Indices Of Left Ventricular Function Research Articles

Analysis of risk factors for changes of left ventricular function indexes in Chinese patients with gout by echocardiography.

Background: Echocardiographic data investigating the association between left ventricular (LV) function and gout is still limited. Purpose: To analyze the association of echocardiographic parameters based on two-dimentional speckle tracking analysis with clinically related indicators in patients with gout, and to provide a clinical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease in patients with gout. Methods: This study collected gout patients who visited the outpatient and inpatient departments of the first affiliated hospital of chengdu medical college from November 2019 to December 2020. Spearman correlation test was performed to analyze the correlation coefficients between the laboratorial indicators with echocardiographic parameters. And the logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the independent effects. Results: The results of multivariate logistic regression showed that fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was a risk factor for the decrease in absolute value of global longitudinal strain [GLS (OR = 2.34; 95% CI, 1.01-5.39; p = 0.04)], Urea was a risk factor for absolute reduction in GCS (OR = 1.40; 95% CI, 1.07-1.85; p = 0.02), age (OR = 1.09, 95% CI, 1.04-1.16; p = 0.001), and hypertension (OR = 8.35; 95% CI, 1.83-38.02; p = 0.006) were risk factors for increased E/Em. High urea levels were significantly related with high risks of LVH (OR = 1.59, 95% CI, 1.04-2.43; p = 0.03) and enlargement of LAVI (OR = 1.68, 95% CI, 1.01-2.80; p = 0.04). Conclusion: Our study found that elevated urea and FPG were risk factors for subclinical LV myocardial dysfunction in patients with gout, which might provide a theoretical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in clinical practice.

Left ventricular twist in patients with severe aortic stenosis: meaning and evolution after surgery

Abstract Background Structural and functional left ventricular (LV) remodeling is the result of myocardial adaptation to chronic pressure overload in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Changes in LV rotational dynamics are supposed to occur due to increased afterload in order to maintain LV ejection fraction (EF) in this setting. However, data regarding rotational dynamics with AS severity and their evolution after aortic valve replacement (AVR) are scarce. Goal To describe LV twist in patients with severe AS according to LV remodeling and assess its evolution after surgical AVR. Methodology Single center prospective cohort study of patients with classical isolated severe AS referred to surgical AVR. Complete transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) were performed before surgery for both valvular and LV remodeling assessment. TTE was performed at the 3rd to 6th post-operative month. LV twist was defined as the peak difference in systolic rotations of LV apex and base as viewed from the apex and calculated at bidimensional strain in short axis views. LV remodeling was categorized by CMR according to Figure 1. Correlation analysis was performed for indexes of AS severity and LV function. Results A total of 80 patients with classical high flow, high gradient, preserved LV EF (46% male; mean age 71 ± 8 years old; mean aortic valve [AV] gradient 61±17.6mmHg, mean AV area 0.73±0.18cm2 , mean LVEF: 58 ± 9%) were included. LV twist before surgery was 24.5 +/- 9.7% and this was modestly correlated with both LV flow (r = 0.315, p= 0.001) and AV gradients (r = 0.315, p = 0.013). Rotational indexes were no different across distinct types of LV remodeling. After AVR there was a significant decrease in LV twist (24.5 +/- 9.7% vs. 16.5 +/- 8.3%, p<0.001), despite significant improvement in global longitudinal strain (-14.7 ± 3.9% vs -16.1 ± 3.1%, p < 0.001) and maintenance of preserved LVEF (58 ± 9% vs 60 +/- 8%, p = 0.07). Conclusion As LV twist has an inverse relation to GLS after AVR, this may represent a compensatory mechanism for LVEF preservation in patients with severe AS. Rotational mechanics seems to be independent from structural LV remodeling in this setting.

Paradoxical increase in E/e' during severe central hypovolemia in healthy humans

Abstract Introduction The ratio of mitral blood inflow to mitral annular tissue velocity in early diastole (E/e') is widely used as an index of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. Theoretically, it is considered that e’ can correct the effect of LV relaxation on E, and thus E/e’ can be applied for the prediction of LV filling pressures in patients with cardiac diseases. However, recent guidelines indicate that E/e’ may not provide a reliable estimate of filling pressures in healthy subjects. Indeed, previous studies have reported that E/e' did not decrease during acute central hypovolemia because both E and e’ are similarly reduced by low preload condtions. However, it is possible that E/e' did not decrease since central hypovolemia are not critical in the previous studies. Purpose The purpose of the present study was to clarify the change of E/e’ during severe central ypovolemia induced by lower body negative pressure. Methods Twelve healthy men (25±5 years old) underwent 2D Doppler and 3D echocardiography during graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) up to presyncope. We measured LV diastolic function indices by 2D echocardiography including septal and lateral mitral annular early diastolic velocities (e’), and early (E) and late (A) mitral inflow velocities. In addition, we measured LV function indices by 3D echocardiography including end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume (ESV), stroke volume (SV), ejection fraction (EF), global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), twist and peak untwisting rate. We compared echocardiography indices before LBNP (Baseline) with those at maximal LBNP (LBNPmax) and at half of the maximal LBNP (LBNP1/2max). Results E/e’ (Baseline: 5.8±0.8, LBNP1/2max: 5.4±1.0, LBNPmax: 7.8±2.3, mean±SD, p<0.01, ANOVA) did not change at the LBNP1/2max but increased only at the LBNPmax. E (80±11, 59±10, 62±12 cm/sec, p<0.01) and E/A (2.2±0.8, 1.5±0.5, 1.0±0.3, p<0.01) decreased at the LBNP1/2max as compared to baseline but did not change from LBNP1/2max to LBNPmax. e’ (14.1±2.0, 11.1±1.5, 8.2±2.2 cm/sec, p<0.01) decreased in response to LBNP. LV EF (62±3, 55±5, 43±9 %, p<0.01), LV GLS (-20.5±2.8, -17.6±2.7, -13.6±4.7 %, p<0.01), and LV GCS (-31.2±3.7, -26.8±3.3, -19.4±5.3 %, p<0.01) decreased in response to LBNP. LV twist (15.2±5.1, 14.5±5.4, 20.9±7.7 °, p<0.01) and LV peak untwisting rate (-138±42, -164±50, -245±88 °/cm, p<0.01) increased only at the LBNPmax. Conclusion The present study for the first time showed that E/e’ paradoxically increased during acute severe hypovolemia in healthy humans. This paradox was likely caused by well-preserved E, while e’ decreased in response to acute severe central hypovolemia. The present finding also showed that peak untwisting rate was increased only at severe central hypovolemia, suggesting that the well-preserved E may be caused by high pressure gradient from left atrium to LV induced by enhanced LV untwisting suction function.Key results of this study①Key results of this study②

Abstract 13816: Clearing P16+ Cells Prevents Cardiac Dysfunction and Death in Mice With Acute Myocardial Infarction

Introduction: Cellular senescence, a stress and age-related response, is often characterized by p16 expression in p16 positive (p16 + ) senescent cells. Senescent cells secrete profibrotic and proinflammatory factors as parts of a “senescence associated secretory phenotype”. The role of cellular senescence in myocardial infarction (MI) is unclear. Aims: To study the effect of p16 + cell clearance on survival, cardiac remodeling and function after MI. Methods: We used INK ATTAC transgenic mice, in which p16 + cells undergo targeted apoptosis upon exposure to a dimerizer, AP20187 (AP). MI mice were treated with AP or vehicle (V), twice a week for 1 month, beginning 3-4 hours post-MI. Cardiac function and structure were evaluated with echocardiography, hemodynamic parameters with a Millar catheter, infarct area with Masson’s Trichrome, gene expression with qPCR and single-nucleus RNA-sequencing (snRNAseq). Results: Survival post MI was dramatically increased in MI-AP vs MI-V mice (P<0.001, Fig A), primarily via prevention of cardiac rupture (CardRup). Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF%) and LV anterior wall thickness at end diastole (LVAWd) decreased in MI-V vs Sham and improved in MI-AP mice (Fig B), indicating preservation of cardiac function and structure with p16 + cell clearance. Hemodynamic indices of LV function (max and min dP/dt) improved with AP (Fig C). Fibrosis-related gene expression (Col1a1, Col3a1 and Lox; Fig D) increased with MI and improved with AP, paralleling changes in infarct size (Fig E). snRNAseq showed that genes were principally upregulated in MI-V macrophages and neutrophils; significant responses were seen in TNF-α, inflammatory response pathways and gene programs associated with CardRup (Fig F). Conclusion: These results suggest that p16 + cells play a significant role in the evolution of MI, apparently by modulating inflammatory signaling, pointing to an important pathophysiological role of cellular senescence.

Cross-sectional associations between questionnaire-measured physical activity and tissue doppler indices of left ventricular diastolic function

BackgroundThe prevalence of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction has been increasing over the past decade, and to date, effective pharmacotherapies that enhance LV diastolic function have not yet been identified. Though some data has demonstrated the beneficial effects of exercise training on LV diastolic function, little is known about the adaptations of diastolic function to daily physical activity (PA). Accordingly, our study aimed to investigate the impact of daily PA on tissue Doppler indices of LV diastolic function.MethodsA total of 432 participants were enrolled for clinically indicated echocardiography from July 2019 to July 2020 at Peking University People’s Hospital. Participants aged ≥ 18 years were included if they had stable PA in the past six months and normal LV systolic function. A questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics, medical history, and daily PA. According to PA Guidelines for Americans, we identified these participants into low-intensity PA (LPA) group and moderate-high-intensity PA (MHPA) group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to match potential confounding factors between the two groups. The clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters between LPA group and MHPA group were compared using student’s t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square test as appropriate.ResultsAfter matching potential confounding factors using PSM with a 1:3 matching ratio, our final analysis included 86 cases in the MHPA group and 214 cases in the LPA group. All demographic characteristics and comorbidities were statistically similar between the two groups. Compared to the LPA group, the MHPA group showed higher septal e’ (7.9 ± 2.9 cm/s versus 7.2 ± 2.6 cm/s, P = 0.047). Other echocardiographic parameters associated with LV diastolic function concerning lateral e’ and average E/e’, also trended towards improved LV diastolic function in the MHPA group, but failed to reach statistical significance.ConclusionsOur study demonstrated that moderate-high-intensity daily PA was associated with improved septal e’, suggesting that moderate-high-intensity PA could potentially ameliorate LV diastolic dysfunction.

Assessment of the Prognostic Value of MRI Left Ventricular Global Function Index (LVGFI) in Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease Under Maintenance Dialysis.

Left ventricular global function index (LVGFI) integrates LV volumetric and functional parameters. In patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), cardiac injury manifests as LV hypertrophy and dysfunction. However, the prognostic value of LVGFI in this population remains unclear. To investigate the association of LVGFI with major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with ESRD. Prospective. One hundred fifty-eight ESRD patients (mean age: 54.1 ± 14.4 years; 105 male) on maintenance dialysis. 3.0 T, balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) cine and modified Look-Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) sequences. LV volumetric and functional parameters were determined from bSSFP images. LVGFI was calculated as the ratio of stroke volume to global volume and native T1 was determined from MOLLI T1 maps. MACE was recorded on follow up. Models were developed to predict MACE from conventional risk factors combined with LVGFI, GLS, native T1, and LV mass index (LVMI), respectively. Subgroup analyses were further performed in participants with LVEF above median. Cox proportional hazard regression and log-rank test were used to investigate the association between LVGFI and MACE. The predictive models were evaluated and compared using Harrell's C-statistics and DeLong tests. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Thirty-four MACE occurred during the median follow-up period of 26 months. The hazard of MACE increased by 114% for each 10% decrease in LVGFI in univariable analysis. The predictive model consisting of LVGFI (C-statistic: 0.724) had significantly better predictive performance than the others (all P < 0.001). These results were consistent in patients (N = 79) with LVEF > median (63.54%). LVGFI is a novel marker for MACE risk stratification in patients with ESRD and was better able to predict MACE than native T1 mapping and GLS. 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 3.

Association of insulin use with LV remodeling and clinical outcomes in diabetic patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: assessed by cardiac MRI

BackgroundInsulin is commonly used in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) to achieve glycemic control. However, recent evidence showed that insulin use is associated with poor outcomes in the context of heart failure (HF). Since heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) accounts for approximately 50% of cases in the general HF population, we aimed to evaluate the effect of insulin treatment on left ventricular (LV) remodeling and contractility abnormalities in a HFrEF cohort and assess whether insulin was a predictor of adverse outcomes in this entity.MethodsA total of 377 HFrEF patients who underwent cardiac MRI were included and divided according to diabetes status and the need for insulin treatment. LV structural and functional indices, as well as systolic strains, were measured. The determinants of impaired myocardial strains were assessed using linear regression analysis. The associated endpoints were determined using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model.ResultsT2DM patients on insulin displayed a higher indexed LV end-diastolic volume and LV mass than those with T2DM not on insulin or those without T2DM, despite similar LV ejection fractions, accompanied by a higher three-dimensional spherical index (P < 0.01). Worse longitudinal and circumferential peak systolic strain was shown to occur in T2DM patients on insulin (P < 0.01). Insulin treatment was independently associated with impaired magnitudes of systolic strain. The median follow-up duration was 32.4 months (IQR, 15.6–43.2 months). Insulin treatment remained consistently associated with poor outcomes after adjustment for established confounders, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 3.11; (95% CI, 1.45–6.87; P = 0.009) in the overall cohort and 2.16 (95% CI, 1.08–4.59; P = 0.030) in the diabetes cohort.ConclusionsInsulin may further lead to adverse LV remodeling and contractile dysfunction in the context of HFrEF with T2DM. Considerable care should be taken when treating HFrEF patients with insulin.

Three-Dimensional-Derived Echocardiographic Left Ventricular Structure and Function and Indices from the 12-Lead Electrocardiogram across the Menstrual Cycle in Healthy Physically Active Females: An Exploratory Study.

Background: The impact of the menstrual phases on left ventricular (LV) structure and function using 3D echocardiography and resting electrocardiogram (ECG) in healthy, eumenorrheic, and physically active females has not been investigated. Methods: sixteen females (20 y ± 2) underwent 3D echocardiography and an ECG at three time points in the menstrual cycle phases (follicular, ovulation, luteal). LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDVi), LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV mass allometrically indexed to height2.7 (LVMi), torsion, and global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain (GLS, GCS, and GRS) were evaluated. ECG data of the P and QRS waves were presented as well as axis deviation, chamber enlargement, and any rhythm abnormalities. Results: LVMi was significantly higher in the luteal phase (36.4 g/m2.7 ± 3.3) compared to the follicular (35.0 g/m2.7 ± 3.7) and ovulation (34.7 g/m2.7 ± 4.3) phases (p = 0.026). There were no differences in other indices of LV structure and function or ECG variables across all phases of the menstrual cycle or evidence of arrhythmia. Conclusions: In physically active females, there is a small but significantly higher LVMi associated with the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle with no concomitant change in LV function or ECG parameters. These findings are important to consider when conducting clinical or research serial assessments.

Blood pressure control and left ventricular echocardiographic progression in hypertensive patients: an 18-month follow-up study.

The impact of blood pressure (BP) control and its timing on left ventricular (LV) structure and function remains unclear. The present study was to evaluate whether BP control correlated with conventional LV geometry and function indexes or global longitudinal strain (GLS) progression, and when echocardiographic changes would occur in essential hypertension. A total of 62 participants (mean age 55.2 ± 11.5, male 71.0%) with uncontrolled hypertension were enrolled in the longitudinal study. Patients were followed up at the 6-month and 18-month, when echocardiographic measurements were performed and BP control was evaluated during the follow up period. At the 6- and 18-month examination, we divided the hypertensive patients into two groups as BP controlled and uncontrolled group. Patients with BP uncontrolled (n = 33) had higher LV mass index (P = 0.02), higher left atrial volume index (P = 0.01), worse GLS (P = 0.005) and GLS changes (P = 0.003) compared with controlled BP (n = 29) at the 6-month follow-up examination. Patients with uncontrolled BP (n = 25) had higher LV mass index (P = 0.001), higher LV mass index changes (P = 0.01), higher relative wall thickness (P = 0.01), higher E/e' (P = 0.046), worse GLS (P = 0.02) and GLS changes (P = 0.02) compared to BP controlled group (n = 24) at the 18-month follow-up examination. GLS changes were associated with BP control (β = 0.370, P = 0.004 at the 6-month examination and β = 0.324, P = 0.02 at the 18-month examination, respectively) in stepwise multivariate regression analysis. LV mass index changes was corelated with systolic BP (β = 0.426, P = 0.003) at the 18-month follow-up examination in stepwise multivariate regression analysis. Neither was GLS changes nor LV mass index changes were related to antihypertensive medication class, including combination therapy in 6- or 18-month follow up examination. Our findings offer new clinical evidence on the association of BP control with echocardiographic changes in hypertensive patients, and, in particular, support the view that GLS progression was earlier and subtler than conventional LV geometry and function parameters. GLS changes were significant between BP controlled and uncontrolled patients even in 6-month follow-up period.

Correlation between left atrial strain and left ventricular diastolic function in hypertensive patients.

Early detection of asymptomatic diastolic dysfunction is essential to prevent the development of heart failure in hypertensive patients. Current studies suggest that left atrial strain contributes to the evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function, but there are fewer studies on the correlation between left atrial strain and diastolic function in hypertensive patients. In this study, we applied a two-dimensional speckle tracking technique to evaluate the changes in left atrial strain in hypertensive patients, and to investigate the relationship between left atrial strain and left ventricular diastolic function. A total of 82 hypertensive patients who were visited the Department of Cardiology at the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from July 2021 to January 2022, were enrolled for this study, and 59 healthy subjects served as a control group. According to the number of left ventricular diastolic function indexes recommended by the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography Diastolic Function Guidelines (mitral annular e´ velocity: Septal e´<7 cm/s, lateral e´<10 cm/s, E/e´ ratio>14, left atrial volume index>34 mL/m2, peak tricuspid regurgitation velocity>2.8 m/s), the hypertensive patients were divided into 3 groups: Group Ⅰ (0 index, n=36 ), Group Ⅱ (1 index, n=39), and Group Ⅲ (2 indexes, n=7). Two-dimensional speckle tracking technique was used to measure left atrial reservoir strain (LASr), conduit strain, and contraction strain, and to analyze the correlation between left atrial strain and left ventricular diastolic function in hypertensive patients. The LASr, left atrial conduit strain (LAScd), and LASr/(E/septal e´) of the hypertension group were lower than those of the control group, and E/LASr was higher than that of the control group. There was no significant difference in left atrium volume index between the 2 groups (P>0.05). Compared with Group Ⅰ, LASr, LAScd, and LASr/(E/septal e´) were decreased in Group Ⅱ and Group Ⅲ, LASr/(E/septal e´) was also decreased in Group Ⅲ compared with Group Ⅱ (all P<0.05). Compared with Group Ⅰ, E/LASr was increased in Group Ⅲ. LASr was positively correlated with septal e´, lateral e´, E, and E/A, and negatively correlated with E/septal e´. The changes of left atrial function in patients with early hypertension are earlier than those of left atrial structure. Left atrial strain and its combination with conventional ultrasonographic indices [LASr/(E/septal e´)] of diastolic function are potentially useful in assessing left ventricular diastolic function in hypertensive patients.

Global Left Ventricular Function Index as a Predictor of Subclinical Contractile Dysfunction in Patients with Concentric Left Ventricular Hypertrophy

Global Left Ventricular Function Index as a Predictor of Subclinical Contractile Dysfunction in Patients with Concentric Left Ventricular Hypertrophy

Impact of pulmonary valve replacement on left and right ventricular function using strain analysis, in children with repaired tetralogy of Fallot

BackgroundIn repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF), pulmonary regurgitation and resulting right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction are associated with adverse clinical outcomes. We performed an echocardiographic assessment of LV and RV function using Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) and conventional echo method prior to and following Pulmonary Valvular Replacement (PVR) to help inform proper timing of operation.ResultsA total of 30 rTOF patients (12.17 ± 2.5 years, 70% male) were included. Regarding to LV function, the study revealed a significant reverse correlation between LV GLS (absolute value) and early (mean = 10.4 days) and late (mean = 7.4 months) postop LVEF. Paired T-Test showed significant difference between GLS of LV and RV before and late after operation (op), however, without significant changes early postop. Late postop significant improvements occurred in other conventional echo indices of LV and RV function as well. There was also a significant correlation between echo-measured LVEF & Fraction Area Change (RV FAC) and MRI-derived LVEF & RVEF, respectively.ConclusionIn this cross-sectional study in rTOF patients, RV and LV GLS as well as conventional echocardiographic indices regarding LV and RV function improved significantly after 6 months (mean = 7.4mo) following PVR.

Left atrial strain is associated with the burden of symptoms in cardiac amyloidosis: a speckle tracking study

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is characterized by an impairment of cardiac diastolic and, in the severe state of the disease, systolic function, with increasing worsening of functional capacity and quality of life (QoL). Six minute walking test (6MWT) and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) are two well-known and validated methods to assess the impact of heart failure (HF) symptoms and functional capacity. Left atrial strain by speckle tracking echocardiography has emerged as an index of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function and filing pressure, and is also associated with symptoms in HF. However, its possible association with functional capacity and QoL in CA has not yet been investigated. Objectives in this observational pilot study, our aim was to evaluate the relationship of left atrial strain with 6MWT and KCCQ in patients with CA (both AL and ATTR). Methods we enrolled consecutive patients with CA during routine follow up visits. Patients underwent clinical and echocardiographic evaluation. On the same day, 6MWT was performed and KCCQ was administered. Speckle tracking analysis was performed offline by an experienced operator blinded to the other data. Correlation analysis was conducted using Pearsons’ coefficient and linear regression analysis Results overall, 43 patients with CA (25 ATTR, 18 AL) were enrolled. Mean age was 74 ±11, 16% (n=7) were female. Most patients showed normal left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (55±9) and reduced LV global longitudinal strain (GLS =−12 ± 7%), 32 of them with apical sparing pattern (Table 1). Mean global peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) was 14 (median[IQR]=6.5;23.5), mean 6MWT score = 382 ± 104 and mean KCCQ score= 67 ± 24. Global PALS showed a strong direct correlation with 6MWT (Fig 1, P= 0.4, R2=0.2, p-value=0.032) and a trend towards correlation with KCCQ (R2=0.3, p-value=0.06), although not reaching statistical significance, probably due to the low sample size. The correlation between PALS and 6MWT was even stronger in patients with ATTR (p = 0.7, R2 0.4; p-value&amp;lt;0.0001). Conclusions our preliminary results show that, global PALS is associated with functional capacity and the burden of HF symptoms in ATTR and AL, suggesting its role as a more objective marker of disease severity in CA.

Dynamic left atrial strain by dobutamine: Evidence for relationship with both left ventricular strain and atrioventricular volumetrics

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Left atrial strain (LASR) by speckle-tracking echocardiography allows the assessment of LA function in each phase of the cardiac cycle. However, its determinants and its relation with left ventricular (LV) function have not yet been fully described. Moreover, a potential effect of the LV cavities volumes has been recently proposed. Purpose Purpose of the study was to assess the effect of LV functional indices to LASR in combination with LA and LV volumes both at rest (R) and during dobutamine stress echo (D). Methods We studied 58 consecutive patients (age 59/12, male/female 37/19) who underwent D without evidence of ischemia. Using 2-D speckle tracking in apical views, both LA and LV strain analysis was performed at R and D. The following parameters were estimated: LA volumes (max/min), LA emptying function (max-min/max), LA strain (SR: overall, reservoir, conduit, active), LV volumes (systole: LVSvol, diastole: LVDvol) stroke volume (SV), LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV longitudinal strain (LVSR) and LA/LV max volume ratio (LA/LVvol). Results At R, among LA indices, LAtotalSR only was related to LVSR (r=0.31, p = 0.02). However, at D, LAcondSR, LAactive SR, LAtotalSR were related to LVSR (r=-0.25/0.36/0.3 respectively, all p&amp;lt;0.001). At R, LAEF, LAactiveSR and LAtotalSR were related with La/LVvol (r=-0.40/-0.40/0.45 respectively, all p&amp;lt;0.002). At D, LAEF, LAreservoirSR, LAactiveSR and LAtotalSR were related with La/LVvol (r=-0.39/-0.31/-0.31/-0.42 respectively, all p&amp;lt;0.001). For the determination of LAactiveSR at R, using stepwise multiple regression analysis including LVEF LVSR LVsv, LVDvol, La/LVvol, the greater contribution was provided by La/LVvol (initial R=0.41), with small improvement by LVSR (final R=0.50, p&amp;lt;0.001). In contrast, at D, the greater contribution for LAactiveSR was provided by LVSR (initial R=0.36) with some improvement by La/LVvol (final R=0.47 p&amp;lt;0.001). For the determination of LAtotalSR at R, the greatest contribution was provided by LA/LVvol (initial R=0.45) with improvement by LVSR (R=0.57) and finally by LVDvol (final R=0.64, p&amp;lt;0.001). For LAtotalSR at D, the greatest contribution was provided also by LA/LVvol (initial R=0.43) with further improvement by LVSR (final R=0.54, p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusions LA strain indices are determined partially by LV strain both at rest and mainly during inotropic stimulation. However, they are further and beyond LV strain modulated by the ratio of LV and LA volumes, which play a key role for the overall LA strain both at R and during D. The LA active component is less dependent on volumes, and it is coherent to LV strain during inotropic modulation. Nonetheless, dynamic LA strain is of interest since it integrates LV/LA function, thus providing new insights for clinical application.

Prognostic significance of the biomarker NT-proBNP in the surgical treatment of aortic stenosis (pilot study)

The objective was to study the relationship between the preoperative blood levels of the N-terminal segment of B-type natriuretic peptide precursor (NT-proBNP) and ultrasound and thermodilution indicators of cardiac function before and after on-pump surgery for aortic stenosis, as well as to evaluate the prognostic significance of the biomarker in relation to postoperative myocardial dysfunction.Materials and methods. The study involved 27 patients aged 57.7±2.5 years who underwent aortic valve replacement. NT-proBNP level was determined before surgery. The indicators of invasive hemodynamics and transesophageal echocardiography were analyzed at stages: I – after anesthesia induction, II – at the end of surgery. Correlation analysis, logistic regression and ROC analysis were used.Results. The preoperative NT-proBNP level was 2002.0 [540.8–4001.5] pg/ml. At I stage, NT-proBNP correlated with mean pulmonary artery pressure (rho = 0.468; p = 0.014), indices of left ventricular function (rho = –0.509; p = 0.007), end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (rho = 0.737–0.757; p &lt; 0.0001), as well as ejection fraction (rho = –0.556; p = 0.004) and area contraction fraction (rho = –0.783; p &lt; 0.0001). At II stage, the level of NT-proBNP &gt; 2000 pg/ml was a predictor of the left ventricular area contraction fraction &lt; 50% (OR 1.0011, 95% CI 1.0002–1.0020, p = 0.028, AUC 0.799) , the left ventricular end-systolic area index &gt; 9 cm2/m2 (OR 1.0007, 95% CI 1.0001–1.0013, p = 0.027, AUC 0.886), vasoactive-inotropic score &gt; 10 (OR 1.0006, 95% CI 1.0001–1.0012, p = 0.032, AUC 0.876), duration of sympathomimetic therapy &gt; 24 h (OR 1.0001, 95% CI 1.0000–1.0003, p = 0.049, AUC 0.889).Conclusions. NT-proBNP blood level was increased in 66.7% of patients with aortic stenosis before surgery. Moreover, the biomarker level directly correlates with the mean pulmonary artery pressure, the indices of end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, end-diastolic and end-systolic areas of the left ventricle, and it inversely correlates with the left ventricular stroke work index, ejection fraction and left ventricular area contraction fraction. The preoperative NT-proBNP level was a predictor of the postoperative decrease to the pathological level of the ejection fractions and left ventricular area contraction, an increase in the left ventricular end-systolic area index, intensive and prolonged sympathomimetic therapy. Myocardial dysfunctions were most pronounced in patients with biomarker levels above 2000 pg/ml.

Left atrial stiffness and strain are novel indices of left ventricular diastolic function in children: validation followed by application in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children due to COVID-19.

We hypothesized left atrial (LA) stiffness may serve as a surrogate marker in children to differentiate elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) from normal and help detect diastolic dysfunction in myocardial injury due to multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). We validated LA stiffness in 76 patients (median age 10.5 years), 33 had normal PCWP (<12 mmHg) and 43 had elevated PCWP (≥12 mmHg). LA stiffness was applied to 42 MIS-C patients [28 with myocardial injury (+) and 14 without myocardial injury (-)], defined by serum biomarkers. The validation group consisted of a group with and without cardiomyopathies, whose PCWP values ranged from normal to severely elevated. Peak LA strain was measured by speckle-tracking and E/e' from apical four chamber views. Noninvasive LA stiffness was calculated as: LAStiffness=E/e'LAPeakStrain (%-1). Patients with elevated PCWP showed significantly elevated LA stiffness [median 0.71%-1 vs. 0.17%-1, P < 0.001]. Elevated PCWP group showed significantly decreased LA strain (median: 15.0% vs. 38.2%, P < 0.001). Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve for LA stiffness yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.88 and cutoff value of 0.27%-1. In MIS-C group, ROC curve yielded an AUC of 0.79 and cutoff value of 0.29%-1 for identifying myocardial injury. In children with elevated PCWP, LA stiffness was significantly increased. When applied to children with MIS-C, LA stiffness classified myocardial injury accurately. LA stiffness and strain may serve as noninvasive markers of diastolic function in the pediatric population.

Sacubitril/Valsartan Improves Left Atrial and Ventricular Strain and Strain Rate in Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction.

Data on the impact of sacubitril/valsartan (SV) therapy on phasic left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) strain in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in two-dimensional speckle tracking (2D-STE) parameters with SV therapy in HFrEF patients. Prospective evaluation of HFrEF patients receiving optimized medical therapy. Two-dimensional speckle tracking (2D-STE) parameters were assessed at baseline and after 6 months of SV therapy. LA strain and strain rate (SR) in reservoir, conduit, and contraction phases were compared with LV longitudinal, radial, and circumferential strain and SR and stratified according to heart rhythm and HFrEF etiology. A total of 35 patients completed the 6-month follow-up, with a mean age of 59 ± 11 years, 40% in atrial fibrillation, 43% with ischemic etiology, and LVEF of 29 ± 6%. There were significant improvements in LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile strain and SR following SV therapy, particularly among patients in sinus rhythm. There were significant improvements in longitudinal, radial, and circumferential LV function indices. SV therapy in HFrEF was associated with improved longitudinal, radial, and circumferential function, particularly among patients in sinus rhythm. These findings can provide insights into the mechanisms underlying the improvement of cardiac function and help assess subclinical responses to the treatment.

Effects of arteriovenous fistulas and central venous catheters on the cardiac function and prognosis of patients on maintenance hemodialysis.

To investigate the effects of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) and central venous catheters (CVCs) on the left ventricular function (LVF) and prognosis of maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. This retrospective cohort study included 270 patients (139 with AVF and 131 with CVC) undergoing dialysis with newly established vascular access in the blood purification center of Nanhua hospital, University of South China, from January 2019 to April 2021. Dialysis efficiencies, LVF indexes, and one-year prognoses were compared. At six and twelve months after the establishment of vascular access, the mean urea clearances (Kt/V) and urea reduction ratio (URR) between the AVF- and the CVC-group were similar (P>0.05). The mean LVF values between the two groups were also similar before the establishment of vascular access (P>0.05), but the mean values of left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDd), interventricular septal thickness (IVSTd), and left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT) in the AVF-group were higher than those in the CVC-group one year later, and mean early (E) and late (A) diastolic mitral velocities, E/A, and ejection fraction (EF) were lower than those in the CVC-group (P<0.05). The incidence of left ventricular hypertrophy and systolic dysfunction in the AVF-group was higher than that in the CVC-group (P<0.05). The hospitalization rate of AVF-group (23.02%) was lower than that of the CVC-group (49.61%) (P<0.05). Both AVF and CVC can achieve appropriate dialysis effects in MHD patients. AVF has a negative impact on cardiac function while CVC has a high hospitalization rate.

Remote Ischemic Conditioning in Pediatric Cancer Patients Receiving Anthracycline Chemotherapy: A Sham-Controlled Single-Blind Randomized Trial

BackgroundAnthracycline cardiotoxicity is a concern in survivors of childhood cancers. Recent evidence suggests that remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) may offer myocardial protection. ObjectivesThis randomized sham-controlled single-blind study tested the hypothesis that RIC may reduce myocardial injury in pediatric cancer patients receiving anthracycline chemotherapy. MethodsWe performed a phase 2 sham-controlled single-blind randomized controlled trial to determine the impact of RIC on myocardial injury in pediatric cancer patients receiving anthracycline-based chemotherapy. Patients were randomized to receive RIC (3 cycles of 5-minute inflation of a blood pressure cuff placed over 1 limb to 15 mm Hg above systolic pressure) or sham intervention. The intervention was applied within 60 minutes before initiation of the first dose and before up to 4 cycles of anthracycline therapy. The primary outcome was the plasma high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) level. The secondary outcome measures included echocardiographic indexes of left ventricular systolic and diastolic function and the occurrence of cardiovascular events. ResultsA total of 68 children 10.9 ± 3.9 years of age were randomized to receive RIC (n = 34) or sham (n = 34) intervention. Plasma levels of hs-cTnT showed a progressive increase across time points in the RIC (P < 0.001) and sham (P < 0.001) groups. At each of the time points, there were no significant differences in hs-cTnT levels or LV tissue Doppler and strain parameters between the 2 groups (all P > 0.05). None of the patients developed heart failure or cardiac arrhythmias. ConclusionsRIC did not exhibit cardioprotective effects in childhood cancer patients receiving anthracycline-based chemotherapy. (Remote Ischaemic Preconditioning in Childhood Cancer [RIPC]; NCT03166813)

Rationale and design of a cardiac safety study for reduced cardiotoxicity surveillance during HER2-targeted therapy

BackgroundEchocardiograms are recommended every 3 months in patients receiving human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-targeted therapy for surveillance of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Efforts to tailor treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer have led to greater use of non-anthracycline regimens that are associated with lower cardiotoxicity risk, raising into question the need for frequent cardiotoxicity surveillance for these patients. This study seeks to evaluate whether less frequent cardiotoxicity surveillance (every 6 months) is safe for patients receiving a non-anthracycline HER2-targeted treatment regimen.Methods/designWe will enroll 190 women with histologically confirmed HER2-positive breast cancer scheduled to receive a non-anthracycline HER2-targeted treatment regimen for a minimum of 12 months. All participants will undergo echocardiograms before and 6-, 12-, and 18-months after initiation of HER2-targeted treatment. The primary composite outcome is symptomatic heart failure (New York Heart Association class III or IV) or death from cardiovascular causes. Secondary outcomes include: 1) echocardiographic indices of left ventricular systolic function; 2) incidence of cardiotoxicity, defined by a ≥ 10% absolute reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from baseline to < 53%; and 3) incidence of early interruption of HER2-targeted therapy.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this will be the first prospective study of a risk-based approach to cardiotoxicity surveillance. We expect findings from this study will inform the development of updated clinical practice guidelines to improve cardiotoxicity surveillance practices during HER2-positive breast cancer treatment.Trial registrationThe trial was registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov registry (identifier NCT03983382) on June 12, 2019.