Electrocardiographic Variables Research Articles

Abstract 4125999: Elderly patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction and renal failure: are SGLT2i a good option?

SGLT-2 receptor inhibitors (SGLT-2i) have been shown to reduce cardiovascular mortality and hospitalisations for heart failure (HF) in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and to have a nephroprotective role in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the available evidence in patients older than 75 years and with CKD is limited. We conducted a retrospective, single-centre study including patients aged >75 years diagnosed with HFrEF (defined as ejection fraction <40%), CKD (eGFR <60mL/min) and with an indication for treatment with SGLT-2i for HF between November 2019 and November 2022. Clinical, analytical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic variables were collected. A total of 173 patients were included with a mean follow-up of 31.6 months (SD ±13.2). Mean age 84.7 years (SD ±4.9), 66.5% were male, 85.5% were hypertensive, 34.7% diabetic and 39.3% dyslipidaemic. Peripheral vascular disease was present in 11.6%. Mean glomerular filtration rate was 45.9 mL/min and only 2.3% were on haemodialysis. LVEF at inclusion was 29.5% (SD ±7.9), with 53.1% being of ischaemic aetiology and the most frequent functional class being NYHA II (53.2%). Thirty-seven percent had atrial fibrillation and 34.1% had complete left bundle branch block. At the end of follow-up 80.3% were on beta-blockers, 48.6% on ACE inhibitors, 37.6% on aldosterone antagonists, 23.7% on ARNI and only 11% on SGLT-2i. Survival analysis was performed using Cox logistic regression (multivariate analysis), where SGLT-2i was shown to be the only protective factor for all-cause mortality (HR 0.3 [0.1-0.9]). Male sex (HR 2.2 [1.3-3.9]) and diabetes (HR 1.6 [1.0-2.6]) were associated with higher mortality. The attached figure (figure 1) shows the Kaplan-Meier survival curves for total mortality in those patients with and without SGLT-2i (p log-rank 0.05). In our population, SGLT2i showed a significant reduction in total mortality in patients older than 75 years, with HFrEF and CKD. However, the treatment rate in this subgroup of patients is very low. Further implementation of SGLT2i treatment in this type of patient could be of significant clinical and prognostic benefit.

Use of ST/HR hysteresis decreases false positive rate in exercise electrocardiography test of middle-aged asymptomatic women

BackgroundExercise electrocardiography (ECG) is a common diagnostic and prognostic method for the detection of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, its accuracy in asymptomatic women has not been comprehensively investigated and the diagnostic criteria may require refinements. This study evaluated the performance of ECG-derived ST/HR-index, ST/HR hysteresis and ST-segment depression parameters among asymptomatic middle-aged women. Methods108 women (mean age 56 ± 4 years) performed exercise ECG test on treadmill until exhaustion three times within a nine-month period. False-positive rates of maximum ST/HR-index, ST/HR hysteresis, and ST-segment depression values measured from 12 leads at peak exercise and after one-minute recovery were evaluated with recommended diagnostic partition values. Repeatability was assessed with intraclass correlation (ICC) and Bland-Altman plot analysis. ResultsFalse-positive rate was lower for all variables when a two‑lead configuration was used instead of a single‑lead configuration. Using a two‑lead configuration, ST/HR hysteresis (0–1.9 %) and ST-segment depression after one-minute recovery (0–2.8 %) had lower false-positive rates compared to ST/HR index (3.7–20.4 %) and ST-segment depression at peak exercise (9.3–27.8 %). ICC values indicated moderate repeatability for ST/HR hysteresis while ST/HR index, ST-segment at peak exercise, and ST-segment after one-minute recovery had moderate-to-good repeatability. Bland-Altman analysis indicated poor repeatability for all evaluated ECG variables. ConclusionIn asymptomatic middle-aged women, practitioners should prefer the use of ST/HR hysteresis and ST-segment after one-minute recovery over the conventional ST-segment depression at peak exercise or ST/HR index, and evaluate the ECG data from a two‑lead configuration instead of single‑lead.

Pre-discharge prediction of long-term prognosis in patients after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction - the ValAMI-P risk score

Abstract Background Despite contemporary management of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients, cardiovascular death (CV death) and re-admission for acute heart failure (aHF) are frequent complications during follow-up. Several clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic variables have been identified as risk factors of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in this setting. We aim to study the usefulness of a risk score using universally available clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic variables at discharge to stratify the risk of MACE during follow-up. Methods We prospectively included 712 patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention after STEMI. We registered clinical, ECG and echocardiography-derived pre-discharge data. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was categorized according to current recommendations. The primary endpoint was time to first MACE, defined as CV death or aHF, whichever occurred first. We created a risk score (ValAMI-P) including variables independently associated with MACE in multivariable analysis. Patients were classified in three groups (low, intermediate, and high risk) according to the ValAMI-P score. Results Mean age was 60±12 years, most patients (78.5%) were male, and smoking was the most prevalent risk factor (54.4%). During an 8.1-year median follow-up, 154 MACE (21.6%) were registered. In multivariable analysis, age (HR 1.03 [1.01-1.05], p=0.001), previous hypertension (HR 1.49 [1.04-2.12], p=0.029), GRACE score (HR 1.01 [1.01-1.02], p<0.001), mildly reduced LVEF (41-49%; HR 1.92 [1.18-3.11], p=0.008), reduced LVEF (≤40%; HR 5.2 [3.53-7.65], p<0.001) and the number of leads with Q-wave and residual ST-segment elevation at pre-discharge ECG (Q-STE; HR 1.13 [1.03-1.25], p=0.013) associated with long-term MACE. After classification according to the ValAMI-P risk score, patients with intermediate (8-13 points) and high (≥14 points) score depicted an increased risk of MACE (31% and 50%, respectively) compared to patients with low ValAMI-P risk score (≤7 points; 13%; p<0.001 for all comparisons). Conclusions The ValAMI-P risk score, which comprises widely available clinical, ECG and echocardiographic variables at discharge, can identify patients at increased long-term risk of MACE after STEMI.ValAMI-P risk score after STEMI

Impact of QRS complex fragmentation on all-cause mortality before and after cardiac resynchronization therapy

Abstract Introduction Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have demonstrated to reduce all-cause mortality in selected patients with HFrEF. However, there is still a high rate of non-responders, so risk stratification is crucial. Fragmentation of the QRS complex (QRSf) has been suggested as a valuable prognostic factor in different cardiac diseases, but the evidence in patients undergoing CRT is controversial and limited. Purpose To evaluate if changes in QRSf status before and after CRT implantation has a prognostic role in patients undergoing CRT in terms all-cause mortality. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing CRT were prospectively included from October 2009 to December 2022. Demographic clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic variables were recorded. Prospective follow-up variables were collected from electronic clinical records and telephone interview. QRSf complex was defined by the presence of different RSR′ patterns including additional R-waves (R′) and notches of the R-wave and S-wave in two contiguous leads corresponding to a main coronary artery territory in a 12-lead electrocardiogram performed before and after CRT. Results A total of 244 patients (mean age 71.8 ± 9.8 years, 79.5% male) were included. The etiology of LV systolic disfunction was ischemic in 50.0%. Mean LVEF before implantation was 25 ± 9%. A CRT-D was implanted in 176 patients (72.2%). The mean width of the paced QRS was 141 ± 23 ms. At baseline, 150 patients had a QRSf. After CRT implantation, 69 (28.4%) patients experimented a change in QRSf status: 29 patients (11.9%) without prior QRSf developed QRSf, whereas 40 patients (16.5%) resolved QRSf after CRT. Median follow-up time was 36.0 months (interquartile range 18.2-75.7). During the follow-up period, 90 patients died. In the multivariate Cox regression survival analysis, the presence of QRSf before the implantation with or without paced QRSf after CRT were independently associated with all-cause mortality (HR 4.43; 95% CI 1.53-12.80 and HR 3.69; 95% CI 1.16-11.80 respectively). Those without QRSf prior implantation who developed QRSf after CRT did not present significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses for all-cause mortality are presented in Table 1. Figure 1 presents Kaplan-Meier curves for all-cause mortality according to QRSf status before and after CRT implantation. Conclusions According to our results, preimplantation QRSf is an independent predictor of all-cause mortality regardless the resolution or maintenance of QRSf after CRT in patients with HFrEF undergoing CRT. Therefore, patients with QRSf before CRT implantation regardless the paced QRSf status, should be followed more strictly because they are at higher mortality risk.Table 1.Cox Regression Analyses

Pregnancy and inherited aortopathies: insights from specialized care

Abstract Background Genetic counselling, pregnancy follow-up and delivery planning in women with aortopathy should be conducted by a multidisciplinary team in an expert centre. Purpose Our objective was to analyze the impact of pregnancy on aortopathy outcomes in a centre specialized in inherited cardiovascular conditions in the United Kingdom. Methods All women with aortopathy referred to our centre due to pregnancy between 2016 and 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic, clinical, obstetric, genetic, electrocardiographic, and multimodal imaging variables were collected. Results Between 2016 and 2023, 22 women with aortopathy were referred to our centre for pregnancy follow-up and delivery planning. Among them, 14 (63.6%) had Marfan syndrome (FBN1+), 4 (18.2%) family history of aortic dissection without known genetic mutations, 2 (9.1%) bicuspid aortic valve with aortic dilation and 2 (9.1%) Loeys-Dietz syndrome (SMAD3+). The average number of births per patient was 1.55. Among those with an identified mutation, 4 (25%) underwent preimplantation diagnosis. In total, there were 40 pregnancies resulting in 34 live births. 15 women (68.2%) had an aortic root dimension <40mm and 7 (31.8%) ≥40mm. There were 4 (26.7%) and 5 (71.4%) patients in each group under beta-blockers. Out of the total 40 pregnancies, there were 6 (15%) miscarriages, all in the first trimester, 2 (5%) cases of preeclampsia and 1 (2.5%) case of gestational diabetes. There were no statistically significant differences between these complications and the aortic root dimension (8 (20%) <40mm vs 1 (2.5%) ≥40mm; p = 0.160) or the absence or presence of treatment (3 (7.5%) vs 6 (15%); p = 0.769). Regarding delivery, 16 patients (72.7%) underwent vaginal delivery and 6 (27.3%) has a caesarean section. After delivery, there were 6 cases of major bleeding, 4 (10%) after vaginal delivery and 2 (5%) after caesarean (p=0.376). One patient had a subacute type A aortic dissection in the context of Marfan syndrome with an aortic root of 40mm before pregnancy. No significant differences were observed in the occurrence of these complications based on the aortic root dimension (5 (12.5%) <40mm vs 2 (5%) ≥40mm; p = 0.928) or the absence or presence of treatment (2 (5%) vs 5 (12.5%) respectively; p = 0.591). 100% of the patients survived pregnancy and the postpartum period. Conclusions Our findings underscore the complexity of managing aortopathy during pregnancy. This highlights the importance of a comprehensive risk assessment for precise pregnancy and delivery planning.

QRS complex fragmentation status before and after cardiac resynchronization therapy predicts hospitalizations for heart failure

Abstract Introduction Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) reduces mortality and hospitalization for heart failure (HF) in selected patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, there is a significant percentage of non-responders who are readmitted for HF after implantation. Several biomarkers and electrocardiographic findings have been suggested as prognostic markers in this group of patients. Fragmentation of the QRS complex (QRSf) has been associated with worse prognosis in several cardiac diseases, but evidence in patients undergoing CRT remains to be limited. Purpose To evaluate if the changes in QRSf status before and after CRT implantation have a prognostic role in patients undergoing CRT in terms of hospitalization for HF. Methods Consecutive patients undergoing CRT were prospectively included from October 2009 to December 2022. Demographic clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic variables were recorded. Prospective follow-up variables were collected from electronic clinical records and telephone interview. QRSf complex was defined by the presence of different RSR′ patterns including an additional R-waves (R′) and notches of the R-wave and S-wave in two contiguous leads corresponding to a main coronary artery territory in a 12-lead surface electrocardiogram performed before and after CRT. Results A total of 244 patients (mean age 72 ± 10 years, 80% male) were included. The etiology of the LV systolic dysfunction was ischemic in 50.0%. Mean LVEF before implantation was 25 ± 9% and mean paced QRS width was 141 ± 23 ms. CRT-D was implanted in 176 patients (72.2%). At baseline, 150 patients had a QRSf. After CRT implantation, 69 (28.4%) patients experimented a change in QRSf status: 29 patients (11.9%) without prior QRSf developed QRSf, whereas 40 patients (16.5%) resolved QRSf after CRT. Median follow-up time was 36.0 months (interquartile range 18.2-75.7). At follow-up, 90 patients died and 91 presented at least one hospitalization for HF. Multivariate Cox regression survival analysis showed that development of QRSf after CRT implantation (HR 8.87; 95% CI 1.85-42.50) and the presence of QRSf before implantation with or without paced QRSf after CRT (HR 8.21; 95% CI 1.75-38.50 and HR 16.70; 95% CI 3.88-71.80 respectively) were independently associated with hospitalizations for HF. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses for HF hospitalization are presented in Table 1. Figure 1 presents Kaplan-Meier curves for QRSf status and hospitalizations for HF. Conclusions According to our results, QRSf status before and after CRT have a significant prognostic role in terms of hospitalization for HF after CRT, especially in those who develop QRSf after CRT and those with baseline QRSf regardless QRSf status after CRT. The worse prognosis was observed in those with QRSf before and after CRT. Therefore, these patients should be followed more strictly because they are at higher risk of decompensation.Table 1.Cox Regression Analyses

Pregnancy and inherited cardiomyopathies: insights from specialized care

Abstract Background Pregnancy and postpartum represent periods of increased risk of cardiovascular complications. Management of women with modified World Health Organization (mWHO) class II–III, III, and IV during pregnancy and around delivery should be conducted at an expert centre by a multidisciplinary team. Purpose Our objective was to analyze the impact of pregnancy on cardiomyopathy outcomes in a centre specialized in inherited cardiovascular conditions in the United Kingdom. Methods All women with cardiomyopathy referred due to pregnancy to our centre between 2016 and 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic, clinical, obstetric, genetic, electrocardiographic, and multimodal imaging variables were collected. Results Between 2016 and 2023, follow-up and delivery planning were initiated for 86 pregnancies in women with cardiomyopathies referred to our centre, resulting in 81 live births and 5 miscarriages, all in the first trimester. Among the full-term pregnancies, 17 (21%) were in patients in mWHO class I or II, 22 (27.2%) in II-III, 34 (42%) in III, and 8 (9.8%) in IV. The distribution of cardiomyopathy types among different mWHO classification is represented in Table 1. Women in mWHO class ≥ II-III had more pregnancy-related events than patients in mWHO I or II [28 (34.6%) vs 1 (1.2%); p = 0.004]. The most common complication in the first group was supraventricular tachycardia in 11 pregnancies (13.6%), followed by gestational diabetes in 9 (11.1%), left ventricular ejection fraction impairment in 4 (4.9%), preeclampsia in 3 (3.7%), and 1 (1.2%) ventricular tachycardia. One patient in the second group developed gestational diabetes. The distribution of the type of delivery among different mWHO classification is represented in Table 2. Only one patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in mWHO II-III who underwent a caesarean section presented a post-delivery complication related to retroperitoneal haematoma, with no statistical significative differences between the groups (p = 0.604). 100% of the patients survived pregnancy and postpartum period. Conclusions Pregnant women with cardiomyopathy face an increased risk of adverse events. Despite the presence of cardiovascular and obstetric complications, careful monitoring at a specialized centre leads to favourable outcomes particularly concerning mortality rates for both the mother and fetus. This highlights the importance of a comprehensive risk assessment and meticulous pregnancy and delivery planning to ensure optimal maternal and fetal health.Table 1.Cardiomyopathy and mWHOTable 2.Type of delivery and mWHO

Arrhythmogenic effects of DEHP exposure: insights into cardiac electrophysiology and myocardial cells

Abstract Introduction Hemodialysis patients, who are exposed to plasticizers through the hemodialysis circuit, face a high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Plasticizers, such as the endocrine-disrupting compound Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), have emerged as potential contributors to CVD. This study explores the impact of DEHP on cardiac electrophysiology and myocardial cells, providing insights into its cardiotoxic effects. Methods We employed optical mapping techniques to assess cardiac electrophysiology in Langendorff-perfused rat hearts exposed to DEHP, comparing them to a control group. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of DEHP on cardiac muscle cells using H9C2 rat cardiomyoblasts. Results Prolonged DEHP exposure resulted in elevated heart rate, increased electrocardiographic variability, and higher low-frequency values, indicative of sympathetic nervous system overactivity. Action potential duration at APD80 increased, leading to greater action potential triangulation. Electrical alternans observed in the DEHP-treated group heightened the risk of arrhythmias. Single-cell analysis revealed severe mitochondrial damage, myocardial cell apoptosis, and disrupted calcium ion balance. Conclusion This study highlights DEHP's cardiotoxicity, suggesting its potential role in arrhythmogenesis and cardiac dysfunction. Environmental pollutants like DEHP warrant consideration as contributors to cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing the need for further research on preventive strategies.

Prediction of left ventricular thrombus after myocardial infarction: a cardiac magnetic resonance-based prospective registry

BackgroundLeft ventricular thrombus (LVTh) is a severe complication after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). ObjectivesWe aim to predict LVTh occurrence by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) using clinical, echocardiographic, and electrocardiographic (ECG) variables readily available at admission. MethodsWe included 590 reperfused STEMI patients who underwent early (1-week) and/or late (6-month) CMR in our institution. Baseline clinical, echocardiographic (left ventricular ejection fraction -LVEF-) and ECG data (summatory of ST-segment elevation -sum-STE- and Q-wave and residual ST-elevation >1 mm -Q-STE-) during admission were registered. Multivariate binary logistic regression models and receiver operating characteristic curves were computed for LVTh prediction. ResultsLVTh was detected by CMR in 43 (7.3 %) patients and was predicted by previous chronic coronary syndrome (CCS, HR 4.74 [1.82–12.35], p = 0.001), anterior STEMI (HR 10.93 [2.47–48.31], p = 0.002), LVEF (HR 0.96 [0.93–0.99] per %, p = 0.008), maximum sum-STE (HR 1.04 [1.01–1.07] per mm, p = 0.04), and Q-STE (HR 1.31 [1.08–1.6] per lead, p = 0.008). High-risk patients with both major (anterior STEMI and Q-STE in ≥1 leads) and 1–3 minor (CCS, maximum sum-STE >10 mm, LVEF <50%) factors showed the highest LVTh risk (19.6 % within 6 months). The model showed excellent discrimination ability (area under the curve=0.85 [0.81–0.9], p < 0.001). Simplified 4-variable (excluding sum-STE) and 3-variable (also excluding CCS) risk scores showed similar discrimination ability and were externally validated. ConclusionsLVTh within 6 months post-STEMI can be predicted using pre-discharge clinical (anterior infarction and CCS), echocardiographic (LVEF), and ECG (sum-STE and Q-STE) data. Our results can help select patients who should undergo CMR after STEMI for LVTh detection.

P057 SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC, ANTHROPOMETRIC, PHYSIOLOGICAL, AND ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY IN THE YOUNG POPULATION

Background: excess weight is increasingly prevalent in young people, raising their cardiovascular and metabolic risk from an early age; therefore, factors associated with the development of overweight and obesity in this population should be identified. Objectives: identify associated factors with a body mass index ≥ 25 (BMI≥25) in medical students, Pereira-2022. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on medical students at a public university in Pereira, in which sociodemographic, anthropometric, physiological, and electrocardiographic variables were collected. A bivariate analysis was made comparing individuals with BMI≥25 to those below. A multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression. Results: 201 medical students were interviewed (mean age=21.4 years), 56.7% women. There were 48 (23.88%) participants with overweight, 8 (3.9%) with obesity class I, 1 (0.5%) with obesity class II, and 2 (1%) with obesity class III; The factors significantly related to having a BMI ≥25 were the feeling of guilt after drinking alcohol (OR=3.95 95% CI=1.49-10.43), family history of deceased by hypertension (OR=2.27 95% CI=1.08-4.78), a grandparent with obesity (OR=2.53 95% IC=1.20-5.31) and impaired repolarization of the inferior myocardium (OR=5.12 95% CI=1.46-17.95). Otherwise, systolic blood pressure &gt;130mmHg had a marginally significant association (OR=2.38 95% CI=0.91 - 6.18). Conclusions: More than a third part of the participants presented a BMI≥25. For overweight and obesity, there must be considered family and behavioral factors, such as feeling guilt after drinking alcohol, a history of a relative deceased by hypertension, and a grandparent with obesity. Additionally, systolic blood pressure &gt;130mmHg and impaired repolarization of the inferior myocardium must be taken into consideration.

P198 SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC, ANTHROPOMETRIC, PHYSIOLOGICAL, AND ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ELEVATED SYSTOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE IN YOUNG POPULATION

Background: Hypertension is a major challenge today. Although young individuals present lower risk, it's important to identify factors predisposing to elevated blood pressure from early years. Objectives Identify associated factors with elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) in medical students, Pereira-2022. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted on medical students at a public university in Pereira, in which sociodemographic, anthropometric, physiological, and electrocardiographic variables were collected. A bivariate analysis was made comparing individuals with an SBP&gt;130mmHg to those below. A multivariate analysis was performed using logistic regression. Results: 201 medical students were interviewed (mean age=21.4 years), 56.7% women. 17.4% presented high-normal blood pressure or grade I hypertension. 24 students were found with an SBP&gt;130mmHg (11.9%). The factors significantly related with this variable were being a woman (OR= 0.11 95% CI= 0.03-0.39), family history of deceased by chronic kidney disease (OR= 3.83 95% CI= 1.05-12.86), a parent with hypertension (OR=3.91 95% CI=1.41-10.80), diastolic blood pressure &gt;85mmHg (OR=6.60 95% CI= 1.96- 22.27) and wrong progression of the R-wave on the anteroseptal wall (OR=11.03 95% CI= 2.32-52.22). Conclusions: even though the population of youth has a lower prevalence of arterial hypertension, in this study, it was found that 11.9% of the participants present an SBP&gt;130mmHg. In this demographic group, there must be considered certain factors, such as a family history of chronic kidney disease and hypertension, a personal finding of elevated diastolic blood pressure, and electrographic changes, like a wrong progression of the R-wave on the anteroseptal wall.

Use and Benefit of Sacubitril/Valsartan in Elderly Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction.

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a highly prevalent syndrome in elderly subjects. Currently, multiple drugs have shown clinical benefits in patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, evidence is scarce in elderly patients (beyond 75 years old), even more so for the latest drugs, such as angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs). This study aims to evaluate the use and benefits of ARNIs in elderly patients with HFrEF. Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was designed. Patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (defined by left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] < 40%) and age ≥ 75 years from January 2016 to December 2020 were prospectively included. Patients with an indication for ARNIs at inclusion or throughout follow-up were selected. Clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic variables were collected. Results: A total of 616 patients were included, 34.4% of them female, with a mean age of 83.3 years, mean LVEF of 28.5% and ischemic etiology in 53.9% of patients. Only 14.3% of patients were taking ARNIs. After a mean follow-up of 34 months, 50.2% of patients died, and 62.2% had a cardiac event (total mortality or hospital admission due to HF). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the use of ARNIs was independently and significantly associated with lower rates of mortality [HR 0.36 (95% CI 0.21-0.61)], with similar results in relation to all-cause mortality in a propensity-score-matched analysis [HR 0.33 (95% CI 0.19-0.57)]. Conclusions: We observed an important underuse of ARNIs in a cohort of elderly HFrEF patients, in which treatment with ARNIs was associated with a significant reduction in mortality. Greater implementation of clinical practice guidelines in this group of patients could improve their prognosis.

Progranulin, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 May Predict an Increased Risk for Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis.

In systemic sclerosis (SSc), fibrosis of the myocardium along with ongoing autoimmune inflammation can alter the electric function of the cardiac myocytes, which may increase the risk for ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. We analyzed the electrocardiographic (ECG) variables describing ventricular repolarization such as QT interval, QT dispersion (QTd), T wave peak-to-end interval (Tpe), and arrhythmogeneity index (AIX) of 26 patients with SSc and 36 healthy controls. Furthermore, echocardiographic and laboratory parameters were examined, with a focus on inflammatory proteins like C-reactive ptotein (CRP), soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), soluble vascular adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1), and progranulin (PGRN). The CRP, sICAM-1, and sVCAM-1 levels were positively correlated with the length of the QT interval. Although the serum PGRN levels were not increased in the SSc group compared to the controls, in SSc patients, the PGRN levels were positively correlated with the QT interval and the AIX. According to our results, we conclude that there may be a potential association between autoimmune inflammation and the risk for ventricular arrhythmias in patients with SSc. We emphasize that the measurement of laboratory parameters of inflammatory activity including CRP, PGRN, sVCAM-1, and sICAM-1 could be helpful in the prediction of sudden cardiac death in patients with SSc.

Predictors of failed left bundle branch pacing implant in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: Importance of left ventricular diameter and QRS morphology

BackgroundLeft bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is considered an alternative to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, LBBP is not suitable for all patients with heart failure. ObjectiveThe aim of our study was to identify predictors of unsuccessful LBBP implantation in CRT candidates. MethodsA cohort of consecutive patients with indications for CRT were included. Clinical, echocardiographic, and electrocardiographic variables were prospectively recorded. ResultsA total of 187 patients were included in the analysis. LBBP implantation was successful in 152 of 187 patients (81.2%) and failed in 35 of 187 patients (18.7%). The causes of unsuccessful implantation were unsatisfactory paced QRS morphology (28 of 35 [80%]), inability to screw the helix (4 of 35 [11.4%]), lead instability (2 of 35 [5.7%]), and high pacing thresholds (1 of 35 [2.8%]). The left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD), non-LBBB (left bundle branch block) QRS morphology, and QRS width were predictors of failed implantation according to the univariate analysis. According to the multivariate regression analysis, LVEDD (odds ratio 1.31 per 5-mm increase; 95% confidence interval 1.05–1.63 per 5-mm increase; P = .02) and non-LBBB (odds ratio 3.07; 95% confidence interval 1.08–8.72; P = .03) were found to be independent predictors of unsuccessful LBBP implantation. An LVEDD of 60 mm has 60% sensitivity and 71% specificity for predicting LBBP implant failure. ConclusionWhen LBBP was used as CRT, LVEDD and non-LBBB QRS morphology predicted unsuccessful implantation. Non-LBBB triples the likelihood of failed implantation independent of LVEDD. Caution should be taken when considering these parameters to plan the best pacing strategy for patients.

Implant failure predictors of left bundle branch pacing used as cardiac resynchronization therapy: importance of left ventricular diameter and QRS morphology

Abstract Background Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) is considered an alternative to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, LBBP is not suitable for all heart failure patients. Purpose The aim of our study was to identify predictors of unsuccessful LBBP implantation in CRT candidates. Methods A cohort of consecutive patients with indications for CRT were included. Clinical, echocardiography and electrocardiographic variables were prospectively recorded. Results A total of 157 patients were included in the analysis. The LBBP implant was successful in 129/157 (82.2%) patients, and the implant failed in 28/157 patients (17.8%). The causes of failed implantation were as follows: unsatisfactory paced QRS (21/28; 75%); impossibility of screwing the helix (4/28; 14.3%); lead instability (2/28; 7.1%); and high pacing thresholds (1/28; 3.6%). Left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), nonspecific intraventricular conduction delay morphology (IVCD), and QRS width were predictors of failed implants according to the univariate analysis. In a multivariable regression analysis, LVEDD [OR 1.44 per 5 mm increase (95% CI 1.13, 1.82) p=0.003] and IVCD [OR 2.96 (95% CI 0.74, 11.84) p=0.09] were independent predictors of unsuccessful LBBP implantation. An LVEDD of 60 mm has 75% sensitivity and 67% specificity to predict LBBP implant failure. Conclusions When LBBP was used as CRT, LVEDD and IVCD predicted unsuccessful implantation. IVCD triples the possibility of failed implantation independently of LVEDD. Caution should be exercised when considering these parameters to plan the best pacing strategy in patients.

Ambulatory electrocardiographic longitudinal monitoring in a canine model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy identifies decreased very low frequency power as a hallmark of impaired heart rate variability.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients exhibit a late left ventricular systolic dysfunction preceded by an occult phase, during which myocardial fibrosis progresses and some early functional impairments can be detected. These latter include electrocardiographic (ECG) and heart rate variability (HRV) abnormalities. This longitudinal study aimed at describing the sequence of ECG and HRV abnormalities, using Holter ECG in the GRMD (Golden retriever muscular dystrophy) dog model, known to develop a DMD-like disease, including cardiomyopathy. Most of the known ECG abnormalities described in DMD patients were also found in GRMD dogs, including increased heart rate, prolonged QT and shortened PR intervals, ventricular arrhythmias, and several of them could be detected months before the decrease of fractional shortening. The HRV was impaired like in DMD patients, one of the earliest evidenced abnormalities being a decrease in the very low frequency (VLF) component of the power spectrum. This decrease was correlated with the further reduction of fractional shortening. Such decreased VLF probably reflects impaired autonomic function and abnormal vasomotor tone. This study provides new insights into the knowledge of the GRMD dog model and DMD cardiomyopathy and emphasizes the interest to monitor the VLF power in DMD patients, still unexplored in this disease, whilst it is highly predictive of deleterious clinical events in many other pathological conditions.

The effect of potassium levels on electrocardiographic data in calves with neonatal diarrhea

Objective: The objective of the current study was to assess the potassium levels and electrocardiographic (ECG) data in a cohort of 40 calves (age &lt; 30 days) diagnosed with newborn diarrhea, originating from dairy farms located in Ankara, Turkey.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on a dairy farm located in Ankara, involving a population of 500 dairy animals. The calves were divided into two groups: one group with normal potassium levels (n=24) and another group with hyperkalemia (n=16) due to neonatal diarrhea. After the initial clinical examination was conducted on the farm, electrocardiographic investigations were carried out utilizing an ECG equipment. The biochemical analysis of blood samples that were collected in red and dry collecting tubes was carried out with the assistance of an automated analyzing machine &#x0D; Results: The findings indicate that there were no statistically significant differences observed across all ECG variables between the two groups.&#x0D; Conclusion: Acidemia and metabolic acidosis are commonly observed in calves suffering from hyperkalemic diarrhea, as documented in previous investigations, often accompanied by heart rhythm problems. In contrast, the current investigation revealed that neonatal calves with diarrhea and hyperkalemia had just a deepening of the T wave, without any additional abnormalities. Nevertheless, it is important to note that acidemia and metabolic acidosis were not of a severe nature. The implementation of Holter monitoring is indicated for calves experiencing hyperkalemia in conjunction with diarrhea.

Machine learning model and nomogram to predict the risk of heart failure hospitalization in peritoneal dialysis patients

Introduction The study presented here aimed to establish a predictive model for heart failure (HF) and all-cause mortality in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients with machine learning (ML) algorithm. Methods We retrospectively included 1006 patients who initiated PD from 2010 to 2016. XGBoost, random forest (RF), and AdaBoost were used to train models for assessing risk for 1-year and 5-year HF hospitalization and mortality. The performance was validated using fivefold cross-validation. The optimal ML algorithm was used to construct the models to predictive the risk of the HF and all-cause mortality. The prediction performance of ML methods and Cox regression was compared. Results Over a median follow-up of 49 months. Two hundred and ninety-eight patients developed HF required hospitalization; 199 patients died during the follow-up. The RF model (AUC = 0.853) was the best performing model for predicting HF, and the XGBoost model (AUC = 0.871) was the best model for predicting mortality. Baseline moderate or severe renal disease, systolic blood pressure (SBP), body mass index (BMI), age, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score were strongly associated with HF hospitalization, whereas age, CCI score, creatinine, age, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were the most significant predictors of mortality. For all the above endpoints, the ML models demonstrated better discrimination than Cox regression. Conclusions We developed and validated a novel method to predict the risk factors of HF and all-cause mortality that integrates readily available clinical, laboratory, and electrocardiographic variables to predict the risk of HF among PD patients.

Response predictors to cardiac resynchronization therapy in chronic heart failure: a 10-year-cardiovascular center experience.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been established as an effective therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Randomized clinical trials have shown its impact on mortality and HF hospitalizations, as well as improvement of symptoms and quality of life. Finding clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic variables that may predict the response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We performed a single-center, observational, analytic, and retrospective study that included 102 patients with heart failure (HF) diagnosis who underwent CRT according to guideline-directed therapy from January 2010 to April 2020 in a third-level center. CRT response was defined as an improvement of New York Heart Association functional class in at least 1 category associated with a recovery of ≥ 5% in the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Our study population was 102 patients of which 61 (59.8%) were men. The mean age at HF diagnosis was 54 ± 18.7 years. Ischemic heart disease was the etiology in 37 (36.3%) cases. Fifty-one (50%) patients were classified as responders. Responders had wider QRS, and lower LVEF and right ventricular fractional area change at baseline. After CRT, responders had a greater reduction of QRS duration, and improvement in LVEF, global longitudinal strain, and echocardiographic dyssynchrony parameters. Multivariate regression analysis showed that left bundle branch block (LBBB), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and baseline difference of pre-ejection periods were predictors of a positive response to CRT in this population. LBBB, TAPSE, LVEDV, and pre-ejection time difference are independent variables that can predict adequate response to CRT.

Effects of ketamine, propofol and isoflurane on electrocardiographic variables in clinically healthy dogs premedicated with medetomidine and midazolam.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of three anesthetic agents, with premedication of medetomidine and midazolam, on electrocardiographic variables in dogs. Ten adult mixed breed dogs were used in a crossover design study, where they received ketamine, propofol and isoflurane treatments with a one-week washout period between them. In all three groups, medetomidine was administered first followed by midazolam after 15 min. Then, after 20 min, group 1 received ketamine intravenously (IV), group 2 received propofol (IV), and group 3 received isoflurane (inhalation). In all dogs, electrocardiographs were taken before and after premedication's, as well as every 15 min during anesthesia. Medetomidine significantly decreased heart rate and P wave amplitude and increased PR interval, R wave amplitude, QT interval, and T wave amplitude. Midazolam increased the amplitude of the R and T waves. Ketamine increased the heart rate and PR interval. Propofol increased the heart rate for up to 15 min, decreased the PR interval for up to 30 min, and the QT interval for up to 45 min. Isoflurane increased the heart rate and decreased the amplitude of R and T waves. The results showed that the drugs used in this study did not have many side effects on electrocardiographic variables and could be used without serious concern. The most important side effects observed were a severe reduction in heart rate and 1st degree atrioventricular (AV) block and, to a lesser extent, 2nd degree AV block caused by medetomidine and midazolam which were masked by the anesthetics.