Management Of Coronary Artery Disease Research Articles

Chinese herbal compound preparation Qing-Xin-Jie-Yu granules for intermediate coronary lesions in patients with stable coronary artery disease: Study protocol for a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Despite the available secondary preventive treatments, the management of stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) remains challenging. Intermediate coronary lesion (ICL), defined as luminal stenosis between 50% and 70%, is a key stage of SCAD. However, existing therapeutic strategies are limitated in delaying plaque progression and associated with various adverse effects and economic burdens. Qing-Xin-Jie-Yu Granules (QXJYG) with proven anti-platelet, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering effects may compensate for the drawbacks of current treatments and can be tested as a complementary therapy. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of QXJYG in treating ICL, with a particular focus on its impact on myocardial ischemia and plaque progression. This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 120 participants with ICL will be randomly assigned to two groups in a 1:1 ratio. In addition to basic medications, the intervention group will receive QXJYG, while the control group will receive a placebo for over 6 months, followed by a 12-month follow-up. The primary efficacy outcome is computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve. The secondary outcomes include the degree of coronary stenosis, coronary artery calcification score, Gensini score, Seattle Angina Questionnaire score, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, matrix metalloproteinase-9, blood lipids, and carotid artery ultrasound parameters. Major adverse cardiovascular events are recorded as endpoints. The safety outcomes include composite events of bleeding, laboratory test results, and adverse events. Clinical visits are scheduled at baseline, every 2 months during the treatment, and after a 12-month follow-up. This trial is anticipated to yield reliable results to verify the efficacy and safety of QXJYG in the treatment of ICL, which will provide novel insights to help address the prevailing therapeutic dilemma of ICL, thereby facilitating for the management of SCAD. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2200059262. Registered on April 27, 2022.

Natural product-based treatment potential for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease

BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disease of impaired glucose utilization and a major cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The pathogenesis of both diseases shares common risk factors and mechanisms, and both are significant contributors to global morbidity and mortality. Supplements of natural products for T2D mellitus (T2DM) and CVD can be seen as a potential preventive and effective therapeutic strategy. AIM To critically evaluate the therapeutic potential of natural products in T2D and coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS By using specific keywords, we strategically searched the PubMed database. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched as the primary focus that examined the effect of natural products on glycemic control, oxidative stress, and antioxidant levels. We focused on outcomes such as low blood glucose levels, adjustment on markers of oxidative stress and antioxidants. After screening full-length papers, we included 9 RCTs in our review that met our inclusion criteria. RESULTS In the literature search on the database, we found that various natural products like plant secondary metabolites play a diverse role in the management of CAD. American ginseng, sesame oil and cocoa flavanols proved effective in lowering blood glucose levels and controlling blood pressure, which are key factors in managing T2DM and CVD. In diabetic patients Melissa officinalis effectively reduce inflammation and shows diabetes prevention. Both fish oil and flaxseed oil reduced insulin levels and inflammatory markers, suggesting benefits for both conditions. The lipid profile and endothelial function were enhanced by Nigella sativa oil and Terminalia chebula , which is significant for the management of cardiovascular risk factors in T2DM. Additionally Bilberry extract also showed promise for improving glycemic control in patients with T2DM. CONCLUSION The high level of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic properties found in natural products makes them promising therapeutic options for the management of CAD, with the potential benefit of lowering the risk of CAD.

Coronary artery disease management in older adults: revascularization and exercise training.

The mean age of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) is steadily increasing. In older patients, there is a tendency to underutilize invasive approach, coronary revascularization, up-to-date pharmacological therapies, and secondary prevention strategies, including cardiac rehabilitation. Older adults with CAD commonly exhibit atypical symptoms, multi-vessel disease involvement, complex coronary anatomy, and a higher presence of risk factors and comorbidities. Although both invasive procedures and medical treatments are characterized by a higher risk of complications, avoidance may result in a suboptimal outcome. Often, overlooked factors, such as coronary microvascular disease, malnutrition, and poor physical performance, play a key role in determining prognosis, yet they are not routinely assessed or addressed in older patients. Historically, clinicians have relied on sub-analyses or observational findings to make clinical decisions, as older adults were frequently excluded or under-represented in clinical studies. Recently, dedicated evidence through randomized clinical trials has become available for older CAD patients. Nevertheless, the management of older CAD patients still raises several important questions. This review aims to comprehensively summarize and critically evaluate this emerging evidence, focusing on invasive management and coronary revascularization. Furthermore, it seeks to contextualize these interventions within the framework of improved risk stratification tools for older CAD patients, through user-friendly scales along with emphasizing the importance of promoting physical activity and exercise training to enhance the outcomes of invasive and medical treatments. This comprehensive approach may represent the key to improving prognosis in the complex and growing patient population of older CAD patients.

Coronary artery disease management in older adults: revascularization and exercise training.

The mean age of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) is steadily increasing. In older patients, there is a tendency to underutilize invasive approach, coronary revascularization, up-to-date pharmacological therapies, and secondary prevention strategies, including cardiac rehabilitation. Older adults with CAD commonly exhibit atypical symptoms, multi-vessel disease involvement, complex coronary anatomy, and a higher presence of risk factors and comorbidities. Although both invasive procedures and medical treatments are characterized by a higher risk of complications, avoidance may result in a suboptimal outcome. Often, overlooked factors, such as coronary microvascular disease, malnutrition, and poor physical performance, play a key role in determining prognosis, yet they are not routinely assessed or addressed in older patients. Historically, clinicians have relied on sub-analyses or observational findings to make clinical decisions, as older adults were frequently excluded or under-represented in clinical studies. Recently, dedicated evidence through randomized clinical trials has become available for older CAD patients. Nevertheless, the management of older CAD patients still raises several important questions. This review aims to comprehensively summarize and critically evaluate this emerging evidence, focusing on invasive management and coronary revascularization. Furthermore, it seeks to contextualize these interventions within the framework of improved risk stratification tools for older CAD patients, through user-friendly scales along with emphasizing the importance of promoting physical activity and exercise training to enhance the outcomes of invasive and medical treatments. This comprehensive approach may represent the key to improving prognosis in the complex and growing patient population of older CAD patients.

A Novel Method for Angiographic Contrast-Based Diagnosis of Stenosis in Coronary Artery Disease: In Vivo and In Vitro Analyses.

The existing diagnostic methods for coronary artery disease (CAD), such as coronary angiography and fractional flow reserve (FFR), have limitations regarding their invasiveness, cost, and discomfort. We explored a novel diagnostic approach, coronary contrast intensity analysis (CCIA), and conducted a comparative analysis between it and FFR. We used an in vitro coronary-circulation-mimicking system with nine stenosis models representing various stenosis lengths (6, 18, and 30 mm) and degrees (30%, 50%, and 70%). The angiographic brightness values were analyzed for CCIA. The in vivo experiments included 15 patients with a normal sinus rhythm. Coronary angiography was performed, and arterial movement was tracked, enabling CCIA derivation. The CCIA values were compared with the FFR (n = 15) and instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR; n = 11) measurements. In vitro FFR showed a consistent trend related to the length and severity of stenosis. The CCIA was related to stenosis but had a weaker correlation with length, except for with 70% stenosis (6 mm: 0.82 ± 0.007, 0.68 ± 0.007, 0.61 ± 0.004; 18 mm: 0.78 ± 0.052, 0.69 ± 0.025, 0.44 ± 0.016; 30 mm: 0.80 ± 0.018, 0.64 ± 0.006, 0.40 ± 0.026 at 30%, 50%, and 70%, respectively). In vitro CCIA and FFR were significantly correlated (R = 0.9442, p < 0.01). The in vivo analysis revealed significant correlations between CCIA and FFR (R = 0.5775, p < 0.05) and the iFR (n = 11, R = 0.7578, p < 0.01). CCIA is a promising alternative for diagnosing stenosis in patients with CAD. The initial in vitro validation and in vivo confirmation in patients demonstrate the feasibility of applying CCIA during coronary angiography. Further clinical studies are warranted to fully evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and potential impact of CCIA on CAD management.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Enhancing Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography for Coronary Artery Disease Management

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Enhancing Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography for Coronary Artery Disease Management

CADCare: Smart System for CHD Identification &amp; Sensor Alerts

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary artery disease (CAD), present a global health challenge, necessitating effective detection and diagnosis methods for early intervention. Various machine learning and deep learning approaches have emerged, utilizing diverse data sources such as electrocardiogram (ECG) signals and clinical features to enhance CAD detection. Additionally, circadian heart rate variability (HRV) has been explored as a potential diagnostic marker for CAD severity. This research aims to contribute to the burgeoning field of medical AI and its application in cardiology.OBJECTIVES: This study seeks to develop a Comprehensive Coronary Artery Disease Detection System integrating real-time heart rate monitoring and CAD prediction via an Android application. The objectives include seamless data transmission, efficient cloud-based data management, and the utilization of AI models, including ANNs, CNNs for ECG images, and hybrid models combining clinical and ECG data, to improve early CAD detection and management.METHODS: The system architecture involves integrating key sensors, an Arduino microcontroller, a Bluetooth module, and AI models to facilitate early CAD detection. An Android application complements the system, offering heart rate monitoring and CAD prediction using various data sources. Cloud computing is employed for efficient data management and analysis.RESULTS: The developed system successfully integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance CAD detection, achieving accurate and efficient results in real-time heart rate monitoring and CAD prediction.CONCLUSION: The Comprehensive Coronary Artery Disease Detection System, leveraging AI and cloud computing, contributes to proactive health monitoring and informed decision-making in CAD management and prevention, thereby addressing a critical need in cardiovascular health care.

Prevalence of In-Stent Restenosis in Patients having Drug Eluting Stents with Lengths Exceeding 40mm: A Single-Center Study

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a significant global health challenge, with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) being a primary treatment method. The use of long drug-eluting stents (DES) has been linked to varied outcomes, particularly concerning in-stent restenosis (ISR), which may be influenced by factors like stent length and patient comorbidities. Objective: To assess the prevalence of ISR in patients undergoing PCI with long DES (&gt;40mm), considering patient demographics, comorbidities, and lesion characteristics. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Frontier Corps Teaching Hospital (FCTH) and Lady Reading Hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan, involving 102 patients. The study focused on the frequency of ISR post-angioplasty, particularly in relation to comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Data collection included demographics, echocardiographic assessments, and detailed angiogram analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0, with a significance threshold set at p&lt;0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of ISR was found to be 18.63%. Diabetes and hypertension showed a significant association with ISR, with p-values &lt;0.0015. The ISR frequencies for single vessel disease (SVCAD), double vessel disease (DVCAD), and triple vessel disease (TVCAD) were 26.32%, 31.58%, and 42.10%, respectively, with TVCAD showing a statistically significant association (p=0.0185). Conclusion: The study highlights a significant association between long DES and increased ISR rates, particularly in patients with complex coronary anatomies and multiple comorbidities. Shorter stents are recommended to potentially reduce restenosis and improve outcomes in CAD management.

CLINICAL CASE OF A VERY YOUNG PATIENT AFFECTED BY CAD

Abstract Young patient of 24 years old, smoker, dyslipidemic and family history of coronary artery disease (CAD). He was admitted to emergency room for chest pain after moderate effort in December. EKG was normal, troponin was negative and echocardiography showed left ventricle with normal contractility. Blood chemistry test showed LDL 130 mg/dL, Triglycerides 200 mg/dL e Lipoprotein (a) 16 nmol/L. Elective cardiovascular exercise test resulted positive for signs and symptoms of cardiovascular ischemia (Figure 1). Coronary angio–TC showed 60% stenosis of proximal LAD and intramyocardial bridging of mid LAD. Subsequently elective coronary angiography confirmed the description of coronary angio–TC; contextually optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed and showed fibrous cap rupture of proximal LAD (Figure 2 – 3). The patient was discharged with indication of medical therapy (Cardioaspirina 100 mg, Atorvastatina 40 mg, Bisoprololo 1,25 mg). CAD is a chronic condition usually occurring after the sixth decade of life. However, some populations experience this disease prematurely. In the last few decades, different studies have shown an increased incidence of CAD in very young people. The prevalence of CAD reported in very young people is 1–16%. Clinical and interventional management of CAD in very young people is still subject of discussion today. The literature showed how risk factors such us current smokers, dyslipidemia, and family history of CAD are significantly associated with the existence of severe CAD in patients of ≤40 years. The above risk factors are present in this patient, therefore we opted for correct them by medical therapy and follow–up by OCT at 6 months. The patient was stable and asyntomatic for chest pain at 1 month telephone follow–up.Figure 1.Figure 2.Figure 3.

The Role of the Anaesthesiologist in Liver Transplantation - Preoperative Evaluation

Preoperative evaluation prior to listing for orthotopic liver transplantation (LT) requires a careful multidisciplinary approach with specialized teams including surgeons, hepatologists and anesthesiologists in order to improve short- and long-term clinical outcomes. Due to inadequate supply of donor organs and changing demographics, patients listed for LT have become older, sicker and share more comorbidities. As cardiovascular events are the leading cause for early mortality precise evaluation of risk factors is mandatory. This review focuses on the detection and management of coronary artery disease, cirrhotic cardiomyopathy, portopulmonary hypertension and hepatopulmonary syndrome in patients awaiting LT. Further insights are being given into scoring systems, patients with Acute-on-chronic-liver-failure (ACLF), frailty, NASH cirrhosis and into psychologic evaluation of patients with substance abuse.

Drug-Coated Balloons in the Management of Coronary Artery Disease.

Drug-coated balloons (DCBs) are specialized coronary devices comprised of a semicompliant balloon catheter with an engineered coating that allows the delivery of antiproliferative agents locally to the vessel wall during percutaneous coronary intervention. Although DCBs were initially developed more than a decade ago, their potential in coronary interventions has recently sparked renewed interest, especially in the United States. Originally designed to overcome the limitations of conventional balloon angioplasty and stenting, they aim to match or even improve upon the outcomes of drug-eluting stents without leaving a permanent implant. Presently, in-stent restenosis is the condition with the most robust evidence supporting the use of DCBs. DCBs provide improved long-term vessel patency compared with conventional balloon angioplasty and may be comparable to drug-eluting stents without the need for an additional stent layer, supporting their use as a first-line therapy for in-stent restenosis. Beyond the treatment of in-stent restenosis, DCBs provide an additional tool for de novo lesions for a strategy that avoids a permanent metal scaffold, which may be especially useful for the management of technically challenging anatomies such as small vessels and bifurcations. DCBs might also be advantageous for patients with high bleeding risk due to the decreased necessity for extended antiplatelet therapy, and in patients with diabetes and patients with diffuse disease to minimize long-stented segments. Further studies are crucial to confirm these broader applications for DCBs and to further validate safety and efficacy.

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention versus Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Chronic Total Occlusion of Coronary Arteries

Background: Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) of coronary arteries presents a significant challenge in the management of coronary artery disease (CAD), influencing treatment outcomes and patient prognosis. Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) and Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG) are two predominant revascularization strategies employed, each offering distinct benefits and limitations. Objective: This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of PCI and CABG in managing patients with CTO, to inform clinical decision-making and optimize treatment approaches. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted at Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2023. We included 145 patients diagnosed with CTO who underwent PCI (n=65) or CABG (n=80). Data were collected on patient demographics, clinical features, lesion characteristics, procedural details, and follow-up outcomes. Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) and quality of life measures were the primary endpoints. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square tests for continuous and categorical variables, respectively. Results: The procedural success rate was 84.6% for PCI and 90% for CABG. MACE occurred in 23.1% of the PCI group and 15% of the CABG group. The average hospitalization duration was 5.8 days for PCI and 8.5 days for CABG. Quality of life assessments showed comparable scores between groups, with PCI scoring 80.6 on the Seattle Angina Questionnaire and CABG scoring 79.8. Conclusion: PCI and CABG demonstrated similar efficacy and safety profiles in the management of CTO, underscoring the need for individualized treatment strategies based on patient-specific factors. Both methods proved viable, with slightly higher procedural success in CABG and comparable quality of life outcomes.

Risk Stratification Using Cardiac Imaging: A Comprehensive Review

There are numerous cardiac imaging modalities which aid in the diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease (CAD). Each modality has variable efficacy in detecting stenosis and stratifying risk among those with CAD. Clinicians must evaluate these methods in light of their patients’ clinical presentations, to choose the most appropriate imaging technique. Understanding the unique benefits and indications of each modality aids in the selection of high-value imaging. Following is a review of the available cardiac imaging methods for the identification and risk stratification of CAD.

Real-world evaluation of an algorithmic machine-learning-guided testing approach in stable chest pain: a multinational, multicohort study.

An algorithmic strategy for anatomical vs. functional testing in suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) (Anatomical vs. Stress teSting decIsion Support Tool; ASSIST) is associated with better outcomes than random selection. However, in the real world, this decision is rarely random. We explored the agreement between a provider-driven vs. simulated algorithmic approach to cardiac testing and its association with outcomes across multinational cohorts. In two cohorts of functional vs. anatomical testing in a US hospital health system [Yale; 2013-2023; n = 130 196 (97.0%) vs. n = 4020 (3.0%), respectively], and the UK Biobank [n = 3320 (85.1%) vs. n = 581 (14.9%), respectively], we examined outcomes stratified by agreement between the real-world and ASSIST-recommended strategies. Younger age, female sex, Black race, and diabetes history were independently associated with lower odds of ASSIST-aligned testing. Over a median of 4.9 (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.4-7.1) and 5.4 (IQR: 2.6-8.8) years, referral to the ASSIST-recommended strategy was associated with a lower risk of acute myocardial infarction or death (hazard ratioadjusted: 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77-0.85, P < 0.001 and 0.74 [95% CI 0.60-0.90], P = 0.003, respectively), an effect that remained significant across years, test types, and risk profiles. In post hoc analyses of anatomical-first testing in the Prospective Multicentre Imaging Study for Evaluation of Chest Pain (PROMISE) trial, alignment with ASSIST was independently associated with a 17% and 30% higher risk of detecting CAD in any vessel or the left main artery/proximal left anterior descending coronary artery, respectively. In cohorts where historical practices largely favour functional testing, alignment with an algorithmic approach to cardiac testing defined by ASSIST was associated with a lower risk of adverse outcomes. This highlights the potential utility of a data-driven approach in the diagnostic management of CAD.

Retinal Ischemic Perivascular Lesions Are Associated With Myocardial Infarction in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease

To evaluate the association of retinal ischemic perivascular lesions (RIPLs) with myocardial infarction (MI) among patients diagnosed with coronary artery diseases (CAD). Retrospective cross-sectional study. Consecutive patients (317 patients) with CAD who underwent macular spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were captured. Patients with CAD who developed MI were compared to those without MI. SD-OCT were reviewed by 2 independent and masked graders for the presence of RIPLs. Medical records were reviewed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between RIPLs and MI including the following covariates age, gender, smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia and body mass index. Of 317 patients with CAD for whom OCT scans were available to study, there were 54 (17%) with a history of MI. A higher prevalence of RIPLs was observed in the MI group compared to the non-MI group (59.3% vs 35.7%; P < .001). The presence of RIPLs was significantly associated with MI with an odds ratio of 3 (1.91-4.74; P < .001), after adjusting for age, gender, smoking status, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and body mass index. The presence of RIPLs, detected with SD-OCT, is significantly associated with MI in patients with CAD. These findings underscore the potential clinical utility of incorporating RIPL evaluation in the medical management of CAD.

Effect of on-Pump and Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft on Length of Icu Stay among Low Ejection Fraction Patients Going through Cardiac Revascularization

Background Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) remains a cornerstone in the management of coronary artery disease, especially for patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction. The debate between on-pump and off-pump CABG techniques centers on their impact on postoperative outcomes, particularly the length of ICU stay, which has significant implications for patient recovery and healthcare resources. Objective This study aimed to compare the effects of on-pump and off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting on the length of ICU stay among patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction undergoing cardiac revascularization, with a view to optimizing postoperative outcomes and resource utilization in this high-risk patient population. Methods A longitudinal cross-sectional study was conducted, enrolling 78 participants scheduled for CABG at a single center over one year. Participants were divided into two groups: those undergoing on-pump CABG (n=44) and those undergoing off-pump CABG (n=34). Data collection focused on demographic information, clinical characteristics, and the length of ICU stay. Statistical analysis employed SPSS v25, utilizing means, standard deviations, and Independent t-tests to compare outcomes between the two groups. Results The study revealed that patients undergoing on-pump CABG had a significantly shorter mean ICU stay (4 ± 3.9 days) compared to the off-pump CABG group (5 ± 4.4 days), with a P value of 0.01. Further stratification showed that older patients and those with comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension experienced longer ICU stays, irrespective of the surgical technique used. Conclusion On-pump CABG is associated with shorter ICU stays compared to off-pump CABG in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction, suggesting that the on-pump technique may be preferable for optimizing postoperative recovery and resource allocation in this patient cohort.

Levels of adherence to treatment, illness perception and acceptance of illness in patients with coronary artery disease - descriptive and correlational study

BackgroundUnderstanding the disease and its acceptance significantly influence adherence to prescribed medications, a critical aspect in managing coronary artery disease (CAD). This study is designed to explore the multifaceted factors influencing medication adherence specifically in CAD patients. Of particular interest is investigating the interconnectedness between medication adherence, the perception of illness, and the level of acceptance of the illness itself among these individuals.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 280 confirmed CAD patients who were selected through a convenience sampling method adhering to predefined inclusion criteria. The study was conducted between March and September 2023. Three primary parameters—medication adherence, illness perception, and acceptance of illness—were evaluated using standardized tools: The Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8, Illness Perception Questionnaire-Brief, and Acceptance of Illness Scale. Statistical analyses using SPSS (version 25) were used to analyze the data.ResultsPatients had moderate illness perception (51.82 ± 7.58) and low acceptance to illness (16.98 ± 4.75), and 61.8 of them adhered to their medication regimen. A positive relationship between acceptance of illness and medication adherence (r = 0.435, p-value < 0.01) was found. Level of education, type of drug and marital status had significantly impact on medication adherence, and gender, level of education, intention to stop drug and marital status were associated with acceptance of illness (p < 0.05).ConclusionThese results underscore the pivotal role of medication adherence in CAD management. Future interventions should target improving illness perception and acceptance of illness among CAD patients to enhance their overall adherence to prescribed medications and ultimately improve disease management.

A novel machine learning-derived four-gene signature predicts STEMI and post-STEMI heart failure.

High mortality and morbidity rates associated with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and post-STEMI heart failure (HF) necessitate proper risk stratification for coronary artery disease (CAD). A prediction model that combines specificity and convenience is highly required. This study aimed to design a monocyte-based gene assay for predicting STEMI and post-STEMI HF. A total of 1,956 monocyte expression profiles and corresponding clinical data were integrated from multiple sources. Meta-results were obtained through the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential analysis to identify characteristic genes for STEMI. Machine learning models based on the decision tree (DT), support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF) algorithms were trained and validated. Five genes overlapped and were subjected to the model proposal. The discriminative performance of the DT model outperformed the other two methods. The established four-gene panel (HLA-J, CFP, STX11, and NFYC) could discriminate STEMI and HF with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.86 or above. In the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), several cardiac pathogenesis pathways and cardiovascular disorder signatures showed statistically significant, concordant differences between subjects with high and low expression levels of the four-gene panel, affirming the validity of the established model. In conclusion, we have developed and validated a model that offers the hope for accurately predicting the risk of STEMI and HF, leading to optimal risk stratification and personalized management of CAD, thereby improving individual outcomes.

Dual modality intravascular catheter system combining pulse-sampling fluorescence lifetime imaging and polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography.

The clinical management of coronary artery disease and the prevention of acute coronary syndromes require knowledge of the underlying atherosclerotic plaque pathobiology. Hybrid imaging modalities capable of comprehensive assessment of biochemical and morphological plaques features can address this need. Here we report the first implementation of an intravascular catheter system combining fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIm) with polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PSOCT). This system provides multi-scale assessment of plaque structure and composition via high spatial resolution morphology from OCT, polarimetry-derived tissue microstructure, and biochemical composition from FLIm, without requiring any molecular contrast agent. This result was achieved with a low profile (2.7 Fr) double-clad fiber (DCF) catheter and high speed (100 fps B-scan rate, 40 mm/s pullback speed) console. Use of a DCF and broadband rotary junction required extensive optimization to mitigate the reduction in OCT performance originating from additional reflections and multipath artifacts. This challenge was addressed by the development of a broad-band (UV-visible-IR), high return loss (47 dB) rotary junction. We demonstrate in phantoms, ex vivo swine coronary specimens and in vivo swine heart (percutaneous coronary access) that the FLIm-PSOCT catheter system can simultaneously acquire co-registered FLIm data over four distinct spectral bands (380/20 nm, 400/20 nm, 452/45 nm, 540/45 nm) and PSOCT backscattered intensity, birefringence, and depolarization. The unique ability to collect complementary information from tissue (e.g., morphology, extracellular matrix composition, inflammation) with a device suitable for percutaneous coronary intervention offers new opportunities for cardiovascular research and clinical diagnosis.

A Non-Coronary, Peripheral Arterial Atherosclerotic Disease (Carotid, Renal, Lower Limb) in Elderly Patients-A Review: Part I-Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Atherosclerosis-Related Diversities in Elderly Patients.

Atherosclerosis is a generalized and progressive disease. Ageing is a key risk factor for atherosclerosis progression that is associated with the increased incidence of ischemic events in supplied organs, including stroke, coronary events, limb ischemia, or renal failure. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death and major disability in adults ≥ 75 years of age. Atherosclerotic occlusive disease affects everyday activity and quality of life, and it is associated with reduced life expectancy. Although there is evidence on coronary artery disease management in the elderly, there is insufficient data on the management in older patients presented with atherosclerotic lesions outside the coronary territory. Despite this, trials and observational studies systematically exclude older patients, particularly those with severe comorbidities, physical or cognitive dysfunctions, frailty, or residence in a nursing home. This results in serious critical gaps in knowledge and a lack of guidance on the appropriate medical treatment and referral for endovascular or surgical interventions. Therefore, we attempted to gather data on the prevalence, risk factors, and management strategies in patients with extra-coronary atherosclerotic lesions.