ANGPTL3 inhibition, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular diseases

Optimal management of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a central tenet in the primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, significant residual cardiovascular risk remains despite achieving guideline-directed LDL-C levels, in part due to mixed hyperlipidemia with elevated fasting and non-fasting triglyceride-rich lipoprotein levels. Advances in human genetics have identified angiopoietin-like 3 (ANGPTL3) as a promising therapeutic target to lower cardiovascular risk. Evidence accrued from genetic epidemiological studies demonstrate that ANGPTL3 loss of function is strongly associated with lowering of circulating LDL-C, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and concurrent risk reduction in development of coronary artery disease. Pharmacological inhibition of ANGPTL3 with monoclonal antibodies, antisense oligonucleotides and gene editing are in development with early studies showing their safety and efficacy in lowering in both, LDL-C and TGs, circumventing a key limitation of previous therapies. Monoclonal antibodies targeting ANGPTL3 are approved for clinical use in homozygous familial hypercholesteremia in USA and Europe. Although promising, future studies focusing on long-term beneficial effect in reducing cardiovascular events with inhibition of ANGPTL3 are warranted.

Early versus delayed coronary angiography in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and no ST-segment elevation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Recent randomized controlled trials did not show benefit of early/immediate coronary angiography (CAG) over a delayed/selective strategy in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and no ST-segment elevation. However, whether selected subgroups, specifically those with a high pretest probability of coronary artery disease may benefit from early CAG remains unclear.

METHODS

We included all randomized controlled trials that compared a strategy of early/immediate versus delayed/selective CAG in OHCA patients and no ST elevation and had a follow-up of at least 30 days. The primary outcome of interest was all-cause death. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated and pooled across trials. Interaction testing was used to assess for heterogeneity of treatment effects.

RESULTS

In total, 1512 patients (67 years, 26% female, 23% prior myocardial infarction) were included from 5 randomized controlled trials. Early/immediate versus delayed/selective CAG was not associated with a statistically significant difference in odds of death (OR 1.12, 95%-CI 0.91-1.38), with similar findings for the composite outcome of all-cause death or neurological deficit (OR 1.10, 95%-CI 0.89-1.36). There was no effect modification for death by age, presence of a shockable initial cardiac rhythm, history of coronary artery disease, presence of an ischemic event as the presumed cause of arrest, or time to return of spontaneous circulation (all P-interaction > 0.10). However, early/immediate CAG tended to be associated with higher odds of death in women (OR 1.52, 95%-CI 1.00-2.31, P = 0.050) than in men (OR 1.04, 95%-CI 0.82-1.33, P = 0.74; P-interaction 0.097).

CONCLUSION

In OHCA patients without ST-segment elevation, a strategy of early/immediate versus delayed/selective CAG did not reduce all-cause mortality across major subgroups. However, women tended to have higher odds of death with early CAG.

Soluble ST2 in Heart Failure: A Clinical Role beyond B-Type Natriuretic Peptide

Soluble (s)ST2 has been proposed as a useful biomarker for heart failure (HF) patient management. Myocardial damage or mechanical stress stimulate sST2 release. ST2 competes with a membrane bound receptor (ST2 ligand, or ST2L) for interleukin-33 (IL-33) binding, inhibiting the effects induced by the ST2L/IL-33 interaction so that excessive sST2 may contribute to myocardial fibrosis and ventricular remodeling. Compared to natriuretic peptides (NPs), sST2 concentration is not substantially affected by age, sex, body mass index, kidney function, atrial fibrillation, anemia, or HF etiology, and has low intra-individual variation. Its prognostic role as an independent marker is well reported in the literature. However, there is a gap on its use in combination with NPs, currently the only biomarkers recommended by European and American guidelines for HF management. Reflecting the activation of two distinct biological systems, a benefit from the use of sST2 and NP in combination is advocated. The aim of this review is to report the current scientific knowledge on sST2 in the acute and chronic HF settings with a particular attention to its additive role to natriuretic peptides (NPs).

Temporal trends and outcomes of patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia with and without history of coronary artery disease: insights from the us national inpatient sample database

BACKGROUND

The burden and prognostic significance of coronary artery disease (CAD) in adults with peripheral artery disease and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) is unknown.

METHODS

Temporal trends in prevalence of significant CAD (history of myocardial infarction or coronary revascularizations) in hospitalizations for CLTI were determined using the 2000 to 2018 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. A multivariable regression analysis of outcomes was performed based on presence or absence of CAD.

RESULTS

Among 13 575 099 hospitalizations for CLTI (41% female, 69% white, mean age 69 years), 23% had concomitant CAD, of which 11% underwent lower extremity arterial revascularization (43.6% endovascular and 56.4% surgical). The prevalence of concomitant CAD with CLTI increased from 15.3% in 2000 to 23.1% in 2018. Furthermore, the frequency of endovascular revascularization in adults with CAD and CLTI increased from 15.1% to 48.3%, while there was a decreasing trend of surgical revascularization, from 84.9% to 51.7%. After multivariate adjustments, CLTI with CAD was associated with increased risk of in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.32-1.47; P less than .0001) and bleeding requiring transfusion (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.06-1.12; P less than .0001) compared with patients with CLTI without CAD. As compared with surgical revascularization, endovascular revascularization was associated with lower risk of in-hospital mortality in both patients with CLTI with CAD (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.63-0.76; P less than .001) and CLTI without CAD (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.67-0.76; P less than .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of CAD has increased in adults presenting with CLTI and is associated with poor outcomes, warranting the need for effective interventions and secondary prevention in this high-risk population.

Effect of monovalent COVID-19 vaccines on viral interference between SARS-CoV-2 and several DNA viruses in patients with long-COVID syndrome

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation may be involved in long-COVID symptoms, but reactivation of other viruses as a factor has received less attention. Here we evaluated the reactivation of parvovirus-B19 and several members of the Herpesviridae family (DNA viruses) in patients with long-COVID syndrome. We hypothesized that monovalent COVID-19 vaccines inhibit viral interference between SARS-CoV-2 and several DNA viruses in patients with long-COVID syndrome, thereby reducing clinical symptoms. Clinical and laboratory data for 252 consecutive patients with PCR-verified past SARS-CoV-2 infection and long-COVID syndrome (155 vaccinated and 97 non-vaccinated) were recorded during April 2021-May 2022 (median 243 days post-COVID-19 infection). DNA virus-related IgG and IgM titers were compared between vaccinated and non-vaccinated long-COVID patients and with age- and sex-matched non-infected, unvaccinated (pan-negative for spike-antibody) controls. Vaccination with monovalent COVID-19 vaccines was associated with significantly less frequent fatigue and multiorgan symptoms (p < 0.001), significantly less cumulative DNA virus-related IgM positivity, significantly lower levels of plasma IgG subfractions 2 and 4, and significantly lower quantitative cytomegalovirus IgG and IgM and EBV IgM titers. These results indicate that anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination may interrupt viral cross-talk in patients with long-COVID syndrome (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05398952).

Coronary Angiography After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Without ST-Segment Elevation: One-Year Outcomes of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Myocardial infarction is a frequent cause of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The long-term effect of early coronary angiography on patients with OHCA with possible coronary trigger but no ST-segment elevation remains unclear.

Objective

To compare the clinical outcomes of early unselective angiography with the clinical outcomes of a delayed or selective approach for successfully resuscitated patients with OHCA of presumed cardiac origin without ST-segment elevation at 1-year follow-up.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The TOMAHAWK trial was a multicenter, international (Germany and Denmark), investigator-initiated, open-label, randomized clinical trial enrolling 554 patients between November 23, 2016, to September 20, 2019. Patients with stable return of spontaneous circulation after OHCA of presumed cardiac origin but without ST-segment elevation on the postresuscitation electrocardiogram were eligible for inclusion. A total of 554 patients were randomized to either immediate coronary angiography after hospital admission or an initial intensive care assessment with delayed or selective angiography after a minimum of 24 hours. All 554 patients were included in survival analyses during the follow-up period of 1 year. Secondary clinical outcomes were assessed only for participants alive at 1 year to account for the competing risk of death.

Interventions

Early vs delayed or selective coronary angiography and revascularization if indicated.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Evaluations in this secondary analysis included all-cause mortality after 1 year, as well as severe neurologic deficit, myocardial infarction, and rehospitalization for congestive heart failure in survivors at 1 year.

Results

A total of 281 patients were randomized to the immediate angiography group and 273 to the delayed or selective group, with a median age of 70 years (IQR, 60-78 years). A total of 369 of 530 patients (69.6%) were male, and 268 of 483 patients (55.5%) had a shockable arrest rhythm. At 1 year, all-cause mortality was 60.8% (161 of 265) in the immediate angiography group and 54.3% (144 of 265) in the delayed or selective angiography group without significant difference between the treatment strategies, trending toward an increase in mortality with immediate angiography (hazard ratio, 1.25; 95% CI, 0.99-1.57; P = .05). For patients surviving until 1 year, the rates of severe neurologic deficit, myocardial infarction, and rehospitalization for congestive heart failure were similar between the groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that a strategy of immediate coronary angiography does not provide clinical benefit compared with a delayed or selective invasive approach for patients 1 year after resuscitated OHCA of presumed coronary cause and without ST-segment elevation.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02750462.

Association of Cardiac Biomarkers With Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in High-risk Patients With Diabetes: A Secondary Analysis of the DECLARE-TIMI 58 Trial

Importance

Dapagliflozin reduces the risk of hospitalizations for heart failure and the progression of chronic kidney disease in patients with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D), whereas the effects on reducing atherosclerotic events appear less clear.

Objective

To explore whether N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hsTnT) levels can identify a subset of patients with T2D at higher risk and who might benefit more from dapagliflozin with regard to atherosclerotic events.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a secondary analysis of the DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial, a randomized clinical trial of dapagliflozin in patients with T2D and either multiple risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD; approximately 60%) or established ASCVD (approximately 40%). All patients with available blood samples at randomization were included in these analyses. Data were collected from May 2013 to September 2018, and data were analyzed from May 2019 to June 2022.

Interventions

Dapagliflozin vs placebo.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), the composite of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or cardiovascular death, which was one of dual primary outcomes of the main trial.

Results

Of 14 565 included patients, 9143 (62.8%) were male, and the mean (SD) age was 63.9 (6.8) years. When tested individually in a multivariable model for MACE risk, NT-proBNP and hsTnT were each significantly associated with the risk of MACE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] per 1 SD in log-transformed biomarker: NT-proBNP, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.49-1.76; hsTnT: 1.59; 95% CI, 1.46-1.74). The magnitude of the association was similar in patients with ASCVD (NT-proBNP: aHR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.45-1.77; hsTnT: aHR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.45-1.81) and multiple risk factors for ASCVD (NT-proBNP: aHR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.40-1.88; hsTnT: aHR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.29-1.77). Moreover, both biomarkers remained independently associated with MACE when both were included in the multivariable model (NT-proBNP: aHR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.34-1.60; hsTnT: aHR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.26-1.53). Modeled as a continuous variable, baseline biomarker levels did not modify the relative treatment effect of dapagliflozin vs placebo with MACE. However, the relative risk reduction numerically grew with higher biomarker levels, as did the baseline risk. Thus, MACE event rates were nominally lower in dapagliflozin-treated vs placebo-treated patients with biomarker concentrations in the top quartile (NT-proBNP: HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.71-0.97; absolute risk reduction [ARR], 2.4%; hsTnT: HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.72-0.99; ARR, 2.7%), whereas there was no significant treatment effect in patients with biomarkers levels in quartiles 1 to 3 (NT-proBNP: HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.88-1.18; ARR, 0%; hsTnT: HR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.84-1.13; ARR, 0.2%).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, NT-proBNP and hsTnT levels were associated with the risk for future cardiovascular events in both primary and secondary prevention patients with T2D. Both cardiac biomarkers were helpful to identify patients at very high risk for atherosclerotic events that may derive reduction in risk of MACE with dapagliflozin.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01730534.

Effects of dapagliflozin on hospitalisations in people with type 2 diabetes: post-hoc analyses of the DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial

BACKGROUND

In people with type 2 diabetes at high risk of cardiovascular or kidney disease, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors consistently reduce the risk of hospitalisations for heart failure. Less is known about their effects on hospitalisation from any cause, especially in people with type 2 diabetes without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which includes most of the global population of people with type 2 diabetes. We aimed to assess the effect of the SGLT2 inhibitor, dapagliflozin, on the risks of hospitalisations for any cause and for specific causes in people with type 2 diabetes with and without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

The DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial was a double-blind, multicentre, randomised, placebo-controlled study. People with type 2 diabetes and either risk factors for or established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive oral dapagliflozin 10 mg or placebo once daily. In these post-hoc analyses, the effects of dapagliflozin on risks of first non-elective any-cause and cause-specific hospitalisation were assessed with Cox proportional hazards regression models overall and in the subset of participants without prevalent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The risk of total (first plus subsequent) non-elective hospitalisations was assessed with Lin-Wei-Ying-Yang model. Investigator-reported System Organ Class terms were used to classify cause-specific hospitalisations. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01730534.

FINDINGS

Between April 25, 2013, and Sept 18, 2018, 17 160 people (6422 [37·4%] women, 10 738 [62·6%] men; mean age 63·9 years [SD 6·8]) were enrolled in the original trial, of whom 10186 (59·4%) had multiple risk factors for but did not have established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and 6835 (39·8%) had both no evidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and low KDIGO risk. Over a median follow-up of 4·2 years (IQR 3·9-4·4), dapagliflozin was associated with a lower risk of first non-elective hospitalisation for any cause (2779 [32·4%] of 8582 people in the dapagliflozin group vs 3036 [35·4%] of 8578 people in the placebo group; hazard ratio [HR] 0·89 [95% CI 0·85-0·94]) and total (first plus subsequent) non-elective hospitalisations for any cause (risk ratio 0·92 [95% CI 0·86-0·97]). The association between dapagliflozin use and the risk of first non-elective hospitalisation for any cause was consistent in subgroups of participants with (HR 0·92 [95% CI 0·85-0·99] and without (0·87 [0·81-0·94]) atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease at baseline (p interaction=0·31). Compared with the placebo group, the dapagliflozin group had lower risk of first hospitalisations due to cardiac disorders (HR 0·91 [95% CI 0·84-1·00]), metabolism and nutrition disorders (0·73 [0·60-0·89]), renal and urinary disorders (0·61 [0·49-0·77]), and due to any other cause excluding these three causes (0·90 [0·85-0·96]). Treatment with dapagliflozin was also associated with a lower risk of hospitalisations due to musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders (HR 0·81 [0·67-0·99]) and infections and infastations (HR 0·86 [0·78-0·96]).

INTERPRETATION

Dapagliflozin reduced the risk of first and total non-elective hospitalisations for any cause in people with type 2 diabetes, regardless of the presence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including hospitalisations not directly attributed to cardiac, kidney, or metabolic causes. These findings might have implications on health-related quality of life for people with type 2 diabetes and on health-care costs attributable this condition.

FUNDING

AstraZeneca.

Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin and lactate levels for risk stratification in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

BACKGROUND

Adrenomedullin is a free circulating peptide that regulates endothelial barrier function and vascular tone. Here, we sought to study the relationship of adrenomedullin in combination with lactate and the risk of death in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

METHODS

Mid-regional pro-ADM (MR-proADM) and lactate concentrations were measured in OHCA patients who survived at least 24 h after return of spontaneous circulation. The outcome of interest was all-cause death. Patients were characterized by quartiles (Q) of MR-proADM and lactate concentrations. Cox models were adjusted for age, sex, shockable rhythm, bystander resuscitation, SAPS II score, and eGFR.

RESULTS

A total of 232 patients were included in the present study (28% women, 67 years, SAPS II score 80). The median MR-proADM and lactate levels at 24 hours were 1.4 nmol/L (IQR 0.8-2.8 nmol/L) and 1.8 mmol/L (IQR 1.3 to 3.4 mmol/L), respectively. MR-proADM concentrations correlated weakly with lactate levels (r = 0.36, P < 0.001). High (Q4) versus low (Q1-Q3) MR-proADM concentrations were significantly associated with an increased rate of death at 28 days (75.9% vs 45.4%; P < 0.001). After multivariable adjustment (including lactate levels at 24 hours), higher MR-proADM levels were significantly associated with an increased risk of death (Q4 vs. Q1-Q3: adj-HR 1.67, 95%-CI 1.12-2.50; adj-HR for 1 unit increase in standardized biomarker 1.44, 95-CI 1.19-1.73). This relationship remained significant even after further adjustment for baseline NT-proBNP and hsTnT levels. The combination of high MR-proADM and high lactate (Q4) concentration identified patients at particularly elevated risk (adj-HR 3.50; 95% CI 1.92 to 6.39).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher MR-proADM concentrations are associated with an increased risk of death in patients with OHCA, and the combination of high MR-proADM and lactate levels identifies patients at distinctly elevated risk.

Relationship of Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 With Hospitalization for Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Background Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is crucial in regulating phosphate and vitamin D metabolism and is moreover associated with an increased cardiovascular risk. The specific objective of this study was to investigate the influence of FGF-23 on cardiovascular outcomes, including hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), postoperative atrial fibrillation, and cardiovascular death, in an unselected patient population after cardiac surgery. Methods and Results Patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass graft and/or cardiac valve surgery were prospectively enrolled. FGF-23 blood plasma concentrations were assessed before surgery. A composite of cardiovascular death/HHF was chosen as primary end point. A total of 451 patients (median age 70 years; 28.8% female) were included in the present analysis and followed over a median of 3.9 years. Individuals with higher FGF-23 quartiles showed elevated incidence rates of the composite of cardiovascular death/HHF (quartile 1, 7.1%; quartile 2, 8.6%; quartile 3, 15.1%; and quartile 4, 34.3%). After multivariable adjustment, FGF-23 modeled as a continuous variable (adjusted hazard ratio for a 1-unit increase in standardized log-transformed biomarker, 1.82 [95% CI, 1.34-2.46]) as well as using predefined risk groups and quartiles remained independently associated with the risk of cardiovascular death/HHF and the secondary outcomes, including postoperative atrial fibrillation. Reclassification analysis indicated that the addition of FGF-23 to N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide provides a significant improvement in risk discrimination (net reclassification improvement at the event rate, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.34-0.81]; P<0.001; integrated discrimination increment, 0.03 [95% CI, 0.01-0.05]; P<0.001). Conclusions FGF-23 is an independent predictor of cardiovascular death/HHF and postoperative atrial fibrillation in individuals undergoing cardiac surgery. Considering an individualized risk assessment, routine preoperative FGF-23 evaluation may improve detection of high-risk patients.

Comparison of the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein antibodies in healthcare workers and an unselected adult and paediatric all-comer patient population: insights from a longitudinal study of healthcare workers and concurrent serial cross-sectional studies of patients at an academic medical centre in Austria

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to estimate and compare the prevalence of the virus-specific antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein antigen (anti-SARS-CoV-2 N) in healthcare workers and an all-comer paediatric and adult patient population.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A longitudinal study enrolling healthcare professionals and concurrent serial cross-sectional studies of unselected all-comer patients were conducted at an Austrian academic medical centre. Healthcare workers were tested at enrolment and after 1, 2, 3, 6 and 12 months. The cross-sectional studies in patients were conducted at three time periods, which roughly coincided with the times after the first, second and third wave of SARS-CoV-2 in Austria (ie, 24 August-7 September 2020; 8-22 February 2021 and 9-23 November 2021). Anti-SARS-CoV-2 N antibodies were measured using a sandwich electrochemiluminescence assay (Roche).

RESULTS

In total, 2735 and 9275 samples were measured in 812 healthcare workers (median age: 40 years, 78% female) and 8451 patients (median age: 55 years, 52% female), respectively. Over the entire study period, anti-SARS-CoV-2 N antibodies were detected in 98 of 812 healthcare workers, resulting in a seroprevalence of 12.1% (95% CI 10.0% to 14.5%), which did not differ significantly (p=0.63) from that of the all-comer patient population at the end of the study period (407/3184; 12.8%, 95% CI 11.7% to 14.0%). The seroprevalence between healthcare workers and patients did not differ significantly at any time and was 1.5-fold to 2-fold higher than the number of confirmed cases in Austria throughout the pandemic. In particular, there was no significant difference in the seroprevalence between paediatric and adult patients at any of the tested time periods.

CONCLUSION

Throughout the pandemic, healthcare staff and an adult and paediatric all-comer patient population had similar exposure to SARS-CoV-2.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04407429.

Long-term mortality after acute coronary syndromes among patients with normal, mildly reduced, or reduced ejection fraction

AIMS

Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% is a well-established risk factor for mortality after acute coronary syndromes (ACS). However, the long-term prognostic impact of mildly reduced ejection fraction (EF) (LVEF 41-49%) after ACS remains less clear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a retrospective study enrolling patients admitted with ACS included in a single-centre databank. LVEF was assessed by echocardiography during index hospitalization. Patients were divided in the following categories according to LVEF: normal (LVEF ≥ 50%), mildly reduced (LVEF 41-49%), and reduced (LVEF ≤ 40%). The endpoint of interest was all-cause death after hospital discharge. A multivariable Cox model was used to adjust for confounders. A total of 3200 patients were included (1952 with normal EF, 375 with mildly reduced EF, and 873 with reduced EF). The estimated cumulative incidence rates of mortality at 10 years for patients with normal, mildly reduced, and reduced EF were 24.8%, 33.5%, and 41.3%, respectively. After adjustments, the presence of reduced EF was associated with higher mortality compared with normal EF [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.64; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.36-1.96; P < 0.001], as was mildly reduced EF compared with normal EF (adjusted HR 1.33; 95% CI 1.05-1.68; P = 0.019). The presence of reduced EF was not associated with a statistically significantly higher mortality compared with mildly reduced EF (adjusted HR 1.23; 95% CI 0.96-1.57; P = 0.095).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with ACS, mildly reduced EF measured in the acute phase was associated with higher long-term mortality compared with patients with normal EF. These data emphasize the importance of anti-remodelling therapies for ACS patients who have LVEF in the mildly reduced range.

Dapagliflozin and Prevention of Kidney Disease Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Post Hoc Analyses From the DECLARE-TIMI 58 Trial

OBJECTIVE

In patients with moderate to severe albuminuric kidney disease, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors reduce the risk of kidney disease progression. These post hoc analyses assess the effects of dapagliflozin on kidney function decline in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), focusing on populations with low kidney risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In the Dapagliflozin Effect on Cardiovascular Events-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 58 (DECLARE-TIMI 58) trial, patients with T2D at high cardiovascular risk were randomly assigned to dapagliflozin versus placebo. Outcomes were analyzed by treatment arms, overall, and by Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) risk categories. The prespecified kidney-specific composite outcome was a sustained decline ≥40% in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to <60 mL/min/1.73 m2, end-stage kidney disease, and kidney-related death. Other outcomes included incidence of categorical eGFR decline of different thresholds and chronic (6 month to 4 year) or total (baseline to 4 year) eGFR slopes.

RESULTS

Most participants were in the low-moderate KDIGO risk categories (n = 15,201 [90.3%]). The hazard for the kidney-specific composite outcome was lower with dapagliflozin across all KDIGO risk categories (P-interaction = 0.97), including those at low risk (hazard ratio [HR] 0.54, 95% CI 0.38-0.77). Risks for categorical eGFR reductions (≥57% [in those with baseline eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2], ≥50%, ≥40%, and ≥30%) were lower with dapagliflozin (HRs 0.52, 0.57, 0.55, and 0.70, respectively; P < 0.05). Slopes of eGFR decline favored dapagliflozin across KDIGO risk categories, including the low KDIGO risk (between-arm differences of 0.87 [chronic] and 0.55 [total] mL/min/1.73 m2/year; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin mitigated kidney function decline in patients with T2D at high cardiovascular risk, including those with low KDIGO risk, suggesting a role of dapagliflozin in the early prevention of diabetic kidney disease.

Biomarker Prediction of Complex Coronary Revascularization Procedures in the FOURIER Trial

BACKGROUND

Biomarkers are known to predict major adverse cardiovascular events. However, the association of biomarkers with complex coronary revascularization procedures or high-risk coronary anatomy at the time of revascularization is not understood.

OBJECTIVES

We examined the associations between baseline biomarkers and major coronary events (MCE) and complex revascularization procedures.

METHODS

FOURIER was a randomized trial of the proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 inhibitor evolocumab vs placebo in 27,564 patients with stable atherosclerosis. We analyzed adjusted associations among the biomarkers, MCE (coronary death, myocardial infarction, or revascularization), and complex revascularization (coronary artery bypass graft or complex percutaneous coronary intervention) using a multimarker score with 1 point assigned for each elevated biomarker (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ≥2 mg/L; N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide ≥450 pg/mL; high-sensitivity troponin I ≥6 ng/L; growth-differentiation factor-15 ≥1,800 pg/mL).

RESULTS

When patients were grouped by the number of elevated biomarkers (0 biomarkers, n = 6,444; 1-2 biomarkers, n = 12,439; ≥3 biomarkers, n = 2,761), there was a significant graded association between biomarker score and the risk of MCE (intermediate score: HR_adj: 1.57 [95% CI: 1.38-1.78]; high score: HR_adj: 2.90 [95% CI: 2.47-3.40]), and for complex revascularization (intermediate: HR_adj: 1.33 [95% CI: 1.06-1.67]; high score: HR_adj: 2.07 [95% CI: 1.52-2.83]) and its components (P_trend <0.05 for each). The number of elevated biomarkers also correlated with the presence of left main disease, multivessel disease, or chronic total occlusion at the time of revascularization (P < 0.05 for each).

CONCLUSIONS

A biomarker-based strategy identifies stable patients at risk for coronary events, including coronary artery bypass graft surgery and complex percutaneous coronary intervention, and predicts high-risk coronary anatomy at the time of revascularization. These findings provide insight into the relationships between cardiovascular biomarkers, coronary anatomical complexity, and incident clinical events. (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research With PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects With Elevated Risk [FOURIER]; NCT01764633).

Positionspapier Herzinsuffizienz und Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) stellt eine wichtige Komorbidität bei Patienten mit Herzinsuffizienz dar, die maßgeblich die Prognose der Patienten determiniert. Von entscheidender Bedeutung zur Verbesserung der Prognose dieser Hochrisiko-Patienten ist daher eine frühzeitige Diagnostik und differenzierte medikamentöse Therapie mit Ausschöpfung aller möglichen Therapieoptionen und Absetzen potenziell schädlicher Substanzen. Das gemeinsame Positionspapier der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Kardiologie (DGK) und der Deutschen Diabetes Gesellschaft (DDG) fasst die vorhandene wissenschaftliche Evidenz zusammen und gibt Empfehlungen, was bei der Diagnose und Therapie der Herzinsuffizienz und des DM zu beachten ist, um die Prognose zu verbessern.

Relationship of diabetes, heart failure, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide with cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation

Aims

We aim to explore the relationship of heart failure (HF) and diabetes with cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for HF (HHF) and to study the clinical utility of N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) in an unselected patient population with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods and results

Patients with AF admitted to a tertiary academic center between January 2005 and July 2019 were identified through a search of electronic health records. We used Cox regression models adjusted for age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate, diabetes, HF, body mass index, prior myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease, hypertension, smoking, C‐reactive protein, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. To select the most informative variables, we performed a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression with 10‐fold cross‐validation. In total, 7412 patients (median age 70 years, 39.7% female) were included in this analysis and followed over a median of 4.5 years. Both diabetes [adjusted (Adj.) HR 1.87, 95% CI 1.55–2.25] and HF (Adj. HR 2.57, 95% CI 2.22–2.98) were significantly associated with CV death/HHF after multivariable adjustment. Compared with patients with diabetes, HF patients had a higher risk of HHF but a similar risk of CV and all‐cause death. NT‐proBNP showed good discriminatory performance (area under the curve 0.78, 95% CI 0.77–0.80) and the addition of NT‐proBNP to the covariates used for adjustment resulted in a significant area under the curve improvement (Δ = 0.04, P < 0.001). With least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, the strongest associations for CV death/HHF were obtained for NT‐proBNP [HR 1.91 per 1‐SD in log‐transformed biomarker], HF (HR 1.72), and diabetes (HR 1.56).

Conclusions

Diabetes and HF were independently associated with an increased risk of CV death/HHF in an unselected AF patient population, and NT‐proBNP improved risk assessment. These findings suggest that AF patients with diabetes and/or HF should be managed not only for their risk of stroke and systemic embolic events but also for CV death/HHF.

Effect of Evolocumab in Patients With Prior Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

Patients with prior percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are at high residual risk for multiple types of coronary events within and beyond the stented lesion. This risk might be mitigated by more intensive LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol)-lowering beyond just with statin therapy.

METHODS

FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research With PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects With Elevated Risk) randomized 27 564 patients with stable atherosclerotic disease on statin to the PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9) inhibitor evolocumab or placebo with a median follow-up of 2.2 years. The end points of interest were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, unstable angina or coronary revascularization), and major coronary events (a composite of coronary heart death, myocardial infarction, or coronary revascularization). We compared the risk of MACE and the magnitude of relative and absolute risk reductions with evolocumab in patients with and without prior PCI.

RESULTS

Seventeen thousand seventy-three patients had prior PCI. In the placebo arm, those with prior PCI had higher rates of MACE (13.2% versus 8.3%; hazard ratio [HR]_adj 1.61 [95% CI, 1.42-1.84]; P<0.0001) and major coronary events (11.5% versus 6.0%; HR_adj, 1.72 [95% CI, 1.49-1.99]; P<0.0001). Relative risk reductions with evolocumab were similar in patients with and without prior PCI (MACE: HR, 0.84 [0.77-0.91] versus HR, 0.88 [0.77-1.01]; P_interaction 0.51; major coronary events: HR, 0.82 [0.75-0.90] versus HR, 0.88 [0.75-1.04]; P_interaction 0.42). Absolute risk reductions for MACE were 2.0% versus 0.9% (P_interaction 0.14) and for major coronary events 2.0% versus 0.7% (P_interaction 0.045). In those with prior PCI, the effect of evolocumab on coronary revascularization (HR, 0.76 [0.69-0.85]) was directionally consistent across types of revascularization procedures: coronary artery bypass grafting (HR, 0.71 [0.54-0.94]); any PCI (HR, 0.77 [0.69-0.86]); PCI for de novo lesions (HR, 0.76 [0.66-0.88]); and PCI for stent failure or graft lesions (HR, 0.76 [0.63-0.91]).

CONCLUSIONS

Evolocumab reduces the risk of MACE in patients with prior PCI including the risk of coronary revascularization, with directionally consistent effects across several types of revascularization procedures, including coronary artery bypass grafting and PCI for stent or graft failure.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT01764633.

P2Y12 inhibitor versus aspirin monotherapy for secondary prevention of cardiovascular events: meta-analysis of randomized trials

Aim

To compare the efficacy and safety of P2Y₁₂ inhibitor or aspirin monotherapy for secondary prevention in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Methods and results

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central databases were searched to identify randomized trials comparing monotherapy with a P2Y₁₂ inhibitor versus aspirin for secondary prevention in patients with ASCVD (cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or peripheral artery disease). The primary outcome was major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Secondary outcomes were myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, all-cause mortality, and major bleeding. A random-effects model was used to calculate risk ratios (RR) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) and heterogeneity among studies was assessed using the Higgins I² value. A total of 9 eligible trials (5 with clopidogrel and 4 with ticagrelor) with 61 623 patients were included in our analyses. Monotherapy with P2Y₁₂ inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of MACE by 11% (0.89, 95% CI 0.84-0.95, I² = 0%) and MI by 19% (0.81, 95% CI 0.71-0.92, I2 = 0%) compared with aspirin monotherapy. There was no significant difference in the risk of stroke (0.85, 95% CI 0.73-1.01), or all-cause mortality (1.01, 95% CI 0.92-1.11). There was also no significant difference in the risk of major bleeding with P2Y₁₂ inhibitor monotherapy compared with aspirin (0.94, 95% CI 0.72-1.22, I² = 42.6%). Results were consistent irrespective of the P2Y₁₂ inhibitor used.

Conclusion

P2Y₁₂ inhibitor monotherapy for secondary prevention is associated with a significant reduction in atherothrombotic events compared with aspirin alone without an increased risk of major bleeding.

Angiography after Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest without ST-Segment Elevation

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction is a frequent cause of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. However, the benefits of early coronary angiography and revascularization in resuscitated patients without electrocardiographic evidence of ST-segment elevation are unclear.

METHODS

In this multicenter trial, we randomly assigned 554 patients with successfully resuscitated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest of possible coronary origin to undergo either immediate coronary angiography (immediate-angiography group) or initial intensive care assessment with delayed or selective angiography (delayed-angiography group). All the patients had no evidence of ST-segment elevation on postresuscitation electrocardiography. The primary end point was death from any cause at 30 days. Secondary end points included a composite of death from any cause or severe neurologic deficit at 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 530 of 554 patients (95.7%) were included in the primary analysis. At 30 days, 143 of 265 patients (54.0%) in the immediate-angiography group and 122 of 265 patients (46.0%) in the delayed-angiography group had died (hazard ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00 to 1.63; P = 0.06). The composite of death or severe neurologic deficit occurred more frequently in the immediate-angiography group (in 164 of 255 patients [64.3%]) than in the delayed-angiography group (in 138 of 248 patients [55.6%]), for a relative risk of 1.16 (95% CI, 1.00 to 1.34). Values for peak troponin release and for the incidence of moderate or severe bleeding, stroke, and renal-replacement therapy were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with resuscitated out-of-hospital cardiac arrest without ST-segment elevation, a strategy of performing immediate angiography provided no benefit over a delayed or selective strategy with respect to the 30-day risk of death from any cause. (Funded by the German Center for Cardiovascular Research; TOMAHAWK ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02750462.).

A Biomarker-Based Score for Risk of Hospitalization for Heart Failure in Patients With Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Heart failure (HF) is an impactful complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We aimed to develop and validate a risk score for hospitalization for HF (HHF) incorporating biomarkers and clinical factor(s) in patients with T2DM.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We derived a risk score for HHF using clinical data, high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT), and N-terminal prohormone of B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) from 6,106 placebo-treated patients with T2DM in SAVOR-TIMI 53 (Saxagliptin Assessment of Vascular Outcomes Recorded in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 53). Candidate variables were assessed using Cox regression. The strongest indicators of HHF risk were included in the score using integer weights. The score was externally validated in 7,251 placebo-treated patients in DECLARE-TIMI 58 (Dapagliflozin Effect on CardiovascuLAR Events-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 58). The effect of dapagliflozin on HHF was assessed by risk category in DECLARE-TIMI 58.

RESULTS

The strongest indicators of HHF risk were NT-proBNP, prior HF, and hsTnT (each P < 0.001). A risk score using these three variables identified a gradient of HHF risk (P-trend <0.001) in the derivation and validation cohorts, with C-indices of 0.87 (95% CI, 0.84-0.89) and 0.84 (0.81-0.86), respectively. Whereas there was no significant effect of dapagliflozin versus placebo on HHF in the low-risk group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.98 [95% CI 0.50-1.92]), dapagliflozin significantly reduced HHF in the intermediate-, high-, and very-high-risk groups (HR 0.64 [0.43-0.95], 0.63 [0.43-0.94], and 0.72 [0.54-0.96], respectively). Correspondingly, absolute risk reductions (95% CI) increased across these latter 3 groups: 1.0% (0.0-1.9), 3.0% (0.7-5.3), and 4.4% (-0.2 to 8.9) (P-trend <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and validated a risk score for HHF in T2DM that incorporated NT-proBNP, prior HF, and hsTnT. The risk score identifies patients at higher risk of HHF who derive greater absolute benefit from dapagliflozin.

Influence of diabetes, heart failure, and NT-proBNP on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation – insights from a cohort study of 7,412 patients with extended follow-up

Background

Diabetes and heart failure (HF) promote atrial fibrillation (AF) and are associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with AF. Because of effective anticoagulation options, AF patients are now more likely to develop HF than a stroke or a systemic embolic event. Appropriate risk stratification of patients with AF should therefore not only consider the risk for stroke but also for HF events.

Methods

Patients with AF admitted to a tertiary academic center between 01/2005 and 07/2019 were identified through a search of electronic health records. The primary outcome of interest was CV death or hospitalization for HF (HHF). We used Cox regression models adjusted for age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate, diabetes, HF, body mass index, prior myocardial infarction, hypertension, smoking, C-reactive protein, and LDL-C. To select the most informative variables and overcome the limitations of stepwise regression procedures, we performed a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression in a model that incorporated diabetes, HF, NT-proBNP, and the covariates for adjustment in combination with 10-fold cross-validation.

Results

In total, 7,412 patients (median age 70 years, 39.7% female) were included in the present analysis and followed over a median of 4.6 years. Both diabetes (Adjusted (Adj.) hazard ratio (HR) 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.55 to 2.25) and HF (Adj. HR 2.57, 95% CI 2.22 to 2.98) were significantly associated with CV death/HHF after multivariable adjustment. Compared to patients with diabetes, HF patients had a higher risk of HHF but a similar risk of CV and all-cause death. There was a robust relationship between CV death/HHF and NT-proBNP (Adj. HR for 1-unit increase in standardized log-transformed biomarker 1.86, 95% CI 1.67 to 2.07). NT-proBNP showed good discriminatory performance (AUC 0.78, 95% CI 0.77–0.80), and the addition of NT-proBNP to the covariates used for adjustment resulted in a significant AUC improvement (Δ=0.04, P&lt;0.001). With least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression, the strongest associations for CV death/HHF were obtained for NT-proBNP (OR 2.69 per 1-SD in log-transformed biomarker), HF (OR 1.73), and diabetes (OR 1.65).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the influence of diabetes and HF expand beyond the risk of stroke and systemic embolic events to CV death/HHF in an unselected AF patient population. NT-proBNP may provide improved risk assessment in AF patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1. Forest Plot

The Effect of Dapagliflozin on Albuminuria in DECLARE-TIMI 58

OBJECTIVE

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) improve albuminuria in patients with high cardiorenal risk. We report albuminuria change in the Dapagliflozin Effect on Cardiovascular Events (DECLARE-TIMI 58) cardiovascular outcome trial, which included populations with lower cardiorenal risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

DECLARE-TIMI 58 randomized 17,160 patients with type 2 diabetes, creatinine clearance >60 mL/min, and either atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD; 40.6%) or risk-factors for CVD (59.4%) to dapagliflozin or placebo. Urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) was tested at baseline, 6 months, 12 months, and yearly thereafter. The change in UACR over time was measured as a continuous and categorical variable (≤15, >15 to <30, ≥30 to ≤300, and >300 mg/g) by treatment arm. The composite cardiorenal outcome was a ≥40% sustained decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to <60 mL/min/1.73 m², end-stage kidney disease, and cardiovascular or renal death; specific renal outcome included all except cardiovascular death.

RESULTS

Baseline UACR was available for 16,843 (98.15%) participants: 9,067 (53.83%) with ≤15 mg/g, 2,577 (15.30%) with >15 to <30 mg/g, 4,030 (23.93%) with 30-300 mg/g, and 1,169 (6.94%) with >300 mg/g. Measured as a continuous variable, UACR improved from baseline to 4.0 years with dapagliflozin, compared with placebo, across all UACR and eGFR categories (all P < 0.0001). Sustained confirmed ≥1 category improvement in UACR was more common in dapagliflozin versus placebo (hazard ratio 1.45 [95% CI 1.35-1.56], P < 0.0001). Cardiorenal outcome was reduced with dapagliflozin for subgroups of UACR ≥30 mg/g (P < 0.0125, P _interaction = 0.033), and the renal-specific outcome was reduced for all UACR subgroups (P < 0.05, P _interaction = 0.480).

CONCLUSIONS

In DECLARE-TIMI 58, dapagliflozin demonstrated a favorable effect on UACR and renal-specific outcome across baseline UACR categories, including patients with normal albumin excretion. The results suggest a role for SGLT2i also in the primary prevention of diabetic kidney disease.

Early aspirin use, allograft rejection, and cardiac allograft vasculopathy in heart transplantation

BACKGROUND

Early aspirin (ASA) use after orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) has been associated with lower rates of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). We hypothesized that the inverse association between ASA use and CAV incidence may be most pronounced in patients with allograft rejection.

METHODS

Patients receiving OHT at a single center 2004-2010 (n = 120) were categorized by early ASA use post-transplant (ASA use for > 6 months in the first year) and the presence of biopsy-defined acute cellular rejection (ACR) and/or antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) during 5-year follow-up. Propensity scores for ASA treatment were estimated using boosting models and applied by inverse probability of treatment weighting. The association between ASA use and time to moderate/severe CAV (ISHLT ≥ 2) was investigated.

RESULTS

Among patients with ACR or AMR, ASA therapy was associated with significantly lower rates of CAV≥ 2 (3.3 vs. 30.1%; P = .001; HR_adj .07; 95% CI .01-.52), whereas ASA therapy was not associated with lower rates of CAV in patients with no rejection (5.6 vs. 5.3%; P = .90; HR_adj 1.26; 95% CI .08-20.30; p_interaction  = .09).

CONCLUSIONS

Early ASA use after OHT was associated with lower rates of moderate to severe CAV only in those patients with episodes of allograft rejection.

Effect of Dapagliflozin on Cardiovascular Outcomes According to Baseline Kidney Function and Albuminuria Status in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Prespecified Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, such as dapagliflozin, promote renal glucose excretion and reduce cardiovascular (CV) deaths and hospitalizations for heart failure (HHF) among patients with type 2 diabetes. The relative CV efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin according to baseline kidney function and albuminuria status are unknown.

Objective

To assess the CV efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin according to baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This secondary analysis of the randomized clinical trial Dapagliflozin Effect on Cardiovascular Events-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 58 compared dapagliflozin vs placebo in 17 160 patients with type 2 diabetes and a baseline creatinine clearance of 60 mL/min or higher. Patients were categorized according to prespecified subgroups of baseline eGFR (<60 vs ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2), urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR; <30 vs ≥30 mg/g), and of chronic kidney disease (CKD) markers using these subgroups (0, 1, or 2). The study was conducted from May 2013 to September 2018.

Interventions

Dapagliflozin vs placebo.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The dual primary end points were major adverse cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke, and CV death) and the composite of CV death or HHF.

Results

At baseline, 1265 patients (7.4%) had an eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 5199 patients (30.9%) had albuminuria. Among patients having data for both eGFR and UACR, 10 958 patients (65.1%) had an eGFR equal to or higher than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and an UACR below 30 mg/g (mean [SD] age, 63.7 [6.7] years; 40.1% women), 5336 patients (31.7%) had either an eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or albuminuria (mean [SD] age, 64.1 [7.1] years; 32.6% women), and 548 patients (3.3%) had both (mean [SD] age, 66.8 [6.9] years; 30.5% women). In the placebo group, patients with more CKD markers had higher event rates at 4 years as assessed using the Kaplan-Meier approach for the composite of CV death or HHF (3.9% for 0 markers, 8.3% for 1 marker, and 17.4% for 2 markers) and major adverse cardiovascular events (7.5% for 0 markers, 11.6% for 1 marker, and 18.9% for 2 markers). Estimates for relative risk reductions for the composite of CV death or HHF and for major adverse cardiovascular events were generally consistent across subgroups (both P > .24 for interaction), although greater absolute risk reductions were observed with more markers of CKD. The absolute risk difference for the composite of CV death or HHF was greater for patients with more markers of CKD (0 markers, -0.5%; 1 marker, -1.0%; and 2 markers, -8.3%; P = .02 for interaction). The numbers of amputations, cases of diabetic ketoacidosis, fractures, and major hypoglycemic events were balanced or numerically lower with dapagliflozin compared with placebo for patients with an eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and an UACR of 30 mg/g or higher.

Conclusions and Relevance

The effect of dapagliflozin on the relative risk for CV events was consistent across eGFR and UACR groups, with the greatest absolute benefit for the composite of CV death or HHF observed among patients with both reduced eGFR and albuminuria.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01730534.

Plasma Omega-3 Fatty Acids and the Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Patients After an Acute Coronary Syndrome in MERLIN-TIMI 36

Background Plasma omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3-PUFAs) have been shown to be inversely correlated with the risk of cardiovascular death in primary prevention. The risk relationship in the setting of an acute coronary syndrome is less well established. Methods and Results Baseline plasma ω3-PUFA composition (α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid) was assessed through gas chromatography with flame ionization detection in a case-cohort study involving 203 patients with cardiovascular death, 325 with myocardial infarction, 271 with ventricular tachycardia, and 161 with atrial fibrillation, and a random sample of 1612 event-free subjects as controls from MERLIN-TIMI 36 (Metabolic Efficiency With Ranolazine for Less Ischemia in Non-ST-Elevation-Acute Coronary Syndrome-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 36), a trial of patients hospitalized with non-ST-segment-elevation -acute coronary syndrome. After inverse-probability-weighted multivariable adjustment including all traditional risk factors, a higher relative proportion of long-chain ω3-PUFAs (eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid) were associated with 18% lower odds of cardiovascular death (adjusted [adj] odds ratio [OR] per 1 SD, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.68-0.98) that was primarily driven by 27% lower odds of sudden cardiac death (adj OR per 1 SD, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.55-0.97). Long-chain ω3-PUFA levels in the top quartile were associated with 51% lower odds of cardiovascular death (adj OR 0.49; 95% CI, 0.27-0.86) and 63% lower odds of sudden cardiac death (adj OR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.16-0.56). An attenuated relationship was seen for α-linolenic acid and subsequent odds of cardiovascular (adj OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.74-1.14) and sudden cardiac death (adj OR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.67-1.25). No significant relationship was observed between any ω3-PUFAs and the odds of cardiovascular death unrelated to sudden cardiac death, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, or early post-acute coronary syndrome ventricular tachycardia. Conclusions In patients after non-ST-segment-elevation-acute coronary syndrome, plasma long-chain ω3-PUFAs are inversely associated with lower odds of sudden cardiac death, independent of traditional risk factors and lipids. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00099788.

Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety Outcomes of Edoxaban in 8040 Women Versus 13 065 Men With Atrial Fibrillation in the ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 Trial

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Female sex is an independent risk factor for stroke and systemic embolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation. This study aimed to examine the efficacy and safety profile of edoxaban in women versus men.

Methods:

The ENGAGE AF-TIMI 48 trial (Effective Anticoagulation with Factor Xa Next Generation in Atrial Fibrillation-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 48) randomly assigned 21 105 patients (8040 women) with atrial fibrillation and CHADS₂ score ≥2 either to a higher-dose edoxaban regimen, a lower-dose edoxaban regimen, or warfarin. The primary end points of the trial were the composite of stroke or systemic embolic events (efficacy), and International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis–defined major bleeding (safety).

Results:

In comparison with men, women were older, had lower body weight, were more likely to have hypertension and renal dysfunction, but less likely to smoke, drink alcohol, or have diabetes or coronary artery disease. Pretreatment endogenous factor Xa activity was significantly higher in women than in men (92.5% versus 86.1%, P<0.001). Treatment with edoxaban in women resulted in greater peak edoxaban concentration and inhibition of endogenous factor Xa in comparison with men, resulting in similar endogenous factor Xa activity between the sexes 2 to 4 hours after dose. Treatment with higher-dose edoxaban regimen (versus warfarin) resulted in similar reduction in the risk of stroke/systemic embolic events (women: hazard ratio [HR], 0.87 [0.69–1.11], men: HR, 0.87 [0.71–1.06]; P-interaction=0.97) and major bleeding (women: HR, 0.74 [0.59–0.92], men: HR, 0.84 [0.72–0.99]; P-interaction=0.34) in women and men. However, women assigned to higher-dose edoxaban regimen experienced greater reductions in hemorrhagic stroke (HR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.15–0.59] versus HR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.46–1.06]), intracranial bleeding (HR, 0.20 [95% CI, 0.10–0.39] versus HR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.44–0.89]), and life-threatening or fatal bleeding (HR, 0.25 [95% CI, 0.15–0.42] versus HR, 0.72 [95% CI, 0.54–0.96]) than men (each P-interaction<0.05).

Conclusions:

Despite many differences in baseline characteristics between women and men and higher baseline endogenous factor Xa levels in women, the intensity of anticoagulation achieved with edoxaban between the sexes was similar. Treatment with higher-dose edoxaban regimen resulted in an even greater reduction in hemorrhagic stroke and several serious bleeding outcomes in women than in men, whereas the efficacy profile was similar between sexes.

Relationship between baseline cardiac biomarkers and cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure with and without sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor therapy in DECLARE-TIMI 58

AIMS

Dapagliflozin reduced the risk of the composite of cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in DECLARE-TIMI 58. We hypothesized that baseline N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT) levels would help identify patients who are at higher baseline risk and we describe the treatment effects of dapagliflozin in patients according to their baseline NT-proBNP and hsTnT levels.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a pre-specified biomarker study from DECLARE-TIMI 58, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled CV outcomes trial of dapagliflozin. Baseline NT-proBNP and hsTnT levels were measured in the TIMI Clinical Trials Laboratory in 14 565 patients. Among the included patients, 9143 patients (62.8%) were male, 1464 (10.1%) had a history of heart failure and the mean age was 63.9 years. The median baseline NT-proBNP and hsTnT levels were 75 pg/mL [interquartile range (IQR) 35-165] and 10.2 pg/mL (IQR 6.9-15.5), respectively. Patients with higher NT-proBNP and hsTnT quartiles had higher rates of CV death/HHF (Q4 vs. Q1: NT-proBNP: 4-year Kaplan-Meier event rates 13.7% vs. 1.0%; hsTnT: 11.8% vs. 1.4%; P-trend <0.001). Dapagliflozin consistently reduced the relative risk of CV death/HHF regardless of baseline NT-proBNP (P-interaction 0.72) or hsTnT quartiles (P-interaction 0.93). Given their higher baseline risk, patients with NT-proBNP and/or hsTnT levels above the median derived larger absolute risk reductions with dapagliflozin (NT-proBNP 1.9% vs. 0%, P-interaction 0.010; hsTnT 1.8% vs. 0.1%, P-interaction 0.026).

CONCLUSION

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and higher NT-proBNP or hsTnT levels are at increased risk of CV death and HHF. Dapagliflozin reduced the relative risk of CV death/HHF irrespective of NT-proBNP and hsTnT levels, with greater absolute risk reductions seen in patients with higher baseline biomarker levels.

Effect of Evolocumab on Complex Coronary Disease Requiring Revascularization

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to evaluate the ability of the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor evolocumab to reduce the risk of complex coronary atherosclerosis requiring revascularization.

BACKGROUND

PCSK9 inhibitors induce plaque regression and reduce the risk of coronary revascularization overall.

METHODS

FOURIER (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research with PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects with Elevated Risk) was a randomized trial of the PCSK9 inhibitor evolocumab versus placebo in 27,564 patients with stable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease on statin therapy followed for a median of 2.2 years. Clinical documentation of revascularization events was blindly reviewed to assess coronary anatomy and procedural characteristics. Complex revascularization was the composite of complex percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (as per previous analyses, ≥1 of: multivessel PCI, ≥3 stents, ≥3 lesions treated, bifurcation PCI, or total stent length >60 mm) or coronary artery bypass grafting surgery (CABG).

RESULTS

In this study, 1,724 patients underwent coronary revascularization, including 1,482 who underwent PCI, 296 who underwent CABG, and 54 who underwent both. Complex revascularization was performed in 632 (37%) patients. Evolocumab reduced the risk of any coronary revascularization by 22% (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.71 to 0.86; p < 0.001), simple PCI by 22% (HR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.70 to 0.88; p < 0.001), complex PCI by 33% (HR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.54 to 0.84; p < 0.001), CABG by 24% (HR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60 to 0.96; p = 0.019), and complex revascularization by 29% (HR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.61 to 0.84; p < 0.001). The magnitude of the risk reduction with evolocumab in complex revascularization tended to increase over time (20%, 36%, and 41% risk reductions in the first, second, and beyond second years).

CONCLUSIONS

Adding evolocumab to statin therapy significantly reduced the risk of developing complex coronary disease requiring revascularization, including complex PCI and CABG individually. (Further Cardiovascular Outcomes Research with PCSK9 Inhibition in Subjects with Elevated Risk (FOURIER); NCT01764633.).

Patients with diabetes mellitus and atrial fibrillation treated with non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants: meta-analysis of eight outcomes in 58 634 patients across four randomized controlled trials

AIMS

Concomitant atrial fibrillation (AF) and diabetes mellitus (DM) increases the risk of stroke and systemic embolic events (SEE). This meta-analysis assessed the benefit/risk balance of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) vs. warfarin, and explored whether there was effect modification by DM or heterogeneity in outcomes between NOACs in patients with and without DM.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a meta-analysis of 58 634 patients from four Phase 3 trials of NOAC vs. warfarin in patients with AF, comparing the primary outcomes of efficacy and safety and six other secondary outcomes in patients stratified by the presence of DM. Interaction testing was used to assess for heterogeneity of treatment effects. A meta-regression was performed to evaluate the influence of baseline characteristics. NOACs reduced the risk of stroke/SEE in 18 134 patients with DM [hazard ratio (HR) 0.80; 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.69-0.93), I2 3.90] to a similar degree as in 40 500 patients without DM [HR 0.82; 95% CI (0.74-0.91), I2 16.33; P-int 0.81]. There was no effect modification of DM on the relative reduction with NOACs vs. warfarin in major bleeding (DM: 0.95, 95% CI 0.75-1.20, I2 43.83; no DM: 0.83, 95% CI 0.55-1.24; I2 87.90; P-int 0.37). Intracranial haemorrhage (HRs 0.51 and 0.47, P-int 0.70) and cardiovascular death (HRs 0.87 and 0.90, P-int 0.70) were significantly reduced by NOACs in the presence or absence of DM.

CONCLUSION

Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants are more effective and safer than warfarin in AF patients with or without DM. Absent contraindications, NOACs should be the anticoagulation treatment choice in patients with diabetes.

Feasibility of CardioSecur®, a Mobile 4-Electrode/22-Lead ECG Device, in the Prehospital Emergency Setting

Background: This study explores the application of CardioSecur® (CS-ECG), a hand-held 4-electrode/22-lead ECG-device, in comparison with conventional 12-lead electrocardiogram (c12L-ECG) in patients with acute chest pain in the prehospital emergency setting.

Methods: CS-ECG systems were provided for two physician-staffed emergency ambulances and parallel recordings of c12L-ECG and CS-ECG were obtained from all patients with acute chest pain. Treating emergency physicians were asked to evaluate the CS-ECG system with a standardized questionnaire. Following study completion, acquired ECGs were analyzed separately by two independent cardiologists blinded to all other medical records.

Results: Over a period of 20 months a total of 203 patients were included in our study. According to a standardized questionnaire, 79% of emergency medical professionals preferred application of CS-ECG, with 87% of teams judging CS-ECG to be beneficial for patients. Morover, 79% of physicians reported a reduction in time to definitive diagnosis with implementation of CS-ECG. The majority of professional users attested user-friendliness and feasibility of CS-ECG in terms of easy general handling (94%), application (93%), and placement of electrodes (98%). During prehospital triage, both c12L-ECG and CS-ECG correctly identified 31 (91%) patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Conclusion: In this first pilot study, implementation of the CardioSecur®-ECG system in the prehospital emergency setting demonstrated feasibility and user-friendliness so that emergency teams generally preferred CS-ECG to c12L-ECG. Diagnostic yield of CS-ECG was similar to c12L-ECG recordings.

Mechanisms of Cardiorenal Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), a new drug class approved for treatment of diabetes, have been shown to possess a favorable metabolic profile and to significantly reduce atherosclerotic events, hospitalization for heart failure, cardiovascular and total mortality, and progression of chronic kidney disease. Although initially considered to be only glucose-lowering agents, the effects of SGLT2i have expanded far beyond that, and their use is now being studied in the treatment of heart failure and chronic kidney disease, even in patients without diabetes. It is therefore critical for cardiologists, diabetologists, nephrologists, and primary care physicians to be familiar with this drug class. This first part of this 2-part review provides an overview of the current understanding of the mechanisms of the cardio-metabolic-renal benefits of SGLT2i. The second part summarizes the recent clinical trials of SGLT2i.

Dapagliflozin and Cardiac, Kidney, and Limb Outcomes in Patients With and Without Peripheral Artery Disease in DECLARE-TIMI 58

BACKGROUND

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at heightened risk of cardiovascular complications. The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin reduces the risk for hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) and kidney events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. An increased risk of amputation has been observed with canagliflozin in 1 previous trial. We examined cardiovascular and kidney efficacy and the risk of limb-related events in patients with and without PAD in an exploratory analysis.

METHODS

A total of 17 160 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, including 1025 (6%) with PAD, were randomized. Key efficacy outcomes were MACE (cardiovascular [CV] death, myocardial infarction, stroke), CV death/HHF, and progression of kidney disease. Amputations, peripheral revascularization, and limb ischemic adverse events were site-reported and categorized by a blinded reviewer.

RESULTS

Patients in the placebo arm with PAD versus those without tended to have higher adjusted risk of CV death, myocardial infarction, or stroke (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.23 [95% CI, 0.97-1.56], P=0.094) and significantly higher adjusted risk of CV death/HHF (adjusted HR, 1.60 [95% CI, 1.21-2.12], P=0.0010) and progression of kidney disease (adjusted HR, 1.51 [95% CI, 1.13 - 2.03], P=0.0058), and limb adverse events (adjusted HR, 8.37, P<0.001). The relative risk reductions with dapagliflozin for CV death/HHF (HR, 0.86, PAD; HR, 0.82, no-PAD; P-interaction=0.79) and progression of kidney disease (HR, 0.78, PAD; HR, 0.76, no-PAD; P-interaction=0.84) were consistent regardless of PAD. There were 560 patients who had at least 1 limb ischemic event, 454 patients with at least 1 peripheral revascularization, and 236 patients with at least 1 amputation, with a total of 407 amputations reported. Overall, there were no significant differences in any limb outcome with dapagliflozin versus placebo including limb ischemic adverse events (HR, 1.07 [95% CI, 0.90-1.26]) and amputation (HR, 1.09 [95% CI, 0.84-1.40]), with no significant interactions by a history of PAD versus not (P-interactions=0.30 and 0.093, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with versus without PAD are at a higher risk of CV death of CV death, HHF, and kidney outcomes, and have a consistent benefits for CV death/HHF and progression of kidney disease with dapagliflozin. Patients with PAD had a higher risk of limb events, with no consistent pattern of incremental risk observed with dapagliflozin. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01730534.

Biomarker of Collagen Turnover (C-Terminal Telopeptide) and Prognosis in Patients With Non- ST -Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes

Background

Small studies have suggested an association between markers of collagen turnover and adverse outcomes in heart failure (HF). We examined C‐terminal telopeptide (beta‐CTx) and the risk of cardiovascular death or new or worsening HF in non–ST‐elevation acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results

We measured baseline serum beta‐CTx, NT‐proBNP (N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide), hsTnT (high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T) and hsCRP (high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein) (Roche Diagnostics) in a nested biomarker analysis (n=4094) from a study of patients with non–ST‐elevation acute coronary syndrome. The relationship between quartiles of beta‐CTx and cardiovascular death or HF over a median follow‐up time of 12 months was analyzed using adjusted Cox models. Higher beta‐CTx levels identified a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular death/HF (Q4 10.9% versus Q1 3.8%, Logrank P<0.001). After multivariable adjustment, beta‐CTx in the top quartile (Q4) was associated with cardiovascular death/HF (Q4 versus Q1: adjusted hazard ratio 2.22 [1.50–3.27]) and its components (Q4 versus Q1: cardiovascular death: adjusted hazard ratio 2.48 [1.46–4.21]; HF: adjusted hazard ratio 2.04 [1.26–3.30]). In an adjusted multimarker model including NT‐proBNP, hsTnT, and hsCRP, beta‐CTx remained independently associated with cardiovascular death/HF (Q4 versus Q1: adjusted hazard ratio 1.98 [1.34–2.93]) and its components. Beta‐CTx correlated weakly with NT‐proBNP (r=0.17, P<0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction (r=−0.05, P=0.008) and did not correlate with hsTnT (r=0.02, P=0.20), or hsCRP (r=−0.03, P=0.09).

Conclusions

Levels of beta‐CTx, a biomarker of collagen turnover, were associated with cardiovascular death and HF in patients with non–ST‐elevation acute coronary syndrome. This biomarker, which correlated only weakly or not significantly with traditional biomarkers of cardiovascular death and HF, may provide complementary pathobiological insight and risk stratification in these patients.

Clinical Benefit of Cardiorenal Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors: JACC State-of-the-Art Review

Changes in the regulatory guidelines by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Medical Agency requiring large-scale trials that study the cardiovascular safety of new glucose-lowering drugs have improved our understanding of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Unexpectedly, these trials demonstrated that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This second part of this 2-part review summarizes the findings of recent clinical trials and their clinical implications and describes ongoing trials and future areas of research.

192Effect of dapagliflozin on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes according to baseline renal function and albuminuria status: Insights from DECLARE-TIMI 58

Background

Renal dysfunction including both reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and the presence of albuminuria have each been shown to predict cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. Sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), which promote glucose excretion in the kidneys, reduce CV events and hospitalizations for heart failure (HHF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Purpose

To analyze the CV efficacy of dapagliflozin according to baseline renal function and albuminuria status in DECLARE-TIMI 58.

Methods

The DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial compared dapagliflozin vs. placebo in 17,160 patients with T2DM and a creatinine clearance >60 ml/min/1.73m2 at enrollment. The dual primary endpoints were CV death/HHF and MACE (MI, stroke, CV death). We categorized patients according baseline eGFR [<60 vs. ≥60 ml/min/1.73m2 according to the CKD-EPI formula] and urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) [<30 vs. ≥30 mg/g]. Cox regression models with interaction testing were applied. The Gail-Simon test was used to test for interaction of the absolute risk differences.

Results

In total, 5198 (30.3%) patients had albuminuria (UACR 30–300: n=4029; UACR >300: n=1169) and 1265 (7.4%) had an eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m2. Accordingly, 10958 (63.9%) patients had no manifestation of CKD, 5367 (31.3%) had either an eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m2 or albuminuria, and 548 (3.2%) patients had both manifestations. Patients with more abnormal markers had higher event rates for CV death/HHF (KM event rates at 4 years of 3.9%, 8.3%, 17.4%) and MACE (7.5%, 11.7%, and 18.9%) for no, 1, or 2 markers of CKD, respectively. The relative risk reductions for CV death/HHF and MACE were generally consistent across the subgroups (both P-interaction >0.29), though numerically greatest (42%) in patients with reduced eGFR and albuminuria. However, the absolute risk difference increased substantially in patients with greater kidney damage (absolute risk difference of CV death/HHF: −0.5%, −1.0%, and −8.3%, respectively; P-INT for ARD 0.002; Figure). See figure for MACE and component outcomes.

Conclusions

Patients with baseline renal disease had higher rates of adverse CV outcomes. Dapagliflozin reduced events with generally consistent relative risk, but reduced the absolute risk of CVD/HHF by the greatest amount in patients with kidney disease evidenced by both reduced eGFR and albuminuria.

Acknowledgement/Funding

AstraZeneca, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (ZE 1109/1-1)

The efficacy and safety of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease: A meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Patients with atrial fibrillation and concomitant coronary artery disease (CAD) are at higher risk for myocardial infarction or cardiovascular death, often require antiplatelet therapy and are therefore exposed to an increased risk of bleeding. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy and safety profile of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) with warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation and concomitant CAD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a trial-level meta-analysis of CAD subgroups from four trials of NOAC versus warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation, comparing the primary trial endpoints (efficacy: stroke or systemic embolic event; safety: International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis major bleeding) in patients with versus those without CAD, and used interaction testing to assess for treatment effect modification.

RESULTS

In total, 58,606 patients with established CAD were included in this meta-analysis. NOACs reduced the risk of stroke/systemic embolic event irrespective of presence of CAD (CAD: 0.76 (0.56-1.04); no CAD: hazard ratio 0.77 (0.56-1.06); p-INT 0.93). Similarly, there was no effect modification by presence of CAD for major bleeding (CAD: hazard ratio 0.92 (0.65-1.32), no CAD: 0.83 (0.61-1.12); p-INT 0.46) or myocardial infarction (CAD: hazard ratio 0.95 (0.62-1.44); no CAD: hazard ratio 0.95 (0.60-1.50); p-INT = 0.98). While NOACs reduced all-cause mortality in patients without CAD compared with warfarin (hazard ratio 0.85 (0.71-1.02)), there was no difference in mortality between NOACs and warfarin in the CAD group (hazard ratio 0.99 (0.82-1.20); p-INT 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis of four trials supports that NOACs are safe and at least as effective as warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation and established CAD.

Effects of dapagliflozin on development and progression of kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes: an analysis from the DECLARE-TIMI 58 randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have shown beneficial effects on renal outcomes mainly in patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Here we report analyses of renal outcomes with the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin in the DECLARE-TIMI 58 cardiovascular outcomes trial, which included patients with type 2 diabetes both with and without established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and mostly with preserved renal function.

METHODS

In DECLARE-TIMI 58, patients with type 2 diabetes, HbA_1c 6·5-12·0% (47·5-113·1 mmol/mol), with either established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors, and creatinine clearance of at least 60 mL/min were randomly assigned (1:1) to 10 mg dapagliflozin or placebo once daily. A prespecified secondary cardiorenal composite outcome was defined as a sustained decline of at least 40% in estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] to less than 60 mL/min per 1·73m², end-stage renal disease (defined as dialysis for at least 90 days, kidney transplantation, or confirmed sustained eGFR <15mL/min per 1·73 m²), or death from renal or cardiovascular causes; a prespecified renal-specific composite outcome was the same but excluding death from cardiovascular causes. In this renal analysis, we report findings for the components of these composite outcomes, subgroup analysis of these composite outcomes, and changes in eGFR at different timepoints. DECLARE-TIMI 58 is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01730534.

FINDINGS

The trial took place between April 25, 2013, and Sept 18, 2018; median follow-up was 4·2 years (IQR 3·9-4·4). Of the 17 160 participants who were randomly assigned, 8162 (47·6%) had an eGFR of at least 90 mL/min per 1·73 m², 7732 (45·1%) had an eGFR of 60 to less than 90 mL/min per 1·73 m², and 1265 (7·4%) had an eGFR of less than 60 mL/min per 1·73 m² at baseline (one participant had missing data for eGFR); 6974 (40·6%) had established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and 10 186 (59·4%) had multiple risk factors. As previously reported, the cardiorenal secondary composite outcome was significantly reduced with dapagliflozin versus placebo (hazard ratio [HR] 0·76, 95% CI 0·67-0.87; p<0·0001); excluding death from cardiovascular causes, the HR for the renal-specific outcome was 0·53 (0·43-0·66; p<0·0001). We identified a 46% reduction in sustained decline in eGFR by at least 40% to less than 60 mL/min per 1·73 m² (120 [1·4% vs 221 [2·6%]; HR 0·54 [95% CI 0·43-0·67]; p<0·0001). The risk of end-stage renal disease or renal death was lower in the dapagliflozin group than in the placebo group (11 [0·1%] vs 27 [0·3%]; HR 0·41 [95% CI 0·20-0·82]; p=0·012). Both the cardiorenal and renal-specific composite outcomes were improved with dapagliflozin versus placebo across various prespecified subgroups, including those defined by baseline eGFR (cardiorenal outcome p_interaction=0·97; renal-specific outcome p_interaction=0·87) and the presence or absence of established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (cardiorenal outcome p_interaction=0·67; renal-specific outcome p_interaction=0·72). 6 months after randomisation, the mean decrease in eGFR was larger in the dapagliflozin group than in the placebo group. The mean change equalised by 2 years, and at 3 and 4 years the mean decrease in eGFR was less with dapagliflozin than with placebo.

INTERPRETATION

Dapagliflozin seemed to prevent and reduce progression of kidney disease compared with placebo in this large and diverse population of patients with type 2 diabetes with and without established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, most of whom had preserved renal function.

FUNDING

AstraZeneca.

Cardiac and Inflammatory Biomarkers Are Associated with Worsening Renal Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Observations from SAVOR-TIMI 53

BACKGROUND

Cardiac and renal diseases commonly occur with bidirectional interactions. We hypothesized that cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers may assist in identification of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at high risk of worsening renal function.

METHODS

In this exploratory analysis from SAVOR-TIMI 53, concentrations of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-TnT), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured in baseline serum samples of 12310 patients. The primary end point for this analysis was a ≥40% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at end of treatment (EOT) at a median of 2.1 years. The relationships between biomarkers and the end point were modeled using adjusted logistic and Cox regression.

RESULTS

After multivariable adjustment including baseline renal function, each biomarker was independently associated with an increased risk of ≥40% decrease in eGFR at EOT [Quartile (Q) Q4 vs Q1: hs-TnT adjusted odds ratio (OR), 5.63 (3.49-9.10); NT-proBNP adjusted OR, 3.53 (2.29-5.45); hs-CRP adjusted OR, 1.84 (95% CI, 1.27-2.68); all P values ≤0.001]. Furthermore, each biomarker was independently associated with higher risk of worsening of urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) category (all P values ≤0.002). Sensitivity analyses in patients without heart failure and eGFR >60 mL/min provided similar results. In an adjusted multimarker model, hs-TnT and NT-proBNP remained significantly associated with both renal outcomes (all P values <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

hs-TnT, NT-proBNP, and hs-CRP were each associated with worsening of renal function [reduction in eGFR (≥40%) and deterioration in UACR class] in high-risk patients with T2DM. Patients with high cardiac or inflammatory biomarkers should be treated not only for their risk of cardiovascular outcomes but also followed for renal deterioration.

Effect of Dapagliflozin on Heart Failure and Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

In DECLARE-TIMI 58 (Dapagliflozin Effect on Cardiovascular Events-Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 58), the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin reduced the composite end point of cardiovascular death/hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) in a broad population of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, the impact of baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) on the clinical benefit of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibition is unknown.

METHODS

In the DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial, baseline heart failure (HF) status was collected from all patients, and EF was collected when available. HF with reduced EF (HFrEF) was defined as EF <45%. Outcomes of interest were the composite of cardiovascular death/HHF, its components, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Of 17 160 patients, 671 (3.9%) had HFrEF, 1316 (7.7%) had HF without known reduced EF, and 15 173 (88.4%) had no history of HF at baseline. Dapagliflozin reduced cardiovascular death/HHF more in patients with HFrEF (hazard ratio [HR], 0.62 [95% CI, 0.45-0.86]) than in those without HFrEF (HR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.76-1.02]; P for interaction=0.046), in whom the treatment effect of dapagliflozin was similar in those with HF without known reduced EF (HR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.66-1.17]) and those without HF (HR, 0.88 [95% CI, 0.74-1.03]). Whereas dapagliflozin reduced HHF both in those with (HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.43-0.95]) and in those without HFrEF (HR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.62-0.92]), it reduced cardiovascular death only in patients with HFrEF (HR, 0.55 [95% CI, 0.34-0.90]) but not in those without HFrEF (HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 0.89-1.31]; P for interaction=0.012). Likewise, dapagliflozin reduced all-cause mortality in patients with HFrEF (HR, 0.59 [95% CI, 0.40-0.88;) but not in those without HFrEF (HR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.86-1.10]; P for interaction=0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

In the first sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor cardiovascular outcome trial to evaluate patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus stratified by EF, we found that dapagliflozin reduced HHF in patients with and without HFrEF and reduced cardiovascular death and all-cause mortality in patients with HFrEF.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT01730534.

Treatment of Heart Failure with Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and Other Anti-diabetic Drugs

Patients with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of developing heart failure, cardiovascular death and renal failure. The recent results of three large sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor cardiovascular outcomes trials have demonstrated a reduction in heart failure hospitalisation and progressive renal failure. One trial also showed a fall in cardiovascular and total death. A broad spectrum of patients with diabetes benefit from these salutary effects in cardiac and renal function and so these trials have important implications for the management of patients with type 2 diabetes. Selected glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists have also been shown to reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes.

Dapagliflozin and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

The cardiovascular safety profile of dapagliflozin, a selective inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 that promotes glucosuria in patients with type 2 diabetes, is undefined.

METHODS

We randomly assigned patients with type 2 diabetes who had or were at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease to receive either dapagliflozin or placebo. The primary safety outcome was a composite of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or ischemic stroke. The primary efficacy outcomes were MACE and a composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure. Secondary efficacy outcomes were a renal composite (≥40% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate to <60 ml per minute per 1.73 m² of body-surface area, new end-stage renal disease, or death from renal or cardiovascular causes) and death from any cause.

RESULTS

We evaluated 17,160 patients, including 10,186 without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, who were followed for a median of 4.2 years. In the primary safety outcome analysis, dapagliflozin met the prespecified criterion for noninferiority to placebo with respect to MACE (upper boundary of the 95% confidence interval [CI], <1.3; P<0.001 for noninferiority). In the two primary efficacy analyses, dapagliflozin did not result in a lower rate of MACE (8.8% in the dapagliflozin group and 9.4% in the placebo group; hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.03; P=0.17) but did result in a lower rate of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure (4.9% vs. 5.8%; hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.73 to 0.95; P=0.005), which reflected a lower rate of hospitalization for heart failure (hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.61 to 0.88); there was no between-group difference in cardiovascular death (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.82 to 1.17). A renal event occurred in 4.3% in the dapagliflozin group and in 5.6% in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.67 to 0.87), and death from any cause occurred in 6.2% and 6.6%, respectively (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.82 to 1.04). Diabetic ketoacidosis was more common with dapagliflozin than with placebo (0.3% vs. 0.1%, P=0.02), as was the rate of genital infections that led to discontinuation of the regimen or that were considered to be serious adverse events (0.9% vs. 0.1%, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes who had or were at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, treatment with dapagliflozin did not result in a higher or lower rate of MACE than placebo but did result in a lower rate of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure, a finding that reflects a lower rate of hospitalization for heart failure. (Funded by AstraZeneca; DECLARE-TIMI 58 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01730534 .).

SGLT2 inhibitors for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular and renal outcomes in type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cardiovascular outcome trials

BACKGROUND

The magnitude of effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on specific cardiovascular and renal outcomes and whether heterogeneity is based on key baseline characteristics remains undefined.

METHODS

We did a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised, placebo-controlled, cardiovascular outcome trials of SGLT2i in patients with type 2 diabetes. We searched PubMed and Embase for trials published up to Sept 24, 2018. Data search and extraction were completed with a standardised data form and any discrepancies were resolved by consensus. Efficacy outcomes included major adverse cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiovascular death), the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalisation for heart failure, and progression of renal disease. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs were pooled across trials, and efficacy outcomes were stratified by baseline presence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and degree of renal function.

FINDINGS

We included data from three identified trials and 34 322 patients (60·2% with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease), with 3342 major adverse cardiovascular events, 2028 cardiovascular deaths or hospitalisation sfor heart failure events, and 766 renal composite outcomes. SGLT2i reduced major adverse cardiovascular events by 11% (HR 0·89 [95% CI 0·83-0·96], p=0·0014), with benefit only seen in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (0·86 [0·80-0·93]) and not in those without (1·00 [0·87-1·16], p for interaction=0·0501). SGLT2i reduced the risk of cardiovascular death or hospitalisation for heart failure by 23% (0·77 [0·71-0·84], p<0·0001), with a similar benefit in patients with and without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and with and without a history of heart failure. SGLT2i reduced the risk of progression of renal disease by 45% (0·55 [0·48-0·64], p<0·0001), with a similar benefit in those with and without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The magnitude of benefit of SGLT2i varied with baseline renal function, with greater reductions in hospitalisations for heart failure (p for interaction=0·0073) and lesser reductions in progression of renal disease (p for interaction=0·0258) in patients with more severe kidney disease at baseline.

INTERPRETATION

SGLT2i have moderate benefits on atherosclerotic major adverse cardiovascular events that seem confined to patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, they have robust benefits on reducing hospitalisation for heart failure and progression of renal disease regardless of existing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or a history of heart failure.

FUNDING

None.

Serum neprilysin and the risk of death in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest of non-traumatic origin

BACKGROUND

Early risk stratification remains an unmet clinical need in patients with in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We hypothesised that soluble neprilysin may represent a promising biomarker in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest of non-traumatic origin and provide new pathobiological insight.

METHODS

This pilot study was a biomarker analysis from the Heidelberg Resuscitation Registry. Serum soluble neprilysin levels on admission were measured in 144 patients with successful return of spontaneous circulation after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest of non-traumatic origin. The primary endpoint was time to all-cause mortality. KM Event Rates are reported. Cox models were adjusted for age, bystander resuscitation, initial ECG rhythm, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate, baseline lactate, left ventricular function at baseline, and targeted temperature management.

RESULTS

In total, 90 (62.5%) patients died over a follow-up of at least 30 days. Soluble neprilysin correlated weakly with high-sensitivity troponin T (r=0.18, P=0.032) but did not correlate significantly with estimated glomerular filtration rate (r=-0.12) or lactate (r=0.11). Patients with elevated soluble neprilysin levels on admission were at significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (Q4 69.1% vs. Q1 48.4%). After multivariable adjustment, soluble neprilysin in the top quartile (Q4) was significantly associated with all-cause mortality (Q4 vs. Q1: adjusted hazard ratio 2.48 (1.20-5.12)). In an adjusted multimarker model including high-sensitivity troponin T and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, soluble neprilysin and high-sensitivity troponin T remained independently associated with all-cause mortality (soluble neprilysin: adjusted hazard ratio 2.27 (1.08-4.78); high-sensitivity troponin T: adjusted hazard ratio 3.40 (1.63-7.09)).

CONCLUSION

Soluble neprilysin, measured as early as on hospital admission, was independently associated with all-cause mortality in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest of non-traumatic origin and may prove to be useful in the estimation of risk in these patients.