone" in the previous Guidelines algorithm for the assessment of LV diastolic dysfunction and LVFP, being added to the latest European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging Consensus document for the use of multimodality imaging in evaluating HFpEF. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of the hemodynamics multiparametric approach of assessing myocardial function (from LVFP to stroke volume) in patients with HF, thus overcoming the limitations of LVEF.

Selenium Deficiency as a Risk Factor for Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a multifactorial disease. Although the specific aetiology and pathogenesis of PPCM are unknown, several hypotheses have been proposed, including selenium deficiency. However, the risk of PPCM from selenium deficiency was not previously quantified. This posthoc analysis of peripartum cardiomyopathy in Nigeria (PEACE) registry data aimed to determine if selenium deficiency is an independent risk factor for PPCM.

METHODS

Apparently healthy women who delivered within the previous 8 weeks and PPCM patients in Kano, Nigeria, were compared for selenium deficiency (<70µg/L) and other relevant socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Selenium level was measured at recruitment for each subject. Independent predictors of PPCM were determined using logistic regression models.

RESULTS

159 PPCM patients and 90 age-matched controls were consecutively recruited. 84.9% of the patients and 3.3% of controls had selenium deficiency. Selenium deficiency independently increased the odds for PPCM by 167-fold while both unemployment and lack of formal education independently increased the odds by 3.4-fold.

CONCLUSION

Selenium deficiency was highly prevalent among PPCM patients in Kano, Nigeria, and significantly increased the odds for PPCM. These results could justify screening of women in their reproductive years for selenium deficiency, particularly those living in regions with high incidence of PPCM. The results also call for the setting up of a definitive clinical trial of selenium supplementation in PPCM patients with selenium deficiency, to further define its benefits in the treatment of PPCM.

Left ventricular ejection fraction: clinical, pathophysiological, and technical limitations

Risk stratification of cardiovascular death and treatment strategies in patients with heart failure (HF), the optimal timing for valve replacement, and the selection of patients for implantable cardioverter defibrillators are based on an echocardiographic calculation of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in most guidelines. As a marker of systolic function, LVEF has important limitations being affected by loading conditions and cavity geometry, as well as image quality, thus impacting inter- and intra-observer measurement variability. LVEF is a product of shortening of the three components of myocardial fibres: longitudinal, circumferential, and oblique. It is therefore a marker of global ejection performance based on cavity volume changes, rather than directly reflecting myocardial contractile function, hence may be normal even when myofibril's systolic function is impaired. Sub-endocardial longitudinal fibers are the most sensitive layers to ischemia, so when dysfunctional, the circumferential fibers may compensate for it and maintain the overall LVEF. Likewise, in patients with HF, LVEF is used to stratify subgroups, an approach that has prognostic implications but without a direct relationship. HF is a dynamic disease that may worsen or improve over time according to the underlying pathology. Such dynamicity impacts LVEF and its use to guide treatment. The same applies to changes in LVEF following interventional procedures. In this review, we analyze the clinical, pathophysiological, and technical limitations of LVEF across a wide range of cardiovascular pathologies.

The association between daily step count and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality: a meta-analysis

AIMS

There is good evidence showing that inactivity and walking minimal steps/day increase the risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease and general ill-health. The optimal number of steps and their role in health is, however, still unclear. Therefore, in this meta-analysis, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between step count and all-cause mortality and CV mortality.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We systematically searched relevant electronic databases from inception until 12 June 2022. The main endpoints were all-cause mortality and CV mortality. An inverse-variance weighted random-effects model was used to calculate the number of steps/day and mortality. Seventeen cohort studies with a total of 226 889 participants (generally healthy or patients at CV risk) with a median follow-up 7.1 years were included in the meta-analysis. A 1000-step increment was associated with a 15% decreased risk of all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.85; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.81-0.91; P < 0.001], while a 500-step increment was associated with a 7% decrease in CV mortality (HR 0.93; 95% CI 0.91-0.95; P < 0.001). Compared with the reference quartile with median steps/day 3867 (2500-6675), the Quartile 1 (Q1, median steps: 5537), Quartile 2 (Q2, median steps 7370), and Quartile 3 (Q3, median steps 11 529) were associated with lower risk for all-cause mortality (48, 55, and 67%, respectively; P < 0.05, for all). Similarly, compared with the lowest quartile of steps/day used as reference [median steps 2337, interquartile range 1596-4000), higher quartiles of steps/day (Q1 = 3982, Q2 = 6661, and Q3 = 10 413) were linearly associated with a reduced risk of CV mortality (16, 49, and 77%; P < 0.05, for all). Using a restricted cubic splines model, we observed a nonlinear dose-response association between step count and all-cause and CV mortality (Pnonlineraly < 0.001, for both) with a progressively lower risk of mortality with an increased step count.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrates a significant inverse association between daily step count and all-cause mortality and CV mortality with more the better over the cut-off point of 3867 steps/day for all-cause mortality and only 2337 steps for CV mortality.

Ventricular septal defect associated with aortic regurgitation and ascending aortic aneurysm: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is one of the most common congenital cardiac anomalies. Patients with perimembranous VSD may have aortic regurgitation (AR) secondary to prolapse of the aortic cusp.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a case of 23-year-old White man with VSD, AR and ascending aortic aneurysm. The patient presented to outpatient clinic with weakness and gradual worsening shortness of breath for the past 5 years. Clinical examination revealed regular heart rhythm and loud continuous systolic-diastolic murmur (Lewin's grade 6/6), heard all over the precordium, associated with a palpable thrill. The ECG showed right axis deviation, fractionated QRS in V1 and signs of biventricular hypertrophy. The chest X-ray showed cardiomegaly. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiograms showed a perimembranous VSD with moderate restrictive shunt (Qp/Qs = 1.6), aortic regurgitation (AR), and ascending aortic aneurysm. Other clinical and laboratory findings were within normal limits.

CONCLUSIONS

Perimembranous VSD, may be associated with aortic regurgitation and ascending aortic aneurysm as secondary phenomenon if it is not early diagnosed and successfully treated.

Role of cardiac and lung ultrasound in the COVID-19 era

INTRODUCTION

The primary diagnostic method of Coronavirus disease 2019 is reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction of the nucleic acid of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in nasopharyngeal swabs. There is growing evidence regarding the 2019 coronavirus disease imaging results on chest X-rays and computed tomography but the accessibility to standard diagnostic methods may be limited during the pandemic.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Databases used for the search were MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus Search, and Cochrane Library. The research took into consideration studies published in English until March 2022 and was conducted using the following research query: ((((sars cov [MeSH Terms])) OR (COVID-19)) OR (Sars-Cov2)) OR (Coronavirus)) AND (((((2d echocardiography [MeSH Terms]) OR (doppler ultrasound imaging [MeSH Terms]))) OR (echography [MeSH Terms])) OR (LUS)) OR ("LUNG ULTRASOUND")).

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Pulmonary and cardiac ultrasound are cost-effective, widely available, and provide information that can influence management.

CONCLUSIONS

Point-of-care ultrasonography is a method that can provide relevant clinical and therapeutic information in patients with COVID-19 where other diagnostic methods may not be easily accessible.

Strain Rate Changes during Stress Echocardiography Are the Most Accurate Predictors of Significant Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Previously Treated Acute Coronary Syndrome

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) is a well-established non-invasive investigation for the detection of ischemic myocardial dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of myocardial deformation parameters measured by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) in predicting culprit coronary artery lesions in patients with prior revascularization and acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

We prospectively studied 33 patients with ischemic heart disease, a history of at least one episode of ACS and prior revascularization. All patients underwent a complete stress Doppler echocardiographic examination, including the myocardial deformation parameters of peak systolic strain (PSS), peak systolic strain rate (SR) and wall motion score index (WMSI). The regional PSS and SR were analyzed for different culprit lesions.

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 59 ± 11 years and 72.7% were males. At peak dobutamine stress, the change in regional PSS and SR in territories supplied by the LAD showed smaller increases compared to those in patients without culprit LAD lesions (p < 0.05 for all). Likewise, the regional parameters of myocardial deformation were reduced in patients with culprit LCx lesions compared to those with non-culprit LCx lesions and in patients with culprit RCA legions compared to those with non-culprit RCA lesions (p < 0.05 for all). In the multivariate analysis, the △ regional PSS (1.134 (CI = 1.059-3.315, p = 0.02)) and the △ regional SR (1.566 (CI = 1.191-9.013, p = 0.001)) for LAD territories predicted the presence of LAD lesions. Similarly, in a multivariable analysis, the △ regional PSS and the △SR predicted LCx culprit lesions and RCA culprit lesions (p < 0.05 for all). In an ROC analysis, the PSS and SR had higher accuracies compared to the regional WMSI in predicting culprit lesions. A △ regional SR of -0.24 for the LAD territories was 88% sensitive and 76% specific (AUC = 0.75; p < 0.001), a △ regional PSS of -1.20 was 78% sensitive and 71% specific (AUC = 0.76, p < 0.001) and a △ WMSI of -0.35 was 67% sensitive and 68% specific (AUC = 0.68, p = 0.02) in predicting LAD culprit lesions. Similarly, the △ SR for LCx and RCA territories had higher accuracies in predicting LCx and RCA culprit lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

The myocardial deformation parameters, particularly the change in regional strain rate, are the most powerful predictors of culprit lesions. These findings strengthen the role of myocardial deformation in increasing the accuracy of DSE analyses in patients with prior cardiac events and revascularization.

Acute pericarditis as a major clinical manifestation of long COVID-19 syndrome

BACKGROUND

The long COVID-19 syndrome has been recently described and some reports have suggested that acute pericarditis represents important manifestation of long COVID-19 syndrome. The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence and clinical characteristics of patients with long COVID-19, presenting with acute pericarditis.

METHODS

We retrospectively included 180 patients (median age 47 years, 62% female) previously diagnosed with COVID-19, exhibiting persistence or new-onset symptoms ≥12 weeks from a negative naso-pharyngeal SARS CoV2 swamp test. The original diagnosis of COVID-19 infection was determined by a positive swab. All patients had undergone a thorough physical examination. Patients with suspected heart involvement were referred to a complete cardiovascular evaluation. Echocardiography was performed based on clinical need and diagnosis of acute pericarditis was achieved according to current guidelines.

RESULTS

Among the study population, shortness of breath/fatigue was reported in 52%, chest pain/discomfort in 34% and heart palpitations/arrhythmias in 37%. Diagnosis of acute pericarditis was made in 39 patients (22%). Mild-to-moderate pericardial effusion was reported in 12, while thickened and bright pericardial layers with small effusions (< 5 mm) with or without comet tails arising from the pericardium (pericardial B-lines) in 27. Heart palpitations/arrhythmias (OR:3.748, p = 0.0030), and autoimmune disease and allergic disorders (OR:4.147, p = 0.0073) were independently related to the diagnosis of acute pericarditis, with a borderline contribution of less likelihood of hospitalization during COVID-19 (OR: 0.100, p = 0.0512).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest a high prevalence of acute pericarditis in patients with long COVID-19 syndrome. Autoimmune and allergic disorders, and palpitations/arrhythmias were frequently associated with pericardial disease.

Incidence and mortality of infective endocarditis in the last decade: a single center study

BACKGROUND

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a significant disease characterized by high mortality and complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence/100 000 inhabitants and the in-hospital mortality/100 000 inhabitants of IE during the last 10 years in the province of Ravenna.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We reviewed the public hospitals discharge database from January 2010 to December 2020 using the international classification of disease codification (ICD-9) for IE. We used the Italian national statistical institute (ISTAT) archive to estimate the number of Ravenna inhabitants/year. In 10 years, we identified a total of 407 patients with diagnosis of IE.The incidence of IE increased significantly from 6.29 cases/100 000 inhabitants in 2010 to 19.58 cases/100 000 inhabitants in 2020 ( P  < 0.001). Also, the in-hospital mortality from IE increased over the same number of years, from 1.8 deaths/100 000 inhabitants in 2010 to 4.4 deaths/100 000 inhabitants in 2020 ( P  < 0.001). The mortality rate (%) of IE over the years did not increase ( P = 0.565). Also, over the years there was no difference in the site of infection ( P  = 0.372), irrespective of the valve localization or type, native valve ( P  = 0.347) or prosthetic valve ( P  = 0.145). On logistic regression analysis, age was the only predictor of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio 1.045, 95% confidence interval: 1.015; 1.075, P  = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Ravenna-based data on IE showed increased disease incidence but unchanged mortality rate over 10 years of follow-up. Age remains the sole predictor of population-based mortality, irrespective of the nature of the valve, native or substitute, and the organism detected on microbiology.

COVID-19 Prevention: Vitamin D Is Still a Valid Remedy

Seven meta-analyses and systematic reviews and three later clinical trials argued that low vitamin D status increased susceptibility to COVID-19 and the risk of greater disease severity and mortality [...].

The Role of Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disease

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, in which the immune system has a prominent role in its development and progression. Inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction results in an increased permeability to lipoproteins and their subendothelial accumulation, leukocyte recruitment, and platelets activation. Recruited monocytes differentiate into macrophages which develop pro- or anti-inflammatory properties according to their microenvironment. Atheroma progression or healing is determined by the balance between these functional phenotypes. Macrophages and smooth muscle cells secrete inflammatory cytokines including interleukins IL-1β, IL-12, and IL-6. Within the arterial wall, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol undergoes an oxidation. Additionally, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and remnant lipoproteins exert pro-inflammatory effects. Macrophages catabolize the oxidized lipoproteins and coalesce into a lipid-rich necrotic core, encapsulated by a collagen fibrous cap, leading to the formation of fibro-atheroma. In the conditions of chronic inflammation, macrophages exert a catabolic effect on the fibrous cap, resulting in a thin-cap fibro-atheroma which makes the plaque vulnerable. However, their morphology may change over time, shifting from high-risk lesions to more stable calcified plaques. In addition to conventional cardiovascular risk factors, an exposure to acute and chronic psychological stress may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease through inflammation mediated by an increased sympathetic output which results in the release of inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation is also the link between ageing and cardiovascular disease through increased clones of leukocytes in peripheral blood. Anti-inflammatory interventions specifically blocking the cytokine pathways reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, although they increase the risk of infections.

Left ventricular myocardial and cavity velocity disturbances are stronger predictors of stress induced ischaemia in patients with significant coronary artery disease

Background and aim

Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) is a well-established non-invasive investigation for significant coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of cardiac Doppler parameters in predecting CAD.

Methods

We prospectively studied 103 consecutive patients with suspected CAD based on typical symptoms, 59 proved to have CAD and 44 patients proved to have no-CAD (n=44). All patients underwent a complete stress Doppler echocardiographic examination, including tissue Doppler, long axis velocities and total isovolumic time (T-IVT) as a marker of cavity dyssynchrony, determined as [60 − (total ejection time (ET) + total filling time (FT))]. The wall motion score index (WMSI) was also calculated.

Results

CAD patients were older, had less females, less prevalent cardiac risk factors and higher CT calcium score compared to patients with no-CAD (p&lt;0.05, for all). At peak dobutamine stress the compromised LV longitudinal excursion (MAPSE), systolic septal and lateral velocities (s'), TAPSE and diastolic indices were more pronounced in the CAD patients compared to those without CAD, but LV dimension did not differ between groups (p&gt;0.05). The WMSI was higher and t-IVT more prolonged in patients with CAD (p&lt;0.01, for both). Similarly, the changes were more pronounced in patients with significant CAD compared to insignificant CAD.

On multivariate model, delta mean s' OR 2.016 (1.610–3.490, p&lt;0.001), delta E velocity OR 1.822 (1.179–2.360, p&lt;0.001), delta t-IVT OR 1.406 (1.180–2.180, p&lt;0.001), and delta FT OR 1.911 (1.401–2.710, p=0.001), were the most powerful independent predictors of the presence of CAD, particularly when significant (&gt;50%). Delta mean s' &lt;5.0 was 85% sensitive, 89% specific with AUC 0.92. Respective values for delta E velocity &lt;6.0 cm/s were 82%, 90% and 0.91; for delta t-IVT &gt;4.5, 78%, 77% and 0.81 and for delta FT ≥150ms, 76%, 78% and 0.84 in predicating significant CAD. WMSI≥0.7 was 75% sensitive, 77% specific with AUC of 0.81 in predicting significant CAD. The accuracy of DSE was higher in significant CAD compared to insignificant CAD (80% vs 74%; p=0.03).

Conclusions

Compromised LV longitudinal systolic function, lower delta E wave, prolonged t-IVT and increased WMSI were the most powerful independent predictors of the presence and significance of CAD. These finding strengthen the role of comprehensive DSE analysis in diagnosing ischaemic disturbances secondary to significant CAD.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Left atrial myocardial intrinsic function remodeling response to repair of primary mitral regurgitation

Severe mitral regurgitation (MR) is a common valve disease which is associated with high mortality, if only managed medically. MR produces chronic and progressive volume overload with left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) dilatation and dysfunction, atrial fibrillation (AF) and eventually myocardial fibrosis, irrespective of ejection fraction (EF). Surgical correction (mitral valve repair) of MR removes the volume overload, hence unmasks pre-operative LV structure and function disturbances, including reduced EF and global longitudinal and circumferential strain, as well as LA volume and strain. This review aims at describing LA remodeling before and after surgical repair.

The Impact of Mental Stress on Cardiovascular Health—Part II

Endothelial dysfunction is one of the earliest manifestations of atherosclerosis, contributing to its development and progression. Mental stress induces endothelial dysfunction through increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system, release of corticotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus, inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis by cortisol, and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mental-stress-induced increased output of the sympathetic nervous system and concomitant withdrawal of the parasympathetic inflammatory reflex results in systemic inflammation and activation of a neural–hematopoietic–arterial axis. This includes the brainstem and subcortical regions network, bone marrow activation, release of leukocytes into the circulation and their migration to the arterial wall and atherosclerotic plaques. Low-grade, sterile inflammation is involved in all steps of atherogenesis, from coronary plaque formation to destabilisation and rupture. Increased sympathetic tone may cause arterial smooth-muscle-cell proliferation, resulting in vascular hypertrophy, thus contributing to the development of hypertension. Emotional events also cause instability of cardiac repolarisation due to brain lateralised imbalance of cardiac autonomic nervous stimulation, which may lead to asymmetric repolarisation and arrhythmia. Acute emotional stress can also provoke severe catecholamine release, leading to direct myocyte injury due to calcium overload, known as myocytolysis, coronary microvascular vasoconstriction, and an increase in left ventricular afterload. These changes can trigger a heart failure syndrome mimicking acute myocardial infarction, characterised by transient left ventricular dysfunction and apical ballooning, known as stress (Takotsubo) cardiomyopathy. Women are more prone than men to develop mental-stress-induced myocardial ischemia (MSIMI), probably reflecting gender differences in brain activation patterns during mental stress. Although guidelines on CV prevention recognise psychosocial factors as risk modifiers to improve risk prediction and decision making, the evidence that their assessment and treatment will prevent CAD needs further evaluation.

Diabetes Is the Strongest Predictor of Limited Exercise Capacity in Chronic Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF)

Background and Aim

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a known risk factor in patients with heart failure (HF), but its impact on phenotypic presentations remains unclear. This study aimed to prospectively examine the relationship between T2DM and functional exercise capacity, assessed by the 6-min walk test (6-MWT) in chronic HF.

Methods

We studied 344 chronic patients with HF (mean age 61 ± 10 years, 54% female) in whom clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric data were available and all patients underwent an echo-Doppler study and a 6-MWT on the same day. The 6-MWT distance divided the cohort into; Group I: those who managed ≤ 300 m and Group II: those who managed >300 m. Additionally, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF), estimated using the modified Simpson's method, classified patients into HF with preserved EF (HFpEF) and HF with reduced EF (HFrEF).

Results

The results showed that 111/344 (32%) patients had T2DM, who had a higher prevalence of arterial hypertension (p = 0.004), higher waist/hips ratio (p = 0.041), higher creatinine (p = 0.008) and urea (p = 0.003), lower hemoglobin (p = 0.001), and they achieved shorter 6-MWT distance (p < 0.001) compared with those with no T2DM. Patients with limited exercise (<300 m) had higher prevalence of T2DM (p < 0.001), arterial hypertension (p = 0.004), and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.001), higher waist/hips ratio (p = 0.041), higher glucose level (p < 0.001), lower hemoglobin (p < 0.001), larger left atrium (LA) (p = 0.002), lower lateral mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) (p = 0.032), septal MAPSE (p < 0.001), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (p < 0.001), compared with those performing >300 m. In the cohort as a whole, multivariate analysis, T2DM (p < 0.001), low hemoglobin (p = 0.008), atrial fibrillation (p = 0.014), and reduced septal MAPSE (p = 0.021) independently predicted the limited 6-MWT distance.

In patients with HFpEF, diabetes [6.083 (2.613–14.160), p < 0.001], atrial fibrillation [6.092 (1.769–20.979), p = 0.002], and septal MAPSE [0.063 (0.027–0.184), p = 0.002], independently predicted the reduced 6-MWT, whereas hemoglobin [0.786 (0.624–0.998), p = 0.049] and TAPSE [0.462 (0.214–0.988), p = 0.041] predicted it in patients with HFrEF.

Conclusion

Predictors of exercise intolerance in patients with chronic HF differ according to LV systolic function, demonstrated as EF. T2DM seems the most powerful predictor of limited exercise capacity in patients with HFpEF.

Non-inferiority of 1 month versus longer dual antiplatelet therapy in patients undergoing PCI with drug-eluting stents: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Aim:

The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety of 1-month dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) followed by aspirin or a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents (DES), based on the available evidence.

Methods:

PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov database search identified four RCTs of 26,431 patients who underwent PCI with DES and compared 1-month versus >1-month DAPT. The primary endpoint was major bleeding and co-primary endpoint stent thrombosis, and secondary endpoints included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and major adverse clinical events (MACE).

Results:

Compared with >1-month DAPT, the 1-month DAPT was associated with a similar rate of major bleeding (OR = 0.74, 95%CI: 0.51–1.07, p = 0.11, I2 = 67%), stent thrombosis (OR = 1.10, 95%CI: 0.82–1.47, p = 0.53, I2 = 0.0%), similar risk for all-cause mortality (OR = 0.89, 95%CI: 0.77–1.04, p = 0.14, I2 = 0%), CV death (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.55–1.60, p = 0.24, I2 = 0.0%), MI (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.88–1.19, p = 0.78, I2 = 0.0%), and stroke (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.54–1.08, p = 0.13, I2 = 29%). The risk of MACE was lower (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.73–0.98, p = 0.02, I2 = 39%) in the 1-month DAPT compared with the >1-month DAPT. Only patients with stable CAD had lower risk of MACE with 1-month DAPT (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.67–0.98, p = 0.03, I2 = 21%) compared with >1-month DAPT.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis proved the non-inferiority of 1-month DAPT followed by aspirin or a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor compared with long-term DAPT in patients undergoing PCI with DES.

The true meaning of the term μονογενής according to the Coptic rites

Background: The most well-known usage of the term μονογενής is in the spiritually admired hymn Omonogenyc Uioc ke Logoc tw :ew and the most frequently used clergy blessing, ‘f’cmarwout ‘nje pefmonogenyc ‘nsyri. It has been noticed that in many of the liturgical books that have been written in Arabic, μονογενής is often translated as ‘the only race وحيد الجنس, which does not reflect the essence of the term μονογενής. Methods: We hereby provide biblical, Old Testament and New Testament, liturgical books and common prayer book (Agpya) evidence for the exact meaning of the term μονογενής with its Greek references. These quotations prove that the accurate meaning of the term μονογενής is the Only Begotten which is الوحيد. Conclusion: The term μονογενής means the Only Begotten and not race, as translated in Arabic. Such accurate translation has important theological meaning hence should be adhered to. French: Contexte: L’utilisation la plus connue du terme μονογενής se trouve dans l’hymne spirituellement admiré Omonogenyc Uioc ke Logoc tw :ew, et dans la bénédiction du clergé la plus fréquemment utilisée, ‘f’cmarwout ‘nje pefmonogenyc ‘nsyri. Il a été remarqué que dans de nombreux livres liturgiques écrits en arabe, μονογενής est souvent traduit par ‘de race unique وحيد الجنس’, ce qui ne reflète pas l’essence du terme μονογενής. Méthodes: Nous fournissons ici des preuves bibliques, de l’Ancien Testament et du Nouveau Testament, des livres liturgiques et du livre des prières communes (Agpya) de la signification exacte du terme μονογενής avec ses références grecques. Ces citations prouvent que la signification exacte du terme μονογενής est le Fils Unique, qui est الوحيد. Conclusion: Le terme μονογενής signifie le Fils Unique et non la race, comme traduit en arabe. Une telle traduction précise a une signification théologique importante et doit donc être adoptée. German: Hintergrund: Die bekannteste Verwendung des Begriffs μονογενής findet sich in der geistlich bewunderten Hymne Omonogenyc Uioc ke Logoc tw :ew und dem am häufigsten verwendeten klerikalen Segen ‘f’cmarwout ‘nje pefmonogenyc ‘nsyri. Es wurde festgestellt, dass in vielen liturgischen Büchern, die in arabischer Sprache verfasst wurden, μονογενής oft mit "die einzige Rasse وحيد الجنس" übersetzt wird, was dem Wesen des Begriffs μονογενής nicht gerecht wird. Methodik: Wir liefern hiermit Beweise aus biblischen Texten, liturgischen Bücher und dem gemeinsamen Gebetsbuch (Agpya) für die genaue Bedeutung des Begriffs μονογενής mit seinen griechischen Referenzen. Diese Zitate beweisen, dass die genaue Bedeutung des Begriffs μονογενής der Einziggeborene Sohn ist, الوحيد. Schlussfolgerung: Der Begriff "μονογενής" bedeutet "der Einziggeborene" und nicht "Rasse", wie es im Arabischen heißt. Diese genaue Übersetzung hat eine wichtige theologische Bedeutung und sollte daher beibehalten werden. Italian: Background: L’uso più noto del termine μονογενής è nell’apprezzato inno spirituale Omonogenyc Uioc ke Logoc tw :ew e nella benedizione del clero più frequentemente usata. ‘f’cmarwout ‘nje pefmonogenyc ‘nsyri. È stato notato che in molti libri liturgici scritti in lingua araba μονογενής è spesso tradotta in ‘unico nel genere’ وحيد الجنس, il quale non corrisponde all’essenza del termine μονογενής. Metodi: con il presente studio forniamo delle evidenze bibliche, dall’antico e dal nuovo testamento, dai libri liturgici e dal comune libro delle preghiere orarie (Agpya) per il significato preciso del termine μονογενής con i riferimenti in lingua greca. Queste citazioni attestano che il significato accurato del termine μονογενής è Unigenito vale a dire الوحيد. Conclusione: il termine μονογενής significa Unigenito e non genere, come tradotto in Arabo. Tale traduzione accurata ha un’importante significato teologico e deve essere pertanto adottata. Keywords: μονογενής; Only Begotten; Coptic

Disease progression in cardiac morphology and function in heart failure: ATTR cardiac amyloidosis versus hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy

Background

Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA) is today more frequently recognized but the rate of progression of cardiac dysfunction is not well established. The aim of this study is to investigate the nature of cardiac structure and function changes, over time, in a retrospective cohort of ATTR-CA patients.

Methods

Fifty-one patients with ATTR-CA (mean age 78 ± 7 years, 30 females) were compared with 20 patients with heart failure but no amyloidosis (HFnCA) (mean age 76 ± 7 years, 5 females), all with septal thickness >  = 14 mm. All patients underwent DPD scintigraphy and an echocardiogram (Echo 2) which was compared with a previous echocardiographic examination (Echo 1), performed at least 3 years before.

Results

Over the follow-up period, the interventricular septal thickness (IVST) and relative wall thickness (RWT) in ATTR-CA increased from 16 (4) to 18 (5) mm and from 0.51 (0.17) to 0.62 (0.21) respectively, p < 0.001 for both, by a mean increase of 0.4 mm/year and 0.03 mm/year, (p = 0.009 and p = 0.002 compared with HFnCA), respectively. RWT > 0.45 (AUC = 0.77) and RELAPS > 2.0 (AUC 0.86) both predicted positive DPD diagnosis for ATTR-CA.

Conclusion

In ATTR-CA patients, the overtime-increase in RWT and IVST was worse than that seen in patients with heart failure but no cardiac amyloidosis. Also, RWT and relative apical sparing predicted diagnosis of ATTR-CA, thus could strengthen the use of follow-up echocardiographic findings as red flag for the diagnosis of ATTR-CA.

Reversed Apico-Basal Myocardial Relaxation Sequence During Exercise in Long QT Syndrome Mutations Carriers With History of Previous Cardiac Events

Background

Recent echocardiography studies in inherited long QT syndrome (LQTS) have shown left ventricular (LV) myocardial relaxation disturbances to follow markedly prolonged and dispersed mechanical contraction.

Aim

We used speckle-tracking echocardiography to assess disturbances in LV myocardial relaxation sequence during exercise and their relationship to symptoms.

Methods

Forty seven LQTS patients (45 ± 15 years, 25 female and 20 symptomatic, LVEF: 65 ± 6%) and 35 controls underwent exercise echocardiogram using Bruce protocol. ECG and echo parameters were recorded at rest, peak exercise (p.e.) and recovery.

Results

Between patients and controls there were no differences in age, gender, HR or LVEF. At p.e, patients had longer time to LV longitudinal E_SR (tE_SR) at all three LV segments; basal (p < 0.0001), mid- cavity (p = 0.03) and apical (p = 0.03) whereas at rest such difference was noted only at base (p = 0.0007). Patients showed reversed apico-basal relaxation sequence (ΔtE_{SRbase–apex}) with early relaxation onset occurring later at base than at apex, both at rest (49 ± 43 vs. –29 ± 19 ms, p < 0.0001) and at p.e. (46 ± 38 vs. –40 ± 22 ms, p < 0.0001), particularly in symptomatic patients (69 ± 44 vs. 32 ± 26, p < 0.0007). ΔtE_{SRbase–apex} correlated with longer QTc interval, lower E_SR and attenuated LV stroke volume.

Conclusion

LQTS patients show reversed longitudinal relaxation sequence, which worsens with exercise, particularly in those with previous cardiac events.

Efficacy and safety of colchicine in patients with coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

Inflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of atherosclerosis. Randomized controlled trials have investigated the potential benefit of colchicine in reducing cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) but produced conflicting results. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of colchicine in patients with CAD.

METHODS

We systematically searched selected electronic databases from inception until 10 December 2020. Primary clinical endpoints were: major adverse cardiac events; all-cause mortality; CV mortality; recurrent myocardial infarction; stroke; hospitalization; and adverse medication effects. Secondary endpoints were short-term effect of colchicine on inflammatory markers.

RESULTS

Twelve randomized controlled trials with a total of 13 073 patients with CAD (colchicine n = 6351 and placebo n = 6722) were included in the meta-analysis. At mean follow-up of 22.5 months, the colchicine group had lower risk of major adverse cardiac events (6.20 vs. 8.87%; P < .001), recurrent myocardial infarction (3.41 vs. 4.41%; P = .005), stroke (0.40 vs. 0.90%; P = .002) and hospitalization due to CV events (0.90 vs. 2.87%; P = .02) compared to the control group. The 2 patient groups had similar risk for all-cause mortality (2.08 vs. 1.88%; P = .82) and CV mortality (0.71 vs. 1.01%; P = .38). Colchicine significantly reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (-4.25, P = .001) compared to controls but did not significantly affect interleukin (IL)-β1 and IL-18 levels.

CONCLUSION

Colchicine reduced CV events and inflammatory markers, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and IL-6, in patients with coronary disease compared to controls. Its impact on cardiovascular and all-cause mortality requires further investigation.

Detection of myocardial fibrosis by speckle-tracking echocardiography: from prediction to clinical applications

Myocardial fibrosis (MF) represents the underlying pathologic condition of many cardiac disease, leading to cardiac dysfunction and heart failure (HF). Biopsy studies have shown the presence of MF in patients with decompensating HF despite apparently normal cardiac function. In fact, basic indices of left ventricular (LV) function, such as LV ejection fraction (EF), fail to recognize subtle LV dysfunction caused by MF. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) is currently recognized as the gold standard imaging investigation for the detection of focal and diffuse cardiac chambers MF; however, its use is limited by its availability and the use of contrast agents, while echocardiography remains the first level cardiac imaging technique due to its low cost, portability and high accessibility. Advanced echocardiographic techniques, above all speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE), have demonstrated reliability for early detection of structural myocardial abnormalities and for the prediction of prognosis in acute and chronic HF. Myocardial strain of both ventricles and also left atrium has been shown to correlate with the degree of MF, providing useful prognostic information in several diseases, such as HF, cardiomyopathies and valvular heart disease. This paper aims to provide an overview of the pathophysiology of MF and the clinical application of STE for the prediction of left and right heart chambers MF in HF patients.

Left atrial volume index predicts response to cardiac resynchronisation therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

In responders, cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) results in improved left ventricular (LV) function and reduced atrial arrhythmia. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the potential relationship between the left atrium (LA) volume and CRT response.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We systematically searched all electronic databases up to August 2018 in order to select clinical trials and observational studies that assessed the predictive value of LA volume index (LAVI) of CRT response. Left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) reduction ≥ 15 ml and/or LV ejection fraction (EF) increase ≥ 10% were the documented criteria for positive CRT response.

RESULTS

A total of 2191 patients recruited in 10 studies with mean follow-up duration of 10.5 months were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled analysis showed that CRT responders had lower baseline LAVI compared to non-responders, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -5.89% (95% CI: -9.47 to -3.22, p < 0.001). At follow-up, LAVI fell in the CRT responders (WMD -4.36%, 95% CI: -3.54 to -5.17, p < 0.001) compared to non-responders (WMD 1.45 %, 95% CI: -0.75 to 3.65, p = 0.20). The mean change of LAVI in the CRT responders was related to the fall in LVESV, β = -1.02 (-1.46 to -0.58), p < 0.001 and the increase in LVEF, β = 2.02 (1.86 to 4.58), p = 0.001. A baseline LAVI < 34 ml/m² predicted CRT response with summary sensitivity 0.80% (0.53-0.95), specificity 0.74% (0.53-0.89), and odds ratio > 11.

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline LAVI predicts CRT response, and its reduction reflects devise-related LA remodelling. These results emphasis the role of LAVI assessment as an integral part of cardiac function response to CRT.

Biomarkers Predict In-Hospital Major Adverse Cardiac Events in COVID-19 Patients: A Multicenter International Study

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic carries a high burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. We aimed to identify possible predictors of in-hospital major cardiovascular (CV) events in COVID-19.

METHODS

We retrospectively included patients hospitalized for COVID-19 from 10 centers. Clinical, biochemical, electrocardiographic, and imaging data at admission and medications were collected. Primary endpoint was a composite of in-hospital CV death, acute heart failure (AHF), acute myocarditis, arrhythmias, acute coronary syndromes (ACS), cardiocirculatory arrest, and pulmonary embolism (PE).

RESULTS

Of the 748 patients included, 141(19%) reached the set endpoint: 49 (7%) CV death, 15 (2%) acute myocarditis, 32 (4%) sustained-supraventricular or ventricular arrhythmias, 14 (2%) cardiocirculatory arrest, 8 (1%) ACS, 41 (5%) AHF, and 39 (5%) PE. Patients with CV events had higher age, body temperature, creatinine, high-sensitivity troponin, white blood cells, and platelet counts at admission and were more likely to have systemic hypertension, renal failure (creatinine ≥ 1.25 mg/dL), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, atrial fibrillation, and cardiomyopathy. On univariate and multivariate analysis, troponin and renal failure were associated with the composite endpoint. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a clear divergence of in-hospital composite event-free survival stratified according to median troponin value and the presence of renal failure (Log rank p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings, derived from a multicenter data collection study, suggest the routine use of biomarkers, such as cardiac troponin and serum creatinine, for in-hospital prediction of CV events in patients with COVID-19.

Obesity and Uncontrolled Diabetes Predict Depression in HF Patients

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome associated with poor quality of life and prognosis, and premature mortality. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of depression and its risk factors in HF patients.

METHODS

The study included 151 HF patients (mean age of 66.6 ± 11 years, 52.3% female). Based on ejection fraction (EF), the study cohort was divided into the following two groups: group-I: HFpEF patients (EF ≥ 50%, n = 47) and group-II: HFrEF patients (EF < 40%, n = 104). For the enrolled patients, demographic, clinic and echocardiographic indices, and depression scale results were collected.

RESULTS

The patients with HF and depression were older, mostly females, more obese, and had a higher glycemic level and higher NYHA functional class compared with the patients without depression (p < 0.05 for all). The left ventricle (LV) and left atrial (LA) dimensions were larger, and EF was lower, in patients with depression compared to those without depression (p < 0.05 for all), while the right ventricle (RV) measurements did not differ (p > 0.05). The same parameters remained significantly different when the patients were divided into HFpEF and HFrEF. The depression scale correlated with glycemic level (r = 0.51, p = 0.01), obesity (rpb = 0.53, p = 0.001), age (r = 0.47, p = 0.02), and severity of NYHA class (rpb = 0.54, p = 0.001). On a multivariate model, BMI ≥ 30 kg/m², OR 1.890 (1.199 to 3.551; 0.02) glycemic level ≥ 8.5 mmol/L, OR 2.802 (1.709 to 5.077; p = 0.01), and NYHA class > 2, OR 2.103 (1.389 to 4.700; p = 0.01), proved to be the most powerful independent predictors of depression, in the group as a whole. Obesity and uncontrolled diabetes predicted depression, irrespective of EF.

CONCLUSIONS

In this modest cohort of HF patients, obesity and uncontrolled diabetes were independent predictors of depression, irrespective of LV systolic function. This emphasizes the important role of medical education for better control of such risk factors.

Improved diastolic dysfunction is associated with higher forward flow and better prognosis in chronic heart failure

The benefit of repeat assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function in heart failure (HF) remains uncertain. We assessed the prognostic value of repeat echocardiographic assessment of LV filling pressure (LVFP) and its interaction with cardiac index (CI) in ambulatory patients with chronic HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We enrolled 357 patients (age 68 ± 11 years; 22% female) with chronic HFrEF. Patients underwent a clinical and echocardiographic examination at baseline. LVFP as assessed by the 2016 Guidelines and Doppler-derived CI were estimated. After the second echocardiographic examination, patients were followed for a median time of 30 months. The study endpoint included all-cause death and hospitalization for worsening HF. Patients who normalized LVFP or showed persistently normal LVFP at the follow-up examination had a significantly lower mortality rate than those with worsening or persistently raised LVFP (p < 0.0001). After stratification by CI, patients with elevated LVFP and CI < 2.0 l/min/m2 had a further worse outcome than those with elevated LVFP and CI ≥ 2.0 l/min/m2 (p < 0.0001). Multivariate survival analysis confirmed an independent prognostic impact of changes in LVFP, incremental to that of established clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic predictors. Repeat assessment of LVFP and CI significantly improved risk stratification of chronic HFrEF outpatients compared to baseline evaluation.

Longitudinal myocardial function is more compromised in cardiac syndrome X compared to insignificant CAD: Role of stress echocardiography and calcium scoring

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the nature of myocardial dysfunction in the cardiac syndrome X (CSX) and insignificant coronary artery disease (ICAD) using dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) and coronary calcium scoring (CAC).

METHODS

We prospectively studied 35 consecutive patients who complained of exertional angina, had ≥1 mm ST shift on exercise stress test but normal or no obstructive CAD (<50%) on angiography. Patients were divided into CSX (n = 27) with normal arteries and ICAD (n = 8) with insignificant stenosis.

RESULTS

CSX patients had more females, lower calcium score and less prevalent cardiac risk factors compared to ICAD (p < 0.05 for all). At peak stress, MAPSE and TAPSE failed to increase in both groups. LV septal and lateral s' increased in the two groups but the increment increase was less in CSX than ICAD (p < 0.05) while other diastolic indices did not differ between groups (p > 0.05 for all). CAC correlated modestly with LV and RV systolic velocities: septal s' (r = -0.65, p < 0.001) lateral s' (r = -0.35, p = 0.04) and right s' (r = -0.53, p = 0.005) in CSX, while in ICAD patients only with RV s' (r = -0.58, p = 0.02). On multivariate model, only septal s' OR 1.816 (1.1090-3.820, p = 0.04) proved the most powerful independent predictor of CAC.

CONCLUSIONS

Compromised LV longitudinal systolic velocities were more pronounced and calcium score as a surrogate for atherosclerosis was lower in CSX than ICAD. These findings strengthen the evidence for different pathogenesis of CSX compared to ICAD, with microvascular disease in the former and calcification in the latter.

Uncontrolled diabetes predicts anxiety and depression in CAD patients

Background and aim

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major public health problem worldwide because of high incidence of comorbidity and mortality. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with clustered risk factor for CAD. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of diabetes in CAD and its relationship with depression.

Methods

The study included 77 patients (mean age 64±11 years, 63% female) with CAD. Based on comorbidity patients were classified into CAD with DM (n=49) and CAD without DM (n=28). In this prospective study demographic, clinic, echocardiographic and angiographic indices were collected as well as scale of anxiety and depression.

Results

Patients with CAD and DM were older (p=0.001), had reduced left ventricular ejection fraction-EF (p=0.02), more obese (p=0.03), had higher NYHA class (p=0.04), more prevalent arterial hypertension (p=0.04), and higher anxiety and/or depression scales (p&lt;0.001) compared with patients without DM. Whereas gender was not significantly difference (p=0.11). Diabetes most closely correlated with the scale of depression (r=0.61, p&lt;0. 001).

In multivariate analysis, only diabetes OR=1.099 (95% CI 1.028 to 1.231, p&lt;0.001), predicted depression in patients with CAD. Glycemic &gt;8.9 mmol/L, predicted the scale of depression in patients with CAD (sensitivity 75%, specificity 70%, AUC=0.72, p&lt;0.001).

Conclusions

Diabetes is the most important risk factor for CAD and the uncontrolled levels are related to patient's disturbed mental health. These results constitute important knowledge for nurses serving CAD patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Obesity strongly predicts COVID-19-related major clinical adverse events in Coptic Clergy

Background and aims

The Coptic Clergy, due to their specific work involving interaction with many people, could be subjected to increased risk of infection from COVID-19. The aim of this study, a sub-study of the COVID-19-CVD international study of the impact of the pandemic on the cardiovascular system, was to assess the prevalence of COVID-19 among Coptic priests and identify predictors of clinical adverse events.

Methods

Participants were geographically divided into three groups: Group-I: Europe and USA, Group II: Northern Egypt and Group III: Southern Egypt. Participants' demographic indices, cardiovascular risk factors, possible source of infection, number of liturgies, infection management and major adverse events (MAEs), comprising death, re-infection or mechanical ventilation, were assessed.

Results

Out of the 1,570 clergy serving in 25 dioceses, 226 (14.39%) were infected. Their mean age was 49.5±12 years and mean weekly number of liturgies was 3.44±1.0. The overall prevalence rate was 14.7% and did not differ between Egypt as a whole and overseas (p=0.23). Disease prevalence was higher in Northern Egypt clergy compared to Europe and USA combined (18.4% vs 12.1%, p=0.03) and tended to be higher than in Southern Egypt (18.4% vs. 13.6%, p=0.09). Ten priests (4.42%) died of COVID-19 related complications, 2 (0.9%) had re-infection and 27 (11.9%) suffered a MAE. The clergy from Southern Egypt were more obese but the remaining risk factors were less prevalent compared to those in Europe and USA (p=0.01). In multivariate analysis, obesity OR 4.184 (2.483 to 12.14; p=0.01); age OR 1.070 (0.014 to 1.130; p=0.02), and systemic hypertension OR 0.932 (0.874 to 0.994; p=0.007) predicted MAEs. Obesity was the most powerful independent predictor of MAE in Southern Egypt and systemic hypertension in Northern Egypt (p&lt;0.05 for both).

Conclusion

Obesity is very prevalent among Coptic clergy and seems to be the most powerful independent predictor of major COVID-19-related adverse events.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Prevalence of SARS-CoV2 among Clergy

Combined cardiac risk factors predict COVID-19 related mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation in Coptic Clergy

Background and aims

The clinical adverse events of COVID-19 among clergy worldwide have been found higher than among ordinary communities, probably because of the nature of their work. The aim of this study, was to assess the impact of cardiac risk factors on COVID-19-related mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation in Coptic clergy.

Methods

Of 1576 Coptic clergy participating in the COVID-19-Clergy study, serving in Egypt, USA and Europe, 213 had the infection and were included in this analysis. Based on the presence of systemic arterial hypertension (AH), participants were divided into two groups: Group-I, Clergy with AH (n=77) and Group-II, without AH (n=136).Participants' demographic indices, cardiovascular risk factors, COVID-19 management details and related mortality were assessed.

Results

Clergy with AH were older (p&lt;0.001), more obese (p=0.04), had frequent type 2 diabetes (DM) (p=0.001), dyslipidemia (p=0.001) and coronary heart disease (CHD) (p=0.04) compared to those without AH. COVID-19 treatment at home, hospital or in intensive care did not differ between the patient groups (p&gt;0.05 for all). Clergy serving in Northern and Southern Egypt had a higher mortality rate compared to those from Europe and the USA combined (5.22%, 6.38%, 0%; p=0.001). The impact of AH on mortality was significant only in Southern Egypt (10% vs. 3.7%; p=0.01) but not in Northern Egypt (4.88% vs. 5.81%; p=0.43).

In multivariate analysis, CHD OR 1.607 [(0.982 to 3.051); p=0.02] and obesity, OR 3.403 [(1.902 to 4.694); p=0.04]predicted COVID-19 related mortality. A model combining cardiac risk factors (systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥160 mmHg, DM, obesity, dyslipidemia and history of CHD), was the most powerful independent predictor of COVID-19-related mortality, OR 4.813 [(2.011 to 7.017); p=0.008]. The same model also proved the best independent multivariate predictor of mechanical ventilation OR 1.444 [(0.949 to 11.88); p=0.001].

Conclusion

In Coptic clergy, the cumulative impact of risk factors is the most powerful predictor of mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation in Coptic clergy.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Myocardial Work Does Not Have Additional Diagnostic Value in the Assessment of ATTR Cardiac Amyloidosis

Background: Reduced LV longitudinal strain (GLS) and increased relative apical sparing (RELAPS) and increased wall thickness have been proposed as features for transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA). Myocardial work (MW) has recently been shown as useful afterload independent disease marker, hence we aimed to investigate its use in differentiating ATTR-CA from heart failure with increased septal thickness but no cardiac amyloidosis (CA) (HFnCA). Methods: This study included patients with HF and increased septal thickness ≥ 14 mm. We included 59 patients with hereditary (ATTRv) and 27 wild type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) described as ATTR-CA based on DPD scintigraphy. We also enrolled 30 non-amyloidosis heart failure patients with negative DPD scintigraphy, as a control group. Myocardial work (MW) was used to assess the index (GWI), constructive (GCW) and wasted (GWW) work. Relative wall thickness (RWT) and relative apical sparing (RELAPS) were tested as conventional measures. Results: The RWT and RELAPS were higher in ATTR-CA (p < 0.001) and predicted ATTR-CA (RWT; AUC = 0.84, p < 0.001) and RELAPS (AUC = 0.81, p < 0.001). MW; GWI (p = 0.04), GCW (p = 0.03), GWW (p = 0.001) were all lower in ATTR-CA compared with HFnCA but only GWW predicted ATTR-CA, (AUC = 0.75, p < 0.001). Binary logistic univariate regression analysis showed RWT (p = 0.003, β = 16.2) and RELAPS (p = 0.003, β = 2.3) to be associated with ATTR-CA but not MW. GWI and GCW correlated with NT-proBNP (p < 0.05) and Troponin (p < 0.01), but not RWT or RELAPS. Conclusion: Myocardial work had lower accuracy, compared to RWT or RELAPS, in identifying ATTR-CA but was better related to biomarkers. Thus, MW assessment is unlikely to have additional value in improving the diagnosis of heart failure due to ATTR-CA.

Stride Length Predicts Adverse Clinical Events in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: This meta-analysis aims to estimate the power of walking stride length as a predictor of adverse clinical events in older adults. Methods: We searched all electronic databases until April 2021 for studies reporting stride length and other spatial gait parameters, including stride velocity, stride width, step width and stride variability, and compared them with clinical outcomes in the elderly. Meta-analyses of odds ratios (ORs) of effects of stride length on clinical outcomes used the generic inverse variance method and random model effects. Clinical outcomes were major adverse events (MAEs), physical disability and mortality. Results: Eleven cohort studies with 14,167 patients (mean age 75.4 ± 5.6 years, 55.8% female) were included in the analysis. At 33.05 months follow up, 3839 (27%) patients had clinical adverse events. Baseline stride length was shorter, WMD −0.15 (−0.19 to −0.11, p < 0.001), and stride length variability was higher, WMD 0.67 (0.33 to 1.01, p < 0.001), in fallers compared to non-fallers. Other gait parameters were not different between the two groups (p > 0.05 for all). Short stride length predicted MAE OR 1.36 (95% CI; 1.19 to 1.55, p < 0.001), physical disability OR 1.26 (95% CI; 1.11 to 1.44, p = 0.004) and mortality OR 1.69 (95% CI; 1.41 to 2.02, p < 0.001). A baseline normalized stride length ≤ 0.64 m was more accurate in predicting adverse clinical events, with summary sensitivity 65% (58–71%), specificity 72% (69–75%) and accuracy 75.5% (74.2–76.7%) compared to stride length variability 5.7%, with summary sensitivity 66% (61–70%), specificity 56% (54–58%) and accuracy 57.1% (55.5–58.6%). Conclusion: The results of this meta-analyses support the significant value of stride length for predicting life-threatening clinical events in older adults. A short stride length of ≤0.64 m accurately predicted clinical events, over and above other gait measures.

Left atrial strain by speckle tracking predicts atrial fibrosis in patients undergoing heart transplantation

AIMS

In patients with heart failure (HF), chronically raised left ventricular (LV) filling pressures lead to progressive left atrial (LA) dysfunction and fibrosis. We aimed to assess the correlation of LA reservoir strain (peak atrial longitudinal strain, PALS) by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) and LA fibrosis assessed by myocardial biopsy in patients undergoing heart transplantation (HTx).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Forty-eight patients with advanced HF [mean age 51.2 ± 8.1 years, 29% females; LV ejection fraction ≤25% and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III-IV] referred for HTx were enrolled and underwent pre-operative echocardiographic evaluation, right heart catheterization, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Exclusion criteria were non-sinus rhythm, mechanical ventilation, severe mitral/tricuspid regurgitation, or other valvular disease and poor acoustic window. After HTx, LA bioptic samples were collected and analysed to determine the extent of myocardial fibrosis (%). LA fibrosis showed correlation with PALS (R = -0.88, P < 0.0001), VO2max (R = -0.68, P < 0.0001), NYHA class (R = 0.66, P < 0.0001), LA stiffness (R = 0.58, P = 0.0002), and E/e' (R = 0.44, P = 0.005), while poorly correlated with E/A ratio (R = 0.23, P = 0.21). PALS had a good correlation with NYHA class (R = -0.64, P < 0.0001), PAoP (R = -0.61, P = 0.03) and VO2max (R = 0.57, P = 0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis identified PALS (beta = -0.91, P < 0.001) and LA Volume (beta = -0.19, P = 0.03) as predictors of LA Fibrosis, while E/e' was not a significant predictor (beta = 0.15, P = 0.08).

CONCLUSION

Emerging as a possible index of myocardial fibrosis in patients with advanced HF, PALS could help to optimize the management and the selection of those patients with irreversible LA structural damage for advanced therapeutic strategies.

Radial Access for Coronary Angiography Carries Fewer Complications Compared with Femoral Access: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND AND AIM

In patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography (CA) and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), the benefits associated with radial access compared with the femoral access approach remain controversial. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the short-term evidence-based clinical outcome of the two approaches.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing radial versus femoral access for CA and PCI. We identified 34 RCTs with 29,352 patients who underwent CA and/or PCI and compared 14,819 patients randomized for radial access with 14,533 who underwent procedures using femoral access. The follow-up period for clinical outcome was 30 days in all studies. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a fixed-effect or a random-effect model, as appropriate. Risk ratios (RRs) were used for efficacy and safety outcomes.

RESULTS

Compared with femoral access, the radial access was associated with significantly lower risk for all-cause mortality (RR: 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.61 to 0.88; p = 0.001), major bleeding (RR: 0.53; 95% CI:0.43 to 0.65; p ˂ 0.00001), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)(RR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.91; p = 0.0002), and major vascular complications (RR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.48; p ˂ 0.00001). These results were consistent irrespective of the clinical presentation of ACS or STEMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Radial access in patients undergoing CA with or without PCI is associated with lower mortality, MACE, major bleeding and vascular complications, irrespective of clinical presentation, ACS or STEMI, compared with femoral access.

Combined Cardiac Risk Factors Predict COVID-19 Related Mortality and the Need for Mechanical Ventilation in Coptic Clergy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The clinical adverse events of COVID-19 among clergy worldwide have been found to be higher than among ordinary communities, probably because of the nature of their work. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of cardiac risk factors on COVID-19-related mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation in Coptic clergy.

METHODS

Of 1570 Coptic clergy participating in the COVID-19-Clergy study, serving in Egypt, USA and Europe, 213 had the infection and were included in this analysis. Based on the presence of systemic arterial hypertension (AH), participants were divided into two groups: Group-I, clergy with AH (n = 77) and Group-II, without AH (n = 136). Participants' demographic indices, cardiovascular risk factors, COVID-19 management details and related mortality were assessed.

RESULTS

Clergy with AH were older (p < 0.001), more obese (p = 0.04), had frequent type 2 diabetes (DM) (p = 0.001), dyslipidemia (p = 0.001) and coronary heart disease (CHD) (p = 0.04) compared to those without AH. COVID-19 treatment at home, hospital or in intensive care did not differ between the patient groups (p > 0.05 for all). Clergy serving in Northern and Southern Egypt had a higher mortality rate compared to those from Europe and the USA combined (5.22%, 6.38%, 0%; p = 0.001). The impact of AH on mortality was significant only in Southern Egypt (10% vs. 3.7%; p = 0.01) but not in Northern Egypt (4.88% vs. 5.81%; p = 0.43). In multivariate analysis, CHD OR 1.607 ((0.982 to 3.051); p = 0.02) and obesity, OR 3.403 ((1.902 to 4.694); p = 0.04) predicted COVID-19 related mortality. A model combining cardiac risk factors (systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥ 160 mmHg, DM, obesity and history of CHD) was the most powerful independent predictor of COVID-19-related mortality, OR 3.991 ((1.919 to 6.844); p = 0.002). Almost the same model also proved the best independent multivariate predictor of mechanical ventilation OR 1.501 ((0.809 to 6.108); p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

In Coptic clergy, the cumulative impact of risk factors was the most powerful predictor of mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation.

Prognostic value of left atrial volume index in acute coronary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In the absence of mitral valve disease, increased left atrial volume (LAV) is a marker of diastolic dysfunction and long-standing elevated left ventricle (LV) pressure. The aim of this study was to assess the role of increased baseline LAV in predicting clinical outcome of patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

We systematically searched all electronic databases up to September 2020 in order to select clinical trials and observational studies, which assessed the predictive role of LAV indexed (LAVI) on clinical outcome in patients with ACS. Primary clinical endpoints were as follows: major adverse cardiac events (MACE), all-cause mortality and hospitalization. Secondary endpoints were in-hospital complications.

RESULTS

A total of 2,705 patients from 11 cohort studies with a mean follow-up 18.7 ± 9.8 months were included in the meta-analysis. Patients with low LAVI had low risk for MACE (15.9% vs. 33.7%; p < .01), long-term all-cause mortality (9.14% vs. 18.1%; p < .01), short-term mortality (3.31% vs. 9.38%; p = .02) and lower hospitalization rate (11.6% vs. 25.5%; p < .01) compared to patients with increased LAVI. Atrial fibrillation and cardiogenic shock as in-hospital events were lower (p < .05 for all) in patients with low LAVI but ventricular fibrillation/tachycardia was not different between groups (p = .14).

CONCLUSION

Increased LAVI is an independent predictor of outcome in patients with ACS. Thus, assessment of LA index in these patients is important for better risk stratification and guidance towards optimum clinical management.

Left atrial stiffness predicts cardiac events in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: The impact of diabetes

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and left atrial (LA) remodelling in a group of patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), and their combined impact on cardiac events (CE).

METHODS

This study included 136 consecutive HFrEF patients (65 ± 11 years), 36 had DM, and 86 had increased LA stiffness (LASt). All patients underwent complete conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiographic measurements were made including LA volumes and function. LASt was calculated using the formula: LASt = E/e' ratio / PALS.

RESULTS

At 55 ± 37 months follow-up, free survival from CE was 69% in patients without DM and 44.4% in those with DM (p < .0001). The CE free survival was lower in patients with increased LASt compared to normal LASt, (50 versus. 80%, p < .001), irrespective of the presence of DM (27 versus. 71%, p < .001).The best cut-off value of LASt for predicting CE in the group as a whole was ≥ 0.82% [81% sensitivity, 72% specificity and AUC 0.82 (p < .001)]. LASt ≥ 0.82% also predicted CE in no DM patients [78% sensitivity, 71% specificity and AUC 0.80 (p < .001)] and was a stronger predictor in DM patients [85% sensitivity, 71% specificity and AUC = 0.847 (p < .001)].

CONCLUSION

High LA stiffness is associated with poor clinical outcome in patients with HFrEF. Diabetes has an additional incremental value in determining clinical outcome in those patients.

The relationship between carotid and coronary calcification in patients with coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is a multi-system pathology with heterogeneous involvement. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the presence and severity of carotid and coronary calcification in a group of patients with coronary artery disease.

METHODS

Sixty-three patients presenting with unstable angina or positive stress test for myocardial ischaemia were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent CT scanning of the carotid and coronary arteries using the conventional protocol and Agatston scoring system. Risk factors for atherosclerosis were also analyzed for correlation with the extent of arterial calcification.

RESULTS

Total coronary artery calcium score (CAC) was several times higher than total carotid calcium score (1274 (1018) vs 6 (124), p = 0·0001, respectively). The left carotid calcium score correlated strongly with the right carotid calcium score (rho = 0·69, p < 0·0001). The total CAC score correlated modestly with the total carotid calcium score (rho = 0·34, p = 0·007), in particular with left carotid score (rho = 0·38, p = 0·002), but not with the right carotid score. The left coronary calcium score correlated with the right coronary calcium score (rho = 0·35, p = 0·004), left carotid calcium score (rho = 0·33, p = 0·007) and left carotid calcium score at the bifurcation (rho = 0·34, p = 0·006). While hypertension correlated with carotid calcium score, diabetes and dyslipidaemia correlated with left CAC score.

CONCLUSION

In patients with coronary disease, the carotid calcification pattern appeared to be similar between the right and left system in contrast to that of the coronary arteries. CAC correlated only modestly with the carotid score, despite being significantly higher. Hypertension was related to carotid calcium score while diabetes and dyslipidaemia correlated with coronary calcification.

Carotid Atherosclerosis in Predicting Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

[Figure: see text].

High Coronary Wall Shear Stress Worsens Plaque Vulnerability: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Aim:

The aim of this meta-analysis is to assess the impact of wall shear stress (WSS) severity on arterial plaque vulnerability.

Methods:

We systematically searched electronic databases and selected studies which assessed the relationship between WSS measured by intravascular ultrasound and coronary artery plaque features. In 7 studies, a total of 615 patients with 28 276 arterial segments (median follow-up: 7.71 months) were identified. At follow-up, the pooled analysis showed high WSS to be associated with regression of plaque fibrous area, weighted mean difference (WMD) −0.11 (95% CI: −0.20 to −0.02, P = .02) and fibrofatty area, WMD −0.09 (95% CI: −0.17 to −0.01, P = .02), reduction in plaque total area, WMD −0.09 (95% CI: −0.14 to −0.04, P = .007) and increased necrotic core area, and WMD 0.04 (95% CI: 0.01-0.09, P = .03) compared with low WSS. Dense calcium deposits remained unchanged in high and low WSS (0.01 vs 0.02 mm²; P > .05). High WSS resulted in profound remodeling (40% vs 18%, P < .05) and with more constructive remodeling than low WSS (78% vs 40%, P < .01).

Conclusions:

High WSS in coronary arteries is associated with worsening plaque vulnerability and more profound arterial wall remodeling compared with low WSS.

The impact of type of dietary protein, animal versus vegetable, in modifying cardiometabolic risk factors: A position paper from the International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP)

Proteins play a crucial role in metabolism, in maintaining fluid and acid-base balance and antibody synthesis. Dietary proteins are important nutrients and are classified into: 1) animal proteins (meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy), and, 2) plant proteins (legumes, nuts and soy). Dietary modification is one of the most important lifestyle changes that has been shown to significantly decrease the risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD) by attenuating related risk factors. The CVD burden is reduced by optimum diet through replacement of unprocessed meat with low saturated fat, animal proteins and plant proteins. In view of the available evidence, it has become acceptable to emphasize the role of optimum nutrition to maintain arterial and CV health. Such healthy diets are thought to increase satiety, facilitate weight loss, and improve CV risk. Different studies have compared the benefits of omnivorous and vegetarian diets. Animal protein related risk has been suggested to be greater with red or processed meat over and above poultry, fish and nuts, which carry a lower risk for CVD. In contrast, others have shown no association of red meat intake with CVD. The aim of this expert opinion recommendation was to elucidate the different impact of animal vs vegetable protein on modifying cardiometabolic risk factors. Many observational and interventional studies confirmed that increasing protein intake, especially plant-based proteins and certain animal-based proteins (poultry, fish, unprocessed red meat low in saturated fats and low-fat dairy products) have a positive effect in modifying cardiometabolic risk factors. Red meat intake correlates with increased CVD risk, mainly because of its non-protein ingredients (saturated fats). However, the way red meat is cooked and preserved matters. Thus, it is recommended to substitute red meat with poultry or fish in order to lower CVD risk. Specific amino acids have favourable results in modifying major risk factors for CVD, such as hypertension. Apart from meat, other animal-source proteins, like those found in dairy products (especially whey protein) are inversely correlated to hypertension, obesity and insulin resistance.

Interdialytic weight gain of less than 2.5% seems to limit cardiac damage during hemodialysis

Aims:

To investigate if a single low-flux HD induces a rise in cardiac biomarkers and if a change in clinical approach may limit such mechanism.

Material and methods:

A total of 20 chronic HD patients each underwent three different study-dialyses. Dialyzers (low-flux polysulfone, 1.8 sqm) had been stored either dry or wet (Wet) and the blood level in the venous chamber kept low or high. Laboratory results were measured at baseline, 30 and 180 min, adjusted for the effect of fluid shift. Ultrasound measured microemboli signals (MES) within the return line.

Results:

Hemodialysis raised cardiac biomarkers (p < 0.001): Pentraxin 3 (PTX) at 30 min (by 22%) and at 180 min PTX (53%), Pro-BNP (15%), and TnT (5%), similarly for all three HD modes. Baseline values of Pro-BNP correlated with TnT (rho = 0.38, p = 0.004) and PTX (rho = 0.52, p < 0.001). The changes from pre- to 180 min of HD (delta-) were related to baseline values (Pro-BNP: rho = 0.91, p < 0.001; TnT: rho = 0.41, p = 0.001; PTX: rho = 0.29, p = 0.027). Delta Pro-BNP (rho = 0.67, p < 0.001) and TnT (rho = 0.38, p = 0.004) correlated with inter-dialytic-weight-gain (IDWG). Biomarkers behaved similarly between the HD modes. The least negative impact was with an IDWG ⩽ 2.5%. Multiple regression analyses of the Wet-High mode does not exclude a relation between increased exposure of MES and factors such as release of Pro-BNP.

Conclusion:

Hemodialysis, independent of type of dialyzer storage, was associated with raised cardiac biomarkers, more profoundly in patients with higher pre-dialysis values and IDWG. A limitation in IDWG to <2.5% and prolonged ultrafiltration time may limit cardiac strain during HD, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk.

Mechanisms of Aortic Flow Deceleration and the Effect of Wave Reflection on Left Ventricular Function

Increased wave reflection is an independent predictor of cardiovascular events, possibly due to effects on left ventricular (LV) function. We investigated the relationship between reflected waves in early systole, the forward decompression wave in mid-late systole and LV mechanical behavior. Invasively acquired ascending aortic velocity, pressure, and LV long and minor axes’ dimensions were measured simultaneously in 11 anesthetized dogs during both control conditions and aortic occlusion to cause additional early wave reflection. Wave intensity analysis (WIA) was used to identify the arrival of the reflected wave and the onset of a forward decompression wave in mid-late systole. The arrival time of the reflected wave coincided with the time when minor axis shortening began to decline from its peak, even during aortic occlusion when this time is 12 ms earlier. The initial decline in long axis shortening corresponded to the time of the peak of the reflected wave. The forward decompression wave was consistently observed to have a slow and then rapid phase. The slow phase onset coincided with time of maximum shortening velocity of the long axis. The onset of the later larger rapid phase consistently coincided with an increased rate of deceleration of both axes during late systole. Forward decompression waves are generated by the LV when the long axis shortening velocity falls. Reflected wave arrival has a detrimental effect on LV function, particularly the minor axis. These observations lend support to suggestions that therapies directed toward reducing wave reflection may be of value in hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Left Ventricular Diastolic and Systolic Functions in Patients with Hypothyroidism

Background and objectives: Long standing hypothyroidism may impair myocardial relaxation, but its effect on systolic myocardial function is still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function in patients with hypothyroidism. Materials and Methods: This study included 81 (age 42 ± 13 years, 92% female) patients with hypothyroidism, and 22 age and gender matched controls. All subjects underwent a detailed clinical examination followed by a complete biochemical blood analysis including thyroid function assessment and anthropometric parameters measurements. LV function was assessed by 2-dimensional, M-mode and Tissue-Doppler Doppler echocardiographic examination performed in the same day. Results: Patients had lower waist/hip ratio (p< 0.001), higher urea level (p = 0.002), and lower white blood cells (p = 0.011), compared with controls. All other clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric data did not differ between the two groups. Patients had impaired LV diastolic function (lower E wave [p< 0.001], higher A wave [p = 0.028], lower E/A ratio [p< 0.001], longer E wave deceleration time [p = 0.01], and higher E/e' ratio [p< 0.001]), compared with controls. Although LV global systolic function did not differ between groups, LV longitudinal systolic function was compromised in patients (lateral mitral annular plane systolic excursion-MAPSE [p = 0.005], as were lateral and septal s' [p< 0.001 for both]). Conclusions: In patients with hypothyroidism, in addition to compromised LV diastolic function, LV longitudinal systolic function is also impaired compared to healthy subjects of the same age and gender. These findings suggest significant subendocardial function impairment, reflecting potentially micro-circulation disease that requires optimum management.

Left Ventricular Contraction Duration Is the Most Powerful Predictor of Cardiac Events in LQTS: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Long-QT syndrome (LQTS) is primarily an electrical disorder characterized by a prolonged myocardial action potential. The delay in cardiac repolarization leads to electromechanical (EM) abnormalities, which adds a diagnostic value for LQTS. Prolonged left ventricular (LV) contraction was identified as a potential risk for arrhythmia. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the best predictor of all EM parameters for cardiac events (CEs) in LQTS patients. Methods: We systematically searched all electronic databases up to March 2020, to select studies that assessed the relationship between echocardiographic indices—contraction duration (CD), mechanical dispersion (MD), QRS onset to peak systolic strain (QAoC), and the EM window (EMW); and electrical indices— corrected QT interval (QT_C), QT_C dispersion, RR interval in relation to CEs in LQTS. This meta-analysis included a total of 1041 patients and 373 controls recruited from 12 studies. Results: The meta-analysis showed that LQTS patients had electrical and mechanical abnormalities as compared to controls—QT_C, WMD 72.8; QT_C dispersion, WMD 31.7; RR interval, WMD 91.5; CD, WMD 49.2; MD, WMD 15.9; QAoC, WMD 27.8; and EMW, WMD −62.4. These mechanical abnormalities were more profound in symptomatic compared to asymptomatic patients in whom disturbances were already manifest, compared to controls. A CD ≥430 ms had a summary sensitivity (SS) of 71%, specificity of 84%, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) >19.5 in predicting CEs. EMW and QT_C had a lower accuracy. Conclusions: LQTS is associated with pronounced EM abnormalities, particularly prolonged LV myocardial CD, which is profound in symptomatic patients. These findings highlight the significant role of EM indices like CD in managing LQTS patients.

Complete revascularization for patients with multivessel coronary artery disease and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after the COMPLETE trial: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The recently published COMPLETE trial has demonstrated that patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multivessel coronary artery disease (MVD), who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of both culprit and non-culprit (vs. culprit-only) lesions had a reduced risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), but not of cardiovascular or total mortality. The aim of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy of complete revascularization on cardiovascular or total mortality reduction using available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including the COMPLETE trial, in hemodynamically stable STEMI patients with MVD.

METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov databases search identified 10 RCTs of 7033 patients with STEMI and MVD which compared complete (n = 3420) vs. only culprit lesion (n = 3613) PCI for a median 27.7 months follow-up. Random effect risk ratios were used to estimate for efficacy and safety outcomes.

RESULTS

Complete revascularization reduced the risk of MACE (10.4% vs.16.6%; RR = 0.59, 95% CI: 0.47 to 0.74, p < 0.0001), CV mortality (2.87% vs. 3.72%; RR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.56 to 0.95, p = 0.02), reinfarction (5.1% vs. 7.1%; RR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.52 to 0.86, p = 0.002), urgent revascularization (7.92% vs.17.4%; RR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.30 to 0.73, p < 0.001), and CV hospitalization (8.68% vs.11.4%; RR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44to 0.96, p = 0.03) compared with culprit only revascularization. All-cause mortality, stroke, major bleeding events, or contrast induced nephropathy were not affected by the revascularization strategy.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that in patients with STEMI and MVD, complete revascularization is superior to culprit-only PCI in reducing the risk of MACE outcomes, including cardiovascular mortality, without increasing the risk of adverse safety outcomes.