Central Pp Research Articles

Abstract 16270: Pulse Pressure Amplification Contributes to the Exaggerated Peripheral Blood Pressure Response to Exercise in Patients With HFpEF

Background: Patients with suspected heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) undergo invasive (right heart catheterization) cardiopulmonary exercise testing (iCPET) to confirm diagnosis. During iCPET peripheral arterial blood pressure (BP) is measured using a brachial cuff or radial arterial catheter. Notably, peripheral BP is typically higher than central BP and this difference is assessed by measuring pulse pressure amplification (PPA; peripheral - central PP; PP = systolic BP [SBP] - diastolic BP). The effect of PPA on the assessment of (exaggerated) exercise BP in HFpEF is unknown. Methods: 20 patients with HFpEF (75% Female; age: 69±7 years, BMI: 38±7 kg/m 2 ) were studied at rest and during submaximal and maximal cycling exercise. We measured radial BP (arterial catheterization) and derived ascending aortic BP using a transfer function applied to radial arterial waveforms (SphygmoCor). Pulse pressure amplification was assessed as radial-aortic pulse pressure. Data were compared with one-way and two-way (Site*Exercise Stage) ANOVA. Results: The increase in radial PP with exercise was greater than aortic PP (Site*Stage P<0.001; Figure A); thus, PPA increased with exercise (ANOVA, P =0.001; Figure B). The increase in PPA was due to a greater increase in radial compared to aortic SBP (Site*Stage P=0.002; Figure C). The change in diastolic pressure was not different between sites (Figure D). Increases in PPA accounted for ~30% of the increase in radial SBP. The incidence of exaggerated exercise SBP (Male: >210 mmHg; Female: >190 mmHg) was higher in the radial artery compared to aorta (95 vs 40 %, χ2<0.001). Conclusion: Peak exercise SBP was ~50 mmHg greater in the radial artery compared to aorta. The marked overestimation of central BP during exercise when measuring peripheral BP leads to misguided interpretation of BP responses to exercise, the magnitude of afterload and has implications for the assessment of ventricular-arterial coupling.

Central precocious puberty secondary to peripheral precocious puberty due to a pineal germ cell tumor: a case and review of literature

BackgroundThe pineal lesion affecting melatonin is a rare cause of central precocious puberty by decreasing the inhibition of hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Germ cell tumor secreting human chorionic gonadotropin is a rare cause of peripheral puberty.Case presentationA 5.8-year-old male presented facial hair and phallic growth, deepened voice, and accelerated growth velocity for 6 months. The elevated human chorionic gonadotropin level with undetectable gonadotropin levels indicated peripheral precocious puberty. Brain imaging revealed a pineal mass and further pathology indicated the diagnosis of teratoma. During chemoradiotherapy with operation, the elevated human chorionic gonadotropin level reduced to normal range, while the levels of gonadotropins and testosterone increased. Subsequently, progressing precocious puberty was arrested with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analog therapy. Previous cases of transition from peripheral precocious puberty to central precocious puberty were reviewed. The transitions were caused by the suddenly reduced feedback inhibition of sex steroid hormones on gonadotropin releasing hormone and gonadotropins.ConclusionsFor patients with human chorionic gonadotropin-secreting tumors, gonadotropin levels increase prior to sex steroid decrease, seems a sign of melatonin-related central PP related to melatonin.

Prognostic value of central blood pressure on the outcomes of embolic stroke of undetermined source

We investigated the prognostic impact of central blood pressure (BP) on outcomes in patients with embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS). The prognostic value of central BP according to ESUS subtype was also evaluated. We recruited patients with ESUS and data on their central BP parameters (central systolic BP [SBP], central diastolic BP [DBP], central pulse pressure [PP], augmentation pressure [AP], and augmentation index [AIx]) during admission. ESUS subtype classification was arteriogenic embolism, minor cardioembolism, two or more causes, and no cause. Major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) was defined as recurrent stroke, acute coronary syndrome, hospitalization for heart failure, or death. Over a median of 45.8 months, 746 patients with ESUS were enrolled and followed up. Patients had a mean age of 62.8 years, and 62.2% were male. Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that central SBP and PP were associated with MACE. All-cause mortality was independently associated with AIx. In patients with no cause ESUS, central SBP and PP, AP, and AIx were independently associated with MACE. AP and AIx were independently associated with all-cause mortality (all p < 0.05). We demonstrated that central BP can predict poor long-term prognosis in patients with ESUS, especially those with the no cause ESUS subtype.

MARKED INCREASES IN PROXIMAL AORTIC CHARACTERISTIC IMPEDANCE AND HENCE FORWARD WAVE PRESSURES BEYOND BRACHIAL BLOOD PRESSURE IN ANGIOGRAPHIC PROVEN CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE

Objective: Although indexes of aortic stiffness increase the risk for coronary artery disease (CAD), the extent to which proximal aortic stiffness increases enhance central arterial forward wave pressures beyond changes in peripheral pressures, is uncertain. We aimed to determine whether increases in proximal aortic stiffness, as indexed by aortic characteristic impedance (Zc) translate into an enhanced central arterial pressure for a given brachial BP. Design and method: From central pressure, aortic velocity and outflow tract diameter measurements and echocardiography, we determined Zc and arterial pressure wave morphology in 71 patients with angiographic proven CAD and all other cardiac pathology excluded. We compared central arterial function in these patients with 230 age and sex-matched controls from a community study, and in patients with stroke and CLI (n = 287) diagnosed in a hospital setting. Results: Adjusting for confounders, including mean arterial pressure, and aortic root diameter, as compared to controls, both Zc and the pressures generated by the product of peak aortic flow (Q) and Zc (PQxZc) were markedly increased in patients with CAD (p&lt;0.0001) and those with stroke or CLI (p&lt;0.005). Moreover, compared to patients with stroke and CLI, those with CAD also had marked increases in both Zc and PQxZc (p&lt;0.0001). Consequently, with adjustments for the same confounders, pressures generated by forward wave pressures (Pf) were markedly increased in patients with CAD as compared to controls and to patients with alternative arterial diseases (p&lt;0.0001). Importantly, after further adjustments for brachial PP or SBP, the higher Pf values in patients with CAD were retained (p&lt;0.005 to &lt;0.0001). However, with adjustments for brachial SBP and confounders, central aortic PP did not differ between groups. Conclusions: Independent of confounders and aortic root diameter, a marked increase in proximal aortic Zc occurs in patients with CAD as compared to both controls and patients with arterial disease in alternative beds. This translates into a greater central arterial pulsatile load determined by forward travelling pressure waves, but not peak central PP than that predicted by brachial BP measurements. These data support a need for intense brachial BP lowering in CAD.

PS-P16-1: INFLUENCE OF AGE AND SEX ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MAP AND CENTRAL PULSE PRESSURE DURING YOUNG ADULTHOOD

The present study evaluates the interplay between age and sex on the relationship between MAP and brachial and central PP in young to middle-aged hypertensive patients. This is a cross-sectional study of hypertensive patients referred for radial pulse wave evaluation (Sphygmocor device). A total of 312 patients (69% under antihypertensive treatment), mean age 35 ± 9 years (16–49 years) and 134 ± 14 /82 ± 10 mmHg, with operator index &gt; 70% were included. As shown in the figure, increasing age was associated with a progressive dissociation of central PP between subgroups of MAP below and above the mean (100 mmHg), reaching statistical significance in women only (P = 0.01 for the interaction between age and MAP). Higher MAP significantly boosted the age-related increase in AP (p = 0.01 in men and 0.049 in women for the interaction between age and MAP). The strength of the correlation between MAP and central PP increased with age more steeply in women than in men (see the table). Multiple regression analyses including the agexMAP interaction term confirmed the interaction between age and MAP on central PP in both sexes. In conclusion, the association between distending pressure and PP increases in strength from early adulthood to midlife. Women are more vulnerable to the effect of MAP on central pulsatility. JOURNAL/jhype/04.03/00004872-202301001-01311/figure1/v/2023-10-24T163949Z/r/image-jpeg

Gynecological uses of GnRH antagonists: review article

Aim: to review and analyze the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists in endometriosis, adenomyosis, non-menstrual pelvic pain, uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, female infertility, and precocious puberty. Methods: the information used to write this manuscript was obtained during a three-month period, between October and May 2022, from specialized literature, written in English and Spanish, related to the use and potential applications of GnRH antagonists in medicine, mainly published during the last five years, using journals found in the most relevant medical digital archives, including PubMed, SciELO, Google Scholar, Cochrane, and Elsevier. Among the keywords used for obtaining this updated information were gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists; GnRH receptors (GnRHR); elagolix; relugolix; cetrorelix; linzagolix; hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis; endometriosis; adenomyosis; pelvic pain; uterine fibroids; leiomyomas; infertility; precocious puberty; PP; and central PP. Results: GnRH antagonists induce a rapid onset of clinical effects, without the flare-up effect that is seen with agonists, and have immediate therapeutic effects; once treatment concludes, hormonal suppression rapidly ceases, with normalization of gonadal function within a few days, guaranteeing an increase of GnRH concentration, controlling non-menstrual pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding, and serving as part of the treatment of infertility and precocious puberty. Conclusion: even though the aforementioned gynecological pathologies can be treated with the use of multiple drugs, GnRH antagonists have shown to be potential first lines of treatment, as long as their administration protocols are followed correctly.

CENTRAL BLOOD PRESSURE ESTIMATION IN TYPE 1 DIABETES: IMPACT OF PERIPHERAL BLOOD PRESSURE CALIBRATION APPROACH

Objective: Pulse wave analysis (PWA) of peripheral arterial pressure waveforms is used for non-invasive estimation of central blood pressure (BP), which can assist in cardiovascular (CV) risk assessment in populations with a high CV burden such as patients with type 1 diabetes (T1DM). However, correct calibration of peripheral BP waveforms is important in order to accurately estimate central BP. The impact of peripheral BP waveform calibration on central BP is not investigated yet in T1DM. Therefore, this study aims first for the first time in a T1DM patient cohort, to examine differences in central BP parameters estimated by PWA of radial BP waveforms, depending on which brachial BP (SBP/DBP vs. DBP/MAP) is used for calibration of the radial BP waveforms. Design and method: Cross-sectional study, in which adult T1DM patients without known CVD were enrolled. Radial artery BP waveforms were acquired using applanation tonometry (SphygmoCorâ) for the estimation of central systolic BP (central SBP), central pulse pressure (central PP) and central augmentation pressure (central AP), using either brachial SBP/DBP or DBP/MAP for calibration of the radial pressure waveforms. Brachial MAP was calculated using a fixed form factor of 40% (MAP = brachial DBP + 0.40 × brachial PP). Results: 54 patients (M/F: 32/22; age: 46 ± 9.5 yrs; T1DM duration: 27 ± 8.8 yrs) were evaluated. All three estimated central BP parameters were significantly higher when brachial DBP/MAP was used compared to SBP/DBP calibration (7.5 ± 5.04 mmHg, 7.5 ± 5.04 mmHg and 1.5 ± 1.36 mmHg higher central SBP, PP and AP, respectively, p &lt; 0.001). Brachial-to-radial SBP amplification was estimated at 10 ± 7.1 mmHg (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: This study confirms for the first time that in patients with T1DM there are significant differences in central BP parameters estimated with PWA, depending on the method used for calibration of the radial pressure waveforms. Brachial DBP/MAP calibration resulted in consistently higher central BP parameters as compared to using SBP/DBP. Hence, it seems that brachial-to-radial SBP amplification is important to take into account in the estimation of central BP parameters also in patients with T1DM.

DETAILED ANALYSIS OF VASCULAR STIFFNESS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE

Objective: Risk factors for chronic heart failure (CHF) lead as well to vascular stiffness of the large arteries, increasing thereby the afterload imposed on the left ventricle and deteriorating the clinical condition of CHF. The aim of this project was twofold: to compare vascular stiffness of patients with CHF (CHF+) to those without CHF (CHF-) and to analyse whether vascular stiffness is related to the severity of CHF. Design and method: In this cross-sectional project a total of 223 patients were included (CHF+: n = 105, CHF-: n = 118). Patients in an euvolaemic state with a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were included in the CHF+ group. The measurement of the pulse wave velocity (PWV), the most accepted vascular stiffness parameter, and the recording of the arterial pulse wave were performed using the SphygmoCor TM XCEL System under resting conditions. Under ambulatory conditions, blood pressure (BP) and vascular stiffness parameters were assessed by a validated device (Mobil-O-Graph, I.E.M.) over 24 hours. Additionally, blood and spot urine samples were used to measure laboratory markers, in particular NT-pro-BNP. Results: Vascular stiffness parameters between the CHF+ and the CHF- group differed for resting central SBP (CHF+: 116.66 ± 15.18 mmHg, CHF-: 122.83 ± 15.87 mmHg, p = 0.004) and central augmentation index (CHF+: 21.24 ± 11.76 %, CHF-: 13.69 ± 11.49 %, p = &lt;0.001) as well as for ambulatory central SBP (CHF+: 114.46 ± 15.35 mmHg, CHF-: 120.69 ± 13.97 mmHg, p = 0.007) and PWV (CHF+: 9.39 ± 1.56 m/s, CHF-: 8.19 ± 1.65 m/s, p = &lt;0.001). In patients with CHF, greater levels of NT-pro-BNP were related to a higher central SBP (r = 0.292, p = 0.005), higher PWV (r = 0.340, p = &lt;0.001) and a trend to higher central PP (r = 0.198, p = 0.058), after full adjustment for CHF risk factors and gender. In accordance, higher levels of NT-pro-BNP were related to a higher ambulatory peripheral PP (r = 0.322, p = 0.002) and total peripheral resistance (r = 0.227, p = 0.041). Conclusions: In patients with stable CHF we observed a worse vascular stiffness and function, compared to patients with no CHF. The extent of vascular stiffness and dysfunction was related to the severity of CHF.

Two Consecutive Prolines in the Fusion Peptide of Murine β-Coronavirus Spike Protein Predominantly Determine Fusogenicity and May Be Essential but Not Sufficient to Cause Demyelination.

Combined in silico, in vitro, and in vivo comparative studies between isogenic-recombinant Mouse-Hepatitis-Virus-RSA59 and its proline deletion mutant, revealed a remarkable contribution of centrally located two consecutive prolines (PP) from Spike protein fusion peptide (FP) in enhancing virus fusogenic and hepato-neuropathogenic potential. To deepen our understanding of the underlying factors, we extend our studies to a non-fusogenic parental virus strain RSMHV2 (P) with a single proline in the FP and its proline inserted mutant, RSMHV2 (PP). Comparative in vitro and in vivo studies between virus strains RSA59(PP), RSMHV2 (P), and RSMHV2 (PP) in the FP demonstrate that the insertion of one proline significantly resulted in enhancing the virus fusogenicity, spread, and consecutive neuropathogenesis. Computational studies suggest that the central PP in Spike FP induces a locally ordered, compact, and rigid structure of the Spike protein in RSMHV2 (PP) compared to RSMHV2 (P), but globally the Spike S2-domain is akin to the parental strain RSA59(PP), the latter being the most flexible showing two potential wells in the energy landscape as observed from the molecular dynamics studies. The critical location of two central prolines of the FP is essential for fusogenicity and pathogenesis making it a potential site for designing antiviral.

Advancing High-Resolution Imaging of Scalp EEG and Mobile Brain/Body Imaging

Radial augmentation index (rAI), a marker of aortic wave reflection, is usually lower in patients with diabetes (DM) than in non-DM subjects, even though atherosclerotic change is advanced in DM.We sought to explore why rAI in DM is lower than in non-DM.We performed radial applanation tonometry in 1787 subjects who had at least one cardiovascular risk factor. The rAI was defined as [late systolic shoulder pressure amplitude (PP2)]/[radial pulse pressure (rPP)]. The late systolic shoulder blood pressure (SBP2) and PP2 of a radial pressure wave were used as estimates of the central SBP and PP (cPP), respectively.The age (65.8 ± 9.8 vs. 65.8 ± 12.1 yrs) and mean brachial SBP (141 ± 16 vs. 141 ± 17 mmHg) were similar between the DM and non-DM groups. The rAI was significantly lower in the DM group (83.3 ± 14.1 vs. 87.3 ± 15.7%, p < 0.001), but clinic PP (62 ± 14 vs. 59 ± 14 mmHg, p < 0.001) and cPP (51 ± 15 vs. 49 ± 15 mmHg, p = 0.019) were significantly greater in the DM group than in the non-DM group. In multivariable analyses adjusting for covariates, the significant determinants of rAI were the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (β = 0.17, p < 0.001) in the DM group, and the log-transformed homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (β = −0.15, p < 0.001) in the non-DM group. The same trends were also seen for central SBP and cPP.The lower rAI in DM associated with higher cPP compared to non-DM suggests proximal conduit–predominant arterial stiffening causing reduced reflection coefficients at systemic reflection sites. As renal function decreases, a cPP increase may overcome the increase of augmentation pressure in the DM group.

Estimating Central Pulse Pressure From Blood Flow by Identifying the Main Physical Determinants of Pulse Pressure Amplification.

Several studies suggest that central (aortic) blood pressure (cBP) is a better marker of cardiovascular disease risk than peripheral blood pressure (pBP). The morphology of the pBP wave, usually assessed non-invasively in the arm, differs significantly from the cBP wave, whose direct measurement is highly invasive. In particular, pulse pressure, PP (the amplitude of the pressure wave), increases from central to peripheral arteries, leading to the so-called pulse pressure amplification (ΔPP). The main purpose of this study was to develop a methodology for estimating central PP (cPP) from non-invasive measurements of aortic flow and peripheral PP. Our novel approach is based on a comprehensive understanding of the main cardiovascular properties that determine ΔPP along the aortic-brachial arterial path, namely brachial flow wave morphology in late systole, and vessel radius and distance along this arterial path. This understanding was achieved by using a blood flow model which allows for workable analytical solutions in the frequency domain that can be decoupled and simplified for each arterial segment. Results show the ability of our methodology to (i) capture changes in cPP and ΔPP produced by variations in cardiovascular properties and (ii) estimate cPP with mean differences smaller than 3.3 ± 2.8 mmHg on in silico data for different age groups (25–75 years old) and 5.1 ± 6.9 mmHg on in vivo data for normotensive and hypertensive subjects. Our approach could improve cardiovascular function assessment in clinical cohorts for which aortic flow wave data is available.

Anionic 1-Aza-3,4-diphospholides as redox active ligands

Herein we present the redox active behaviour of the sodium salt of 1-aza-3,4-diphospholide Na[1]. Cyclic voltammetry in MeCN shows an irreversible reduction and an irreversible oxidation wave indicating EC mechanisms. This anionic heterocycle is chemically oxidized with hexachloroethane likely to a short-lived 1-aza-3,4-diphospholyl radical which rapidly dimerizes to give bis(1-aza-3,4-diphospholyl) (2) which contains a tetraphosphane unit, PPPP. In solution and in the solid state a rac- and meso-isomer have been identified. The oxidation reaction is chemically reversible, and using lithium metal, the central PP bond in 2 can be cleaved to afford Li[1]. Both the anion [1]− and the PP coupled dimer 2 have been applied as ligands in combination with iron carbonyl precursors to isolate the strawberry red complex [FeCp(η1-1)(CO)2] (3). This complex undergoes dimerization under the loss of carbon monoxide to form the complex [Fe2(​Cp)2(μ2-1)(CO)2] (4-syn and 4-anti). The reaction of bis(1-aza-3,4-diphospholyl) 2 with [Fe3(CO)12] in THF leads to cleavage of the PP bond, and a dinuclear complex [Fe2(μ2–1)2(CO)6] (5) with a direct Fe(I)Fe(I) bond [Å = 2.5866(4)] is obtained.

Relationship between Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Defects and Coronary Artery Calcium Score in Patients at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease

Background: Noninvasive fundus imaging may provide useful information on blood vessels. This study investigated the relationship between localized retinal nerve fiber layer defects (RNFLDs) and vascular biomarkers.Methods: This study included 1,316 participants without cardiovascular disease who were registered in a cardiovascular high-risk cohort. Examined vascular biomarkers included central hemodynamics, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) on electrocardiogram, and coronary artery calcium score (CACS). Fundus photography and optical coherence tomography were used to evaluate RNFLDs. The associations between RNFLDs and established high-risk cutoff points for each biomarker (central blood pressure [BP] ≥125/80 mmHg, central pulse pressure [PP] ≥50 mmHg, cfPWV ≥10 m/s, presence of LVH, and CACS ≥300) were assessed.Results: RNFLD was identified in 394 participants (29.9%) who had higher fasting glucose level, lower renal function, and higher BP than those without RNFLDs. Additionally, central BP, central PP, cfPWV, CACS, and the percentage of subjects with LVH were higher in the RNFLD group. After adjusting for confounders, RNFLDs were not associated with LVH or an elevated central BP, central PP, or cfPWV. However, they were associated with an elevated CACS (odds ratio, 1.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–2.00; p=0.029).Conclusions: Non-glaucomatous localized RNFLDs were associated with elevated CACS. Therefore, evaluating RNFLDs using fundus imaging may aid in the assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.

Endovascular treatment of peripheral artery disease is associated with improved central hemodynamics and ventricular function

Abstract Background Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a major manifestation of atherosclerosis and a risk factor for morbidity and mortality. PAD itself is associated with increased arterial stiffness with impact on cardiac functions. Previous studies have demonstrated that augmentation index (AIx) and central blood pressure (CBP) correlate with increased cardiovascular mortality. This mechanism has been described as arterio-ventricular (AV) coupling with altered ventricular afterload and a depressed ventricular function, measured by global longitudinal strain (GLS). The impact of PAD-related endovascular treatment on arterial stiffness, central hemodynamics and potential impact on AV coupling has not been elucidated until now. Purpose Aim of the study was to investigate, if endovascular treatment of PAD improves cardiac function via enhanced central hemodynamics and AV coupling. Methods To this aim 77 patients with known symptomatic PAD who underwent interventions in the iliac and femoropopliteal arteries were included in a cross-sectional study. AIx, CBP and GLS were determined using dedicated waveform analysis and echocardiography before and after endovascular treatment. Results Mean age was 65.1±10.4 years with 66.2% male patients. Symptoms were classified by Fontaine classification (stage IIb 80.7%, stage III 5.8% and stage IV 13.5%). Iliac vessel intervention was performed in 16 and femoropopliteal intervention in 61 cases. A stentless approach was feasible in 55 patients with DCB treatment and atherectomy. After endovascular treatment, peripheral perfusion was enhanced (ABI 0.45±0.6 vs 0.81±0.5, p&amp;lt;0.0001). Moreover, central hemodynamics were improved (AIX 33.7±3% vs 27.9±2%, p=0.0008; AP 17.8±2 mmHg vs 14.0±2 mmHg, p=0.0004; central PP 52.4±6 mmHg vs 46.4±6 mmHg, p=0.0001). Impressively, left ventricular function was also significantly improved (GLS −15.7±2.3% vs −17.1±2.8%, p=0.005) with an improvement in AV coupling (PWV/GLS ratio −0.58m/sec% vs −0.56m/sec%, p&amp;lt;0.01). Conclusion Our results demonstrate that endovascular treatment of the peripheral vessels is associated with an improvement of central hemodynamics and left ventricular function via enhanced AV coupling. These prognostic relevant markers of cardiovascular disease could point to an overall potential mortality benefit through PAD treatment. Further investigation of the underlying mechanisms of AV coupling in the setting of endovascular treatment of PAD with impact on cardiovascular mortality is needed in this high-risk population. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Central pulse load and coronary flow benefit in relation to endogenous testosterone and the Mediterranean regime in hypertensive males with erectile dysfunction

Abstract Background Central pulse pressure (cPP) is an important parameter of target organ damage (TOD) in essential hypertension. Coronary flow reserve (CFR) displays the ability of both macro and microcirculation to augment flow to the myocardium while endogenous total testosterone (TT) exhibits vasodilator effects. The Mediterranean diet (Med-diet) benefits cardiovascular health and erectile dysfunction (ED) often coexists with the decline of endogenous testosterone in the aging male population. Purpose To investigate the possible benefits of the Med-diet in central PP, CFR and erectile ability in relation to endogenous TT in the primary hypertensive population with ED. Methods 247 male hypertensive patients (mean age 57 yo) with ED enrolled the study. Significant coronary artery disease was formerly excluded by a dobutamine stess echo test. We measured the CFR of the left anterior descending artery by performing an adenosine protocol (maximum dose 140 μg/kg/min over 6 minutes). Measurements by the PW Doppler were achieved at the middle/distal LAD segment under the guidance of color Doppler flow mapping. CFR was validated as ratio between peak diastolic flow velocity following drug infusion and rest. Ratios ≥2 are considered as non-ischemic response and higher values indicate microvascular coronary integrity. TT was measured in all patients on blood samples taken before 09:00 am. ED severity and adherence to the Med-diet were assessed by the SHIM-5 (range: 0–25) and the Med-diet (range: 0–55) scores. Higher values indicate a better erectile ability and Med-diet compliance respectively. Finally, cPP and augmentation index (AIx) were estimated as parameters of central hemodynamic load and wave reflection amplification respectively (sphygmocor device). Results In bivariate analysis Med-diet was favorably related to CFR (p=0.24, r=0.48), TT (p=0.01, r=0.57) and the SHIM-5 score (p=0.01, r=0.45). On the contrary, it was negatively related to cPP (p=0.15, r=−0.60) and AIx (p=0.31, r=−0.45). CFR was strongly related to TT (p=0.001, r=0.8) and the SHIM-5 score (p=0.01, r=0.41). By multiple linear regression analysis the relation of CFR, SHIM-5 and Med-diet score remained significant after adjustment for age, BMI, systolic arterial blood pressure and smoking habits. We further subdivide our population according to the mean Med-diet value (26) into high and low Med-diet adherence groups. Only in the group with the greater Med-diet adherence (n=153, 62%) there were still positive relation with the CFR, TT and SHIM-5 score as well as negative correlation to cPP and AIx (p=0.04). Conclusion In essential hypertensive males with erectile dysfunction the Med-diet regime lessens central pulse pressure while enhancing coronary flow, testosterone levels and so peripheral vascular physiology. We strongly recommend this dietary pattern as a life-style option and strategic component of holistic therapeutic approach. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Associations of Ultra-Processed and Unprocessed/Minimally Processed Food Consumption with Peripheral and Central Hemodynamics and Arterial Stiffness in Young Healthy Adults

Consumption of ultra-processed food (UPF) replaces the intake of freshly prepared unprocessed/minimally processed food (MPF) and is positively associated with hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The objective of this observational study was to investigate the relation between (1) UPF and (2) MPF with peripheral and central blood pressure (BP), wave reflection, and arterial stiffness. Habitual dietary intake, ambulatory BP, augmentation index (AIx), and pulse wave velocity (PWV) were assessed in 40 normotensive young adults (15 M/25 W; 27 ± 1 y; body mass index 23.6 ± 0.5 kg/m2). UPF consumption was positively associated with overall and daytime peripheral systolic BP (B = 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.03, 0.46, p = 0.029; B = 0.32, 95% CI 0.09, 0.56, p = 0.008, respectively), daytime diastolic BP (B = 0.18, 95% CI 0.01, 0.36, p = 0.049) and daytime peripheral pulse pressure (PP; B = 0.22, 95% CI 0.03, 0.41, p = 0.027). MPF consumption was inversely associated with daytime peripheral PP (B = −0.27, 95% CI −0.47, −0.07, p = 0.011), overall and daytime central systolic BP (B = −0.27, 95% CI −0.51, −0.02, p = 0.035; B = −0.31, 95% CI −0.58, −0.04, p = 0.024, respectively), and nighttime central PP (B = −0.10, 95% CI −0.19, −0.01, p = 0.042). Both UPF and MPF were not associated with AIx nor PWV. These data suggest avoidance of UPF and consumption of more MPF may reduce CVD risk factors.

Diagnosis of secondary causes of precocious puberty: Clinical guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of precocious puberty.

The Mexican Society of Pediatric Endocrinology developed a clinical practice guide for the diagnosis and treatment of precocious puberty. This document presents recommendations related to the diagnosis of secondary causes of central PP. The detailed description of the methodology for the development of this guide and the grading system, as well as the synthesis of the evidence on which it is based can be consulted in this same supplement.

24-HOUR CENTRAL BLOOD PRESSURE

Objective: Central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) differs from peripheral SBP (pSBP) and may have higher prognostic relevance, but the normal values in ambulatory conditions are unknown. We present reference values for 24-hour central BP profiles, obtained in apparently healthy adult individuals from 20 centers in 14 countries and 5 continents, and compare the findings with peripheral BP. Design and method: 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring, using a validated oscillometric device (Mobilograph, I.E.M, Stolberg, Germany), was performed in 2527 individuals (1206 men, 1321 women). Central pressures were assessed, using brachial waveforms, calibrated with mean/diastolic BP, and a transfer function. Participants were divided into 6 age groups (18–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70–99 years). Nighttime/daytime difference (N/D) was defined as nighttime (01.00 - 06.00) minus daytime (09.00 - 21.00) values / daytime values. Results: Averaged 24-hour central BP across all individuals was 128/79 mm Hg (daytime 128/81 mm Hg, nighttime 125/72 mm Hg), with slightly higher BP in men, compared to women. In contrast, central pulse pressure (PP; mean value 48 mm Hg, daytime 46 mm Hg, nighttime 52 mm Hg) was higher in women, compared to men. Mean values for cSBP, diastolic BP, and heart rate were highest in middle age, whereas mean values for cPP were highest in old age. Peripheral SBP N/D was −11% in the youngest age group, and decreased with increasing age, reaching −6% in the oldest age group. In contrast, cSBP N/D was less pronounced, even inverse (1 %) in the youngest age group, reaching −2 % in the oldest age group. Peripheral PP N/D was negligible across all age groups, and central PP N/D was inverse and highest (31 %) in the youngest age group. Conclusions: We provide reference values for apparently healthy individuals across the adult life span for central SBP and PP, comprising 24-hour mean BPs and 24-hour variability. Both differ from peripheral BP. These data may serve for comparison in various diseases and have potential implications for refining hypertension diagnosis and management.

Greater Adherence to Life's Simple 7 Is Associated With Less Arterial Stiffness: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study.

Greater arterial stiffness is associated independently with increased cardiovascular disease risk. The American Heart Association (AHA) has recommended following "Life's Simple 7 (LS7)" to optimize cardiovascular health; we tested whether better LS7 in middle age is associated with less arterial stiffness in later life. We studied 4,232 black and white participants aged 45-64 years at the baseline (1987-89) visit of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study cohort who also had arterial stiffness measured in 2011-13 (mean ± SD interval: 23.6 ± 1.0 years). We calculated a 14-point summary score for baseline LS7 and classified participants as having "poor" (0-4), "average" (5-9), or "ideal" (10-14) cardiovascular health. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for arterial stiffening: a high carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV, ≥13.23 m/s) or a high central pulse pressure (central PP, ≥ 82.35 mm Hg). The age, race, sex, and heart rate-adjusted ORs (95% CI) for high cfPWV in the "ideal," "average," and "poor" LS7 summary categories were 1 (Reference), 1.30 (1.11, 1.53), and 1.68 (1.10,2.56), respectively (P-trend = 0.0003). Similarly, the adjusted ORs (95% CI) for high central PP across LS7 summary categories were 1 (Reference), 1.48 (1.27, 1.74), and 1.63 (1.04, 2.56), respectively (P-trend <0.0001). Greater LS7 score in middle age is associated with less arterial stiffness 2-3 decades later. These findings further support the AHA recommendation to follow LS7 for cardiovascular disease prevention.

Abstract P226: Reducing Sympathetic Activity and Cardiac Pre-Load Have Differential Effects on Mean and Pulsatile Blood Pressure Components

Objective: Blood pressure (BP) can be divided into steady state (mean arterial pressure, MAP) and pulsatile (pulse pressure, PP) components that are differentially associated with target organ damage and cardiovascular events. Here, we tested the effects of non-pharmacological interventions that reduce sympathetic activity (SA) and cardiac pre-load on MAP and PP. Material and Methods: Pulse-wave analysis of the radial artery (SphygmoCor, AtCor Medical, Sydney, Australia), calibrated from 3 consecutive readings of brachial BP, was used for the evaluation of central PP and MAP. Measurements were obtained before and after supervised device-guided paced breathing (DGB), and bilateral lower limb venous occlusion (LVO, performed non-invasively using thigh cuffs), in random order. DGB reduces SA whereas LVO produces an acute reduction in pre-load. High resolution heart rate variability (HRV) as log-ratio of low-frequency/high-frequency range (LF/HF),( Schiller Medilog AR12plus, United States) was used to assess the effects of DGB on SA, while reduction of pre-load was evaluated by inferior vena cava diameter (IVCd) measured with cardiac ultrasound. Results: Thirty six HT patients (16 female) age (mean±SD) 46±12 years, BP 144.8±17.7/88.2±10.3 mmHg were studied. DGB decreased log LF/HF from 0.306±0.27 to 0.171±0.3 and LVO decreased IVCd from 15.16±3.96 mm to 12.39±3.43mm. Reduction of brachial BP was greater during DGB compared to LVO: (mean (95% confidence interval)):-9.7(-11.6,-7.8) mmHg vs -3.8(-5.8,-1.7) mmHg for systolic BP and -4.1(-5.6,-2.5) mmHg vs 1.1(-0.1, 2.2) mmHg for diastolic BP, respectively ( P&lt;0.05) . Effects of DGB and LVO were similar on PP: -3.5(-4.8,-2.3) mmHg for DBG and -3.1(-5.5,-0.7) mmHg for LVO, P&gt;0.1. MAP reduction was significant only during DBG (-6.4 (-8.1,-4.7) mmHg) compared to LVO (-1.2 (-2.7, 0.1) mmHg, P&lt;0.01 between the interventions. Conclusion: Reducing sympathetic activity via DGB decreases both steady state and pulsatile components of BP whereas pre-load reduction selectively decreases PP. Depending on individual BP components, interventions targeting sympathetic activity and/or pre-load might be used to personalized treatment.