Non-calcified Coronary Plaque Research Articles

Impact of androgenic anabolic steroid use on cardiovascular and mental health in Danish recreational athletes: protocol for a nationwide cross-sectional cohort study as a part of the Fitness Doping in Denmark (FIDO-DK) study

IntroductionThe use of androgenic anabolic steroids (AASs) among recreational athletes is steadily increasing. However, knowledge regarding the potentially harmful effects of AAS primarily originates from case reports and small observational...

Plasma Lipidomics and Coronary Plaque Changes: A Substudy of the SMARTool Clinical Trial.

To date, no studies have investigated the association between lipid species and coronary plaque changes over time, quantitatively assessed by serial imaging. We aimed to prospectively determine the association between lipid species quantified by plasma lipidomic analysis, with coronary plaque changes according to composition assessed by quantitative serial analysis of coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). Patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing baseline coronary CTA were prospectively enrolled by 7 EU Centers in the SMARTool study and submitted to clinical, molecular and coronary CTA re-evaluation at follow-up (interscan period 6.39 ± 1.17 years). From the 202 patients that were analysed in the SMARTool main clinical study, lipidomic analysis was performed in 154 patients before the baseline coronary CTA, and this group was included in the present study. Quantitative CTA analysis was performed by a separate core laboratory blinded from clinical data. In univariable analysis, no lipid species were significantly associated with annual total and calcified plaque changes. After adjusting for clinical variables at baseline and statin use, 3 lipid species were significantly associated with non-calcified plaque progression. In detail, cholesteryl ester (CE)(20:3), sphingomyelin (SM)(40:3) and SM(41:1) were found positively related to non-calcified plaque progression (Bonferroni adjusted P-value = 0.005, 0.016 and 0.004, respectively). The current study showed an independent relationship between specific lipid species determined by plasma lipidomic analysis, and non-calcified coronary plaque progression assessed by serial, quantitative coronary CTA analysis.

Effects of Pitavastatin on Coronary Artery Disease and Inflammatory Biomarkers in HIV: Mechanistic Substudy of the REPRIEVE Randomized Clinical Trial.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increased in people with HIV (PWH) and is characterized by premature noncalcified coronary plaque. In the Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV (REPRIEVE), pitavastatin reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 35% over a median of 5.1 years. To investigate the effects of pitavastatin on noncalcified coronary artery plaque by coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) and on inflammatory biomarkers as potential mechanisms for MACE prevention. This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial enrolled participants from April 2015 to February 2018 at 31 US clinical research sites. PWH without known CVD who were taking antiretroviral therapy and had low to moderate 10-year CVD risk were included. Data were analyzed from April to November 2023. Oral pitavastatin calcium, 4 mg per day. Coronary CTA and inflammatory biomarkers at baseline and 24 months. The primary outcomes were change in noncalcified coronary plaque volume and progression of noncalcified plaque. Of 804 enrolled persons, 774 had at least 1 evaluable CTA. Plaque changes were assessed in 611 who completed both CT scans. Of 611 analyzed participants, 513 (84.0%) were male, the mean (SD) age was 51 (6) years, and the median (IQR) 10-year CVD risk was 4.5% (2.6-7.0). A total of 302 were included in the pitavastatin arm and 309 in the placebo arm. The mean noncalcified plaque volume decreased with pitavastatin compared with placebo (mean [SD] change, -1.7 [25.2] mm3 vs 2.6 [27.1] mm3; baseline adjusted difference, -4.3 mm3; 95% CI, -8.6 to -0.1; P = .04; 7% [95% CI, 1-12] greater reduction relative to placebo). A larger effect size was seen among the subgroup with plaque at baseline (-8.8 mm3 [95% CI, -17.9 to 0.4]). Progression of noncalcified plaque was 33% less likely with pitavastatin compared with placebo (relative risk, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.52-0.88; P = .003). Compared with placebo, the mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased with pitavastatin (mean change: pitavastatin, -28.5 mg/dL; 95% CI, -31.9 to -25.1; placebo, -0.8; 95% CI, -3.8 to 2.2). The pitavastatin arm had a reduction in both oxidized low-density lipoprotein (-29% [95% CI, -32 to -26] vs -13% [95% CI, -17 to -9]; P < .001) and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (-7% [95% CI, -11 to -4] vs 14% [95% CI, 10-18]; P < .001) compared with placebo at 24 months. In PWH at low to moderate CVD risk, 24 months of pitavastatin reduced noncalcified plaque volume and progression as well as markers of lipid oxidation and arterial inflammation. These changes may contribute to the observed MACE reduction in REPRIEVE. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02344290.

Pericardial fat volume and coronary risk factors as predictors of non-calcified coronary plaque presence among patients with coronary calcium score = 0

IntroductionThere is scarce data linking pericardial fat volume (PFV) and classical coronary risk factors with non-calcified plaque presence among patients with CAC = 0 in the literature. Material and methodA total of 811 patients with chest pain suggestive of angina underwent CT coronary angiography for the assessment of coronary artery disease were collected. Of these, 417 with CAC = 0 were included in the analysis. ResultPatients with non-calcified plaque were older (54 ± 9 versus 50 ± 10, P = 0.01) and had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (31% versus 17%, P = 0.02), high BMI (29.9 versus 28.3, P = 0.04), and increased PFV (123 cm3 versus 99 cm3, P < 0.01) compared to patients without plaque. In multivariate regression analysis, high BMI[OR(CI) = 1.1(1–1.3), P = 0.02] was an independent predictor of non-calcified coronary plaque presence among patients with CAC = 0 after adjustment to variables with P < 0.05 in the univariate analysis. ConclusionIn patients with a CAC score of 0, advanced age, diabetes mellitus, increased PFV, and high BMI were all associated with the presence of non-calcified plaque. After multivariate adjustment, increased BMI remained a significant independent predictor for non-calcified plaque presence.

Highly Inflamed Non-Calcified Coronary Plaques Sealed with Stents in Patients with Zero Calcium Score – a Case Series and Review of the Literature

Abstract The modern management of coronary artery disease (CAD) uses coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) to enhance plaque evaluation and cardiovascular risk assessment. CCTA identifies high-risk plaques, and the latest CT technologies based on calculation of fat attenuation index (FAI) allow assessment of inflammation at the level of the target coronary artery. We present a series of case studies with chest pain and positive CCTA, in whom a significant stenosis was detected in the left anterior descendent coronary artery, and the existence of high-risk, inflamed plaques was documented even in the context of a zero calcium score. A severe narrowing of the left anterior descending artery, exhibiting the pattern of high-risk anatomy, was associated with a very high inflammation depicted by FAI analysis in all three cases, an association that may be extremely dangerous. In this case series, CCTA examination led to immediate stenting of the obstructive stenosis, sealing the dangerous plaque.

Risk stratifying individuals with zero, minimal, and mild coronary artery calcium for cardiovascular disease by determining coronary plaque burden

Background and aimsUse of coronary artery calcium (CAC) continues to expand, and several different categories of risk have been developed. Some categorize CAC as <10, 11–100 and ​> ​100, while others use CAC ​= ​0,1–10, 11–100 and ​> ​100 as categories. We sought to evaluate the plaque burden in patients with CAC 0, 1–10 and 11–100 to evaluate the best use of CAC scoring for risk assessment. MethodsPatients were recruited from existing prospective CCTA trials with CAC scores ≤100 and quantitative coronary plaque analysis (QAngio, Medis). CAC was categorized into three groups: zero (CAC ​= ​0), minimal (CAC 1–10), and mild (CAC 11–100). Plaque levels (low attenuated, fibrous, fibro-fatty, dense calcified, total non-calcified) were assessed using multivariable linear regression adjusted for cardiovascular risk factors (age, ethnicity, BMI, gender, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, past smoking). Results378 subjects were included, with an average age of 53.9 ​± ​10.7 years and 53 ​% female. Among them, 51 ​% had 0 CAC, 16 ​% had minimal CAC (scores 1–10), and 33 ​% had mild CAC (scores 11–100). The minimal and mild CAC groups were significantly older, with higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Multivariable analysis found no significant difference in low attenuated, fibro-fatty, and dense calcified plaque levels between the minimal and zero CAC groups. However, minimal CAC subjects had significantly higher fibrous, total non-calcified, and total plaque volumes than zero CAC. All plaque types were significantly higher in the mild group when comparing mild CAC to minimal CAC. ConclusionIndividuals with minimal calcium scores (1–10) had greater noncalcified coronary plaque (NCAP) and total plaque volume than individuals with a calcium score of zero. The increased presence of NCAP and total plaque volume in the minimal CAC (1–10) is clinically significant and place those patients at higher coronary vascular disease (CVD) risk than individuals with absent CAC (CAC ​= ​zero). Therefore, the use of CAC ​= ​0, 1–10 and 11–100 is prudent to better categorize CVD risk.

Abstract 14650: Risk Stratifying Individuals With Zero, Minimal, and Mild Coronary Artery Calcium for Cardiovascular Disease by Determining Coronary Plaque Burden

Background and Aims: Previous research has often categorized minimal CAC (1-10) and 0 CAC into a single low-risk category for CVD. However, the clinical significance of plaque burden between these two groups remains unclear. We sought to determine the plaque burden in individuals with CAC scores of 0, 1-10, and 11-100 to specify a more accurate risk stratification for minimal and 0 CAC scores. Methods: Retrospectively reviewed patients with CAC scores ≤100 and performed quantitative coronary plaque analysis (QAngio, Medis). CAC was categorized into three groups: zero (CAC=0), minimal (CAC 1-10), and mild (CAC 11-100). Plaque levels (low attenuated, fibrous, fibro-fatty, dense calcified, total non-calcified) were assessed using multivariable linear regression adjusted for cardiovascular risk factors (age, ethnicity, BMI, gender, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, past smoking) Results: 378 subjects were included, with an average age of 53.9±10.7 years and 53% female. Among them, 51% had 0 CAC, 16% had minimal CAC (scores 1-10), and 33% had mild CAC (scores 11-100). The minimal and mild CAC groups were significantly older, with higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Multivariable analysis found no significant difference in low attenuated, fibro-fatty, and dense calcified plaque levels between the minimal and 0 CAC groups. However, minimal CAC subjects had significantly higher fibrous, total non-calcified, and total plaque volumes than zero CAC ( Table 3 ). All plaque types were significantly higher in the mild group when comparing mild CAC to minimal CAC." Conclusion: This study shows higher noncalcified coronary plaque and total plaque volume in individuals with minimal calcium scores (1-10) compared to those with 0 CAC. These findings hold clinical significance, challenging previous categorization of minimal CAC as low-risk. Therefore, those with minimal CAC scores need a more accurate risk stratification approach.

Abstract 14108: Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid and Their Association With Oral Inflammatory Markers in Subjects With Clinical Coronary Artery Disease

Background: Our group previously reported that subjects with coronary artery disease (CAD) randomized to the omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), had lower levels of blood inflammatory markers and prevention of progression of non-calcified coronary plaque. Macrophage inhibitory protein (MIP)-1β is an inflammatory chemokine expressed by T cells in human plaques; circulating levels are increased in patients with atherosclerosis. The relation between EPA+DHA supplementation and oral inflammatory markers is unclear. Aim: To determine if EPA+DHA supplementation lowers levels of oral inflammatory markers. Methods: Subjects with clinical CAD were randomized to EPA+DHA, 3.36 g daily, or none for 30 months; 199 underwent a dental exam. Gingival crevicular fluid was collected at baseline and 30 months and analyzed for inflammatory markers. Results: MIP-1-β level was significantly lower in the EPA+DHA group compared to control at 30 months in the left upper quadrant of the mouth but not in the right upper quadrant (Table). This difference could potentially be explained by handedness. For example, Right-handed people tend to brush the left side of the mouth better whereas left-handed individuals and ambidextrous individuals have better brushing skills on the right side of the mouth. Other inflammatory markers (MCP, TNF-a, IL-1 and IL-6) were not different between groups on either side. Conclusions: Subjects with CAD randomized to EPA+DHA had reduced levels of the oral inflammatory marker, MIP-1β, at 30 months, suggesting that EPA+DHA can confer oral health benefits in addition to lowering systemic inflammation. For greatest benefit, brushing equally on both sides of the mouth should be encouraged, for which a powered toothbrush can help as it doesn’t rely on manual dexterity and handedness. Future research should examine whether the benefit of omega-3 fatty acids on oral health increases the benefit on coronary plaque.

Non-calcified plaque in asymptomatic patients with zero coronary artery calcium score: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThere is growing interest in understanding the coronary atherosclerotic burden in asymptomatic patients with zero coronary artery calcium score (CACS). In this population, we aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of non-calcified coronary plaques (NCP) as detected by coronary CT angiography (CCTA), and to analyze the associated clinical predictors. MethodsThis was a systematic review with meta-analysis of studies indexed in PubMed/Medline and Web of Science from inception of the database to March 31st, 2023. Using the random-effects model, separate Forest and Galbraith plots were generated for each effect size assessed. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistics whilst Funnel plots and Egger's test were used to assess for publication bias. ResultsFrom a total of 14 studies comprising 37808 patients, we approximated the pooled summary estimates for the overall prevalence of NCP to be 10% (95%CI: 6%–13%). Similarly, the pooled prevalence of obstructive NCP was estimated at 1.1% (95%CI: 0.7%–1.5%) from a total of 10 studies involving 21531 patients. Hypertension [OR: 1.46 (95%CI:1.31–1.62)] and diabetes mellitus [OR: 1.69 (95%CI: 1.41–1.97)] were significantly associated with developing any NCP, with male gender being the strongest predictor [OR: 3.22 (95%CI: 2.17–4.27)]. ConclusionThere is a low burden of NCP among asymptomatic subjects with zero CACS. In a subset of this population who have clinical predictors of NCP, the addition of CCTA has a potential to provide a better insight about occult coronary atherosclerosis, however, a risk-benefit approach must be factored in prior to CCTA use given the low prevalence of NCP.

Non-Calcified Coronary Artery Plaque on Coronary Computed Tomography Angiogram: Prevalence and Significance.

We aimed to assess the prevalence of non-calcified plaque (NCP) on computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. In addition, we seek to compare plaque assessment on CCTA with intravascular ultrasound-virtual histology (IVUS-VH) and to assess the prognostic value of non-calcified plaques (NCPs). The CCTA can characterize coronary plaques and help quantify burden. Furthermore, it can provide additional prognostic information which can enable further risk stratification of patients. We performed a broad comprehensive review of the current literature pertaining to CCTA and primarily isolated NCP in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. In addition, our review included studies correlating plaque on CT with IVUS-VH. NCP is the initial precursor of calcified plaque and serves as a prominent marker of early coronary atherosclerosis. By detecting NCP during early stages, several measures can be implemented which can alter the evolutionary course of the underlying disease. This can potentially lead to a lower incidence of cardiovascular events.

Identification of non-calcified coronary plaque characteristics using machine learning radiomic analysis of non-contrast high-resolution computed tomography.

Novel imaging and analysis techniques may offer the ability to detect noncalcified or high-risk coronary plaques on a non-contrast computer tomography (CT) scan, advancing cardiovascular diagnostics. We aimed to explore whether machine learning (ML) radiomic analysis of low-dose high-resolution non-contrast electrocardiographically (ECG) gated cardiac CT scan allows for the identification of noncalcified coronary plaque characteristics. We prospectively enrolled 125 patients with noncalcified plaques and adverse plaque characteristics (APC) and 25 controls without visible atherosclerosis on coronary CT angiography (CCTA). All patients underwent non-contrast CT exam before CCTA. Four hundred and nineteen radiomic features were calculated to identify the presence of any coronary artery disease (CAD), obstructive CAD (stenosis >50%), plaque with ≥2 APC, degree of calcification, and specific APCs. ML models were trained on a training set (917 segmentations) and tested (validation) on a separate set (292 segmentations). Among the radiomic features, 88.3% were associated with a plaque, 0.9% with obstructive CAD, and 76.4% with the presence of at least two APCs. Overall, 80.2%, 88.5%, and 36.5%, of features were associated with calcified, partially calcified, and noncalcified plaques, respectively. Regarding APCs, 61.1%, 61.8%, 84.2%, and 61.3% of features were associated with low attenuation (LAP), napkin-ring sign (NRS), spotty calcification (SC), and positive remodeling (PR), respectively. ML models outperformed conventional methods for the presence of plaque obstructive stenosis, and the presence of 2 APCs, as well as for noncalcified plaques and partially calcified plaques, but not for calcified plaques. ML models also significantly outperformed identification of LAP and PR, but neither NRS nor SC. Radiomic analysis of non-contrast cardiac CT exams may allow for the identification of specific noncalcified coronary plaque characteristics displaying the potential for future clinical applications.

Interplay Between Zero CAC, Quantitative Plaque Analysis, and Adverse Events in a Diverse Patient Cohort.

Coronary artery calcium scoring (CAC) has garnered attention in the diagnostic approach to chest pain patients. However, little is known about the interplay between zero CAC, sex, race, ethnicity, and quantitative coronary plaque analysis. We conducted a retrospective analysis from our computed tomography registry of patients with stable angina without prior myocardial infarction or revascularization undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography at Montefiore Healthcare System. Follow-up end points collected included invasive angiography, type-1 myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, cardiovascular and all-cause death. A total of 2249 patients were included (66% female). The median follow-up was 5.5 years. The median age of those without CAC was 52 years (interquartile range, 44-59) and 60 years (interquartile range, 53-68) in those with CAC. Most patients were Hispanic (58%), and the rest were non-Hispanic Black (28%), non-Hispanic White (10%), and non-Hispanic Asian (5%). The majority had CAC=0 (55%). The negative predictive value of CAC=0 was 92.8%, 99.9%, and 99.9% for any plaque, obstructive coronary artery stenosis, and the composite outcome of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, or coronary revascularization, respectively. Among patients without CAC (n=1237), 89 patients (7%) had evidence of plaque on their coronary computed tomography angiography with a median low-attenuation noncalcified plaque burden of 4% (2-7). There were no significant differences in the negative predictive value for CAC=0 by sex, race, or ethnicity. Patients with ≥2 risk factors had higher odds of having plaque with zero CAC. In summary, no sex, race, or ethnicity differences were demonstrated in the negative predictive value of a zero CAC; however, patients with ≥2 risk factors had a higher prevalence of plaque. A small percentage (7%) of symptomatic patients undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography with zero CAC had noncalcified coronary plaque, with the implication that caution is needed for downscaling of preventive treatment in patients with zero CAC, chest pain, and multiple risk factors.

Body mass components affecting low-attenuation noncalcified coronary plaque burden

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): National Institute of Cardiology in Warsaw, Poland Background Weight control is a major risk modifier for coronary artery disease. However, the effect exerted by individual body mass components on coronary plaque may not be uniform. Low-attenuation noncalcified plaque (LAP) has been recently identified as an independent predictor of cardiovascular outcomes [1]. Purpose To determine the relationship between changes in body mass composition and LAP burden. Methods 89 participants of Dietary Intervention to Stop Coronary Atherosclerosis in Computed Tomography (DISCO-CT) were enrolled into the analysis (40% women, mean age 60±7.7 years). Patients with non-obstructive (stenosis&amp;lt;70%) coronary atherosclerosis confirmed in coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and qualified to conservative treatment were randomized (1:1) to intensive diet and lifestyle intervention atop optimal medical therapy (OMT) versus OMT alone over 66.8±13.7 months [2]. Body mass (BM) and body mass components including total body fat (TBF), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), visceral cell mass (VCM), and extracellular mass (ECM) were measured at baseline and follow-up (InBody S10 analyser, South Korea). LAP burden was defined as the volume of coronary plaque &amp;lt;30 Hounsfield units divided by the vessel volume, and expressed in %. Changes in body components were compared with changes in LAP measured in serial CCTA scans (QAngioCT, Medis Medical Imaging Systems, the Netherlands). Results Reduction in BM was significantly higher in the experimental (∆BM=-3.6±4.9 kg) vs control arm (∆BM=-1.4±2.9 kg; p = 0.016) and so was the reduction in TBF (∆TBF=-4.2±5.3 kg vs ∆TBF=0.2±4.3 kg, respectively; p&amp;lt;0.001). SMM increased by 0.4±2.6 kg in the experimental arm and decreased by 1.0±2.1 kg in the control arm (p = 0.006). No significant interarm differences were observed for changes in VCM and ECM. Reduction in LAP was higher in the experimental vs control arm (∆LAP=-0.42±1.4% vs ∆LAP=-0.03±0.45%, respectively; p = 0.078). In the entire study population, a significant positive correlation between LAP reduction and BM reduction was revealed (r=0.45, p&amp;lt;0.001). Multivariate regression model incorporating the investigated body mass components identified TBF as the only component associated with LAP reduction (table). Conclusions Body mass reduction may decrease LAP burden due to body fat reduction.

Cardiovascular risk factors and pericardial fat volume as predictors of coronary atherosclerosis burden in postmenopausal women: A retrospective, single center study.

Little is known about the clinical relevance of pericardial fat volume (PFV), compared to other conventional cardiovascular risk factors, as predictors of coronary atherosclerosis severity among postmenopausal women. Our main aim was to assess the association of PFV and cardiovascular risk factors with coronary atherosclerosis burden, including occlusive coronary artery disease (CAD) (luminal stenosis >50%), coronary artery calcium score (CAC)>100, and plaque types in postmenopausal women. Patients who had chest pain of angina and referred for 64-slice multi-detector CT (MDCT) angiography examination to exclude occlusive CAD presence were enrolled in this retrospective study. A total of 241 women with absence of menses for more than 2 consecutive years and not taking hormone replacement therapy were enrolled in the present study. Increased PFV(OR[CI] = 1.1 [1-1.3],p = 0.004), age (OR [CI] = 1.1 [1-1.4],p = 0.002), and diabetes mellitus (OR [CI] = 2 [1-4],p = 0.025)were significant predictors of occlusive CAD presence. Increased PFV(OR [CI] = 1.1 [1-1.4],p = 0.017)and increased age (OR [CI] = 1.2 [1.1-1.4],p < 0.001)were better predictors of CAC>100 than other cardiovascular risk factors. Regarding coronary plaque types, increased age (OR [CI] = 1.1 [1.1-1.3],p = 0.001)showed a significant association with coronary calcified plaque presence while increased body mass index(OR [CI] = 1.2 [1-1.4],p = 0.018)showed a significant association with coronary non-calcified plaque presence. Higher PFV values showed an independent association with occlusive CAD and significant coronary calcification. This may imply that increased PFV is likely associated with the development of advanced and severe phenotype of coronary atherosclerosis among postmenopausal women with suspected CAD.

Abstract 13889: Effect of Eicosapentaenoic and Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation on Noncalcified Coronary Plaque and Coronary Artery Calcium Score in Subjects With Coronary Artery Disease According to Hypertension Status

Introduction: Higher amounts of noncalcified plaque and higher coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores are associated with increased cardiovascular events and mortality. The effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on noncalcified coronary plaque and more advanced calcified plaque as measured by the CAC score according to hypertensive (HTN) status is unknown. Methods: A total of 242 subjects with coronary artery disease (CAD) on statin were randomized to 3.36 g of EPA+DHA or none (control) for 30 months. Coronary plaque composition and CAC scores were measured with computed tomographic coronary angiography at baseline and 30-month follow-up. Results: Mean (SD) age was 63.1 years (7.7); mean (SD) LDL-C: 77.8 mg/dL (27.3) and median [IQR] triglyceride (TG): 117.5 mg/dL [81.3,166.8]. Despite a significantly higher CAC score at baseline in HTN subjects, both HTN and normotensive (NTN) subjects had similar CAC progression over 30 months with no difference between EPA+DHA and control groups (Figure B). NTN subjects on EPA+DHA had a 20.7% reduction in TG level and 36.6% lower neutrophil count, a marker of inflammation, and lack of progression of noncalcified plaque compared to control who had progression (median % change: -7.6 vs 13.2 mm 3 /mm, P=0.008) (Figure A). In contrast, HTN subjects on EPA+DHA and control had progression of noncalcified coronary plaque with no significant difference between the two groups (Figure A) Conclusions: EPA+DHA prevented progression of noncalcified plaque in NTN subjects but not HTN subjects with no effect on more advanced plaque which has calcified in the setting of low LDL-C and TG levels. The benefit of EPA+DHA in CAD patients on statin therapy appears limited to noncalcified coronary plaque in NTN subjects. Whether this benefit is related to more favorable effects on inflammation based on blood pressure status should be examined further.

Abstract 11601: Association Between Remnant Cholesterol and Coronary Plaque Features: The Miami Heart Study at Baptist Health South Florida

Introduction: Remnant particles, the product of partial metabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, have been associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), independent of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). This study aims to further examine the role of remnant cholesterol (RC) in atherogenesis by assessing its association with plaque characteristics. Methods: After excluding individuals on statin therapy (n=527), we included 1,832 statin-naïve participants from the Miami Heart Study, a prospective cohort of clinical ASCVD-free individuals in Miami (2015-2018) evaluated using coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). RC was estimated as non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol minus LDL-C. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between low/high RC/LDL-C groups (defined by &lt; or ≥ medians) and plaque features. Results: Mean age of participants was 52.5±6.7 years, 54% women, 49.5% Hispanic. Median LDL-C and RC were 129.1 and 21.6 mg/dL, respectively. For each SD increase in RC levels, the odds of having non-calcified coronary plaque increased (OR 1.19 [95% CI 1.07-1.33]) and so did the segmental involvement score (OR 1.05 [95% CI 1.01-1.09]) independent of traditional risk factors including LDL-C. The prevalence of coronary plaque features per RC/LDL-C group are shown in Table. Among those with low LDL-C, having high RC conferred a significantly higher risk of non-calcified plaque (OR 1.61 [95% CI 1.11-2.32]) compared to having low RC, although associations were not statistically significant with other plaque features (Table). Conclusions: In asymptomatic individuals with low LDL-C, elevated RC was independently associated with non-calcified plaque.

Abstract 12348: High-Risk Low-Density Non-Calcified Plaque Morphology

Hypothesis The morphology of low-density non-calcified coronary plaque is associated with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and culprit lesion precursors Methods: This was a post-hoc analysis of the multicenter ICONIC study. A subset of 94 patients suspected of coronary artery disease (CAD) underwent coronary CT angiography imaging (CCTA) with subsequent follow-up for the occurrence of the first ACS event were selected. At the time of ACS, the culprit lesion was adjudicated by invasive coronary angiography cardiologists blinded to the CCTA. Quantitative CT was performed by a validated software as a service (Cleerly Labs, Cleerly, Inc., Denver, CO). A level-III reader used multiplanar reformation (MPR) images from this analysis to qualitatively assess individual collections of low-density non-calcified (LDNC) plaques (-189 to 30 HU). The degree of embedded LDNC plaque (DELP) was the amount a LDNC plaque was surrounded by non-calcified plaque. DELP was categorized as 90, 180, 270, and 360. LDNC plaque shape was categorized as crescent, round, lobular, or bean-shaped. DELP and shape were qualitatively assessed using the cross-sectional MPR image with the greatest LDNC plaque area. LDNC plaques with &gt;270 DELP and round or bean-shaped were considered high-risk plaque (HRP) morphology. Results: ACS occurred in 64 patients. 247 LDNC plaques were analyzed. Patients without and with ACS had, on average 0.40±0.86 and 1.02±1.21 (p-value = 0.014) LDNC plaques with HRP morphology. The proportional hazard ratio associating the presence of one or more HRP morphology plaques with ACS was 2.03 (1.19, 3.48; p-value = 0.009), after controlling for diameter stenosis, age, sex, and family history of CAD. The odds ratio of the association of HRP morphology with culprit lesion precursors was 10.93 (3.77, 31.71; p-value &lt;0.001), after controlling for diameter stenosis, age, sex, and family history of CAD. Conclusion HRP morphology may improve the stratification of patients at risk for ACS.

Association between Arousals during Sleep and Subclinical Coronary Atherosclerosis in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

(1) Aim: We aim to evaluate the association between arousals during sleep and subclinical coronary atherosclerosis detected by coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). (2) Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Consecutive newly diagnosed OSA patients, who underwent coronary CTA examinations within 3 months of the sleep study, were eligible. We used the arousal index (ArI) derived from polysomnography to assess arousals during sleep and a semi-automated plaque quantification software to characterize and quantify the subclinical coronary atherosclerosis. Multiple regression models were used to evaluate the associations of the ArI with the coronary atherosclerotic plaque presence, volume, and composition. (3) Results: A total of 99 patients with OSA were included in the study. In the multivariable models, patients with a high ArI (ArI > 32.2 events/h) were more likely to have coronary plaques compared to those with a low ArI (ArI ≤ 32.2 events/h) (OR: 3.29 [95% CI: 1.284 to 8.427], p = 0.013). Furthermore, the ArI exhibited significant associations with total (β = 0.015), noncalcified (β = 0.015), and low-attenuation (β = 0.012) coronary plaque volume after accounting for established risk factors (p = 0.008, 0.004, and 0.002, respectively). However, no association between the ArI and calcified plaque volume was found. (4) Conclusion: Repetitive arousals during sleep are associated with an increased coronary plaque burden in patients with OSA, which remained robust after adjusting for multiple established cardiovascular risk factors.

Identification of non-calcified coronary plaque characteristics using machine learning radiomic analysis of non-contrast high-resolution CT

Abstract Objective To explore whether machine learning (ML) radiomic analysis of low-dose, high-resolution, non-contrast, ECG gated cardiac CT scan allows identification of non-calcified coronary plaque characteristics. Background Novel imaging and analysis techniques may provide the ability to detect non-calcified or high risk coronary plaques on a non-contrast CT scan, advancing cardiovascular diagnostics. Methods We prospectively enrolled 125 patients with a non-calcified plaque and an adverse plaque characteristic (APC), and 25 controls without visible atherosclerosis on coronary CT angiography (CCTA). All patients underwent the non-contrast CT exam prior to CCTA. 419 radiomic features were calculated to identify: presence of any CAD, obstructive CAD (stenosis&amp;gt;50%), plaque with ≥2 APC, degree of calcification and specific APCs. ML models were trained on a training set (917 segmentations) and tested on a separate (validation) set (292 segmentations). Results Among the radiomic features 88.3% was associated with any plaque, 0.9% with obstructive CAD and 76.4% with presence of at least two APCs. Overall, 80.2%, 88.5% and 36.5%, of features were associated with calcified, partially calcified, and noncalcified plaques, respectively. Regarding APCs, 61.1%, 61.8%, 84.2%, and 61.3%, of features were associated with low attenuation (LAP), napkin-ring sign (NRS), spotty calcification (SC), and positive remodeling (PR), respectively. ML models outperformed conventional methods for the presence of plaque, obstructive stenosis, presence of 2 APC, as well as for noncalcified plaque and partially calcified plaque, but not for calcified plaque. ML models also significantly outperformed identification of LAP and PR, but neither NRS nor SC. Conclusions Radiomic analysis of non-contrast CT heart exams may allow identification of specific non-calcified coronary plaque characteristics which could aid cardiovascular risk stratification or pre-screening of individuals prior to contrast enhanced CCTA exam. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): National Science Center

The association of coronary non-calcified plaque loading based on coronary computed tomography angiogram and adverse cardiovascular events in patients with unstable coronary heart disease-a retrospective cohort study.

BackgroundCoronary computed tomography angiogram (CCTA) has the characteristics of non-invasive, high resolution, and can accurately determine the characteristics of tubular wall plaques. The non-calcified plaque loading of the coronary arteries is unstable and prone to shedding, leading to adverse cardiovascular events. However, few studies focused on the predictive value of non-calcified plaque loading for adverse cardiovascular events in patients with unstable coronary heart disease (CHD). The present study was conducted to investigate the association of coronary non-calcified plaque loading based on CCTA and adverse cardiovascular events in patients with unstable CHD.MethodsA total of 206 patients with unstable CHD were collected and followed up for 1 year. The patients were divided into an observation group (n=56) and a control group (n=150) according to whether adverse cardiovascular events occurred or not. We analyzed the predictive value of coronary artery non-calcified plaque loading for adverse cardiovascular events in unstable CHD using receiver operating characteristic and multivariate logistics regression analysis.ResultsCompared with the control group, the non-calcified plaque volume in the observation group was increased (160.10±44.02 vs. 128.06±42.22 mm3, P=0.000); non-calcified plaque loading increased (26.93%±7.98% vs. 21.46%±7.62%, P=0.000); carotid intima-media thickness increased (1.49±0.17 vs. 1.40%±0.18 mm, P=0.001); and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly reduced (53.28%±7.39% vs. 58.02%±7.91%, P=0.000). Non-calcified plaque volume and non-calcified plaque loading have certain diagnostic value for recurrence of adverse cardiovascular events within 1 year (P<0.05). A non-calcified plaque volume >145.58 mm3 is a risk factor for recurrence of adverse cardiovascular events (P<0.05).ConclusionsIncreased non-calcified plaque volume in patients with unstable CHD is associated with the development of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with unstable CHD.