Ischemic Research Articles

Analysis of the snoRNA profile in ischemic and dilated cardiomyopathy

Abstract Introduction In last decade, knowledge of how non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease has increased exponentially. However, other than miRNAs, relatively little is known about how other small RNAs specifically contribute to heart failure. snoRNAs have been known for decades, mainly for their role in biogenesis and ribosomal modification. Moreover, recent studies have provided fundamental information on how snoRNA regulated non-coding RNA expression. However, the contribution of these non-coding RNAs to human disease is a relatively new area of research, with heart failure being relatively unknown and understudied. Purpose We aimed to investigate whether snoRNA expression is regulated during heart failure from dilated (DCM) and ischemic (ICM) origin, and how its biogenesis is affected by the pathophysiology of the disease. Methods Heart tissue samples from ICM (n=22) and DCM (n=20) patients and control (CNT, n=8) subjects were analyzed by non-coding RNA-Sequencing (ncRNA-Seq) to evaluate transcriptome changes in snoRNA/scaRNA. In addition, through mRNA sequencing we analyzed the biogenesis pathway of these ncRNA in ICM (n=13) and DCM (n=13) patients compared to CNT (n=10). Microarray analysis was used to validate the alterations found in the snoRNA/scaRNA expression (ICM, n=24; DCM, n=20; CNT, n=10). Results A generalized alteration of the snoRNA biogenesis pathway was not observed, we only found NOLC1 underexpression in ICM patients (FC=-1.42, p<0.05). NOLC1 encodes a nucleolar protein that acts as a regulator of RNA polymerase I and connects RNA polymerase I with enzymes responsible for ribosomal processing and modification. However, ncRNA-Seq data showed altered profiles of snoRNA/scaRNA in ICM and DCM patients. We identified 24 differentially expressed snoRNAs in ICM and 35 in DCM, while only 3 scaRNAs in DCM patients. We highlight SNORD14C that was upregulated in DCM patients (FC=2.37, p<0.01) and we confirmed in the microarray analysis (FC=1.10, p<0.05). Moreover, SNORD116-18 was related to ejection fraction in ICM patients (r=0.460, p<0.05). Conclusion Our data indicate that there are changes in the expression of snoRNA and scaRNA with a specific profile for each etiology, ICM and DCM. However, a marked alteration in its biogenesis is not observed. Taken together and given the relationship of SNORD116-18 to ventricular function, our results offer a novel and promising insight into the differential involvement of these molecules in the pathophysiology of ICM and DCM.

Periodic Repolarization Dynamics (PRD) identifies patients who profit from ICD implantation, A meta-analysis of the predictive value of PRD

Abstract Background Periodic repolarization dynamics (PRD) is an electrocardiographic marker that quantifies sympathetic-activity associated instabilities of cardiac repolarization. PRD is a strong predictor of mortality in patients with ischemic (ICM) and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) and has been proposed to identify patients who benefit from prophylactic ICD implantation. Purpose To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis concerning the prognostic value of PRD for predicting all-cause mortality in relation to prophylactic ICD-implantation. Methods This meta-analysis follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A total of 25 articles were screened and 7 randomized and non-randomized controlled trials identified. Finally, a total of 5 could be included in the analysis (Fig.1). Patients were stratified into patients with or without prophylactic ICD-implantation (Fig.2). The prognostic value of PRD for predicting all-cause mortality was extracted from published data as hazard ratio (HR) per 1 deg2 increase in PRD. We used inverse-variance-weighted average meta-analysis to calculate fixed and random effect models to estimate the overall predictive value of PRD in both groups. The interaction between PRD and prophylactic ICD-implantation for predicting mortality was calculated using meta-regression analysis. All analyses were performed using CRAN R v. 4.1.2 and the meta-package v 5.2.0. Results We included 4,338 patients in this meta-analysis, of whom 3,167 (73%) suffered from ICM and 1,171 (27%) from NICM. 1,906 (44%) patients were treated with an ICD. During an estimated mean follow-up time of 3.2 years, 604 (14%) patients died. Fig. 2 (left) shows patients without ICD treatment (N = 2,432, 56%). In these patients, a 1 deg2 increase in PRD was significantly associated with an overall 8% increase in mortality (fixed effect HR 1.08; 95% CI 1.06-1.10; p< 0.001, random effect HR 1.08; 95% CI 1.06-1.11; p < 0.001). Fig. 2 (right) displays the prognostic value of PRD in patients treated by ICD (N = 1,906). In these patients, a 1 deg2 increase in PRD was significantly associated with an overall 3% increase in mortality (fixed-effect HR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.05; p< 0.001, random-effect HR 1.03; 95% CI 1.00-1.06; p < 0.001). An increase in PRD was not significantly associated with an increase in mortality in patients from the EU-CERT-ICD and DANISH trial. There was a significant interaction between PRD and prophylactic ICD-implantation for predicting all-cause mortality (p = 0.008). Conclusion In patients with ICM and NICM, PRD is a strong predictor of all-cause mortality in patients with and without prophylactic ICD. The significant interaction between PRD and prophylactic ICD-implantation most probably implies a reduction in the risk identified by PRD through ICD implantation. Consequently, PRD could prove a useful tool for identifying patients that might benefit from ICD treatment.Figure 1Figure 2

Impact of ESC Guidelines implementation on lipid lowering strategy in a tertiary hospital cohort of STEMI patients: Can we aspire to do better than the EUROASPIRE V registry?

Abstract Background Treatment with LDL-C-lowering-drug therapy (LLT) is essential in the management of patients who have suffered an acute coronary syndrome. The latest 2019 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias recommend an LDL-C target of <55mg/dL and 50% reduction in these very high risk patients. However, the impact of these recommendations on contemporary LLT prescription is uncertain. Purpose To analyse the impact of the publication of the 2019 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias on the prescription of LLT in our centre in patients who have suffered a ST elevation myocardial infarct (STEMI) and its impact on the achievement of treatment objectives and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in the first year of treatment. Methods All patients who suffered a STEMI at our centre in 2018 and 2021 were retrospectively registered. We compared baseline characteristics, ESC Guidelines objectives achievement at first follow-up visit and MACE in the first 1 year of treatment in both groups. The 2016 ESC Guidelines objective was defined as an LDL-C <70mg/dL and the 2019 ESC Guidelines objective was defined as an LDL-C <55 mg/dL. MACEs were defined as a combination of mortality, acute coronary syndrome, stroke, peripheral ischemia and need for revascularization. Those patients whose follow-up time until LDL-C after discharge was greater than 1 year were excluded from the final analysis. Results Of a total 726 STEMI patients, 520 patients were included in the final analysis. 239 in 2018 and 281 in 2021. No significant differences were found in baseline characteristics. LDL-C at admission was 115.7±39.3 mg/dL in 2018 and 110.6±38.6 mg/dL in 2021 (p 0.11). The prescription of ezetimibe in association with a high potency statin at discharge was significantly higher in 2021 (125 patients; 33.6%) compared to 2018 (17 patients; 5.07%) (p<0.001) and it was independently associated with the presence of prior lipid-lowering treatment (p < 0.011) and higher LDL-C at admission (p < 0.001). In 2018 there were 105 patients (50.24%) with LDL-C <70mg/dL and 52 patients (24.88%) with LDL-C <55mg/dL. This was significantly lower than in 2021, with 178 patients (66.67%) with LDL-C <70mg/dL and 112 patients (41.95%) with LDL-C <55mg/dL (p<0.001). MACEs after 1 year of treatment occurred in 27 patients (8.88%) in 2018 and in 31 patients (9.06%) in 2021 (p 0.935). Conclusions The adoption of the 2019 ESC/EAS Dyslipidaemia Guidelines recommendations has fostered a change in the LLT strategy in our centre leading to a greater number of patients reaching the LDL-C goal. Unfortunately, nearly 60% of them still have an LDL-C >55 mg/dL. This should prompt us to seek structured clinical pathways in order to improve our results.Figure 1

Surpoint algorithm for improved guidance of ablation for ventricular tachycardia (SURFIRE-VT): a propensity-matched study

Abstract Background Ablation Index (AI) is a novel multiparametric radiofrequency (RF) ablation lesion quality metric, which incorporates contact force, time, and power in a weighted formula. AI guided strategies have been shown to be clinically effective for catheter ablation of atrial arrhythmias. The utility of AI to guide ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) in patients with structural heart disease is not known. Objectives To assess RF ablation and procedural characteristics, safety, and long-term clinical outcomes in patients undergoing VT ablation using either an AI guided strategy (maximum AI target value 550) or conventional approach using traditional parameters at a large tertiary medical center. Methods Consecutive patients (n=91) undergoing initial VT ablation for both ischemic (ICM) and non-ischemic (NICM) VT at single tertiary medical center between 2017 and 2022 were examined. Patients were 1:1 propensity matched for baseline characteristics, co-morbid conditions, and antiarrhythmic use depending on whether the ablation was guided by AI or traditional lesion quality parameters. Baseline categorical variables were compared using chi square test or Fisher exact test, and continuous measures were evaluated using Wilcoxon rank sum test. Linear regression was used to assess the impact of the use of AI on ablation characteristics and Cox proportional hazard model was used evaluate clinical outcomes. Results After propensity matching, baseline characteristics were well balanced between AI (n=37) and non-AI (n=37) groups (Table 1). Patients undergoing an AI guided strategy had shorter average procedure duration (-30.9 minutes, 95% CI [-60.4, -1.4], p=0.04) and average time per lesion (-13.7 seconds, 95% CI [-17.9, -9.5], p <0.001), as well as a trend toward significantly lower total RF ablation duration (357 seconds, 95% CI [-776, 61.9] p=0.09) and fewer steam pops (-0.19, 95% CI [-0.40, 0.02] p = 0.08). Lesion sets were similar between AI and non-AI groups (Scar homogenization: 41% vs 27%; p=0.22, Linear: 23% vs 73%; p=0.31, elimination LPs/LAVAs: 50% vs 43%; p=0.25, Scar dechanneling: 19% vs 8%; p=0.19, Core isolation: 5% vs 11%; p=0.4) as was use of epicardial mapping and ablation (11% vs 14%; p=0.73) Inducibility of VT (70% vs 67%; p=0.8) and termination of clinical VT during ablation (11% vs 16%; p=0.17) were also similar between AI and non-AI groups. When compared to a traditional strategy, patients undergoing an AI strategy had similar hazard for VT recurrence (0.97, 95% CI [0.42 – 2.2], p=0.93) and appropriate device therapy (0.79, 95% CI [0.32 – 1.95] p=0.61). Conclusions Compared to a strategy guided by traditional lesion parameters, use of AI of 550 for VT ablation in patients with structural heart disease resulted in shorter procedure time and average time of RF delivery per lesion with similar intermediate term clinical outcomes.Table 1Figure 1

Soft Tissue Reconstruction After Revascularization.

Diabetic foot ulcer represents the primary cause of hospital admissions, amputations, and mortality in diabetic patients. The development of diabetic foot ulcers is influenced by peripheral neuropathy, infection, and ischemia, with diabetes contributing to peripheral artery disease. Free tissue transfer combined with revascularisation of the lower extremity provides the potential opportunity for limb salvage in individuals with lower extremity defects due to critical limb ischemia and diabetic foot.

Abstract 15640: Long Term Event-Free Survival in Patients With Ischemic and Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy up to Thirteen Years Following Cell-Based Therapy: Results From the Hyperion Observational Cohort

Introduction: The long-term clinical outcomes of cell-based therapies to treat ischemic (ICM) and non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) are unknown. We therefore prospectively followed patients (pts) with ICM/NICDM treated by targeted transcatheter endocardial mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) injections (TESI). Methods: Of the 155 pts enrolled in prior MSC TESI studies, 111 were eligible to be contacted. Of these, 47 (42%) agreed to participate and have periodic follow-up assessments (Cardiac MRI/CT, 6MWT, labs, PE, EKG, and MLHFq) for up to 13 years following their index procedure. Time-to-event information was captured from all 155 former participants. Endpoints included event-free survival, changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (EF), and ventricular remodeling. Clinical endpoint events were defined as the composite of: Death (all-cause mortality), Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) placement, or Heart Transplant. Descriptive statistics were used to classify the sample, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was generated to examine time-to-event trends. Results: There were 134 men and 21 women, mean age 60.0±11.0 years, including 121 (78%) with ICM, and 34 (22%) with NIDCM. In pts with ICM, mean EF at baseline was 31 %±10.8% and after 1 year was 32.6%±11.8% (P=0.08). In pts with NIDCM baseline EF was 27%±10% and increased to 34%±13% after 1 year (P=0.002). Overall, 40% of pts had a decrease in LVEF, 26% had <5% increase, 34% had a ≥5% increase, and 17% had a ≥10% increase in LVEF after 1 year. Increases of ≥5% LVEF post-therapy were associated with longer event-free survival in NIDCM (OR: 2.57; 95% CI: 0.6, 11.1) but not ICM (OR: 1.25; 95% CI: 0.4, 3.6). Conversely, reductions in LVEDV were associated with longer event-free survival in ICM (OR: 7.23; 95% CI: 1.9, 27.1) but not NIDCM (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 0.4, 10.0). Conclusion: In this long-term observational cohort analysis, improvement of EF and/or reduction in LVEDV was associated with survival benefits among pts with NIDCM and ICM respectively. Future studies are needed with placebo controls to determine which pts are most likely to respond to MSC therapy. Clinical Trial Registration: URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov.; Unique ID: NCT03071835.

Abstract 12905: Epicardial and Intramyocardial Fat as Predictors of Ventricular Arrhythmia in Ischemic and Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Background: Sudden cardiac death from ventricular arrhythmia (VA) is a global concern. While emerging evidence suggests a role for myocardial fat in the development of VA among ischemic (ICM) and non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) patients, the volume and distribution of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and intramyocardial fat (IMF) linked to VA remain underexplored. Objective: To evaluate the predictive value of LV tissue heterogeneity, EAT, and IMF volumes in assessing the risk of VA in ICM and NICM patients. Methods: Patients enrolled in the PROSE-ICD registry, who underwent contrast-enhanced computed tomography were included. The designated endpoint was ventricular arrhythmia, defined as appropriate ICD shock or sudden arrhythmic death. IMF volume (voxels between -180 and -5 HU), EAT volume (voxels between -200 to -50 HU), and myocardial fat tissue heterogeneity (defined as the magnitude of change between nearby voxels) were calculated. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the association between explanatory variables and outcome. Results: 98 patients (47 ICM, 51 NICM) were included with a mean follow up time of 5.6±3.4 years. Participants’ mean age was 56±13.2 years, and 66% were male. LV tissue heterogeneity (per HU/mm) was associated with VA incidence (OR = 1.11; P < 0.01) in the ICM cohort, whereas EAT and IMF volume were associated with VA in the NICM subgroup [(OR = 1.12; P < 0.01), and (OR = 1.21; P = 0.01), respectively]. Even after adjusting for various covariates, LV tissue heterogeneity in the ICM group and EAT in the NICM group maintained a significant association with VA. Conclusion: In ICM, increased fat distribution heterogeneity is associated with VA, while in NICM, increased IMF and EAT volume are linked to a higher risk for VA. These findings suggest that LV tissue heterogeneity and EAT volume offer valuable prognostic insights in cardiomyopathy patients, indicating that the contribution of fat to VA depends on the underlying substrate.

Abstract 17014: Differences in the Outcomes of Catheter Ablation for Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients With Ischemic versus Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

Background: Catheter ablation is an effective tool to reduce ventricular tachycardia (VT) burden. There is a lack of robust data studying the characteristics and outcomes of VT ablation in patients with ischemic (ICM) versus non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM). Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of ICM vs NICM on outcomes of VT ablation. Methods: A single-center, retrospective study of patients undergoing catheter ablation for VT was conducted. Results: A total of 168 patients, undergoing 200 VT ablation procedures, were included in this study. NICM group (112 procedures) was compared to ICM group (88 procedures). Patients in the ICM group were older (66.6 ± 13.4 vs 58.9 ± 14.4 years) and had higher rates of prior myocardial infarction (65.9% vs 3.6) and coronary artery bypass graft surgery (40.9% vs 1.8%). Overall, ICM group had more comorbidities like hypertension (80.7% vs 52.7%), diabetes mellitus (23.9% vs 12.5%), chronic kidney disease (45.5% vs 35.7%), stroke (17% vs 7.1%), and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (36.8 ± 13.2% vs 43.1 ± 14.7%). The ICM group had lower incidence of prior cardiac valvular surgery (9.1% vs 29.5%). The inducibility of VT (93% vs 93.5%; p= 1.0) and the number of different VT morphologies induced during the case (1.9 ± 1.5 vs 2.3 ± 2.5; p=0.19) was similar between the two groups. There was no acute mortality in either group. There was a non-significant trend towards greater VT recurrence in the NICM group (43.2% vs 33.3%, p= 0.19). However, patients with NICM had a lower VT-free survival as determined by Kaplan-Meier analysis (p=0.05) [Figure]. Long term mortality was higher in ICM group when compared to NICM group (18.2% vs 8.9%, p<0.01). Conclusion: Patients undergoing VT ablation in the NICM group when compared to the ICM group were noted to be younger, had fewer comorbidities, and lower long-term mortality. However, they had significantly less VT-free survival, likely owing to more challenging substrate responsible for VT.

Abstract 14959: Impact of Timing of Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Insertion (Before or After Impella) in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction With Cardiogenic Shock Using Impella: From J-PVAD Registry

Introduction: In patients with cardiogenic shock (CS), Impella, one type of percutaneous ventricular assist device with a catheter-type micro-axial heart pump, plus venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECPELLA) has been reported to have a better short-term prognosis than venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) alone, although it was associated with more complications. ECPELLA has often been used in current clinical practice instead of VA-ECMO alone. However, in many cases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with CS, there is controversy about whether Impella or VA-ECMO should be installed first. Hypothesis: What are the factors associated with Impella use first? Does the timing of VA-ECMO insertion affect prognosis and major adverse events (MAEs) such as hemolysis, hemorrhage/hematoma, peripheral ischemia, stroke, and thrombosis? This study aims to clarify the factors of Impella use first and the prognostic impact of the timing of VA-ECMO insertion (before or after Impella). Methods: The Japanese registry for Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device (J-PVAD) has registered all consecutive Japanese patients treated with Impella between February 2020 and December 2021. In the current study, we evaluated 523 patients with AMI with CS and investigated the factors of Impella use before VA-ECMO and the impact of the timing of VA-ECMO insertion on 30 days mortality and MAEs. Results: Out of the total number of patients, 155 (30%) received Impella prior to VA-ECMO, while 367 (70%) received Impella following VA-ECMO. The factors of Impella use before VA-ECMO were the absence of out-of-hospital and in-hospital cardiac arrest. The cumulative 30-day incidence of all-cause death was 46.1% in patients with Impella use before VA-ECMO and 53.5% in those with Impella use after VA-ECMO (Log-rank P=0.13). There was no excess risk of Impella use before VA-ECMO relative to Impella use after VA-ECMO (adjusted HR, 0.95; 95%CI, 0.47-1.94; P=0.90). There were no significant differences in the incidence of MAEs between the two groups. Conclusions: The prognosis for patients with AMI complicated by CS requiring ECPELLA remained poor, but the timing of VA-ECMO insertion did not affect the prognosis.

Reduced fibrin clot permeability on admission and elevated E-selectin at 3 months as novel risk factors of residual pulmonary vascular obstruction in patients with acute pulmonary embolism

BackgroundResidual pulmonary vascular obstruction (RPVO) is common following pulmonary embolism (PE) but its association with fibrin clot properties is poorly understood. We investigated whether prothrombotic state and hypofibrinolysis markers can identify patients with RPVO.MethodsIn 79 normotensive noncancer patients (aged 56 ± 13.3 years) with acute PE, we determined fibrin clot permeability (Ks), clot lysis time (CLT), endogenous thrombin potential (ETP), fibrinolysis proteins, oxidative stress markers, and E-selectin on admission before initiation of anticoagulant therapy, after 5–7 days, and 3 months of anticoagulation. RPVO was diagnosed using computed tomography angiography 3–6 months since PE.ResultsPatients with RPVO (n = 23, 29.1%) had at baseline higher simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (sPESI) (P = 0.004), higher N-terminal brain natriuretic propeptide (P = 0.006) and higher D-dimer (P = 0.044). Patients with versus without RPVO had lower Ks (P < 0.001) and longer CLT (P < 0.05), both at baseline and 5–7 days since admission, but not at 3 months. Patients with RPVO showed 40.6% higher E-selectin (P < 0.001) solely at 3 months. By multivariable logistic regression, baseline Ks (odds ratio [OR] 0.010, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.001–0.837, P = 0.042, per 10− 9 cm2), baseline D-dimer (OR 1.105, 95% CI 1.000-1.221, P = 0.049, per 100 ng/ml), and E-selectin levels after 3 months (OR 3.874, 95% CI 1.239–12.116, P = 0.020, per 1 ng/ml) were associated with RPVO.ConclusionsRPVO patients despite anticoagulation characterize with the formation of denser fibrin clots on admission and higher E-selectin at 3 months. Those parameters could be the potential novel RPVO risk factors that warrant further evaluation in an independent cohort.Graphical

Larval Wound Therapy: Possibilities and Potential Limitations—A Literature Review

Patient-centered care (PCC) is recognized as a standard in healthcare for determining high quality. Honoring patients’ values, experiences, needs, and preferences in devising, coordinating, and delivering care underscores the enhancement of the therapeutic rapport between patients and healthcare providers. Wound treatment involves a multi-stage process encompassing diagnostics and local wound dressing, which reduces the risk of infection through a coordinated interdisciplinary team. Within this team, nurses undertake specific professional functions and roles. The implementation of local therapy using innovative and scientifically substantiated methods may be hindered by a deficit of knowledge or inappropriate knowledge among staff and patients themselves. This study presents the challenges concerning the care of patients with chronic wounds treated using Lucilia sericata larvae, based on a review of the current scientific literature. A critical analysis of the literature spanning from 2002 to 2022 was conducted using the Medline, PubMed, Cochrane, and Termedia databases, employing keywords such as “maggot debridement therapy” in relation to acceptance and perception. As a result of the preliminary selection, 472 papers were identified, of which 12 publications were included in the development of this concept. The acquired data were organized and presented in the concluding section in the form of tables, accompanied by descriptions and references to individual studies. Negative psychological and somatic sensations were among the most prominent challenges among patients treated with Maggot Debridement Therapy (MDT). Pain related to peripheral ischemia or infection in this group of patients requires pain prophylaxis, including hyperalgesia and allodynia, in order to improve method tolerance. On the other hand, augmenting patients’ understanding of MDT diminishes negative emotions, reinforces positive behaviors, and mitigates anxiety levels. MDT constitutes an effective and safe method. Its widespread use for chronic wounds requires substantial knowledge among healthcare professionals and patient education, along with that of their caregivers, to develop a positive attitude.

Hemodiyaliz Damar Erişim Yolları ve Bakımı

Hemodialysis remains the most widely used method for treating renal failure. Life expectancy and quality in hemodialysis are directly proportional to the quality of dialysis, and this quality depends on the reliability and integrity of the patient’s vascular access route. The ideal vascular access route provides reliable, uncomplicated access to dialysis and is also suitable for the patient’s needs. Hemodialysis vascular access options have not changed substantially over the past six decades, and arteriovenous fistula (AVF) remains the access of choice. Although AVF is a vascular intervention recommended and preferred in clinical practice guidelines for hemodialysis, it can develop into serious complications such as thrombosis, hematoma, edema, peripheral ischemia, bleeding, and infection. To prevent these complications, it is extremely important to educate patients about AVF care. This review has been prepared as a guide for healthcare professionals who care for hemodialysis patients.

Torsión del abomaso en vaca lechera Holstein: Reporte de caso

Torsion of the abomasum is characterized by the rotation of the organ around its own axis, causing peripheral ischemia followed by necrosis of the walls of the gastric compartment, which can lead to the animal's death. Abomasopathy is directly correlated with metabolic dysfunctions, that is, diets lacking in fiber, history of recent birth associated with negative energy balance (NEB) in the transition period, or even the animal's genetics. Diagnosis of the condition consists of auscultation and digital percussion examination of the abdominal wall, in addition to anamnesis and evaluation of clinical signs and vital parameters. The objective of this work was to report a case of torsion of the abomasum with formation of omaso-abomasal volvulus in a dairy cow, highlighting the changes evidenced in the clinical and physical examination and complementary exams.

Hypereosinophilic vasculitis with Raynaud phenomenon presentation: a case report

BackgroundPrevious case series have reported idiopathic eosinophilic vasculitis as a potential manifestation of hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES). This condition is characterized by digital necrotizing, systemic vasculitis that affects varying-sized blood vessels. This report presents our experience in treating a patient with eosinophilic vasculitis.Case presentationWe describe the case of a 23-year-old man who presented with idiopathic HES, which manifested as digital ulcers and peripheral ischemia in both the upper and lower limbs, without the involvement of other organ systems. After ruling out primary and secondary causes of eosinophilia, a diagnosis of HES was established. Our patient has shown a positive response to corticosteroid therapy.ConclusionsOur case contributes to the existing evidence about diagnosing idiopathic eosinophilic vasculitis in patients with HES. We observed a favorable response to corticosteroid treatment in our patient.

Seeking an optimal approach for Computer-aided Diagnosis of Pulmonary Embolism

Pulmonary Embolism (PE) represents a thrombus (“blood clot”), usually originating from a lower extremity vein, that travels to the blood vessels in the lung, causing vascular obstruction and in some patients death. This disorder is commonly diagnosed using Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography (CTPA). Deep learning holds great promise for the Computer-aided Diagnosis (CAD) of PE. However, numerous deep learning methods, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) and Transformer-based models, exist for a given task, causing great confusion regarding the development of CAD systems for PE. To address this confusion, we present a comprehensive analysis of competing deep learning methods applicable to PE diagnosis based on four datasets. First, we use the RSNA PE dataset, which includes (weak) slice-level and exam-level labels, for PE classification and diagnosis, respectively. At the slice level, we compare CNNs with the Vision Transformer (ViT) and the Swin Transformer. We also investigate the impact of self-supervised versus (fully) supervised ImageNet pre-training, and transfer learning over training models from scratch. Additionally, at the exam level, we compare sequence model learning with our proposed transformer-based architecture, Embedding-based ViT (E-ViT). For the second and third datasets, we utilize the CAD-PE Challenge Dataset and Ferdowsi University of Mashad’s PE Dataset, where we convert (strong) clot-level masks into slice-level annotations to evaluate the optimal CNN model for slice-level PE classification. Finally, we use our in-house PE-CAD dataset, which contains (strong) clot-level masks. Here, we investigate the impact of our vessel-oriented image representations and self-supervised pre-training on PE false positive reduction at the clot level across image dimensions (2D, 2.5D, and 3D). Our experiments show that (1) transfer learning boosts performance despite differences between photographic images and CTPA scans; (2) self-supervised pre-training can surpass (fully) supervised pre-training; (3) transformer-based models demonstrate comparable performance but slower convergence compared with CNNs for slice-level PE classification; (4) model trained on the RSNA PE dataset demonstrates promising performance when tested on unseen datasets for slice-level PE classification; (5) our E-ViT framework excels in handling variable numbers of slices and outperforms sequence model learning for exam-level diagnosis; and (6) vessel-oriented image representation and self-supervised pre-training both enhance performance for PE false positive reduction across image dimensions. Our optimal approach surpasses state-of-the-art results on the RSNA PE dataset, enhancing AUC by 0.62% (slice-level) and 2.22% (exam-level). On our in-house PE-CAD dataset, 3D vessel-oriented images improve performance from 80.07% to 91.35%, a remarkable 11% gain. Codes are available at GitHub.com/JLiangLab/CAD_PE.

The correlation between transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2 ) and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) thermography in the evaluation of lower extremity perfusion according to angiosome.

The increased peripheral arterial disease (PAD) incidence associated with aging and increased incidence of cardiovascular conditions underscores the significance of assessing lower limb perfusion. This study aims to report on the correlation and utility of two novel non-invasive instruments: transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2 ) and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) thermography. A total of 68 patients diagnosed with diabetic foot ulcer and PAD who underwent vascular studies at a single institution between March 2022 and March 2023 were included. Cases with revascularization indications were treated by a cardiologist. Following the procedure, ambient TcPO2 and FLIR thermography were recorded on postoperative days 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28. In impaired limbs, TcPO2 was 12.3 ± 2 mmHg and FLIR thermography was 28.7 ± 0.9°C. TcPO2 (p = 0.002), FLIR thermography (p = 0.015) and ankle-brachial index (p = 0.047) values significantly reduced with greater vascular obstruction severity. Revascularization (n = 39) significantly improved TcPO2 (12.5 ± 1.7 to 19.1 ± 2.2 mmHg, p = 0.011) and FLIR (28.8 ± 1.8 to 32.6 ± 1.6°C; p = 0.018), especially in severe impaired angiosomes. TcPO2 significantly increased immediately post-procedure, then gradually, whereas the FLIR thermography values plateaued from day 1 to 28 post-procedure. In conclusion, FLIR thermography is a viable non-invasive tool for evaluating lower limb perfusion based on angiosomes, comparable with TcPO2 .

PB0444 Residual Pulmonary Vascular Obstruction is Associated with Prothrombotic Fibrin Clot Phenotype in Patients Following Pulmonary Embolism

PB0444 Residual Pulmonary Vascular Obstruction is Associated with Prothrombotic Fibrin Clot Phenotype in Patients Following Pulmonary Embolism

OC 17.5 Genetic Association of the 4q34.1 Locus with Residual Vascular Obstruction in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism

OC 17.5 Genetic Association of the 4q34.1 Locus with Residual Vascular Obstruction in Patients with Pulmonary Embolism

Alteration of perivascular reflectivity on optical coherence tomography of branched retinal vein obstruction

This study aimed to evaluate perivascular reflectivity in patients with branched retinal vascular obstruction (BRVO) using en-face optical coherence tomography (OCT). The study retrospectively analyzed 45 patients with recurrent BRVO, 30 with indolent BRVO, and 45 age- and sex-matched controls. Using a 3.0 × 3.0-mm deep capillary plexus slab on macular scans, OCT angiography (OCTA) and structural en-face OCT scans were divided into four quadrants. Obstructive quadrants of OCTA scans were binarized using a threshold value of mean + 2 standard deviation. The selected area of high signal strength (HSS) was applied to the structural en-face OCT scans, and the corrected mean perivascular reflectivity was calculated as the mean reflectivity on the HSS area/overall en-face OCT mean reflectivity. The same procedure was performed in the quadrants of the matched controls. Regression analysis was conducted on several factors possibly associated with corrected perivascular reflectivity. The perivascular reflectivity in the obstructive BRVO quadrant was significantly higher than in the indolent BRVO and control quadrants (P = 0.009, P = 0.003). Both univariate and multivariate regression analyses showed a significant correlation between the average number of intravitreal injections (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor or dexamethasone implant) per year and refractive errors and image binarization threshold and perivascular reflectivity (P = 0.011, 0.013, < 0.001/univariate; 0.007, 0.041, 0.005/multivariate, respectively). En-face OCT scans of the deep capillary plexus slab revealed higher perivascular reflectivity in recurrent BRVO eyes than in indolent BRVO and control eyes. The results also indicate a remarkable correlation between perivascular reflectivity and the average number of intravitreal injections, suggesting a link to recurrence rates.

The Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Heart Diseases

Omega-3 (ω-3) is a group of multiple unsaturated fatty acids, commonly found in deep-sea fish, seal oil. In recent years, ω-3 has become a hot topic in the treatment and prevention of cardiac diseases, however, a systematic explanation of the related regulatory mechanisms is lacking. The theme of this paper is the effects of ω-3 on heart diseases, after collected the data from last five years, then made a system analysis. Finally it concluded that ω-3 can raise benign cholesterol in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and reduce body’s oxidized bad cholesterol in low-density lipoprotein (LDL).it also can participate in arachidonic acid metabolism to produce Prostaglandin-I-3 (PGI 3) to regulate vascular elasticity, platelets and thrombus quantity.in addition, it also has an important role in regulating human blood pressure, AS risk and heart rate. All of these indicators are linked to an increased chance of heart diseases, so the conclusion is that ω-3 mainly plays a role in relieving vascular obstruction and heart function.