Eccentric Left Ventricular Hypertrophy Research Articles

Features of isolated systolic and resistant arterial hypertension in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) are often combined and mutually enhance the adverse effects on vascular and renal prognosis. One of the features of hypertension in type 2 diabetes is the frequent occurrence of isolated systolic hypertension (ISG) and resistant hypertension (RH). Objective. To study the features of the structure and function of the left ventricle (LV), categories of circadian rhythm during outpatient blood pressure monitoring (OBPM), as well as the structure and function of blood vessels in people with type 2 diabetes, depending on the presence or absence of ISG and RH. Materials and methods. An observational descriptive one-step study was conducted 139 patients with hypertension in combination with type 2 diabetes (64 men and 75 women aged 73.9±11.7 years). ISAG was isolated if systolic blood pressure (BP) exceeded 140 mmHg, and diastolic blood pressure was less than 90 mmHg. RH was determined if, despite lifestyle changes and taking three classes of antihypertensive drugs, it was not possible to achieve target blood pressure levels. All patients underwent OBPM, echocardiography, ultrasound examination of the brachiocephalic arteries and a reactive hyperemia test. Results. Among 139 patients with hypertension in combination with type 2 DM, systolic-diastolic hypertension was present in 80 (57.6%) cases, ISG in 59 (42.4%), RH in 57 (41.0%), hypertension without resistance to antihypertensive treatment in 82 (59.0%). Conclusions. Patients with ISG characterized by more pronounced and eccentric LV hypertrophy (LVH), types II and III of LV diastolic dysfunction (DD), the "non-dipper" category in OBPM, as well as a significant thickening of the intima-media complex (IMC) of the common carotid artery (CCA). Patients with RH characterized by more pronounced and concentric LVH, types II and III of LV DD, the "night-peaker" category in OBPM, significant thickening of the IMC CCA and impaired brachial artery response in the reactive hyperemia test.

Risk stratification for ventricular tachyarrhythmias after cardioverter-defibrillator implantation for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death: results of the IDEAL single-center prospective study

Aim. The aim of this study was to develop additional selection criteria for implanted cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation in the primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) based on the risk stratification for the development of sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT).Methods. The study included 451 patients with heart failure and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF) who were referred for ICD implantation for primary prevention of SCD. Participants underwent pre-implantation screening of clinical, instrumental, and laboratory parameters, followed by prospective observation for 24 months to record the first occurrence of sustained VT or justified ICD therapy. To achieve the study’s goal, training and test samples were formed.Results. The arrhythmic endpoint was recorded in 84 patients (26%) in the training group and in 35 patients (27%) in the test group. Univariate analysis identified 11 factors with the highest predictive potential (p<0.1) associated with the occurrence of the studied endpoint. These included clinical data: coronary artery disease, arterial hypertension, resting heart rate >80 bpm; electrocardiographic parameters: complete left bundle branch block according to Strauss criteria, P-wave duration (lead II) >120 ms, or the presence of atrial fibrillation (in the case of persistent form), index of cardiac electrophysiological balance (ICEB) >3.1; echocardiographic parameters: presence of eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy, global longitudinal strain ≥ minus 6%; laboratory markers: galectin-3 >12 ng/ml, sST-2 >35 ng/ml, NT-proBNP >2000 pg/ml. Based on the regression coefficients, points were assigned to each factor, and the sum of these points determined the value of a new proposed index - the arrhythmic risk index (ARI). ARI values >5 points predicted the two-year likelihood of VT in HFrEF patients with a sensitivity of 78.6% and specificity of 64.3% (AUC=0.788±0.028 with 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.732-0.843; p=0.0001). The application of ARI in the test group demonstrated good model performance in predicting two-year VT risk (AUC=0.652±0.053 with 95% CI: 0.547-0.757; p=0.008).Conclusion. Based on the obtained results, a predictive index was developed, allowing for personalized and timely risk assessment of VT in patients with HFrEF.

Microcirculation conditions and its influence on ventricular remodeling in patients with arterial hypertension and lower extremity arteries atherosclerosis

Objective: to evaluate the feature of microcirculation condition and left ventricle remodulation type in patients with arterial hypertension (AH) and lower extremity arteries atherosclerosis (LEAA).Materials and methods: one hundred patients from 45 to 65 years old were included in this research. The main group consisted of 50 patients with arterial hypertension and lower extremity arteries atherosclerosis and the control group included 50 patients with AH and without LEAA. Laser doppler flowmetry and echocardiography were performed for all patients.Results: there were lower values of microcirculation index (26,54[10,51–29,25] vs 37,3[26,59–40,24], р=0,0001), Am (0,25[0,22–0,32] vs 0,36[0,35–0,48], р=0,001) и Аe (0,47[0,42–0,47] vs 0,50[0,50–0,58], р=0,001), capillary reserve (134,5[126,7–151,8] vs 166,4[153,2–166,4], р=0,001). Breathe test index (41[17,93–77,74] vs 47,7[19,93–47,76], р=0,013) and higher value of bypass indicator (1,95[0,63–2,26] vs 1,31[1,13–1,31], р=0,0001) in patients with arterial hypertension and lower extremity arteries atherosclerosis compared to patients with isolated AH. Spastic (46% vs 14% р=0,0002) and spastic–atonic (30% vs 0%, р=0,0001) microcirculation types were reliably more often in main group compared to control group, whereas normal (0 vs 38%, p=0,0001) and stagnant (24% vs 48%, р=0,001) types were reliably rare. Concentric (62% vs 38%, р=0,004) and eccentric (8% vs 0%, р=0,0001) left ventricle hypertrophy (LVH) were found veraciously more frequently in patients with arterial hypertension and LEAA than in patient with AH and without LEAA. The binary logistic regression model was performed. It was determined that LVH risk was higher due to microcirculation index and capillary reserve decreasing in patients with arterial hypertension and lower extremity arteries atherosclerosis.Conclusion: spastic and spastic–atonic microcirculation types were reliably more often in main group compared to control group Endothelial disfunction, decreased tissue perfusion increased microcirculatory bypass and blood stagnation were detected in patients with AH and LEAA compared to patients with isolated AH. Concentric and eccentric left ventricle hypertrophy were found veraciously more frequently in patients with arterial hypertension and LEAA than in patient with AH and without LEAA and the risk of LVH was depended on microcirculation index and capillary reserve in patients of the main group.

Left ventricular hypertrophy, wall thickness, and histological myocyte alteration in end-stage heart failure: a call for a standard definition

Abstract Objective This study aimed to examine the relationship between different left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) classification criteria according to the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), and anatomical measurement of LV wall thickness (LVWT) and histological evidence of myocyte hypertrophy. Methods Data from 146 consecutive patients (47 years; 75% were male) who have undergone heart transplantation were analysed. Fixed ventricles were dissected and measured in weight after both atria, great vessels, and epicardial fat were removed. The fixed biventricular weight was calculated as 87% of total weight (the effect of fixed formalin reduced the total weight by 3%). Anatomical LVWT was measured with a ruler at LV free wall where maximal thickness is located. A comprehensive echocardiogram was performed in all patients before heart transplantation. LVM and relative wall thickness (RWT) (2 PWT/LVEDD) were measured by M-mode echocardiography in parasternal long-axis view. Patients were considered to have LVH when the LVM index exceeds 95 g/m2 in women and exceeds 115 g/m2 in men. Patients were considered to have concentric LVH when RWT > 0.42. LVWT was measured using 2D echocardiography perpendicular to the LV long axis. Results Of 146 explanted hearts, dilated cardiomyopathy (CM), cardiac amyloid, and hypertrophic CM were diagnosed in 53 (47%), 1 (1%), and 8 (5%) patients, respectively. Anatomic ventricular mass correlated with echocardiographic LVM (r=0.5, p < 0.01). Anatomic LVWT modestly correlated with echocardiographic LVWT (r=0.2, p=0.01). Of 146 patients, echocardiographic normal LV geometry, concentric LV remodelling, concentric LVH, and eccentric LVH were present in 22 (15%), 6 (4%), 14 (10%), and 104 (71%), respectively. Increased LVWT (≥ 13 mm) assessed by 2-D echocardiography was present in normal LV geometry (5%), concentric LV remodelling (5%), concentric LVH (57%), and eccentric LVH (33%) (p <0.001) in those classified by ASE guidelines. Anatomic LVWT (≥ 13 mm) was present in normal LV geometry (14%), concentric LV remodelling 5%), concentric LVH (14%), and eccentric LVH (80%) (p <0.001) in those classified by ASE guidelines. Histological myocyte hypertrophy was present in normal LV geometry (12%), concentric LV remodelling (2%), concentric LVH (11%), and eccentric LVH (70%) (p <0.001) in those classified by ASE guidelines. Conclusions 2D-derived echocardiographic increased LVWT in patients with LVH defined by increased LVM index was present in approximately 30-50%. Furthermore, anatomical increased LVWT in those with LVH classified by ASE guidelines was present in a varying range of 10-70%. Patients with concentric LVH had a low prevalence of histological myocyte hypertrophy (approximately 10%). Inconsistencies in classification methods reveal the need for more robust LVH terminologies and definition that is consistent across cardiac imaging and anatomico-pathological examination, particularly in patients with CM.

Sex-related differences in left ventricular geometry patterns in patients with arterial hypertension

Abstract Background Sex-specific differences in left ventricular (LV) geometry is key for tailoring management strategies for arterial hypertension. Purpose To evaluate sex-related differences in LV geometry patterns at baseline and their evolution over time in hypertension. Methods From a prospective registry, we included hypertensive patients with at least 1 year follow-up, without prevalent cardiovascular disease or incident myocardial infarction, with normal LV ejection fraction and no chronic kidney disease of stage III or more. Four LV geometry patterns were assessed: normal geometry, concentric remodeling, eccentric and concentric LV hypertrophy (LVH). Results A total of 6427 patients (age 53±11 years, 43% females) were included. At baseline, a normal geometric pattern was less common in female than in male patients (50% vs. 72%, p<0.001). LVH was more prevalent among female than male patients (47% vs. 23%, p<0.001), with a higher prevalence of eccentric LVH (40% vs. 18%, p<0.001). Female sex was independently associated with LV remodeling (odds ratio, 2.36, 95% confidence intervals, 2.12-2.62, p<0.001). At long-term follow-up (mean 6.1 years, IQR 2.8-8.6 years), the proportion of patients with LV remodeling increased in both sexes, although a normal LV geometry remained less frequent in female than male patients (43% vs. 67%, p<0.001), with differences persisting in eccentric (41% vs. 21%, p<0.001) and concentric LVH (11% vs. 5%, p<0.001). Conclusions We found relevant sex-related differences in LV geometry among patients with hypertension. Females have a higher risk of LV remodeling at baseline compared with men, with differences persisting at long-term follow-up.

Diagnostic and prognostic value of ECG-predicted hypertension mediated left ventricular hypertrophy using machine learning

Abstract Background Hypertension is the commonest cause of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, four distinct hypertension mediated LVH phenotypes have been reported: normal LV, LV remodelling, eccentric LVH and concentric LVH. Early detection of hypertensives with LVH can enable timely initiation of therapy however a CMR based screening strategy is costly, particularly in low resource settings. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is an inexpensive screening tool and can detect LVH but its capacity to discriminate between the 4 phenotypes is unknown. Purpose To classify hypertension mediated LVH phenotypes from the ECG using machine learning (ML) and test for associations of ECG predicted LVH phenotypes with incident cardiovascular outcomes. Methods ECG markers with a known physiological association with LVH (including QRS markers, Sokolow-Lyon, and Cornell) were extracted from the 12-lead ECG of 20,439 hypertensive participants in UK Biobank. Three classification models, logistic regression, support vector machine (SVM) and random forest, were trained in 80% of the participants using extracted ECG markers and clinical variables. The remaining 20% individuals were included in the test set for performance measurement. External validation was sought in 877 hypertensives from the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP). Subsequently, we tested for associations between the four ECG-predicted LVH phenotypes and incident major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and heart failure using Cox proportional hazard regression in the UK Biobank test set with median follow-up of 4.2 years. Results Among UK Biobank participants (mean age ± standard deviation 65 ± 7.4 years), 23,190 had normal LV, 894 LV remodelling, 218 eccentric and 103 concentric LVH. Classification performance of the three models was comparable, but SVM showed consistent results (accuracy 0.79, sensitivity 0.59, specificity 0.87, AUC 0.69) and superior prediction of eccentric LVH (AUC 0.86). In SHIP (55 ± 12.7 years), 704 had normal LV, 134 LV remodelling, 12 eccentric and 24 concentric LVH. In the external validation performed in SHIP, SVM had accuracy of 0.75 (sensitivity 0.51, specificity 0.85, AUC 0.65), with superior prediction of eccentric LVH (AUC 0.76), as shown in Figure 1. Ventricular rate and QRS amplitude (P<0.001) were the features most strongly associated with LVH. In the test set of UK Biobank, setting normal LV as the reference group, the ECG predicted eccentric LVH group was associated with heart failure (Hazard Ratio 3.42, confidence interval 1.06-9.86), there were no associations with MACE (Figure 2). Conclusions ECG-based ML classifiers were able to discriminate the four hypertension mediated LVH phenotypes with external validation demonstrating robustness. This automated approach enhances capabilities of non-specialists and potentially represents an accessible screening strategy for the early detection of hypertensives with LVH.

A comparative analysis of conventional echocardiographic findings among different heart failure stages and phenotypes: insights from the national echocardiographic society registry

Abstract Background The contemporary conceptualization of heart failure (HF) encompasses four developmental stages (at risk for HF, pre-HF, symptomatic HF, and advanced HF) and three distinct HF phenotypes categorized by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HFpEF, HFmrEF, HFrEF). However, there is a need for a more comprehensive understanding of echocardiographic similarities and differences among pre-HF stages and various HF phenotypes. Material and Methods Our national echocardiographic society conducted a multicenter HF screening initiative. General practitioners in 13 primary care centers utilized the original mobile phone app to determine referrals for transthoracic echocardiography and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) testing in individuals without a prior HF diagnosis. The 2021 ESC guidelines' algorithms were used to diagnose HF phenotypes and 2016 EACVI/ASA recommendation² to assess diastolic function. This study defined "heart stress" (elevated NT-proBNP in asymptomatic individuals with risk factors, regardless of structural heart disease or cardiac dysfunction) and "patients at risk for HF" (normal NTproBNP and at least one HF risk factor). All patients were categorized into six groups: (I) no HF, no risk, (II) at risk for HF, (III) heart stress, (IV) HFpEF, (V) HFmrEF, and (VI) HFrEF. Echocardiographic findings were compared among groups (II) to (VI), using ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis and Chi-squared test, when needed. Results In a cohort of 930 outpatients (mean age 66±11 years, 61% female), 34.2% were diagnosed with HF, 22.3% experienced heart stress, 37.8% were at risk for HF, and 12.8% had neither HF nor risk factors (Figure). While NT pro BNP showed progressive increase, LVEF showed a progressive decline across the groups, reaching its lowest in HFrEF patients (Table). Simultaneously, left ventricular mass index (LVMi), left atrial volume index (LAVi), and maximal velocity of tricuspid regurgitation (TR Vmax) significantly increased in a stepwise manner. Variations in predominant LV geometry were significant across groups (p<0.001): normal LV geometry in those without HF (60.8%), concentric LV remodeling in at-risk patients (38.6%), normal LV geometry in heart stress (49%), concentric LV hypertrophy (LVH) in HFpEF (27.7%), eccentric LVH in HFmrEF (42.3%), and both concentric and eccentric LVH in HFrEF (43.3% each). Diastolic dysfunction increased prevalence across the groups (12.9% vs 24.7% vs 37.6% vs 19.6% vs 51.1%, p<0.001). Remarkably, HFmrEF group had the highest proportion of undetermined diastolic function (14.7% vs 23.1% vs 27.9% vs 50% vs 26.7%, p<0.001). Conclusions The mobile phone app used in primary care setting allowed identification of significant number of individuals in the pre-HF stages, warranting further investigation. Distinct echocardiographic differences in pre-HF stages and HF phenotypes provide valuable insights for early detection and tailored treatments.

Cardioprotective efficacy of combined therapy with azilsartan, indapamide, and nitrendipine in patients with essential hypertension

Abstract Objective To conduct a comparative assessment of the six-month cardioprotective efficacy of combined therapy using azilsartan with indapamide and nitrendipine in patients with essential hypertension (EH). Materials and Methods The study included 101 male and female patients with grade I–II arterial hypertension (AH) according to the classification (ESC/ESH, 2018), who were undergoing outpatient treatment at the Republican Specialized Scientific-Practical Medical Center of Cardiology. The mean age of the patients was 53.1±11.2 years, and the mean duration of AH was 8.5±7.2 years. Initially and after 6 months of therapy, echocardiography was performed to determine the left ventricular myocardial mass index (LVMMI) and left ventricular (LV) echo geometry types. Echocardiography (ECHO) was performed using the "En VisorC" ultrasound system (Philips, Netherlands). Statistical significance was considered for all analyses with p <0.05. Results All patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 - patients on combined antihypertensive therapy (AHT) with azilsartan and indapamide (n=50) and Group 2 - patients on therapy with azilsartan and nitrendipine (n=51). The mean daily dose of azilsartan was 49.3±6.0 mg, nitrendipine was 10.88±4.3 mg, and indapamide was 1.69±0.5 mg. In Group 1, the LVMMI initially was 127.4±32.9 g/m2, and after treatment, it was 110.3±29.0 g/m2 (p<0.001); in Group 2, it was 138.7±31.9 g/m2 and 116.6±30.3 g/m2, respectively (p<0.001). The degree of LVMMI reduction in Group 1 was -13.3±15.6% compared to Group 2, which was -14.4±17.9% (p>0.05). During therapy with azilsartan, indapamide, and nitrendipine, the reduction of LVMMI in EH patients was associated with a decrease in the concentric type of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in both therapy groups: in both groups, a significant increase in the LV diastolic filling pattern index/LVMMI was observed, which was 0.51±0.07 ml/g before treatment and 0.57±0.14 ml/g after treatment in Group 1 (p<0.001), and 0.50±0.11 ml/g before treatment and 0.54±0.12 ml/g after treatment in Group 2 (p<0.02). Significant regression of LVH with 6-month combined therapy in both groups was accompanied by an improvement in LV echo geometry. Initially, there were 12 patients (11.9%) with unchanged LV echo geometry, concentric remodeling was detected in 9 patients (8.91%), eccentric LVH in 30 patients (29.7%), and concentric LVH in 50 patients (49.5%). In the dynamics, the number of patients with normal LV echo geometry increased to 41 patients (40.6%), with concentric LVH decreased to 34 patients (33.6%), with concentric remodeling decreased to 7 patients (7%), and with eccentric LVH decreased to 19 patients (18.8%) (χ2=21.635, p<0.001). Conclusion Achieving target blood pressure levels provided high cardioprotective efficacy of combined therapy with azilsartan, indapamide, and nitrendipine with improvement in LV echo geometry in both groups.

Clustering analysis based on clinically available data for improving risk stratification and outcome prediction of hypertension

Abstract Background Hypertension (HTN) is a heterogeneous condition with several factors contributing to adverse outcomes. Machine learning can harness complex data to unveil outcome predictors and guide prevention. Purpose To use clustering analysis on clinical data to identify HTN risk profiles and their associations with cardiovascular abnormalities and clinical outcomes. Methods A cohort of 14,840 UK Biobank hypertensive participants without pre-existing heart failure (HF) who underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) assessment was examined using K-means clustering on 79 clinical attributes. The clusters’ association with incident HF, mortality, atrial fibrillation (AF), and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were evaluated, alongside imaging characteristics, with mediation analysis probing the role of imaging in risk differentiation. All post-hoc analyses were adjusted for vascular risk factors (VRFs), including diabetes, hypercholesterolaemia, previous myocardial infarction. Results Three distinct clusters differing considerably in lifestyle habits, cardiovascular risk factors, electrocardiographic parameters, and cardiometabolic profiles were identified. Cluster 1 (lowest risk), predominantly females, exhibited the most favourable metabolic profile and outcomes. Cluster 2 (highest risk), predominantly males, had the most adverse metabolic and cardiovascular profiles, and the highest risk of all adverse outcomes, especially AF and HF (hazard ratio (HR) 1.80 [1.45–2.25] and 1.85 [1.39–2.46]; p <0.005). This group was associated with more eccentric LV hypertrophy (LVH), overall poorer left atrial emptying function (LAEF), bi-ventricular systolic function and LV mechanics, and higher systemic vascular resistance (Figure 1). Cluster 3 (intermediate risk) was a more heterogeneous group with the highest burden of diabetes and adiposity and a moderate rise in AF and MACE risk (HR 1.61 [1.12-2.32] and 1.30 [1.07-1.58]; p <0.05). This cluster was associated with concentric LV remodelling and better indices of cardiac mechanics, but greater impairment in LA booster pump function (active LAEF) than Cluster 2 (Figure 1). Cluster 2's effect on MACE was mostly mediated through LV mass increase (proportion mediated, 67%), followed by changes (reducing) in LV global longitudinal strain (33%), and ejection fraction (25.4%). The indirect effect of CMR changes in the association between cluster 3 and MACE was much smaller with the highest proportion of the effects mediated through increased myocardial wall thickness (26%) but not LV mass, and changes in all the components of LA function. Conclusions Clinical data clustering provides insight into distinct HTN risk profiles, each with specific imaging characteristics and clinical trajectories, hinting at different pathophysiological mechanisms. Enhanced phenotyping can facilitate tailored interventions based on the disease subtype and improve clinical outcomes.Figure 1.

Latent class analysis reveals a novel phenotype of heart failure that spans the left ventricular ejection fraction range

Abstract Background It is increasingly evident that heart failure (HF) represents a heterogenous syndrome rather than a single clinical entity. The elusiveness of effective therapies for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has led to a consensus that our current, unidimensional construct of HF using only left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) does not adequately capture the multiplicity of the disease states. The ability to harmonize echocardiographic data from multiple sources has enabled use of unsupervised cluster-based analysis to identify multidimensional cardiac structural phenotypes. Purpose To identify cardiac structural phenotypes of HF across the LVEF spectrum. Methods We harmonized echocardiographic data from eight randomized clinical HF trials (ESCAPE, EXACT-HF, FIGHT, I-PRESERVE, NEAT-HFpEF, RELAX, STICH and TOPCAT), which included both HFrEF and HFpEF populations (total n=4223 echocardiograms). These studies collectively spanned the years 2000 through 2015 and represent a balanced LVEF distribution. Latent class analysis (LCA) was performed iteratively to identify predominant structural phenotypes using LVEF, RV function, LV end diastolic volume, LV mass index, eccentricity, mitral valve deceleration time, and lateral E/e’ ratio. Results LCA identified 4 echocardiographic phenotypes. Three phenotypes skewed toward either high or low EF, but one phenotype demonstrated a relatively even distribution of patients with HFrEF, heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and HFpEF (36.0%, 21.4% and 42.7%, respectively). Patients in this phenotype had preserved RV function and left ventricular hypertrophy (97%), of which 56.8% had concentric and 43.2% eccentric LVH. E/e’ was normal in 63% of subjects. A vast majority (91%) of patients had recent-onset HF (diagnosed within the past year). There were no remarkable distinguishing comorbidities. Notable differences in biomarker profile included higher levels of troponin I, cyclic GMP and lower levels of neurohormones (aldosterone, endothelin-1, dopamine, and norepinephrine) than the other phenotypes. Conclusions This is the first cluster-based analysis to identify a quantitative structural HF phenotype of HF that is not distinguished by LVEF. While the underlying pathophysiology is unclear, most patients have recent onset HF and biomarker profiles with relatively low neurohormone activity. These features may reflect a distinct pathophysiology that could indicate a specific, targeted intervention.

Left Ventricular Geometric Pattern Impacts QT Dispersion in Males Athletes and Sedentary Men.

To (1) compare QT dispersion (QTd) and echocardiographic features between athletes with concentric left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, athletes with eccentric LV hypertrophy, and sedentary controls with a normal LV geometric pattern and (2) quantify associations between QTd and echocardiographic features within these groups. Male athletes competing in different sports and sedentary men were stratified into groups according to their LV geometric pattern. These groups included eccentric LV hypertrophy (LV index > 115g/m2, relative wall thickness [RWT] < 0.42) consisting of 38 athletes, concentric LV hypertrophy (LV index > 115g/m2, RWT > 0.42) consisting of 40 athletes, and normal LV geometric pattern (LV index < 115g/m2, RWT < 0.42) consisting of 40 sedentary controls. Following a cross-sectional design, participants underwent electrocardiographic (ECG) and echocardiographic screening. Data were compared between groups using one-way analyses of variance with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Associations between corrected QTd and echocardiographic variables were quantified using Pearson correlations. Alongside structural disparities between groups, corrected QTd was significantly (p < 0.001) lower in athletes with eccentric LV hypertrophy compared to athletes with concentric LV hypertrophy and sedentary controls. Significant,moderate-to-very-largecorrelations were found between corrected QTd and interventricular septal wall thickness in athletes with concentric (r = 0.416, p = 0.008) or eccentric LV hypertrophy (r = 0.734, p < 0.001), and sedentary controls (r = 0.464, p = 0.003). The provided comparative and relationship data may inform the development of more precise approaches for ECG and echocardiographic screening in athletes, particularly in those with concentric LV hypertrophy who may be at greater risk for developing prolonged QTd.

Effect of the geometry and severity of left ventricular hypertrophy on cardiovascular mortality in dialysis patients.

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is a vital risk factor for mortality of dialysis patients. The association of the geometry and severity of LVH with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients remains unknown. This study investigated clinical outcomes among HD patients with different LVH geometric patterns and severity. The monocentric retrospective cohort study enrolled chronic HD patients who underwent echocardiography for the assessment of LVH. The patients with LVH were divided into concentric and eccentric groups and then subdivided into four groups based on LVH severity: mild-to-moderate eccentric, mild-to-moderate concentric, severe eccentric, and severe concentric LVH. The risks of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality between groups were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard analysis. Of the 237 patients on HD with LVH, 131 had concentric LVH, and 106 had eccentric LVH, with 33, 44, 73, and 87 having mild-to-moderate eccentric, mild-to-moderate concentric, severe eccentric, and severe concentric LVH, respectively. Compared with eccentric LVH, the crude hazard ratio (cHR) of cardiovascular mortality of concentric LVH was 2.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13-3.65). Severe concentric LVH was a significant risk factor for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality compared with mild-to-moderate eccentric LVH (cHR: 2.58 [95% CI, 1.00-6.65] and 3.73 [95% CI, 1.13-12.33], respectively). After adjustment for all variables, concentric LVH and severe concentric LVH remained significant risk factors for cardiovascular mortality (adjusted HR: 2.13 [95% CI, 1.13-4.01] and 3.71 [95% CI, 1.07-12.82], respectively). Concentric LVH, especially severe concentric LVH, was associated with a high risk of cardiovascular mortality among patients with chronic HD.

The oxytocin-oxytocin receptors system — a new pathogenetic mechanism in the development of diabetic phenotype of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in women

Aim. To determine the pathogenetic role of the oxytocinergic system in the development of myocardium structural and functional changes in women with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2T) (diabetic phenotype of HFpEF).Material and methods. The study included 60 women aged 67.0±4.9 years with HFpEF stage I-IIA, FC I-III, 30 of them had DM2T who were admitted for elective coronary artery bypass grafting. The development of HFpEF is caused by coronary artery disease (CAD) and arterial hypertension (AH). Prior to surgery, all patients underwent a standard examination, blood levels of NT-proBNP, oxytocin (Ox), echocardiography were determined to find the types of left ventricular (LV) myocardial remodeling and diastolic dysfunction (DD). Myocardium biopsies of the right atrium auricle obtained during coronary bypass surgery were studied by microscopy, morphometry and immunohistochemistry (the expression of oxytocin receptors (OxR), a marker of proliferation ki-67).Results. According to echocardiography, eccentric LV hypertrophy (46.7/36.7%) and DD type 2 (47/17%, p=0.003) prevailed in the group of women with the diabetic phenotype of HFpEF. A higher content of NT-proBNP (480.72±241.87/434.46±282.78 ng/ml, p=0.06) and a lower concentration of Ox (102.11±35.89/320.37±294.71 pg/ml, p=0.0016) in blood serum were established, as well as an increase in the number of cardiomyocytes (CMC) with a high expression level OxR (63.69±19.47/12.16±23.09%, p=0.000) in patients with the diabetic phenotype of HFpEF. Negative associations were determined between the blood level of Ox and the CMC diameter (r=-0.10, p=0.020), the area of their cytoplasm (r=-0.16, p=0.000) and the area of the nuclei (r=-0.11, p=0.015) in patients of both groups. A decrease in Ox concentration in the blood of patients with diabetic phenotype of HFpEF was accompanied by an increase in the number of CMCs with a high level of OxR expression (r=-0.63, p=0.000).Conclusion. The study has shown the important involvement of oxytocinergic signaling pathways in the HFpEF pathogenesis. HFpEF associated with DM2T in women was characterized by more unfavorable structural and functional changes in the myocardium, a significant increase in the number of hypertrophied CMCs with a high level of OxR expression and Ox decrease in blood serum. The mechanisms of the first-established significant increase in the content of Ox in the blood of patients with HFpEF without diabetes and its significant decrease in patients with diabetic phenotype of HFpEF leading to more pronounced structural and functional changes in the myocardium, require further study.

Sex-related disparities in aortic stenosis from disease awareness to treatment: a state-of-the-art review.

This state-of-the-art review aimed to synthesize evidence from various sex-stratified studies on aortic stenosis (AS), focusing on the difference in clinical presentation, anatomical characteristics, pathophysiology, and management of AS. In comparison to men, women with AS are present at later stages, are older, more symptomatic, frailer, and exhibit higher operative risk [Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score]. Women tend to have smaller aortic valve (AV) areas and left ventricular (LV) outflow tract, leading to lower stroke volumes (SVs) than men and have a higher prevalence of paradoxical, low-flow, low-gradient AS. In women, chronic pressure overload due to AS results in concentric LV remodelling and hypertrophy, characterized by reduced LV cavities, higher filling pressures, lower wall stress, and more diastolic dysfunction. Conversely, men exhibit more dilated eccentric LV remodelling and hypertrophy. AVs in women are less calcified but more fibrotic. Moreover, women are often underdiagnosed, have severity underestimated, and experience delays or receive fewer referrals for AV replacement (AVR). However, women tend to benefit from transcatheter AVR (TAVR) with a long-term survival advantage over men, although the incidence of vascular complications and bleeding events in 30 days after TAVR is higher in women. Surgical AVR (SAVR) in women has high operative risk, is technically demanding and has poorer outcomes with increased mortality at 30 days compared to men. According to the STS score and EuroSCORE, the female sex itself is considered a risk factor for SAVR. Therefore, addressing sex-related disparities in AS and increasing awareness among physicians promises improved diagnosis and treatment, facilitating equitable care and the development of sex-specific personalized medicine.

Left Ventricular Geometry and Inferior Vena Cava Diameter Co-Modify the Risk of Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients.

Background and Objectives: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) represents a significant cardiovascular risk in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis (CHD). A large inferior vena cava diameter (IVCD), potentially indicative of fluid overload and a contributing factor to elevated cardiovascular risk, has not been sufficiently explored. Therefore, our study aims to gain further insights into this aspect. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study enrolled patients receiving CHD in a single medical center with available echocardiography from October to December 2018. They were categorized into four groups based on LVH geometry and IVCD. Cox proportional hazard models assessed the risk of major adverse cardiovascular effects (MACEs) and cardiovascular and overall mortality after multivariate adjustments. Kaplan-Meier analysis depicted MACE-free events and survival during the follow-up time. Results: Of the 175 CHD patients, 38, 42, 45, and 50 exhibited small IVCD with eccentric and concentric LVH and large IVCD with eccentric and concentric LVH, respectively. Compared to small IVCD and eccentric LVH, large IVCD and eccentric LVH had the highest risk of MACEs, followed by large IVCD and concentric LVH (aHR: 4.40, 3.60; 95% CI: 1.58-12.23, 1.28-10.12, respectively). As for cardiovascular mortality, large IVCD and concentric LVH had the highest risk, followed by large IVCD and eccentric LVH, and small IVCD and concentric LVH. (aHR: 14.34, 10.23, 8.87; 95% CI: 1.99-103.35, 1.41-74.33; 1.01-77.87). The trend in overall mortality risk among the groups was similar to that of cardiovascular mortality. Conclusions: LVH geometry and IVCD co-modify the risk of MACEs and cardiovascular and overall mortality in CHD patients. The highest risk of MACEs is associated with large IVCD and eccentric LVH, while the highest risk of cardiovascular and overall mortality is linked with large IVCD and concentric LVH.

Myocardial work index in endurance athletes with lack of expected left ventricular eccentric hypertrophy remodelling

Myocardial work index in endurance athletes with lack of expected left ventricular eccentric hypertrophy remodelling

Structural and functional abnormalities of left-sided cardiac chambers in Barlow's disease without significant mitral regurgitation.

This study aims to explore the presence of left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) morphological and functional abnormalities in patients with Barlow's disease (BD) without significant mitral regurgitation (MR) and to investigate whether these abnormalities may predict MR progression. Consecutive patients with BD were retrospectively identified from two tertiary centres; those with MR graded from trivial to mild-to-moderate were selected and matched with healthy controls in a 1:1 ratio. Conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiographic data were collected. The development of moderate-to-severe or greater MR was evaluated on follow-up echocardiograms. Patients with BD (n = 231) showed increased LV dimensions and indexed LV mass (LVMi) in comparison with controls (P < 0.001); LV remodelling worsened with higher MR severity and was accompanied by an increased prevalence of eccentric LV hypertrophy (eLVH). Moreover, BD patients had larger LA volumes and more impaired LA reservoir strain vs. controls (P < 0.001), while LV strain was similar between the two groups. Multivariable linear regression analyses in the overall population identified BD and MR grade as independent predictors of remodelling markers (LV dimensions, LVMi, and LA volume) and BD as independent correlate of LA strain. MR progression was observed in 51 BD subjects (out of 170 patients with available follow-up). On Cox regression analysis, age, eLVH, mild-to-moderate MR, and mitral annular disjunction (MAD) emerged as independent predictors of MR progression. BD patients without significant MR show early LV and LA remodelling, together with reduced LA strain. MR progression was associated with eccentric LV remodelling, MAD, and MR severity.

Morphometric variants of remodeling and diastolic function of the left ventricle in late postmenopausal patients with vitamin D deficiency

Aim. To reveal the features of the structural-geometric remodeling of the left chambers of the heart, the diastolic function of the left ventricle and to assess the presence of calcification of the valvular structures of the heart in late postmenopausal women with different levels of vitamin D. Material and methods. The cross-sectional study included 123 postmenopausal women. A standard transthoracic echocardiography was performed with an assessment of morphometric variants of remodeling of the left chambers of the heart and its diastolic function according to the transmitral flow. The significance of differences was assessed using the Mann–Whitney test, χ2 Pearson. Differences and correlations were considered significant at p &lt; 0.05. Results. The median concentration of 25(OH)D in the sample was 20.51 ng/ml (15.8÷26.73). Adequate serum concentration of 25(OH)D was observed in 23 (19%) patients (group 1), in 100 (81%) cases vitamin D deficiency was detected (group 2). In group 1 — 7 (31%) patients had normal geometry (NG) of the left ventricle (LV), LV concentric remodeling (CR) was diagnosed in 1 (4%) case, LV concentric hypertrophy (CH) was diagnosed in 3 (13%) cases, and LV eccentric hypertrophy (EH) was detected in 12 (52%) cases. In Group 2, LV NG was diagnosed in 27 (27%) cases, LV CR was detected in 8 (8%) cases, LV CH was detected in 31 (31%) cases, and LV EH was verified in 34 (34%) cases, the differences are insignificant (p = 0.24). Patients of group 2 showed a statistically significant increase in the volume of the right atrium (RA) and thickness of the posterior wall of the left ventricle (TZSLV). In group 1, in 11 (50%) cases, rigid-type diastolic dysfunction (DD) was detected, and in 11 (50%) cases, a pseudo-normal type of DD was detected. In group 2, pseudonormal myocardial DD was detected in 26 (26%) patients, 74 (74%) patients had rigid-type DD, differences between groups were significant (p &lt; 0.001). Calcifications were found in the annulus fibrosus in 16 (70%) cases in group 1 and in 88 (88%) patients in group 2, the differences were significant (p = 0.04). Conclusion. In the study, data were obtained indicating a significant contribution of vitamin D deficiency to changes in the geometry of the left chambers of the heart, diastolic function of the left ventricle, and calcification of valvular structures.

Myocardial Injury in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients Assessed by Multiparametric MRI: Relationship With Left Ventricular Phenotypes.

Myocardial injury is common in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients, but the presence and severity of myocardial injury in different left ventricular (LV) phenotypes were still not fully explored. To evaluate myocardial tissue characteristics and deformation in ESRD patients on peritoneal dialysis separated into normal geometry, concentric remodeling, concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and eccentric LVH patterns by multiparametric cardiac MRI. Prospective. A total of 142 subjects, including 102 on peritoneal dialysis (69 males) and 40 healthy controls (27 males). At 3.0 T, cine sequence, T1 mapping and T2 mapping. LV mass index and LV remodeling index were used to create four subgroups with normal geometry, concentric remodeling, concentric LVH, and eccentric LVH. LV function, strain and strain rate, myocardial native T1 and T2 were measured. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and analysis of covariance, Pearson/Spearman correlation, stepwise regression, and intraclass correlation coefficient. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Even in normal geometry, LV strain parameters still diminished compared with the controls (global radial strain: 30.5 ± 7.7% vs. 37.1 ± 7.9%; global circumferential strain: -18.2 ± 2.6% vs. -20.6 ± 2.2%; global longitudinal strain: -13.3 ± 2.5% vs. -16.0 ± 2.8%). Eccentric LVH had significantly lower global circumferential systolic strain rate than concentric LVH (-0.82 ± 0.21%/-second vs. -0.96 ± 0.20%/-second). Compared with the controls, the four subgroups all revealed elevated native T1 and T2, especially in eccentric LVH, while concentric remodeling had the least changes including native T1, T2, and LV ejection fraction. After adjusting for covariates, there was no statistically significant difference in T2 between the four subgroups (P = 0.359). Eccentric LVH is associated with the most pronounced evidence of myocardial tissue characteristics and function impairment, while as a benign remodeling, the concentric remodeling subgroup had the least increase in native T1. This study further confirms that native T1 and strain indicators can reflect the severity of myocardial injury in ESRD, providing better histological and functional basis for future grouping treatments. 1 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 3.

The significance of catestatin and relaxin-2 in the diagnosis of myocardial remodeling in patients with essential hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus

Objective — to evaluate the peculiarities of electrocardiographic (ECG) and echocardiographic (EchoCG) parameters in patients with essential hypertension (EH) in combination with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and their relationships with plasma catestatin (CTS) and relaxin­‑2 (RLN­­2) levels.&#x0D; Materials and methods. Examinations involved 106 patients with EH, from whom 55 subjects had concomitant T2DM, and 30 practically healthy volunteers. The mean age of the participants was (64.06±8.44) years, and women prevailed in the patients’ group (55.9%). All study participants underwent anthropometric data measurement, laboratory and instrumental investigations. The levels of biomarkers CTS and RLN­­2 were determined with the enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay. Instrumental investigations included electrocardiography and transthoracic echocardiography.&#x0D; Results. CTS levels were reduced in patients with concentric (5.04±1.14 ng/mL) and eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (5.08±0.89 ng/mL) compared with the normal geometry (6.63±0.73 ng/mL, p &lt;0.001). The significant correlation has been established between CTS levels and ECG parameters of LVH (Cornell voltage criterion (r=–0.222; p=0.009) and Sokolow‑Lyon index (r=–0.226; p=0.008)), and EchoCG parameters, including LV end‑diastolic dimension (EDD (r=–0.388; p &lt;0.001), LV end‑systolic dimension (ESD (r=–0.453; p &lt;0.001), LV end‑diastolic volume index (EDVi (r=–0.329; p &lt;0.001), LV end‑systolic volume index ESVi (r=–0.415; p &lt;0.001), LV ejection fraction (EF (r=0.469; p &lt;0.001), septal sickness (SS) (r=–0.593; p &lt;0.001), posterior wall thickness (PWS) (r=–0.647; p &lt;0.001), relative wall thickness (RWS) (r=–0.568; p &lt;0.001), and LV myocardial mass index (LVMi) (r=–0.576; p &lt;0.001). Patients with RLN­­2 ≥ 4.69 pg/mL had higher EchoCG parameters, including LV EDD, LV ESD, LV EDVi, LV ESVi, SV, SS, PWS, RWS, LVMi (p &lt;0.05). In addition, a significant positive relationship between CTS and RLN­­2 levels has been revealed (r=0.191; p=0.026), which was also confirmed in the subgroup of patients with RLN­­2 levels above 4.69 pg/mL (r=0.585; p &lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusions. The decrease in CTS levels at LVH and established correlations with the ECG signs of LVH and EchoCG parameters allow us to consider CTS as a predictor of the development of LVH, especially in patients with EH combined with T2DM.