Assessment Of Vascular Function Research Articles

Improved vascular health linked to increased physical activity levels and reduced sedentary behavior in rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by deteriorated vascular health and increased cardiovascular risk. Physical activity (PA) is recommended for cardiovascular management in RA, but evidence on the associations between objectively-measured PA and vascular health markers in RA is limited. In this cross-sectional study, eighty-two post-menopausal women with RA (62±7 years) undertook ultrasound assessments of vascular function and structure, including brachial and superficial femoral artery (BA and SFA) flow-mediated dilation; baseline and post-hyperemia peak diameters; and carotid intima-media thickness. Participants also performed a 7-day accelerometer-based assessment of PA and sedentary behavior (SB). Fitted regression models controlled for age, body mass index and disease activity were conducted to examine associations between vascular and PA outcomes. Regression analyses revealed that prolonged SB (bouts>60min) and total sedentary time were inversely associated with both baseline and peak BA diameters, with each additional hour of SB resulting in decreases of 0.08-0.1mm in these diameters (p≤0.01). Total sedentary time also showed similar negative associations with peak SFA diameters (β=-0.14[-0.24-0.05], p<0.01). Conversely, light-intensity PA and stepping time were positively associated with both baseline and peak BA diameters, with each additional hour increasing these diameters by 0.10-0.24mm (p≤0.02). Finally, standing time was positively associated with SFA peak diameter (β=0.11[0.01-0.20], p=0.02). No associations were found between moderate-to-vigorous PA and vascular outcomes. In conclusion, in patients with RA, SB was negatively, while light PA was positively, associated with BA and SFA diameters. These findings suggest that reducing SB and increasing PA, even at light intensities, may improve vascular health in RA.

Obesity plays a key role in inducing myocardial and vascular dysfunction in a translational model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in rats

Abstract Background Exploring experimental models of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) may help to understand the mechanisms leading to this challenging condition. Purpose In a translational model, we aimed to assess the relative contribution of hypertension and obesity in inducing structural, functional and hemodynamic changes associated to the HFpEF phenotype. Methods We investigated 3 groups of male 40 weeks old rats: control Wistar Kyoto (WKY, n=10), Spontaneous Hypertensive Rats (SHR, n=10) and SHR with obesity induced by consumption of cafeteria diet during 28 weeks (Ob-SHR, n=9). Animals were submitted to assessment of: body weight, systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure; in vivo structural and functional changes evaluated by high resolution Echocardiography including left atrial dimension (LA), left ventricle (LV) diastolic dimension (LVDD), LV posterior wall thickness (LVPW), LV wall relative thickness (LVWRT), LV ejection fraction (LVEF). Invasive hemodynamic evaluation assessed the intraventricular pressure curves obtaining LV end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and calculation of LV diastolic time constant (Tau). After euthanasia, thoracic aorta was used for vascular function assessment by measuring the maximal cumulative concentration-effect curves of contraction to phenylephrine (PE), expressed as Emax (%). Protein expression of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1) was determined in myocardial tissue (% in relation to WKY). Results were expressed as mean ± SEM and effects of groups vs time were compared with mixed ANOVA. Results The results are shown in the table. We observed higher levels of SBP and DBP in SHR and Ob-SHR when compared to WKY, but with similar values between SHR and Ob-SHR groups. Regarding the structural LV changes, we observed LV remodeling and LA dilation in both SHR and Ob-SHR groups, but with no difference between both hypertensive groups. The Ob-SHR was the only group showing increased LVEDP in comparison to other groups. The Tau was also increased in the Ob-SHR animals. Concordantly, the Ob-SHR group showed increased expression of ICAM-1 (figure - A) that was concomitant to abnormal vascular response with increased contraction to PE (figure - B) as compared to SHR and WK groups. Conclusions In this translational model of HFpEF in rats, the structural changes related to LV remodeling were similar in SHR and Ob-SHR, probably reflecting comparable higher levels of blood pressure observed in both groups. In contrast, elevated EDP, a hallmark of HFpEF, was only seen in the Ob-SHR group and this was concomitant to diastolic dysfunction, endothelial inflammatory activation and altered vascular function. Our results indicate that obesity is a key factor inducing vascular and myocardial changes that triggers HFpEF phenotype in this model.

Comprehensive validation of a compact laser speckle contrast imaging system for vascular function assessment: from the laboratory to the clinic.

Proper organ functioning relies on adequate blood circulation; thus, monitoring blood flow is crucial for early disease diagnosis. Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) is a noninvasive technique that is widely used for measuring superficial blood flow. In this study, we developed a portable LSCI system using an 805-nm near-infrared laser and a monochrome CMOS camera with a 10 × macro zoom lens. The system achieved a high-resolution imaging (1280 × 1024 pixels) with a working distance of 10 to 35 cm. The relative flow velocities were visualized via a spatial speckle contrast analysis algorithm with a 5 × 5 sliding window. In vitro experiments demonstrated the system's ability to image flow velocities in a fluid model, and a linear relationship was observed between the actual flow rate and the relative flow rate obtained by the system. The correlation coefficient (R2) exceeded 0.83 for volumetric flow rates of 0 to 0.2 ml/min when channel widths were greater than 1.2 mm, and R2 > 0.94 was obtained for channel widths exceeding 1.6 mm. Comparisons with laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) revealed a strong positive correlation between the LSCI and LDF results. In vivo experiments captured postocclusive reactive hyperemic responses in rat hind limbs and human palms and feet. The main research contribution is the development of this compact and portable LSCI device, as well as the validation of its reliability and convenience in various scenarios and environments. Future applications of this technology include evaluating blood flow changes during skin injuries, such as abrasions, burns, and diabetic foot ulcers, to aid medical institutions in treatment optimization and to reduce treatment duration.

Arterial stiffness and aortic hemodynamics as predictors for new or worsening cardiovascular events in childhood cancer survivors: A report from the St. Jude lifetime cohort.

e24006 Background: Survival following childhood cancer has improved due to advances in treatment and supportive care. However, survivors are at high risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) later in life. Aortic artery stiffening, captured by measuring the speed and magnitude of forward and reflected pulse waves, is an independent predictor of CVD and mortality in the general population. Methods: We evaluated associations between vascular function and new or worsening CVDs [coronary artery disease (CAD), cardiomyopathy, and hypertension (HTN)] among a subset (n = 249) of St. Jude Lifetime Cohort (SJLIFE) participants who had baseline vascular function assessment and returned for a standard follow up study visit (mean age at baseline (years) ± standard deviation: 34 ± 9 years, follow-up: 39 ± 9 years). CVD conditions were graded (dichotomized as grades 0-1 and 2-4) using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE). Aortic stiffness, brachial and aortic blood pressure (BP), and aortic wave reflection (augmented pressure, augmentation index (AIx), AIx adjusted to a heart rate of 75 beats/min (AIx75), time and magnitude of the forward and reflected waves) were assessed using wave separation analyses. T-tests were used to test mean values between the groups with higher (2-5) and lower (0-1) grades. These tests informed the selection of identified variables for multivariate logistic models, which were adjusted for age, sex, race, body mass index, physical activity, smoking status, drinking behavior and vasoactive medications. Results: Most participants had a history of Hodgkin lymphoma (53.8%) or leukemia (20.5%) and 25.7% other diagnoses. There were 169 (67.9%) participants who had cranial/neck radiation, 167 (67.9%) received anthracyclines, and 150 (60.2%) alkylating agents. At baseline 38.2% had ≥grade 2 HTN, 9.2% cardiomyopathy, and 4% CAD. Having ≥ grade 2 CVDs was significantly associated with augmented markers of brachial and aortic BP, arterial stiffness, and wave reflection. Regression analyses revealed that AIx75 ≥ 17% was associated with an increased risk of new or worsening HTN (odds ratio (OR) 3.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-10.48) and new or worsening cardiomyopathy (OR 4.06, 95% CI 1.02-16.16) an average of 5 years after baseline vascular testing. Conclusions: Childhood cancer survivors diagnosed with grades 2-4 CVDs at a baseline visit had elevated aortic stiffness and augmented indices of wave reflection compared to those with &lt; grade 2 CVDs. Elevated AIx75 was associated with new or worsening HTN and cardiomyopathy five years later. Early detection and treatment of vascular dysfunction may ameliorate CVD late effects in childhood cancer survivors.

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy During Reactive Hyperemia for the Assessment of Lower Limb Vascular Function.

Vascular diseases of the lower limb contribute substantially to theglobal burden of cardiovascular disease and comorbidities such as diabetes. Importantly, microvascular dysfunction can occur prior to, or alongside, macrovascular pathology, and both potentially contribute to patient symptoms and disease burden. Here, we describe a non-invasive approach using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) during reactive hyperemia, which provides a standardized assessment of lower limb vascular (dys)function and a potential method to evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Unlike alternative methods, such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound, this approach does not require venous access or sophisticated image analysis, and it is inexpensive and less operator-dependent. This description of the NIRS method includes representative results and standard terminology alongside the discussion of measurement considerations, limitations, and alternative methods. Future application of this work will improve standardization of vascular research design, data collection procedures, and harmonized reporting, thereby enhancing translational research outcomes in the areas of lower limb vascular (dys)function, disease, and treatment.

Relationship between peri-coronary inflammation and coronary vascular function in patients with suspected coronary artery disease.

In this study, we aim to investigate the relationship between the attenuation of peri-coronary adipose tissue (PCAT) in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) and the assessment of coronary vascular functions using coronary flow reserve (CFR). We included 364 patients who underwent 13N-NH3 positron emission tomography/computed tomography and coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). We determined the relationship between fat attenuation index (FAI), PCAT volume, and other qualitative CT-derived anatomic parameters with CFR. We detected a decrease in CFR (<2.5) in 206 (57%) patients. At the patient level, those with reduced CFR showed a significantly higher prevalence of diffused atherosclerosis (41% vs. 23%; P < 0.001) and higher FAI (-75.5 HU vs. -77.1 HU; P = 0.014). In patients without obstructive CAD, FAI was significantly higher in those with reduced CFR (-75.5 HU vs. -77.7 HU, P = 0.026). On the vessel level, 1,092 vessels were analyzed, and 642 (59%) exhibited reduced CFR. The vessels with reduced CFR presented a significantly higher prevalence of obstructive CAD (37% vs. 26%; P < 0.001), diffused atherosclerosis (22% vs. 11%; P < 0.001), low-attenuation plaque (6% vs. 3%; P = 0.030), and positive remodeling (7% vs. 2%; P = 0.001). FAI was higher in vessels with reduced CFR (-80.8 HU vs. -81.8 HU; P = 0.045) than in normal CFR. In the patient-level analysis, obstructive CAD, diffused atherosclerosis, and FAI were independently linked with CFR. FAI was still associated with global CFR after adjusting for traditional risk factors (age, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and smoking). FAI remained independently associated with reduced CFR in patients without obstructive CAD. Coronary perivascular inflammation evaluated by CCTA was independently associated with coronary vascular function. In patients without obstructive CAD, FAI was higher in the presence of reduced CFR. Altogether, FAI can help reveal microcirculatory damage in patients who do not exhibit epicardial artery stenosis.

Evaluation of Cardiovascular Risk among Carpenter Cabinetmakers in the Dakar Region: Study of Vascular Function and Heart Rate Variability

Background: Contemporary concerns recognize atmospheric air pollution as a significant contributor tocardiovascular diseases. Notably, wood dust, colloquially known as sawdust, emerges as a source of air pollution.Our investigation sought to assess the impact of wood dust on the cardiovascular health of carpenters in the Dakarregion.Methods: This cross-sectional study encompassed one hundred (100) carpenters in the Dakar region. Acomprehensive questionnaire gathered data on socio-demographic features, professional experience, medicalhistory, preventive measures, and lifestyle habits. Vascular function assessment involved determining finger-toepulse wave velocity (ft-PWV) using a popmeter. Additionally, we screened for obliterative arteriopathy of thelower limbs (OALL). Heart rate variability measurement provided insights into the sympatho-vagal balanceof nervous control over cardiac activity.Results: The average age in our population was 38 ±7.2 years, with a body mass index of 22.7 ±2.8 kg/m2. A majority(69%) worked an average of 10.2 hours per day for six days per week. Approximately 73% of the shops were observedto be enclosed. Respiratory and ocular symptoms were prevalent among participants. Analysis using the Pop meterrevealed arterial stiffness (ft-PWV&gt;10 m/s) in 3% of participants, and 11% exhibited arterial hypertension.OALL was present in 8% of participants. Furthermore, a positive correlation (P=0.003; r=0.581) between ft-PWVVand mean arterial pressure was noted. Data on cardiac variability indicated a substantial proportion of participantsdisplaying decreased tone in the cardiac-parasympathetic nervous system in the supine position (94.73% hadRMSSD values above norms). Notably, abnormal activation of the parasympathetic system (HF) and decreasedsympathetic system activity (low values for HF, LF, and LF/HF compared with norms) were observed in theorthostatic position.&#x0D; Conclusion: Carpentry work in environments with elevated air pollution, potentially emanating from wooddust, poses inhalation risks for workers. The inhalation of wood dust appears linked to an increased risk andexacerbation of cardiovascular complications.

Unveiling the vulnerability of C57BL/6J female mice to HFpEF and its related complications

IntroductionThe impact of female biological sex on the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and its associated kidney disease and vascular endothelial dysfunction is still controversial. Whether females are protected from HFpEF and associated complications is not well established. Previous studies report conflicting prevalence between genders. We hypothesize that female mice are unprotected from HFpEF and its associated kidney disease and vascular endothelial dysfunction. MethodsEight-week-old female mice were divided into four groups: control groups receiving a standard diet and water for either 5 or 16 weeks, and HFpEF groups fed a high-fat diet (HFD, Rodent Diet With 60 kcal% Fat) and N[w]-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME - 0.5 g/L) in the drinking water for 5 or 16 weeks. Various measurements and assessments were performed, including echocardiography, metabolic and hypertensive evaluations, markers of heart and kidney injury, and assessment of vascular endothelial function. ResultsFemale mice with HFD and L-NAME developed HFpEF at 5 weeks, evidenced by increased E/E' ratio, reduced cardiac index, left ventricular mass, and unchanged ejection fraction. After 16 weeks, HFpEF worsened. Metabolic disorders, hypertension, lung wet/kidney weight increase, exercise intolerance, and cardiac/renal injury markers were observed. Vascular endothelial dysfunction was associated with ER stress and fibrosis induction. ConclusionsWe found that female mice are susceptible to the development of HFpEF and its associated kidney disease and vascular endothelial dysfunction. Our data support the concept that the female sex does not protect from HFpEF and its associated kidney disease and vascular endothelial dysfunction when disease risk factors are present.

Association of Monocyte-to-HDL Cholesterol Ratio with Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

To explore the relationship between monocyte-to-HDL cholesterol ratio (MHR) and endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). 243 patients diagnosed with T2DM were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Patients were divided into two groups by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) quintile as nonendothelial dysfunction (FMD ≥ 6.4%) and endothelial dysfunction (FMD < 6.4%). The relationship between MHR and FMD was analyzed using Spearman's correlation, partial correlation, and multiple logistic regression analysis. ROC curve was fitted to evaluate the ability of MHR to predict endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction was present in 193 (79%) patients. Patients with endothelial dysfunction had higher MHR (p < 0.05) than those without endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, MHR had a significantly positive correlation with endothelial dysfunction (r = 0.17, p < 0.05), and the positive association persisted even after controlling for confounding factors (r = 0.14, p < 0.05). Logistic regression showed that MHR was an independent contributor for endothelial dysfunction (OR: 1.35 (1.08, 1.70), p < 0.05) and the risk of endothelial dysfunction increases by 61% with each standard deviation increase in MHR (OR: 1.61 (1.12, 2.30), p < 0.05) (model 1). After adjusting for sex, age, BMI, disease course, hypertension, smoking, and drinking (model 2) as well as HbA1c, HOMA-IR, C-reactive protein, and TG (model 3), similar results were obtained. In ROC analysis, the area of under the ROC curve (AUC) for MHR was 0.60 (95% CI 0.52-0.69, p < 0.05). MHR was independently associated with endothelial dysfunction in T2DM patients. It could be a new biomarker for vascular endothelial function assessment.

The moderating effect of fluid overload on the relationship between the augmentation index and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with CKD

Increased vascular stiffness, fluid overload, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) are common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We investigated the potential moderating effect of volume status in the relationship between arterial stiffness and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function in non-dialysis patients with stage 5 CKD. The radial augmentation index at a heart rate of 75 beats/min (rAIx75), overhydration/extracellular water (OH/ECW), and E/e´ ratio were concurrently measured in 152 consecutive patients. Each of these parameters reflects the status of vascular stiffness, fluid balance, and LV diastolic function, respectively. Hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated a significant interaction effect of OH/ECW for all patients (P = 0.015), even after controlling for confounders. In separate analyses, this interaction effect was particularly significant in women (P = 0.010), whereas its significance in patients with diabetes was marginally significant (P = 0.062). Our study suggested that fluid overload could be one of the more aggravating factors of LVDD in patients with CKD who have increased arterial stiffness. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct simultaneous assessments of vascular stiffness, fluid balance, and LV function, particularly in the specific groups mentioned earlier. Our results may serve as evidence applicable to patients with chronic heart failure.

Early detection of cardiovascular risk markers through non-invasive ultrasound methodologies in periodontitis patients.

This narrative review aims to update the current evidence and offer insight into the new non-invasive ultrasound techniques used to early identify degenerative vascular changes in subjects with periodontitis and to investigate if these methodologies could be useful to identify subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) dysfunction in periodontitis patients and to monitor changes in CVD risk after periodontal treatment. Studies examining the assessment of vascular endothelial function through the latest methodologies were analyzed. Systematic reviews, observational studies, and clinical trials in the English language were identified using PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases with key search terms such as "periodontitis," "endothelial dysfunction (ED)," "arterial stiffness," and "periodontal therapy." Several mechanisms are involved in the association between periodontitis and CVD. The key players are periodontal bacteria and their toxins, which can enter the circulation and infiltrate blood vessel walls. The increase in proinflammatory molecules such as interleukins and chemokines, c-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and oxidative stress also plays a decisive role. In addition, an increase in parameters of ED, arterial stiffness, and atherosclerosis, such as carotid intima-media thickness, pulse wave velocity, and flow-mediated dilatation, has been shown in periodontal patients. The literature today agrees on the association of periodontitis and CVD and the positive role of periodontal therapy on systemic inflammatory indices and cardiovascular outcomes. Hopefully, these non-invasive methodologies could be extended to periodontal patients to provide a comprehensive understanding of the CVD-periodontitis link from the perspective of a personalized medicine approach in periodontology.

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol subfraction HDL2 is associated with improved endothelial function in systemic lupus erythematosus

ObjectivePatients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have increased risk of premature atherosclerosis but the exact mechanisms remains unclear. Flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) is an established non-invasive assessment of vascular endothelial function....

Obesity does not alter vascular function and handgrip exercise hemodynamics in middle-aged patients with hypertension.

Lifestyle modification including exercise training is often the first line of defense in the treatment of obesity and hypertension (HTN), however, little is known regarding how these potentially compounding disease states impact vasodilatory and hemodynamic responses at baseline and exercise. Therefore, this study sought to compare the impact of obesity on vascular function and hemodynamics at baseline and during handgrip (HG) exercise among individuals with HTN. Non-obese (13M/7F, 56 ± 16 yr, 25 ± 4 kg/m2) and obese (17M/4F, 50 ± 7 yr, 35 ± 4 kg/m2) middle-aged individuals with HTN forwent antihypertensive medication use for ≥2 wk before assessment of vascular function by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and exercise hemodynamics during progressive HG exercise at 15-30-45% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). FMD was not different between Non-Obese (4.1 ± 1.7%) and Obese (5.2 ± 1.9%, P = 0.11). Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was elevated by ∼15% during the supine baseline and during HG exercise in the obese group. The blood flow response to HG exercise at 30% and 45% MVC was ∼20% greater (P < 0.05) in the obese group but not different after normalizing for the higher, albeit, nonsignificant differences in workloads (MVC: obese: 24 ± 5 kg, non-obese: 21 ± 5 kg, P = 0.11). Vascular conductance and the brachial artery shear-induced vasodilatory response during HG were not different between groups (P > 0.05). Taken together, despite elevated SBP during HG exercise, obesity does not lead to additional impairments in vascular function and peripheral exercising hemodynamics in patients with HTN. Obesity may not be a contraindication when prescribing exercise for the treatment of HTN among middle-aged adults, however, the elevated SBP should be appropriately monitored.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study examined vascular function and handgrip exercise hemodynamics in obese and nonobese individuals with hypertension. Obesity, when combined with hypertension, was neither associated with additional vascular function impairments at baseline nor peripheral hemodynamics and vasodilation during exercise compared with nonobese hypertension. Interestingly, systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure were greater in the obese group during supine baseline and exercise. These findings should not be ignored and may be particularly important for rehabilitation strategies.

Real-time carotid plaque recognition from dynamic ultrasound videos based on artificial neural network.

Carotid ultrasound allows noninvasive assessment of vascular anatomy and function with real-time display. Based on the transfer learning method, a series of research results have been obtained on the optimal image recognition and analysis of static images. However, for carotid plaque recognition, there are high requirements for self-developed algorithms in real-time ultrasound detection. This study aims to establish an automatic recognition system, Be Easy to Use (BETU), for the real-time and synchronous diagnosis of carotid plaque from ultrasound videos based on an artificial neural network. 445 participants (mean age, 54.6±7.8 years; 227 men) were evaluated. Radiologists labeled a total of 3259 segmented ultrasound images from 445 videos with the diagnosis of carotid plaque, 2725 images were collected as a training dataset, and 554 images as a testing dataset. The automatic plaque recognition system BETU was established based on an artificial neural network, and remote application on a 5G environment was performed to test its diagnostic performance. The diagnostic accuracy of BETU (98.5%) was consistent with the radiologist's (Kappa = 0.967, P < 0.001). Remote diagnostic feedback based on BETU-processed ultrasound videos could be obtained in 150ms across a distance of 1023 km between the ultrasound/BETU station and the consultation workstation. Based on the good performance of BETU in real-time plaque recognition from ultrasound videos, 5G plus Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted ultrasound real-time carotid plaque screening was achieved, and the diagnosis was made.

Variations of arterial compliance and vascular resistance due to plaque or infarct in a single vascular territory of the middle cerebral artery.

Arterial compliance (AC) and vascular resistance (VR) are crucial for the regulation capacity of the vascular system. However, alterations of these features and hemodynamics due to atherosclerosis in a single intracranial artery territory have not been extensively investigated. Thus this study aimed to examine the AC, VR, and hemodynamic variations due to plaque and infarction in the middle cerebral artery (MCA). Patients with symptomatic MCA atherosclerosis were recruited. Both sides of the MCA were assessed and then classified according to the following scheme: group 0, without plaque; group 1, with plaque but without infarct; group 2, with plaque and infarct in the supplying territories. Data on AC, VR, blood flow, and pulsatility index (PI) were obtained based on 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the Windkessel model. A total of 63 patients were recruited. After 17 MCAs were excluded (occlusion, n=6; poor image quality, n=11), datasets on 109 MCAs were finally collected and classified into group 0 (n=39), group 1 (n=40), and group 2 (n=30). From groups 0 to 2, there was a decrease in AC (0.0060±0.0031 vs. 0.0052±0.0029 vs. 0.0026±0.0020 mL/mmHg) and an increase in VR [28.65±16.11 vs. 42.59±27.53 vs. 63.21±40.37 mmHg/(mL/s)]. Compared to group 1, group 2 had significantly decreased AC (0.0052±0.0029 vs. 0.0026±0.0020 mL/mmHg; P=0.003) and increased VR [42.59±27.53 vs. 63.21±40.37 mmHg/(mL/s); P=0.021]. From group 0 to group 2, there was a decrease in blood flow (179.29±73.57 vs. 125.11±59.04 vs. 92.05±48.79 mL/min; P<0.001). The PI varied significantly among the 3 groups (0.86±0.20 vs. 1.12±0.50 vs. 0.79±0.16; P<0.001), with group 1 having the highest PI. With the occurrence of plaque and infarct, AC and blood flow progressively decrease while VR increases. The PI was the highest in the group with plaque and without infarct. Assessments of vascular function and hemodynamics in a single artery territory can clarify comprehensive alterations in the cerebral vascular system (CVS).

The association of race, sex, and neighborhood disadvantage with baroreflex sensitivity in the U.S. POINTER Neurovascular ancillary study

AbstractBackgroundThe arterial baroreflex maintains stable blood flow to the brain. Reduced baroreflex sensitivity for modulation of heart rate (BRS) has been observed in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment and may be impacted by race, ethnicity, sex, and socioeconomic factors such as the Area Deprivation Index (ADI), a validated, neighborhood‐level composite index that incorporates 17 social determinants of health. However, these relationships have not been well described.MethodThis study utilized baseline data from 196 participants enrolled in the U.S. POINTER Neurovascular study, an ancillary to the parent U.S. POINTER multi‐site lifestyle intervention trial that adds assessments of autonomic function and vascular structure and function. BRS was calculated from continuous blood pressure and electrocardiogram recording using the slope of the regression line between changes in systolic blood pressure and RR interval values in the same direction, with higher BRS indicating better autonomic function. ADI scores ranging from 1 to 10 were calculated using 9‐digit zip codes, with 10 indicating the greatest disadvantage. Analysis of variance and linear regression were used to evaluate associations between measures of interest.ResultThe average age of the study population was 67.9 ± 5.4 years, 64 (17%) were males, and 60 (30.6%) identified as people of color (POC). Overall, the mean BRS was 9.2 ± 4.6 ms/mmHg, and the average ADI score was 4.56 ± 2.69 (range: 1 to 10), corresponding to a national ADI percentile of 40.7 ± 26.1 (range: 3 to 100). Less than a quarter of participants (n = 42, 21.4%) had an ADI percentile &gt;67, indicating a moderate to high level of neighborhood disadvantage. White participants had lower BRS compared to POC (8.60 ± 4.49 vs. 10.60 ± 4.61 ms/mmHg, p = 0.0048). In a multiple regression model adjusting for demographics and ADI, sex (p = 0.0283), race and ethnicity (p = 0.0049), and education (p = 0.0196) were significantly associated with BRS, indicating better autonomic function in men, POC, and those with higher education. ADI was not associated with BRS.ConclusionRace, ethnicity, and education impact autonomic function. Further investigations are needed to assess the impact of other demographic and socioeconomic factors on neurovascular health.

Abstract 12425: Stim1 Deletion in Treg Cell Protects From HFpEF Pathogenesis

Introduction: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a cardiovascular disease that remains untreatable in its pathogenesis. Therefore, there is a critical need to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying HFpEF pathogenesis and identify potential targets for treatment that can enhance cardiac function and restrict disease progression. Previous studies have shown that Treg cells are crucial in hypertension-induced cardiovascular complications and metabolic dysregulation. Moreover, the function of Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) varies depending on the cell type. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that the deletion of STIM1 in Treg cells can protect against the development of HFpEF and its associated conditions. Methods: Male mice aged eight weeks (Stim1 flx/flx and Treg Stim1-/- ) were divided into four groups: control groups receiving a standard diet and water for five weeks, and HFpEF groups fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and N[w]-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME - 0.5g/L) in the drinking water for five weeks. Various measurements and assessments were conducted, including echocardiography, evaluations of metabolism and hypertension, analysis of heart and kidney injury markers, and assessment of vascular endothelial function. Results: After five weeks, Stim1 flx/flx mice subjected to HFD and L-NAME displayed evidence of HFpEF, including hypertension, metabolic disorders, cardiac hypertrophy with fibrosis, kidney injury with fibrosis, impaired exercise tolerance and vascular endothelial function, increased body weight and E/E' ratio, reduced cardiac index, and unchanged ejection fraction. Interestingly, Treg Stim1-/- mice were protected against HFD and L-NAME-induced HFpEF and its associated pathologies. Conclusions: These findings underscore the significance of targeting STIM1 in Treg cells to protect from the development and pathogenesis of HFpEF.

Coronary Vascular (DYS) Function and Invasive Physiology Assessment: Insights into Bolus and Continuous Thermodilution Methods.

A considerable number of patients with angina or myocardial ischemia have no significant coronary artery disease on invasive angiography. In recent years, several steps towards a better comprehension of the pathophysiology of these conditions, angina or ischemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries (ANOCA/INOCA), have been made. Nevertheless, several gaps in knowledge still remain. This review is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of ANOCA and INOCA, with a particular focus on pathophysiology, recent diagnostic innovations, gaps in knowledge and treatment modalities.

Assessment of Vascular Function Using Novel Biomarkers in Patients With Adult Congenital Heart Disease

Assessment of Vascular Function Using Novel Biomarkers in Patients With Adult Congenital Heart Disease

VASCULAR FUNCTION AS POSSIBLE MARKER OF FUTURE SUSTAINED HYPERTENSION IN YOUNG TO-MIDDLE AGE STAGE I HYPERTENSIVES ACCORDING TO DIFFERENT HYPERTENSION SUBTYPES

Objective: The risk of adverse CV outcomes in young patients with isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) or isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH) is still debated and whether these hypertension subtypes should undergo pharmacological treatment is unclear. Aim of the present the study was to investigate the vascular characteristics and the risk of progression to sisto-diastolic hypertension (SDH) associated with these hypertension subtypes from the HARVEST study. Design and method: We examined 1231 young-to middle age subjects (mean age 33.1 ± 8.6 years, 72.3% males). ISH (11.9%) IDH (22.8%) NT (6.6%) and SDH (58.7%) were defined using the office 140/90 mmHg cutoffs. Vascular stiffness was assessed by radial-carotid pulse wave velocity (PWV) and vascular compliance by radial tonometry among 371 participants. Risk of future hypertension needing antihypertensive treatment was assessed with Cox analysis adjusting for several clinical confounders. Results: Metabolic parameters did not differ significantly among subgroups. Peripheral resistance was 1297.1 ± 326 among NT, 1371.3 ± 281 among ISH, 1502.5 ± 261 among IDH and 1531.6 ± 308 dynesxsecxcm-5 among SDH (p = 0.048 IDH vs NT and &lt;0.001 SDH vs NT), while did not differ significantly between ISH and NT. Large artery compliance was 15.0 ± 4.2, 15.5 ± 4.9, 15.1 ± 4.9 and 14.0 ± 4.3 ml/minx10 respectively, again with similar values between NT and ISH and a significant difference between IDH and SDH p = 0.016. PWV and AIx did not differ significantly among groups, while central SBP was similar among NT, ISH, IDH (122.2 ± 12.0, 122.6 ± 12.4 mmHg respectively, p = n.s.) and higher among SDH (p &lt; 0.001 SHD vs IDH). Progression to sustained HT was 59.2%, 66.4%, 77.9% and 87.5%, in NT, ISH, IDH and SDH respectively, p &lt; 0.001. At cox analysis, considering SDH as reference, ISH presented a lower risk of progression to unfavourable outcome (H.R. 0.70, 95%CI 0.58 - 0.88; p = 0.0023). Conclusions: Young-to-middle age hypertensives have different endothelial function according to different hypertensive subtypes and this may contribute to the future development of hypertension needing treatment. The assessment of vascular function may help to identify those patients who should be treated earlier.