Ductal stenting vs. surgical shunting in late presenting duct-dependent pulmonary circulation: a single-center experience

Introduction

PDA stenting is an option to mBTT shunt for younger patients; nevertheless, few reports of this palliative approach have been made for the late presenter population, especially for patients who are older than 30 days but under 5 years. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical result and intra-hospital costs of ductal stenting in late-presenting patients in comparison to surgical shunting.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective cohort study was conducted from August 2016 to August 2022. This study included patients with pulmonary duct dependent CHD who were hospitalized for palliative therapy. The extracted data were baseline characteristics, clinical findings, supportive examination findings, complications, outcomes, and length of stay of the patients. Monitoring was carried out during treatment up to 30 days after the procedure.

Results

A total of 143 patients were included in the analysis; 43 patients underwent PDA stent and 100 patients underwent mBTT shunt with median age of PDA stent group 110 (31-1,498) days and mBTT shunt group 174.5 (30-1,651) days. Primary outcome composite was not significant in both groups including 30 days mortality [6 (14%) vs. 14 (14%), p = 1.000], reintervention [1 (2.3%) vs. 7 (7%), p = 0.436], and 30 days rehospitalization [0 (0%) vs. 2 (2%), p = 0.319]. Secondary outcome analysis showed shorter ICU length of stay in the PDA stent group [2 (0-16) days vs. 4 (1-63) days, p = 0.002].

Conclusions

PDA stent has an outcome that is non inferior from the mBTT shunt procedure in the composite outcome including 30 days mortality, reintervention, and 30 days rehospitalization but significantly lower in ICU length of stay.

Endovascular management of aortic aneurysm with severe neck angulation and/or iliac artery tortuosity using multiple stiff wire technique: a case series

Background

Suitable aortic neck is one of the essential components for thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and endovascular aortic repair (EVAR). Advanced techniques were developed to adjust and compromise the aneurysm neck angulation but with adding additional devices and complexity to the procedure. We proposed a simple technique to modify severe neck angulation and/or iliac artery tortuosity by using the multiple stiff wire (MSW) technique.

Method

Two femoral accesses were required for the MSW technique. A guidewire with a support catheter was inserted through the right and left femoral arteries and positioned in the abdominal or thoracic aorta. Wire exchanges were done with extra stiff wire in both femoral accesses. It can be considered to add multiple stiff wires to align the torturous neck / iliac artery. Delivery of the stent graft main body can be done via one of the accesses.

Result

Six patients with different aortic pathology were admitted to our hospital. Four patients undergo EVAR procedure and two patients undergo TEVAR procedure. All patients had aortic neck angulation problems with one patient having iliac artery tortuosity. MSW technique was performed on the patients with good results. Follow-up CTA after 3 months revealed a good stent position without stent migration and no endoleak was found in all but one patient.

Conclusion

MSW technique is a simple and effective technique to modify aortic neck/iliac artery angulation in TEVAR or EVAR procedure.

The association of apolipoprotein in the risk of ST-elevation myocardial infarction in patients with documented coronary artery disease

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death worldwide, in this case, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or acute myocardial infarction (AMI) that developed from coronary artery disease (CAD). Several risk factors contribute to AMI. Non-modifiable risk factors are age, sex, race, and family history. Modifiable risk factors include dyslipidemia, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, as well as recent factors that are considered more specific such as homocysteine, lipoprotein a [Lp(a)], high sensitivity C- reactive protein (hs-CRP), and apolipoprotein. This study aimed to determine the role of apolipoprotein as a risk factor for STEMI.

Methods

This study combines three epidemiological designs: a descriptive and cross-sectional correlative study with 62 STEMI patients at the National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita and a comparative study of 62 STEMI patients and 20 non-ACS CAD patients at the Universitas Indonesia Hospital.

Results and conclusion

The descriptive study showed the level of apoB 80.71 ± 28.3, apoA1 104.93 ± 27.8, apoB/apoA1 ratio 0.78 ± 0.22, and Lp(a) 6.85 (1.0-48.1). ApoB moderately correlates with LDLc (p < 0.001; r = 0.571). ApoA1 weakly correlates with HDLc (p = 0.005; r = 0.379). In comparative study, there were significant differences between the STEMI and non-ACS CAD groups on apoA1 (104.93 ± 27.8 vs. 137.48 ± 26.46), apoB/apoA1 ratio (0.78 ± 0.22 vs. 0.59 ± 0.15), and hs-CRP (2.88 [0.4-215] vs. 0.73 [0.15-8.9]). Multivariate analysis showed that the most significant risk factors for STEMI in this study were hypertension for modifiable factors and apoA1 for apolipoprotein. The apoA1 and apoB/apoA1 ratio examination can be suggested for people who have experienced plaque formation and are at risk for myocardial infarction.

Gender Differences of Gly972Arg Polymorphism of the IRS-1 Gene Related to Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among Indonesians

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease is driven by traditional risk factors, sex, and genetic differences. The Asian population, specifically Indonesians, has been known at high risk of insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. A possible genetic risk factor related to cardiovascular diseases is Gly972Arg polymorphism of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) gene, as this impairs endothelial function. To date, whether there is a gender difference in Gly972Arg polymorphism of the IRS-1 gene in Indonesians is unknown. This study aimed to to define whether there is a gender difference in Gly972Arg polymorphism of the IRS-1 gene in Indonesians.

METHODS

We studied adults living in two areas (rural and urban) in Indonesia. We collected demographic and clinical data from the study subjects. Gly972Arg polymorphism of the IRS-1 gene (rs1801278) was detected using TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

A total of 378 subjects were recruited. The wild-type allele (CC) was found in 86 (22.8%) subjects, heterozygous mutant allele (CT) in 245 (64.8%), and homozygous mutant allele in 47 (12.4%). The proportion of subjects with T alleles was significantly higher among women than men (54.6% vs. 45.4%, odds ratio: 1.89; p = 0.01). Subjects with T allele more often have hypertension (odds ratio: 1.69, p = 0.058).

CONCLUSION

There were a higher proportion of women than men carrying the T allele of Gly972Arg polymorphism among Indonesians. Individuals with the T allele appeared to show a greater prevalence of hypertension. These results may explain a possible mechanism of the high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Indonesia, especially in women.

The role of clopidogrel resistance-related genetic and epigenetic factors in major adverse cardiovascular events among patients with acute coronary syndrome after percutaneous coronary intervention

Despite patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and receiving clopidogrel therapy, some patients still experience major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Clopidogrel resistance, which may be regulated by genetic and epigenetic factors, may play a role in MACEs. This study aimed to determine the association between genetic (CYP2C19 and P2Y12 polymorphisms) and epigenetic (DNA methylation of CYP2C19 and P2Y12 and miRNA-26a expression) factors and their effects on MACEs among post-PCI patients. Post-PCI patients who received a standard dosage of clopidogrel at Harapan Kita Hospital between September 2018 and June 2020 were included in this study. MACEs were observed in patients within 1 year after PCI. Platelet aggregation was assessed using light transmission aggregometry (LTA). DNA methylation of CYP2C19 and P2Y12 was assessed using the bisulfite conversion method. CYP2C19 and P2Y12 polymorphisms and miRNA-26a expression were evaluated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Among a total of 201 subjects, 49.8% were clopidogrel-resistant, and 14.9% experienced MACEs within 1 year after PCI (death was 7.5%). Hypomethylation of CYP2C19 (p = 0.037) and miRNA-26a upregulation (p = 0.020) were associated with clopidogrel resistance. CYP2C19^*2/^*3 polymorphisms (p = 0.047) were associated with MACEs in 1 year. This study demonstrated that hypomethylation of CYP2C19 and miRNA-26a upregulation increased the risk of clopidogrel resistance in post-PCI patients, but there was no correlation between clopidogrel resistance and MACEs. However, CYP2C19^*2/^*3 polymorphisms were the factors that predicted MACEs within 1 year.

Comparison between Visual Assessment and Longitudinal Strain during Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography

Background

The relationship between visual assessment and longitudinal strain during dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) remains poorly investigated. This study assessed wall motion segments visually graded as normokinetic, hypokinetic, and akinetic at baseline and the peak of DSE and compared with longitudinal strain between segments with and without induced impaired contractility and improved contractility during DSE.

Methods

This study included 112 patients examined by DSE, consisting of 58 patients referred for diagnostic study and 54 patients referred for viability study. Regional left ventricular (LV) contractility was assessed visually and longitudinal strain was measured using echocardiography transthoracic.

Results

At baseline, the strain of LV segments was -16.33 ± 6.26 in visually normokinetic, 13.05 ± 6.44 in visually hypokinetic, and -8.46 ± 5.69 in visually akinetic segments. During peak dose, the strain of LV segments was -15.37 ± 6.89 in visually normokinetic, -11.37 ± 5.11 in visually hypokinetic, and -7.37 ± 3.92 in visually akinetic segments. In segments with visually observed impaired contractility, the median longitudinal strain was significantly lower than in segments without impaired contractility. For segments with visually observed improved contractility, the median longitudinal strain was significantly higher than for segments without improved contractility. In diagnostic study, sensitivity of visual assessment for absolute decrease of >2% longitudinal strain was 77%, respectively. In the viability study, the sensitivity was 82% for an absolute decrease of ≥2% longitudinal strain.

Conclusions

There is good association between strain analysis value and visually assessed wall motion contractility.

A Novel Peptide Elabela is Associated with Hypertension-Related Subclinical Atherosclerosis

INTRODUCTION

Elabela is a newly identified peptide which, alongside apelin, acts as an endogenous ligand that activates the angiotensin receptor-like 1 receptor. Previous studies have shown the association of elabela with hypertension, but information about the role of elabela in hypertension-related subclinical atherosclerosis is scarce.

AIM

We aimed to determine the elabela levels in hypertensive patients and explore its association with subclinical atherosclerosis.

METHODS

A total of 104 subjects with hypertension were included in the study. Elabela levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, by first extracting the peptide following the manufacturer's instructions. Subclinical atherosclerosis was assessed by measuring the carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) using ultrasound.

RESULTS

Compared to stage 1, elabela levels decreased in stage 2 hypertension (0.23 [0.13, 0.45] ng/ml vs. 0.14 [0.09, 0.23] ng/ml; P = 0.000), and in the group with increased carotid IMT compared to normal IMT (0.24 [0.13, 0.38] ng/ml vs. 0.15 [0.10, 0.23] ng/ml; P = 0.005). Additionally, a linear correlation analysis showed that elabela had a significant negative correlation with systolic blood pressure (r = - 0.340, P = 0.000) and carotid IMT (r = - 0.213; P = 0.030). In multivariate analysis, lower elabela levels were associated with a higher cardiovascular risk group in this study (OR 5.0, 95% CI 1.8-13.5, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated for the first time that circulating elabela declined in a higher stage of hypertension and hypertensive patients with increased carotid IMT, implicating that elabela may be involved in the pathogenesis of hypertension-associated subclinical atherosclerosis.

Operability of atrial septal defect with borderline pulmonary vascular resistance index: A study in developing country

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension secondary to atrial septal defect (ASD) is an important determinant of morbidity and mortality in defect closure. We aimed to compare perioperative outcome between preoperative borderline and low pulmonary vascular resistance index (≥4 WU.m2 and &lt;4 WU.m2, respectively) in surgical closure of secundum atrial septal defect with concomitant pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Methods and results

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study between January 2015 and January 2020. We classified patients with low and borderline PVRI who underwent ASD closure and recorded the perioperative outcomes.

Results

We analyzed a total of 183 patients with atrial septal defect and pulmonary arterial hypertension; 92 patients with borderline PVRI and 91 patients with low PVRI. Borderline pulmonary vascular resistance index was not associated with increased risk of postoperative mortality (p = 0.621; OR0.48, 95% CI 0.04–5.48), but associated with higher risk of overall morbidity in bivariate analysis (p = 0.002; OR3.28, 95% CI 1.5–6.72). Multivariate analysis showed positive association of borderline pulmonary vascular resistance index (p = 0.045; OR2.63, 95% CI 1.02–6.77) and preoperative tricuspid valve gradient ≥64 mmHg (p = 0.034; OR2.77, 95% CI 1.08–7.13) with overall morbidity.

Conclusion

There is no difference in incidence of in-hospital mortality between preoperative borderline and low pulmonary vascular resistance index patients. However, preoperative borderline pulmonary vascular resistance index and tricuspid valve gradient ≥64 mmHg are associated with increased overall morbidity after surgical closure in secundum atrial septal defect patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Factors predicting diuretic resistance in patients with acute decompensated heart failure

Background

Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalisation and mortality with high incidence and ever-increasing prevalence in the world. Although novel methods in management of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) have been developed, mortality and rehospitalisation rates remain high. Loop diuretics have been shown to be effective in relieving congestion and have been recommended in many heart failure guidelines. Continuous use of loop diuretics may cause complications in the form of diuretics resistance. The prevalence of diuretic resistance ranges from 20–35% in the heart failure population and has been shown to be a predictor of mortality and an increased incidence of hospitalisation. Until now there are debates in determining the clinical indicators of diuretic resistance. However, the clinical characteristics of patients with acute decompensated heart failure that predict the development of diuretic resistance have not been widely studied and previous studies have shown different results from one another.

Purpose

This study aims to identify factors that influence the occurrence of diuretic resistance in ADHF patients based on clinical profiles, medical histories, and laboratory findings.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study on patients treated due to ADHF from January-December 2019. Diuretic resistance was defined as a diuresis response less than 1400 ml in the first 24 hours after administration of 40 mg of intravenous furosemide.

Results

Data from 535 patients were analysed. The prevalence of diuretic resistance in this study was 68%. Independent predictors obtained from multivariate logistic regression analysis were Type II Diabetes Mellitus (p=0.013), history of prior iv loop diuretics &gt;6 days (p=0.002), history of oral loop diuretic dose &gt;80 mg/day (p=0.006), LVEF ≤49% (p=0.002), BUN ≥21 mg/dL (p&lt;0.001) and serum chloride &lt;98 mmol/L (p&lt;0.001). In addition, a scoring system has been generated from the final model with AUC 0.749.

Conclusions

Independent predictors for diuretic resistance obtained from this study were DM, history of prior iv loop diuretics &gt;6 days, history of oral loop diuretic dose &gt;80 mg/day, LVEF ≤49%, BUN ≥21 mg/dL and serum chloride &lt;98 mmol/L.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Learning Intelligent for Effective Sonography (LIFES) Model for Rapid Diagnosis of Heart Failure in Echocardiography

BACKGROUND

The accuracy of an artificial intelligence model based on echocardiography video data in the diagnosis of heart failure (HF) called LIFES (Learning Intelligent for Effective Sonography) was investigated.

METHODS

A cross-sectional diagnostic test was conducted using consecutive sampling of HF and normal patients' echocardiography data. The gold-standard comparison was HF diagnosis established by expert cardiologists based on clinical data and echocardiography. After pre-processing, the AI model is built based on Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) using independent variable estimation and video classification techniques. The model will classify the echocardiography video data into normal and heart failure category. Statistical analysis was carried out to calculate the value of accuracy, area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and likelihood ratio (LR).

RESULTS

A total of 138 patients with HF admitted to Harapan Kita National Heart Center from January 2020 to October 2021 were selected as research subjects. The first scenario yielded decent diagnostic performance for distinguishing between heart failure and normal patients. In this model, the overall diagnostic accuracy of A2C, A4C, PLAX-view were 92,96%, 90,62% and 88,28%, respectively. The automated ML-derived approach had the best overall performance using the 2AC view, with a misclassification rate of only 7,04%.

CONCLUSION

The LIFES model was feasible, accurate, and quick in distinguishing between heart failure and normal patients through series of echocardiography images.

Dyslipidemia management for primary prevention of cardiovascular events: Best in-clinic practices

Dyslipidemia is a fundamental risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and can worsen the prognosis, if unaddressed. Lipid guidelines are still evolving as dyslipidemia is affecting newer patient subsets. However, these guidelines are governed by regional demographics and ethnic data. Primary care practitioners (PCPs) are the first to offer treatment, and hence placed early in the healthcare continuum. PCPs shoulder a huge responsibility in early detection of dyslipidemia for primary prevention of future cardiovascular (CV) events. Therefore, as members of Cardiovascular RISk Prevention (CRISP) in Asia network, the authors intend to align and shape-up the daily clinical practice workflow for PCPs and have a goal-directed strategy for managing dyslipidemia. This paper reviews the major international lipid guidelines, namely the American and European guidelines, and the regional guidelines from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam to identify their commonalities and heterogeneities. The authors, with a mutual consensus, have put forth, best in-clinic practices for screening, risk assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and management of dyslipidemia, particularly to reduce the overall risk of CV events, especially in the Asian context. The authors feel that PCPs should be encouraged to work in congruence with patients to decide on best possible therapy, which would be a holistic approach, rather than pursuing a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Since dyslipidemia is a dynamic field, accumulation of high-quality evidence and cross-validation studies in the future are warranted to develop best in-clinic practices at a global level.

Relationship between Hemoglobin Concentration at Admission with the Incidence of No-Reflow Phenomenon and In-Hospital Mortality in Acute Myocardial Infarction with Elevation of ST Segments in Patients who underwent Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Anemia in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with a pro-coagulant state, contributing to the incidence of no-reflow phenomenon and increased mortality following primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). However, clinical data remain contradictory. The objective of our study was to evaluate the association of admission hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and in-hospital mortality of STEMI patients' post-PPCI, as well as final thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow. A cross-sectional study was performed from the database of Jakarta Acute Coronary Syndrome Registry, consisting of 3,071 STEMI patients who underwent PPCI between January 2014 and December 2019. No-reflow phenomenon was defined as final TIMI flow <3 of the infarct-related artery. Outcome measures were the occurrence of no-reflow and in-hospital mortality. Anemia criteria were based on the World Health Organization. Anemia was found in 550 patients (17.9%). Patients with anemia were older (60 ± 10 years, p < 0.001), predominantly women (20.7 vs. 11.2%, p < 0.001), TIMI risk score >4 (45.8 vs. 30.4%, p < 0.00), and Killip classification >1 (25.8 vs. 20.8%, p < 0.009). Anemia at admission was not associated with no-reflow phenomenon (odds ratio [OR] = 0.889; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.654–1.209, p = 0.455). Multivariate regression models showed that anemia was not associated with in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.963; 95% CI = 0.635–1.459, p = 0.857) and with no-reflow phenomenon (OR = 0.939; 95% CI = 0.361–2.437, p = 0.896). Anemia upon admission was not related to the no-reflow phenomena or in-hospital mortality in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI.

OR19. Correlation between Circadian Variation of Idiopathic Ventricular Arrhytmia and Left Ventricular Intrinsic Systolic Function assessed by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography

Aims

To investigate the correlation between circadian variation of idiopathic ventricular arrhytmia (IVA) and left ventricular (LV) intrinsic systolic function.

Methods

This cross sectional study included 67 patients with IVA originated from ventricular outflow tract. All patients underwent 24-hour Holter monitoring and speckle tracking echocardiography examinations. The circadian variation of IVA burden and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were determined and statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate their correlation.

Results

A total 31 patients (46.3%) had impaired LV systolic function by GLS (-15.1% + 1.8% vs -21.3% + 2.0%; p = &lt;0.001) with less variation in circadian PVC distribution (coefficient of variation 6 hourly 26.8% + 15.6 vs 52.0 % + 28.2%; p = &lt;0.00). Impaired LV systolic function was found in 31 patients (46.3%) with less variation in circadian IVA distribution (coefficient of variation/CoV 6 hourly 26.8%+15.6) compared to patients with normal LV systolic function (CoV: 52.0%+28.2%; p = &lt;0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that less variation in circadian PVC distribution [CoV&lt;35%) is correlated with LV dysfunction (OR = 3.89, 95%CI 1.09-13.80, p = 0.036). Other independent factors were episode of non-sustained VT (OR = 14.4, 95%CI=2.36-88.55, p = 0.008), IVA burden &gt;9% (OR = 6.81, 95%CI 1.35-34.41, p = 0.020), and male gender (OR = 14.4, CI 95%=2.02-101.1, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

This study is the first to show that lack of circadian variation of IVA is associated with impaired LV systolic function by GLS. The finding of this study suggested that chronotherapy of antiarrhytmia medication may prevent the development of LV dysfunction.

External Counterpulsation Improves Angiogenesis by Preserving Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 but Not Regulating MicroRNA-92a Expression in Patients With Refractory Angina

Objective: External counterpulsation (ECP) provides long-term benefits of improved anginal frequency and exercise tolerance in patients with refractory angina (RA). This is postulated as a result of improved angiogenesis and endothelial function through an increase in shear stress. Angiogenesis is mainly represented by vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) and its receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). The microRNA-92a (miR-92a) is a flow-sensitive miRNA that regulates atherosclerosis and angiogenesis in response to shear stress. Thus, ECP beneficial effect might be achieved through interaction between VEGF-A, VEGFR-2, and miR-92a. This study aims to evaluate the ECP effect on VEGF-A, VEGFR-2, and miR-92a in patients with RA in a sham-controlled manner. Methods: This was a randomized sham-controlled trial, enrolling 50 patients with RA who have coronary artery disease (CAD). Participants were randomized (1:1 ratio) to 35 sessions of either ECP (n = 25) or sham (n = 25), each session lasting for 1 h. Plasma levels of VEGF-A and VEGFR-2 were assayed by the ELISA technique. The quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to measure miR-92a circulating levels in plasma. Result: External counterpulsation significantly preserved VEGF-A and VEGFR-2 level compared to sham [ΔVEGF-A: 1 (-139 to 160) vs.-136 (-237 to 67) pg/ml, p = 0.026; ΔVEGFR-2: -171(-844 to +1,166) vs. -517(-1,549 to +1,407) pg/ml, p = 0.021, respectively]. Circulating miR-92a increased significantly in ECP [5.1 (4.2-6.4) to 5.9 (4.8-6.4), p < 0.001] and sham [5.2 (4.1-9.4) to 5.6 (4.8-6.3), p = 0.008] post-intervention. The fold changes tended to be higher in ECP group, although was not statistically different from sham [fold changes ECP = 4.6 (0.3-36.5) vs. sham 2.8 (0-15), p = 0.33)]. Conclusion: External counterpulsation improved angiogenesis by preserving VEGF-A and VEGFR-2 levels. Both ECP and sham increased miR-92a significantly, yet the changes were not different between the two groups. (Study registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov, no: NCT03991871, August 8, 2019, and received a grant from the National Health Research and Development of Ministry of Health of Indonesia, No: HK.02.02/I/27/2020).

Diagnostic prediction model in subjects with low-risk unstable angina pectoris/non-ST segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to construct a prediction model based on non-invasive examination and cardiovascular risk factors, to predict the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and its severity in patients with low-risk unstable angina pectoris (UAP)/Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between non-invasive examinations and cardiovascular risk factors in predicting CAD. Model constructed based on non-invasive assessment and cardiovascular risk factors was compared to coronary angiography, the reference standard.

RESULTS

This study included 104 patients, comprising 60 men and 44 women, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 52.3 (6.8) years. Two diagnostic prediction models were constructed after series of analyses. The main model consists of NO, CIMT, history of smoking, and Age-Gender, while the alternative model consists of CIMT, history of smoking, and Age-Gender. The main model has AUC of 74.5% (95% CI: 64.9-84.1), sensitivity of 72.7% (95% CI: 57.2-85.0), specificity 65.0% (95% CI: 51.6 -76.9 for a cut-off point of 74.5. While the alternative model has 69.0% AUC (95% CI: 58.9-79.1), sensitivity of 65.9% (95%: 50.1-79, 5), a specificity of 56.7% (95% CI: 43.2-69.4) for a cut-off point of 69. The main model and the alternative model have similar diagnostic prediction performance based on the ROC comparison test (p = 0.70).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these results, we conclude that NO, CIMT, smoking history, and age-gender have a value of diagnostic validity in subjects with low-risk UAP/NSTEMI.

The effect of external counterpulsation on intrinsic myocardial function evaluated by speckle tracking echocardiography in refractory angina patients: a randomized controlled trial

External Counterpulsation (ECP) is one of the therapeutic options in patients with refractory angina inadequately controlled by medical, interventional, or surgical therapy. The 2D Speckle Tracking Echocardiography (2D-STE) method is considered superior in assessing clinical improvement. We would like to evaluate any improvement of myocardial intrinsic function using 2D-STE in patients underwent standard ECP protocol (35 sessions). We conducted a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Patients with refractory angina who could not be revascularized conventionally were randomized into two groups: (1) the ECP group (300 mmHg) and (2) the Sham/control group (75 mmHg). ECP standard therapy was given for 35 sessions (1 h/day/session). The 2D-STE data, including longitudinal strain and post systolic index (PSI) were obtained before and after therapy. 43 subjects were analyzed, with 22 subjects in ECP group and 21 control subjects (Sham group). A homogenous baseline strain was found either globally (12.42 ± 4.55 vs 12.00 ± 4.92 [- %]; P = 0.774) or segmentally/regionally (12.63 (0.01-25.16) vs 12.43 (0.01-27.20) [- %]; P = 0.570). There was no statistically significant improvement between groups in the left ventricle longitudinal strain globally (P = 0.535) and segmentally/regionally (P = 0.434). PSI parameters showed improvement in the ECP group (P = 0.049), and segments with PSI ≥ 20% seemed to improve longitudinal strains in the ECP group after therapy (P = 0.042). In conclusion, 35 ECP therapy sessions did not improve either global or segmental/regional left ventricular mechanical function in patients with refractory angina. However, the mechanical function of myocardial segments with PSS tends to improve after ECP therapy.

Prevalence of plasma lipid disorders with an emphasis on LDL cholesterol in selected countries in the Asia-Pacific region

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity within the Asia-Pacific region, with the prevalence of CVD risk factors such as plasma lipid disorders increasing in many Asian countries. As members of the Cardiovascular RISk Prevention (CRISP) in Asia network, the authors have focused on plasma lipid disorders in the six countries within which they have clinical experience: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia. Based on country-specific national surveys, the prevalence of abnormal levels of total cholesterol, low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C and HDL-C, respectively), and triglycerides (TG) are reported. An important caveat is that countries have used different thresholds to define plasma lipid disorders, making direct comparisons difficult. The prevalence of abnormal lipid levels was as follows: high total cholesterol (30.2-47.7%, thresholds: 190-213 mg/dL); high LDL-C (33.2-47.5%; thresholds: 130-135 mg/dL); low/abnormal HDL-C (22.9-72.0%; thresholds: 39-50 mg/dL); and high/abnormal TG (13.9-38.7%; thresholds: 150-177 mg/dL). Similarities and differences between country-specific guidelines for the management of plasma lipid disorders are highlighted. Based on the authors' clinical experience, some of the possible reasons for suboptimal management of plasma lipid disorders in each country are described. Issues common to several countries include physician reluctance to prescribe high-dose and/or high-intensity statins and poor understanding of disease, treatments, and side effects among patients. Treatment costs and geographical constraints have also hampered disease management in Indonesia and the Philippines. Understanding the factors governing the prevalence of plasma lipid disorders helps enhance strategies to reduce the burden of CVD in the Asia-Pacific region.

Increase in the risk of clopidogrel resistance and consequent TIMI flow impairment by DNA hypomethylation of CYP2C19 gene in STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI)

Clopidogrel resistance is an important risk factor of ischemic event recurrence after optimal antiplatelet therapy. This study aims to investigate the role of CYP2C19 gene DNA methylation as one of the epigenetic factors for the risk of clopidogrel resistance in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI. ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing PPCI were pretreated with clopidogrel, and their platelet function was measured using VerifyNow™ assay. The criteria for high on-treatment platelet reactivity (HPR) were defined according to the expert consensus criteria (PRU >208). DNA methylation of the CYP2C19 gene was performed using bisulfite genomic sequencing technology. Furthermore, clinical, laboratory, and angiographic data including TIMI flow were collected. Among 122 patients, clopidogrel resistance was found in 22%. DNA methylation level percentage was lower in the clopidogrel resistance group (76.7 vs. 88.8, p-value .038). But, the <50% methylation group was associated with increased risk of clopidogrel resistance (OR =4.5, 95%CI =2.1-9.3, p-value = .018). This group was also found to have suboptimal post-PCI TIMI flow (OR =3.4 95%CI =1.3-8.7, p-value =.045). The lower DNA methylation level of the CYP2C19 gene increases the risk of clopidogrel resistance and subsequent poorer clinical outcome.

Two Barricades in a Row Mixed Lesion of Dynamic Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction and Aortic Stenosis: Finding the Culprit for Decision Making

Concurrent lesions of dynamic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (DLVOTO) with aortic stenosis pose a challenge in the measurement of the pressure gradient and severity of each lesion. Determining the true culprit lesion is difficult and challenging. The establishment of true culprit lesion is crucial in deciding the future course of action. We present two cases of concurrent DLVOTO and aortic stenosis. Although the composition of lesions is similar, the severity of each lesion was different and described a variety of technical problems. Finding the culprit through the shape of the stenotic jet from the continuous wave Doppler as well as other different technical approaches is the critical point of this case report. The first patient showed nonsignificant DLVOTO with severe aortic stenosis in which transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) alone was sufficient to find the culprit. Meanwhile, the second patient concluded to have significant DLVOTO with moderate aortic stenosis based on TTE and transesophageal echocardiography examination data. Jet morphology from Doppler examination is a crucial finding to differentiate DLVOTO with aortic stenosis, along with other parameters that might help find the dominant lesion. Multiple modalities with several tailor-made technical considerations might be needed to establish a culprit lesion.

Epigenetic interaction of miRNA-26a and P2Y12 gene DNA methylation on platelet reactivity under clopidogrel and their impact to the coronary flow after primary PCI in STEMI

Background

Epigenetic factors such as miRNA-26A and P2Y12 DNA methylation play role in pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease. Clopidogrel-resistance is associated with worse cardiovascular outcome. The interactions between the expression of platelet miRNA-26a and P2Y12 DNA methylation to clopidogrel resistance and post procedural TIMI flow in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI is unclear.

Purpose

To define interaction of epigenetic factors micro-RNA (miRNA)-26a expression and P2Y12 gene DNA methylation to the platelet reactivity under clopidogrel therapy, and their impact on the coronary flow after Primary PCI in patients with STEMI.

Methods

We studied STEMI patients who underwent primary PCI, receiving 600 mg loading dose of clopidogrel. Platelet reactivity assessed by VerifyNow P2Y12. Realtime PCR was performed to measure the expression of platelet miR-26a and DNA methylation of P2Y12 gene. Postprocedural epicardial coronary flow was assessed semi quantitatively.

Results

There were 100 patients were recruited. Among them, 59% have high miRNA-26a platelet expression, 60% had no methylation in their P2Y12 gene, and 27% had high platelet reactivity index under clopidogrel therapy. There was association between high miR-26a expression and reduced platelet inhibition under clopidogrel (OR 4.2, p&lt;0.01), but not with DNA methylation of P2Y12 gene. High platelet reactivity index under clopidogrel therapy was associated with suboptimal coronary flow after primary PCI in STEMI patients (OR 3.3, p&lt;0.05).

Conclusions

High miRNA-26a platelet expression, but not DNA methylation of P2Y12 gene, in patients with acute STEMI have significant association with high platelet reactivity under clopidogrel therapy. Furthermore, high platelet reactivity under clopidogrel is associated with suboptimal coronary flow in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Harapan Kita Honor Research Grant

Association of microRNA-224-3p and microRNA-155-5p expressions with plasma long pentraxin 3 concentration and coronary microvascular obstruction following primary angioplasty for acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVE

Pro-inflammatory stimuli induce a variety set of microRNAs (miRs) expression that regulate long pentraxin-3 (PTX3) protein, which associates with a procoagulant state in the endothelial cells. We evaluated, for the first time in human, the association of miR-224-3p and miR-155-5p expressions with plasma PTX3 concentration and coronary microvascular obstruction (MVO) in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with symptom onset ≤ 12 h and treated by primary angioplasty. Blood samples for miRs and PTX3 measurement were drawn at emergency department presentation, and were measured by TaqMan real-time PCR and human ELISA kit, respectively.

RESULTS

Of the 217 patients (median age: 54 years, male: 88%), 130 (60%) had angiographic MVO. Spearman analysis showed no correlation between miR-224-3p and miR-155-5p expressions with plasma PTX3 concentration. After adjustment with sex, age, diabetes mellitus, and plasma PTX3 concentration, miR-224-3p ≥ median group was associated with angiographic MVO (odds ratio, 2.60; 95% confidence interval, 1.24 to 5.44, p = 0.01). This study suggests that miR-224-3p and miR-155-5p expressions did not correlate with plasma PTX3 concentration. However, miR-224-3p expression associates with angiographic MVO following primary angioplasty for STEMI. Future studies are needed to identify the specific gene/protein related with miR-224-3p expression in MVO.

Left Ventricular Dimension after Mitral Valve Surgery in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis: The Impact of Myocardial Fibrosis

Background: Patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) experience changes in left ventricular (LV) dimensions after mitral valve surgery. We sought to investigate changes in LV dimensional parameters after mitral valve surgery and find out whether the same changes occurred in different extents of myocardial fibrosis.

Methods: This prospective observational study comprised 43 patients with rheumatic MS planned for mitral valve surgery between October 2017 and April 2018 in National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita (NCCHK) Jakarta. All the patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging based on the late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) protocol for myocardial fibrosis assessment prior to surgery. The patients were classified according to the estimated fibrosis volume considered to influence hemodynamic performance (myocardial fibrosis <5% and myocardial fibrosis ≥5%). Serial transthoracic echocardiographic examinations before and after surgery were performed to detect changes in LV dimensional parameters.

Results: This study consisted of 31 (72.1%) women and 12 (27.9%) men at a mean age of 46±9 years. The LGE protocol revealed myocardial fibrosis of less than 5% in 32 (74.4%) patients. A significant increase was detected in the LV end-diastolic diameter postoperatively, specifically in the patients with myocardial fibrosis of less than 5% (44.0±4.8 mm vs 46.6±5.6 mm; P value=0.027). A similar significant increase was not found in the other group (45.0±6.6 mm vs 46.7±6.9 mm; P value=0.256). Other changes in echocardiographic parameters showed similar patterns in both groups.

Conclusion: Our patients with rheumatic MS who had myocardial fibrosis of less than 5% demonstrated better improvements in terms of increased preload. Myocardial fibrosis of less than 5% is associated with more favorable improvements in LV geometry.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T Gene Polymorphism as a Risk Factor for Hypertension in a Rural Population

Hypertension remains a public health burden despite advances in its management. Hence, the search for further risk stratification tools and prevention and new treatment approaches continues. Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism is associated with hypertension. Interestingly, riboflavin, as a cofactor of MTHFR, may control blood pressure in patients with mutant MTHFR variants. These double benefits of a risk stratification tool and treatment approach make it interesting. Because this polymorphism depends on ethnicity and geographic region, we aimed to determine the association between MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism and hypertension in a rural Indonesian-Sundanese population. This population-based case-control study included 213 hypertensive subjects and 202 nonhypertensive subjects as controls. The TaqMan assay was used to determine the MTHFR C677T genotypes. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to assess the risk of association. There was a significant difference in MTHFR C677T allele frequencies between the hypertensive and control groups (62.9% CC, 34.3% CT, 2.8% TT vs. 77.7% CC, 20.8% CT, 1.5% TT; p=0.004) and between mutant (TT and CT) and wild-type genotypes (CC) (p=0.001). The mutant genotype was associated with a risk of hypertension (OR 2.1; 95% CI 1.3-3.5) when adjusted for age, body mass index, waist circumference, and diabetes mellitus. The mutant of the MTHFR C677T gene increases the risk of hypertension in rural Indonesian-Sundanese population. These findings may be used in future studies to evaluate the effect of riboflavin supplementation in this population.

Combined transepicardial and transseptal implantation of autologous CD 133+ bone marrow cells during bypass grafting improves cardiac function in patients with low ejection fraction

OBJECTIVES

Autologous CD133+ bone marrow stem cells may improve cardiac function. This randomized, single-blind clinical trial inquired whether a combined transepicardial and transseptal implantation of CD133+ stem cells during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) improve cardiac function with ejection fraction (EF) changes as a primary endpoint in patients with low EF.

METHODS

Thirty patients with coronary heart disease and EF <35% were randomized to undergo CABG alone or CABG with transseptal and transepicardial implantation of CD133+. Cardiac function was evaluated using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and 6 months after CABG.

RESULTS

Preoperative EF was lower in the intervention group (25.88% ± 5.66%) than in the control group (30.18% ± 3.85%; P = .04). The adverse event incidence was similar between both groups. At 6 months, EF changes were significantly higher (8.69% ± 9.49; P = .04) in the CD133+ group than in the CABG-only group. Compared to the control group, significant improvements were seen in the wall motion score index (P = .003) and scar size proportion (P = .047) in the CD133+ group. The quality of life (QOL), assessed by a 6-minute walking test, showed considerable improvement in the CD133+ group compared to that in the control group (P = .03). The Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) scale did not show improvement in the intervention group (P = .09, vs control).

CONCLUSION

Combined transepicardial and transseptal autologous CD133+ BMC implantation during bypass grafting improved cardiac function in low EF coronary artery disease patients.

P16 Relationship of plasma long Pentraxin-3 concentration with clinical and angiographic outcomes of patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary

Background

Inflammation has an important role for the progression of coronary plaque vulnerability to acute coronary thrombosis. Long pentraxin-3 (PTX3) is a sensitive marker of inflammation released upon exposure to primary inflammatory signals. Whether concentration of PTX3 affects coronary thrombus severity and impaired coronary flow in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is unknown.

Purpose

This study sought to evaluate the relationship of plasma PTX3 concentration with coronary thrombus severity and final TIMI flow after primary PCI in patients with acute STEMI.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 335 consecutive patients with acute STEMI undergoing primary PCI between 1 January 2018 and 2 August 2018. Plasma PTX3 concentrations were measured at admission by ELISA method. 

Results

Compared to low PTX3 group (&lt;0.33 ng/mL; N = 223), patients in the high PTX3 group (≥ 0.33 ng/mL; N = 112) had higher proportion of thrombus grade 4 and 5 on initial coronary angiogram (83% vs. 72%, p= 0.03), final TIMI flow &lt;3 (66% vs. 51%, p= 0.01), incomplete ST segment resolution after primary PCI (85% vs. 72%, p= 0.002) and Killip classification II-IV at entry (34.8% vs. 13%, adjusted odds ratio= 3.38, p&lt; 0.001). High PTX3 concentration was associated with an increased risk of 30-day mortality (adjusted hazard ratio= 3.41, 95% confidence interval, 1.27 to 9.11, p= 0.01). 

Conclusion

High plasma PTX3 concentration is associated with worse clinical and angiographic outcomes among patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI. Further study is needed to eludicate whether PTX3 is a causal agent for adverse outcomes and whether therapies directed at reducing PTX3 levels are effective.

Table 1. Variable Hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) P-value Long pentraxin-3 ≥0.33 ng/mL 3.41 (1.27 - 9.11) 0.01 Age &gt;65 years 0.38 (0.11 - 1.41) 0.15 Male gender 0.43 (0.13 - 1.44) 0.16 Diabetes Mellitus 1.24 (0.44 - 3.52) 0.68 Hypertension 0.64 (0.23 - 1.80) 0.39 Baseline creatinine ≥1.3 mg/dL 4.06 (1.43 - 11.53) 0.009 TIMI risk score &gt; 4 8.31 (2.69 - 25.59) &lt; 0.001 Multivariable Cox regression analysis showing association between PTX3 concentration and selected confounding variables for all-cause death at 30 day.

P194 Trimetazidine preserves right ventricular function on pulmonary arterial hypertension patients in national cardiovascular center harapan kita hospital indonesia

Funding Acknowledgements

National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita Hospital

Background

Right ventricular dysfunction is the worst mortality predictor in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Recent animal PAH studies have demonstrated the benefit of partial fatty acid inhibitor such as trimetazidine in improving right ventricular function. Therefore, we hypothesize that trimetazidine can improve right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) in PAH patients.

Purpose

Investigating the effect of  trimetazidine on right ventricle function in PAH patients.

Methods

We conducted 3 months randomized double blind placebo controlled trial on PAH patients at outpatient clinic in National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita Hospital Indonesia. Those who fulfilled the inclusion criteria will be randomized into trimetazidine or placebo group for 3 months on top of their standard PAH regime. Clinical and cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) parameters will be evaluated before and after 3 months therapy. The primary outcome of this study is the differences of RVEF from CMR.

Results

We randomly enrolled 26 PAH patients equally to receive placebo or trimetazidine for 3 months on top of their standard PAH regime. Total of 10 patients in each group was able to finish the study. There was significant improvement of RVEF in trimetazidine group 3.78 + 1.5% compared to placebo 2.76 + 1.6% (p 0.008, CI 1.96 to 10.96). Furthermore, we also observed improvement of functional capacity in trimetazidine group 0.24 + 0.09 compared to placebo -0.44 + 0.16 (p 0.002, CI 0.28 s/d 1.08).

Conclusions

Trimetazidine therapy for 3 months on top of standard PAH regime significantly improve RVEF and functional capacity in PAH patients.

Abstract P194 Figure. Effect of trimetazidine on RV function

P25 Polymorphism of CYP2C19 is associated with poor platelet response to clopidogrel and indirectly affect TIMIi-flow among asian patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI

Background

The platelet response to clopidogrel treatment is very important in patients with myocardial infarction undergoing primary PCI.  Asian populations have been shown to have higher proportion of CYP2C19 gene polymorphism that may alter biotransformation of clopidogrel, than Caucasians. However, It is unclear whether platelet reactivity measured by P2Y12 reaction unit (PRU) is affected by CYP2C19 polymorphism, and whether it will impair coronary flow among Asian patients with STEMI after primary PCI.  Purpose: We sought to define whether polymorphisms on CYP2C19 genes will affect platelet reactivity response to Clopidgrel therapy, and whether subsequently it will affect the TIMI flow in Asian patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI. Method: We studied 90 patients with STEMI receiving 600 mg loading dose of clopidogrel prior to primary PCI. High-on-treatment platelet reactivity was evaluated using the VerifyNow Assay. Patients with platelet reactivity more than 208 PRU are categorized as non-responders to Clopidogrel. Genotyping of CYP2C19 was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Post primary PCI TIMI flow was categorized into good (TIMI flow 3), and impaired (TIMI flow &lt;3). Results: Among all 90 patients (median age = 54.5 years old; 93.3% male), there were 36.6 % patients with CYP2C19 polymorhisms, carrying *2 or *3 alleles. Platelet reactivity test revealed 23.4% of all patients were Clopidogrel non-responders. Multivariate analysis showed CYP2C19 polymorphism is associated with Clopidogrel non-reponders (OR 4.7, p = 0.030), along with other factors such as: Diabetes, Renal impairment, and use of proton pump inhibitor drugs. After successful stent implantation during primary PCI,  there were  24.4% patients still with TIMI flow &lt; 3. There was no direct correlation between CYP2C19 polymorphism and TIMI flow &lt; 3 after primary PCI. However, we found significant association between Clopidogrel non-reponders and TMI flow &lt; 3 after primary PCI in those STEMI patients (OR 3.3, p = 0.046). Conclusions: In Asian patients with STEMI receiving clopidogrel prior to primary PCI, the CYP2C19 polymorphisms is associated with poor platelet response to Clopidogrel therapy. The Clopidogrel non-responders is associated with impaired TIMI flow after primary PCI.

P4612Elevated pentraxin-3 level is associated with impaired post procedural myocardial perfusion assessed by quantitative blush evaluator in patients with acute STEMI undergoing primary PCI

Background

Long Pentraxin-3 (PTX3) has been known as an emerging cardiac biomarker and has potential diagnostic and prognostic value in coronary heart disease. Whether plasma PTX3 level is associated with post procedural myocardial perfusion assessed by quantitative blush evaluator (QuBE) in acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is unknown.

Purpose

This study sought to evaluate the association between plasma PTX3 level and post procedural myocardial perfusion assessed by QuBE in patients with acute STEMI undergoing primary PCI.

Methods

We enrolled 217 patients with acute STEMI who underwent primary PCI (men=191, women=26). Post procedural myocardial perfusion was evaluated using QuBE. PTX3 level was measured at admission by an ELISA method. We used 0.33 ng/mL for PTX3 level as a cut off point for future worse clinical outcome as shown by previous study. Impairment of myocardial perfusion was defined as QuBE <9 arbitrary unit as also shown by previous studies.

Results

Plasma PTX3 level had an inverse correlation with QuBE score (r=−0.64, p<0.001). Patients in elevated PTX3 group (≥0.33 ng/mL; N=80) had lower median QuBE score compared with lower PTX3 group (<0.33ng/mL; N=137), with QuBE score (8.6 arbitrary unit vs. 15.1 arbitrary unit, P<0.001). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that plasma PTX3 level ≥0.33 ng/mL (OR=7.65, p<0.001) along with Diabetes Mellitus (OR=2.30, p=0.04), and Killip class II-IV (OR=2.57, p=0.04) were independent predictors of impaired myocardial perfusion, as shown by QuBE score <9 arbitrary unit.

Analysis between PTX3 and low QuBE score Variables Multivariate OR (95% CI) P value PTX3 ≥0.33 ng/mL 7.65 (3.37–17.36) <0.001 Diabetes Mellitus 2.30 (1.01–5.23) 0.04 Hypertension 1.15 (0.47–2.82) 0.75 Killip class II-IV 2.57 (1.04–6.35) 0.04 IRA LAD 3.79 (1.64–8.78) 0.002 Thrombus grade 4 & 5 3.36 (1.06–11.98) 0.04 Post PPCI TIMI flow <3 5.29 (2.09–13.36) 0.001 PTX3, pentraxin-3; QuBE, quantitative blush evaluator; IRA, infarct related artery.

Conclusions

Patients with acute STEMI with high plasma PTX3 level were associated with reduced myocardial perfusion after primary PCI shown by low QuBE score. Elevated PTX3 level may be used as a marker for persistent impairment of myocardial perfusion after primary PCI in STEMI

Prognostic Value of Late Gadolinium Enhancement in Postoperative Morbidity following Mitral Valve Surgery in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis

Myocardial fibrosis in rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) is caused by chronic inflammatory process. Its occurrence may lead to hemodynamic problems, especially after cardiac surgery. Myocardial fibrosis predicts worse morbidity after cardiac surgery, notably in coronary heart disease and aortic valve abnormalities. However, this issue has not been explored yet among patients with rheumatic MS. The aim of the study was to investigate prognostic impact of myocardial fibrosis to postoperative morbidity after mitral valve surgery in patients with rheumatic MS. This is a prospectively enrolled observational study of 47 consecutive rheumatic MS patients. All patients had preoperative evaluation with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) protocol for left ventricular myocardial fibrosis assessment prior to mitral valve surgery. All patients were followed during hospitalization period. Postoperative morbidities were defined as stroke, renal failure, and prolonged mechanical ventilation. This study involved 33 women (70.2%) and 14 men (29.8%) with a mean age of 46 ± 10 years. Preoperative myocardial fibrosis was identified in 43 patients (91.5%). Estimated fibrosis volume ranged from 0% to 12.8% (median 2.8%). Postoperative morbidities occurred in 11 patients (23.4%). Significant mean difference of myocardial fibrosis volume was observed between patients with and without morbidity after mitral valve surgery (5.97 ± 4.16% and 3.12 ± 2.62%, p  = 0.04). This significant association was allegedly influenced by different postoperative hemodynamic changes between the two groups. More extensive myocardial fibrosis is associated with postoperative morbiditiy after mitral valve surgery in patients with rheumatic MS.

Association of Hyperglycemia and Final TIMI Flow with One-Year Mortality of Patients with Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary PCI

The association of hyperglycemia at admission and final thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow with 1-year mortality of patient with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not much been explored. We evaluated the association of hyperglycemia and final TIMI flow with 1-year mortality in patients with acute STEMI who underwent primary PCI. We retrospectively analyzed 856 patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI in a tertiary care academic center between January 2014 and July 2016. Based on the receiver operating characteristics curve, the cutoff used for hyperglycemia in this study was greater than or equal to 169 mg/dL. Cox proportional hazard model was used to determine the association of hyperglycemia and TIMI flow with 1-year mortality. Compared with patients with lower blood glucose level (<169 mg/dL; n  = 549), a greater proportion of patients who presented with hyperglycemia (≥169 mg/dL; n  = 307) had final TIMI flow 0 to 1 (3.3 vs. 0.5%; adjusted odds ratio = 5.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30-23.9, p  = 0.02). Hyperglycemia was associated with an increased risk for 1-year mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]= 2.0, 95% CI: 1.13-3.53, p  = 0.017). Multivariable Cox regression showed that the interaction of hyperglycemia and final TIMI flow 0 to 1 was associated with an elevated risk for 1-year mortality (adjusted HR= 9.4, 95% CI: 2.34-37.81, p  = 0.002). A higher proportion of patients with acute STEMI who presented with hyperglycemia had final TIMI flow 0 to 1 after primary PCI. The interaction of hyperglycemia and final TIMI flow 0 to 1 was associated with an increased risk for 1-year mortality. This study suggests that aggressive control of hyperglycemia prior to primary PCI may facilitate better angiographic and clinical outcomes after primary PCI. Clinical Trial Registration  Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier number: NCT02319473.

Hospital outcomes in STEMI patients after the introduction of a regional STEMI network in the metropolitan area of a developing country

AIMS

Data on the long-term outcomes of STEMI patients treated via a network in Asian countries are very limited. We aimed to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of STEMI patients at two different periods, before and five years after the establishment of a regional STEMI network in Jakarta, Indonesia.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Out of 6,291 patients with STEMI admitted to hospital between January 2008 to January 2016, we compared the characteristics and outcomes of STEMI patients from two different periods, January 2008 to July 2009 (before instalment of the STEMI network, N=624), and from January 2015 to January 2016 (five years after the start of the network, N=1,052). The PCI hospital is an academic tertiary care cardiac hospital and initiated the regional STEMI network in 2010. Logistic regression was used to determine the adjusted association between treatment in the latter period and mortality. Compared with data from 2008/2009, in the 2015/2016 period, more primary PCI procedures were performed (N=589 [56%] vs. N=176 [28%], p<0.001), fewer patients did not receive reperfusion therapy (37% vs. 59%, p<0.001), and median door-to-device (DTD) times were shorter (82 vs. 94 minutes, p<0.001). Overall in-hospital mortality decreased from 9.6% to 7.1% (adjusted odds ratio 0.72, 95% CI: 0.50 to 1.03, p=0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Half a decade after the implementation of the STEMI network in Jakarta, Indonesia, the result is better and faster care for patients with STEMI and this has been associated with lower in-hospital mortality.

Two-year mortality of primary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction during regular working hours versus off-hours

BACKGROUND

Studies with short-term follow-up found higher mortality in patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI during off-hours as compared to regular working hours. We analyzed the interaction between one and two-year survival of patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI during regular working hours and off-hours in a tertiary care academic teaching hospital.

METHODS

A total of 1126 STEMI patients treated with primary PCI between 2008 and 2013 were analyzed. Two-years follow-up were available in 941 (83%) patients. Multivariable survival analysis was used to estimate the relationship between treatment during off-hours versus regular hours and the incidence of all-cause mortality at 2-years follow-up. Logistic regression was used to calculate interaction p-values between time of admission and time (between ≤1 year and ≤2 year).

RESULTS

At 2-years, the mortality rate of patients admitted during off-hours and regular hours was similar (15% vs. 19%; adjusted hazard ratio 0.77; 95% confidence interval 0.52-1.16). Of the 941 patients, those who admitted during off-hours (N = 717) had similar median door-to-device time (94 min vs. 91 min), final Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction 3 flow grade (93% vs. 91%) and use of dual antiplatelet within 24 h (96% vs. 98% respectively) as compared with regular hours admission (N = 224). There were no mortality difference observed between one year and two years (p interaction >0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this analysis, the similar mortality observed at one year between patients with STEMI treated by primary PCI during off-hour and regular hour were maintained at two years.

Perception of hypertension management by patients and doctors in Asia: potential to improve blood pressure control

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is one of the world's most common health conditions and is a leading risk factor for mortality. Although blood pressure can be modified, there is a large proportion of patients whose blood pressure remains uncontrolled. The aim of this study, termed Edvantage 360°, was to gain a deeper understanding of hypertension management in Asia from the perspective of patients and doctors, and to propose strategies to improve blood pressure control.

METHODS

Conducted in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand, Edvantage 360° was a mixed-methods observational study that used both qualitative and quantitative elements: qualitative interviews and focus groups with patients (N = 110), quantitative interviews with patients (N = 709), and qualitative interviews with doctors (N = 85).

RESULTS

This study found that, although there is good understanding of the causes and consequences of hypertension among Asian patients, there is a lack of urgency to control blood pressure. Doctors and patients have different expectations of each other and a divergent view on what constitutes successful hypertension management. We also identified a fundamental gap between the beliefs of doctors and patients as to who should be most responsible for the patients' hypertension management. In addition, because patients find it difficult to comply with lifestyle modifications (often because of a decreased understanding of the changes required), adherence to medication regimens may be less of a limiting factor than doctors believe.

CONCLUSIONS

Doctors may provide better care by aligning with their patients on a common understanding of successful hypertension management. Doctors may also find it helpful to provide a more personalized explanation of any needed lifestyle modifications. The willingness of the doctor to adjust their patient interaction style to form a 'doctor-patient team' is important. In addition, we recommend that doctors should not attribute ineffectiveness of the treatment plan to patient non-adherence to medications, but rather adjust the medication regimen as needed.

Relationship between coronary remodeling and plaque characterization in patients without clinical evidence of coronary artery disease

AIMS

The objectives of this study were: (1) to evaluate the relationship between coronary arterial remodeling assessed by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and plaque morphology assessed by histological examination in patients without clinical evidence of coronary artery disease and (2) to compare plaque morphology between histological examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

METHODS

Coronary segments (n=98) were harvested from the heart of 34 patients who died without clinical evidence of coronary artery disease. The segments with remodeling were assessed by IVUS and compared with corresponding OCT and histological images.

RESULTS

The fibrofatty plaque area was larger in lesions with expansive remodeling (ER) than in lesions with intermediate/constrictive remodeling (IR/CR) (p<0.01). Incidence of lipid containing plaque with the thickness of the fibrous cap smaller than 200 microm tended to be higher in ER than in IR/CR (34% versus 13%, p=0.10). OCT assessment of lipid containing plaque with thinner fibrous cap was achieved with 92% sensitivity and 75% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

The fibrofatty plaque area was larger in lesions with ER than IR/CR even in patients without clinical evidence of coronary artery disease. The current capabilities of OCT are well suited for evaluation of lipid containing plaques with thinner fibrous cap.

Mechanism of increasing systolic coronary flow velocity in patients with aortic regurgitation

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY

The mechanism of increasing systolic coronary flow velocity of the epicardial coronary artery in patients with aortic regurgitation (AR) has not been well investigated. Thus, an evaluation was made of the flow velocity pattern of the epicardial coronary artery in these patients.

METHODS

In 12 patients with AR, epicardial coronary flow velocity was monitored using Doppler guidewire, and diameter changes of the epicardial coronary artery using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).

RESULTS

The systolic coronary vascular resistance in AR patients was significantly less than that in controls (1.8 +/- 0.9 versus 3.3 +/- 0.7 mmHg/ml/min; p <0.01). Likewise, area and diameter changes of the epicardial coronary artery during the cardiac cycle in AR patients were significantly less than those in controls (102 +/- 1% versus 106 +/- 4%; p <0.01; and 102 +/- 1% versus 106 +/- 4%; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

In patients with AR, the increase in systolic coronary flow velocity of the epicardial coronary artery during the systolic phase was considered to result from a major coronary perfusion of blood into the intramyocardial vessels (which showed a decreased resistance), rather than it being stored in the epicardial coronary artery.

Edaravone preserves coronary microvascular endothelial function after ischemia/reperfusion on the beating canine heart in vivo

We examined whether edaravone (3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one), a free radical scavenger, exerts its protective effect on coronary microvessels after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) in vivo. Ninety-minute coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion was performed in 16 open-chest dogs with and without edaravone administration. Coronary small artery (> or = 100 microm in size) and arteriolar (< 100 microm) vasodilation, in the presence of endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine) or -independent (papaverine) vasodilators, was directly observed using intravital microscopy before and after I/R. I/R impaired microvascular vasodilation in response to acetylcholine, whereas administration of edaravone preserved the response in microvessels of both sizes, but to a greater extent in the coronary small arteries. No significant changes were noted with papaverine administration. In the edaravone group, the fluorescent intensity from reactive oxygen species (ROS) was lower, whereas nitric oxide (NO) intensity was higher relative to controls in the microvessels of the ischemic area. In conclusion, edaravone preserves coronary microvascular endothelial function after I/R in vivo. These effects, which were NO-mediated, were attributed to the ROS scavenging properties of edaravone.

Improvement of flow capacity of the left internal thoracic artery graft assessed by using a pressure wire

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate improvement of flow capacity in a left internal thoracic artery graft by means of pressure measurement.

METHODS

Eighteen patients who received a left internal thoracic artery graft to the left anterior descending coronary artery were studied. Angiography and pressure measurement at the proximal and distal portions of the left internal thoracic artery graft during maximal hyperemia with a pressure guide wire were performed at 1 month (early study) and 6 months (late study) after surgical intervention.

RESULTS

There are no significant differences between the early and late studies in resting mean aortic pressure, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, and percentage diameter stenosis of the recipient left anterior descending coronary artery. There was no stenosis in the anastomosis site of the left internal thoracic artery graft and the distal left anterior descending coronary artery, as determined by means of angiography, in the early and late studies. The mean diameter of the distal left internal thoracic artery graft was significantly increased in the late study (1.6 +/- 0.2 vs. 1.8 +/- 0.2 mm, P = .011). There was a significant difference between the early and late studies in the pressure gradient through the graft (15 +/- 4 vs 13 +/- 3 mm Hg, P = .036). The ratio of distal to proximal pressure within the left internal thoracic artery graft in the late study was significantly increased from that in the early study (0.80 +/- 0.04 to 0.84 +/- 0.03, P = .0003).

CONCLUSIONS

The pressure ratio within the left internal thoracic artery graft became higher as the left internal thoracic artery graft adapted itself to the myocardial circulation. This finding might relate to decreasing the resistance of the left internal thoracic artery graft.