Risk Profile Research Articles

Intellectual capital and firm risk: evidence from an emerging economy

Purpose Intellectual capital (IC) plays a pivotal role in determining corporate risk profiles in the contemporary knowledge era. Consequently, this study aims to analyze the impact of IC on firm risk (FR) among the manufacturing companies listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). Design/methodology/approach The authors have adopted the modified value-added intellectual model which combines human capital efficiency, structural capital efficiency, efficiency of capital employed and relational capital efficiency. FR has been used as the dependent variable, measured as the standard deviation of the daily stock prices. The study has used panel data from a sample of 40 manufacturing companies listed in the KSE-100 Index from 2015 to 2021. Findings The results suggest that IC has a significant impact on the FR of manufacturing companies listed on the benchmark index of PSX. Moreover, this relationship is direct; thus, an increase in IC would also increase FR measured by the change in stock prices. Research limitations/implications The current study has only used linear techniques. Future researchers may consider investigating the impact of IC at varying levels of FR using nonlinear techniques. Practical implications This study provides corporate managers and policymakers valuable insight into the need to strike a balance between investment in IC and their FR, particularly in an emerging market context. Originality/value IC is frequently associated with firm performance. However, the relationship between IC and FR has generally been underexplored. This study adds to the strand of limited IC literature by investigating the impact of a modified IC model on FR in an emerging economy.

Profiles of Risk and Promotive Factors Associated With Aggression and Other Problem Behaviors Among Middle School Students in an Urban School System

This study’s goal was to identify patterns of risk and promotive factors across multiple social-ecological domains and their associations with adolescents’ problem behaviors (aggression, substance use, and other delinquent behaviors), victimization, and distress symptoms. Participants were a mostly African American (79%) sample of 2711 middle school students (Mage = 12.7; 52% female) in urban neighborhoods who completed measures of 13 risk and promotive factors and adjustment. Ratings were also obtained from teachers. Latent profile analysis identified four subgroups: high risk/low promotive (10% of the sample), moderate risk/low promotive (36%), low risk/low promotive (15%), and low risk/high promotive (38%). Subgroups varied in student- and teacher-reported aggression, problem behaviors, victimization, and distress. The findings indicated that risk and promotive factors tend to operate together and in distinct patterns rather than in isolation. This suggests researchers move beyond variable-centered analyses of limited sets of risk and protective factors.

First time surgical aortic valve replacement: nationwide trends and outcomes from The Netherlands heart registration.

To describe trends and outcomes for patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement in the Netherlands. The Netherlands Heart Registration database was used to report the number and outcomes of isolated, primary surgical aortic valve replacement procedures performed from 2007 to 2018 in adult patients. A total of 17142 procedures were included, of which 77.9% were performed using a biological prosthesis and 21.0% with a mechanical prosthesis. Median logistic EUROSCORE I decreased from 4.6 (IQR 2.4-7.7) to 4.0 (IQR 2.6-6.0). 120-day mortality decreased from 3.3% in 2007 to 0.7% in 2018. Median duration of follow-up was 76 months (IQR 53-111). Ten-year survival, when adjusted for age, EUROSCORE I, and body surface area, was 72.4%, and adjusted 10-year freedom from reinvervention was98.1%. Additional analysis for patients under the age of 60 showed no difference between patients treated with a biological or mechanical prosthesis in adjusted 10-year survival, 89.7% versus 91.9±%, respectively, (p = 0.25), but a significant difference in adjusted 10-year freedom from reintervention, 90.0±% versus 95.9%, respectively, (p < 0.01). Between 2007 and 2018, age and risk profile of patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement decreased, especially for patients treated with a biological prosthesis. The 120-day mortality decreased over time. Patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement nowadays have a risk of 120-day mortality of < 1% and 10-year freedom from valve-related reintervention of > 95%.

A multistage forecasting model for green bond cost optimization with dynamic corporate risk constraints

AbstractThis study develops a multi‐stage stochastic model to forecast the issuance of green bonds using the Filtered Historical Simulation (FHS) method to identify the most cost‐effective conditions for issuing these bonds amid various risk factors. Drawing on historical yield data and financial metrics of corporate green bonds from December 2014 to June 2023, the model considers fluctuating elements such as risk probabilities, financial risks in worst‐case scenarios, and liquidity risks at upcoming issuance moments. Our findings reveal the model's effectiveness in pinpointing the lowest possible costs of issuing new green bond portfolios in the future, while also addressing expected financial risk, risk occurrence probability, and liquidity issues. The results provide issuers with the insights needed to accurately time the market, tailor bond maturities according to a corporation's future risk profile, and enhance liquidity management. Notably, our model indicates that refining the estimated probability of future risk occurrences can lead to significant savings in green bond issuance costs. This approach allows for adaptable bond issuance strategies, addresses inherent debt, and enables detailed risk management, offering substantial benefits for green enterprises navigating the complexities of future financial landscapes.

Acute kidney injury in patients with acute coronary syndrome - risk profile

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a strong predictor of in-hospital adverse outcomes, which is a common complication of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Aim To analyse the risk profile of patients treated for acute coronary syndrome who develop acute kidney injury. Material and methods This is a single-centre cross-sectional cohort study on 3507 patients with ACS. The main exclusion criteria was left ventricular dysfunction. Demographical and clinical characteristics, biochemical parameters, the anatomical distribution of coronary artery disease (CAD) and the final outcomes were analysed according to RF at the moment of the indexed event. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Group Equation (MDRD), where patients with eGFR&amp;lt;60ml/min 1.73 m2 had moderate to severe renal dysfunction. Results 74 (2.1%) out of 3507 patients developed acute kidney injury (AKI). Those were predominantly males [62.2% (46), OR 1.55 (95% CI 0.98-2.47), p=0.044], significantly older (68.95±9.9. vs 62.5±11.2; p &amp;lt;0.000001), more often with preexisting HBI (OR 4.72 (95% CI 2.20-10.30, p=0.000070), HTA(OR 1.89 95%CI 1.11-3.23, p=0.020), diabetes(OR 1.88 95%CI 1.18-3.00, p=0.008), cancer(OR 2.92 95%CI 1.15-7.44, p=0.024), anaemia (beta -.104, p=0.000032), while less often were smokers (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.31-0.83, p=0.006). They had statistically significantly higher values of cardiac troponin (beta .075, p=0.000011), stress glycemia (beta .104, p=0. 0.000019), and WBC (beta .074, p=0.000013), higher BUN (beta .325, p=0.000011), creatinine (beta .268, p=0.000016), and lower eGFR at admission (beta -.211, p=0.000032), lower sodium (beta -.101, p=0.000012), and higher potassium levels (beta .087, p=0.0008). Vice versa, total cholesterol, LDL-C and non-HDL-C (beta -.051, p=0.002, -.049, p=0.003, and -.047, p=0.005 respectively), were lower, the same for Hgb (beta -.107, p=0.000021). It is worth mentioning that 18(11.5%), of AKI patients were not PCI treated. Independent variables associated with AKI were: preexisting renal failure, cancer, and WBC. Outcomes: AKI carried a significantly higher in-hospital mortality rate (4.2% in general population, and 21.1% of all deaths were AKI patients, OR 23.01 (95% CI 14.04-47.03, p=0.00002)]. It was significantly associated with the development of pulmonary oedema (OR 17.94, 95% CI 9.67-33.26, p=0.000012), cardiogenic shock (OR 21.59, 95% CI 12.79-36.47, p=0.00006), any type of dysrhythmia (OR 1.83, 95%CI 1.53-2.18, p=0.0001), and any type of bleeding complications (OR 1.61, 95%CI 1.14-2.27, p=0.007). Conclusion AKI is a relatively rare complication in ACS patients, however is associated with significant in-hospital morbidity and mortality. Patients with pre-existing renal failure, and cancer, as well as patients who developed more pronounced inflammatory reaction were more prone to AKI.

The role of pre-existing renal dysfunction on in-hospital morbidity and mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction The baseline renal function is an important predictor for the prognosis of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of our study was to analyse the impact of pre-existing renal failure (RF) and the risk profile of patients with ACS on the development of in-hospital morbidity and mortality. Materials and methods This was a single-center cross-sectional cohort study on 2702 patients with ACS. The main exclusion criterion was pre-existing left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Demographical and clinical characteristics, biochemical parameters, the anatomical distribution of coronary artery disease, and the final outcomes were analysed according to presence of RF at the moment of the index event. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Group Equation (MDRD), where patients with eGFR&amp;lt;60 ml/min/1.73 m2 had moderate to severe renal dysfunction. Results 777 (22.3%) out of 2702 patients had eGFR &amp;lt;60 ml/min at the moment of the index event. These patients were predominantly female, 34.1% (333) vs.17.7% (444), p=0.0004,OR 1.921(95%CI 1.701-2.168);older (70.0±9.7vs.60.5±10.7;p &amp;lt;0.000). They had significantly higher values of cardiac troponin (p=0.007), stress glycemia (p=0.000019), glycated hemoglobin (p=0.000012), and WBC (p=0.00001), meaning the extent of myocardial injury was bigger, with a more activated neuro-hormonal and inflammatory response in the conditions of the notably widespread anatomical distribution of CAD. However, patients with significantly reduced eGFR were less likely to be offered coronary angiography and PCI treatment, OR 0.524 (95%CI 0.434–0.632),p &amp;lt;0.000. As expected, anemia predominated in these patients (RBC 4.88±0.75 vs 4.53±0.58, p=0.000001; OR 1.27 (95% CI 1.09-1.48), and Hgb 143.81±16.69 vs 132.03±21.34, p=0.00001). They had a significantly lower level of sodium (p=0.008) and a higher level of potassium (p=0.00003). Interestingly, patients with eGFR &amp;lt;60 ml/min had lower lipoprotein levels. In-hospital mortality rate was 4.2%, however, significantly higher in reduced eGFR group (12% vs 1.9%, OR 6.9 (95% CI 4.9–9.8), p &amp;lt;0.00004). These patients were more likely to develop acute kidney injury [25.7% vs. 1.3%, OR 1.6 (95% CI 1.3-1.9, p = 0.000021)], pulmonary oedema [8% vs. 1.8%, OR 1.12 (95% CI 1.02-1.23, p = 0.000021), and cardiogenic shock [19.5% vs. 2.6%, OR 1.22 (95% CI 1.2-1.4), p = 0.00023]. Independent variables associated with RF were: advanced age, female gender, extracardiac ASCVD, previous CVI, previous RAAS treatment, stress glycemia, triglyceride, cholesterol, LDL-C, Hgb, WBC, and potassium level. Conclusion Patients with reduced eGFR (&amp;lt;60 ml/min) have a very specific risk profile, as identified in our study, and reduced eGFR is a major contributor to the prognosis of ACS, highly responsible for in-hospital morbidity and mortality.Multivariate logistic regression analysis

Left ventricular systolic function in patients with acute coronary syndrome-risk profile

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introductions and objectives Left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction is one of the most important determinants of long-term outcome in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Aim To determine the impact of the patient’s risk profile on the LV systolic function. Methods A single-center cross-sectional cohort study that included 3093 patients with ACS without pre-existing LV dysfunction. The comparison was performed between patients who did or did not develop a reduction in LV systolic function during the index event (&amp;lt;50%/≥50%), analyzing patients’ demographic, clinical, biochemical data, LV functional data, and anatomical distribution of the coronary artery disease (CAD). Result 1369 patients out of 3093 developed LV systolic dysfunction (44.3%). They were predominantly males 75.1% (1028), p=0.002; older (63.39±11.04 vs 61.21±11.12, p&amp;lt;0.00000); had higher level of cardiac troponin (p=0.00002), higher stress glycemia (9.2±5.3; p=0.0000001), HbA1c (6.9±1.8, p=0.000003), WBC (11.7±4.1, p=0.00001), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (6.8±3.7, p=0.000003), and creatinine (93.2±45.1 p=0.000167), and had anemia (OR 0.35 (CI 0.29–41, p=0.000012). They had more severe CAD (SINTAX score 16.8±8.4 p=0.000012). Patients with preserved LV systolic function were predominantly females (29.7%, OR 1.1 95% CI 1.0-1.2), p = 0.002), younger (p&amp;lt;0.00000), and severely metabolically burdened (hypothyreosis (2.7%, OR 1.28 95% CI 0.93-1.76, p=0.052), higher levels of triglycerides (2.2±1.7 vs 1.9±1.5, p = 0.001), cholesterol (5.3±1.4 vs 5.2±1.4, p = 0.002), non-HDL-C (4.1±1.5 vs 3.9±1.3, p=0.006), however less likely to have pre-existing DM (OR 0.8 (CI 0.78–0.92), p=0.000094). They were more often NSTEMI [851 (49.4%), p = 0.000012]. Independent variables associated with a reduction in LV function were: advanced age, male gender, previous DM and anemia, stress glycemia, WBC, creatinine, and BUN. Conclusion Patients who developed reduced LV function had a very specific risk profile with bigger neuro-hormonal activation and inflammation, higher degree of myocardial damage, and worse renal function, whereas those with preserved LV systolic function after ACS were younger, predominantly females, more severely metabolically burdened, more often with NSTEMI and without LAD involvement.

Utilizing social determinants of health to identify most vulnerable neighborhoods–Latent class analysis and GIS map

ObjectivesPublic Health officials are often challenged to effectively allocate limited resources. Social determinants of health (SDOH) may cluster in areas to cause unique profiles related to various adverse life events. The authors use the framework of unintended teen pregnancies to illustrate how to identify the most vulnerable neighborhoods. MethodsThis study used data from the U.S. American Community Survey, Princeton Eviction Lab, and Connecticut Office of Vital Records. Census tracts are small statistical subdivisions of a county. Latent class analysis (LCA) was employed to separate the 832 Connecticut census tracts into four distinct latent classes based on SDOH, and GIS mapping was utilized to visualize the distribution of the most vulnerable neighborhoods. GEE Poisson regression model was used to assess whether latent classes were related to the outcome. Data were analyzed in May 2021. ResultsLCA's results showed that class 1 (non-minority non-disadvantaged tracts) had the least diversity and lowest poverty of the four classes. Compared to class 1, class 2 (minority non-disadvantaged tracts) had more households with no health insurance and with single parents; and class 3 (non-minority disadvantaged tracts) had more households with no vehicle available, that had moved from another place in the past year, were low income, and living in renter-occupied housing. Class 4 (minority disadvantaged tracts) had the lowest socioeconomic characteristics. ConclusionsLCA can identify unique profiles for neighborhoods vulnerable to adverse events, setting up the potential for differential intervention strategies for communities with varying risk profiles. Our approach may be generalizable to other areas or other programs. Key messagesWhat is already known on this topicPublic health practitioners struggle to develop interventions that are universally effective. The teen birth rates vary tremendously by race and ethnicity. Unplanned teen pregnancy rates are related to multiple social determinants and behaviors. Latent class analysis has been applied successfully to address public health problems.What this study addsWhile it is the pregnancy that is not planned rather than the birth, access to pregnancy intention data is not available resulting in a dependency on teen birth data for developing public health strategies. Using teen birth rates to identify at-risk neighborhoods will not directly represent the teens at risk for pregnancy but rather those who delivered a live birth. Since teen birth rates often fluctuate due to small numbers, especially for small neighborhoods, LCA may avoid some of the limitations associated with direct rate comparisons. The authors illustrate how practitioners can use publicly available SDOH from the Census Bureau to identify distinct SDOH profiles for teen births at the census tract level.How this study might affect research, practice or policyThese profiles of classes that are at heightened risk potentially can be used to tailor intervention plans for reducing unintended teen pregnancy. The approach may be adapted to other programs and other states to prioritize the allocation of limited resources.

Open, endovascular, or hybrid repair of aortic arch disease: narrative review of diverse strategies with diverse options.

The management of aortic arch disease is complex. Open surgical management continues to evolve, and the introduction of endovascular repair is revolutionizing aortic arch surgery. Although these innovative techniques have generated the opportunity for better outcomes in select patients, they have also introduced confusion and uncertainty regarding best practices. In New York, we have developed a collaborative group named the New York Aortic Consortium (NYAC) as a means of crosslinking knowledge and working together to better understand and treat aortic disease. In our meeting in May 2023, regional aortic experts and invited international experts discussed the contemporary management of aortic arch disease, differences in interpretation of the available literature, as well as the integration of endovascular technology into disease management. In this review article, we summarize the current state of aortic arch surgery. Approaches to aortic arch repair have evolved substantially, whether it be methods to reduce cerebral ischaemia, improve hemostasis, simplify future operations, or expand options for high-risk patients with endovascular approaches. However, the transverse aortic arch remains challenging to repair. Amongst our collaborative group of cardiac/aortic surgeons, we discovered a wide disparity in our practice patterns and management strategies of patients with aortic arch disease. It is important to build unique institutional expertise in the context of complex and evolving management of aortic arch disease with open surgery, endovascular repair, and hybrid approaches, tailored to the risk profiles and anatomical specifics of individual patients.

Cardiotoxicity of checkpoint inhibitors: focus on immune side effects

The indications for the use of checkpoint inhibitors in cancer diseases continue to expand in the coming years, which is a promising area for future clinical research. However, diagnosis of immune-related side effects is challenging due to its heterogeneous clinical manifestations, which range from subclinical to fulminant manifestations with high in-hospital mortality. A potential mechanism may be proliferation and clonal expansion of antigens by T-lymphocytes in tumor cells and affected self-tissues. The exact pathophysiological mechanism remains unclear and the risk profile of patients experiencing cardiotoxicity is unknown. Continued intensive efforts by the research communities and interdisciplinary collaborations in oncology and cardiology will help address these challenges and thereby allow immunotherapy to achieve its maximum potential benefit in the treatment of cancer

Left ventricular unloading during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation implantation: benefits or complications?

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Introduction Peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) is a therapeutic option for refractory cardiogenic shock (CS). However, the retrograde flow increases afterload, leading to pulmonary edema, blood stasis in the left ventricle (LV) and formation of thrombi. Several strategies try to reduce LV pressure, including the percutaneous transvalvular microaxial pump (p-MCS) and intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). However, these interventions are associated to complications, such as limb ischemia, embolism, bleeding and hemolysis. Purpose This study aims to investigate whether simultaneous LV unloading at ECMO implant yields clinical benefits or complications compared to ECMO implantat alone. Methods Consecutive patients (pts) with CS requiring peripheral VA ECMO from January 2020 to August 2023 were prospectively included, comparing the group that received LV unloading through IABP or p-MCS to the group that received ECMO only. Standard statistical methods were used. Results A total of 38 pts required VA ECMO. 18 of them received LV unloading since cannulation (8 with IABP and 10 with p-MCS). In the group without initial LV-unloading (20), 3 pts required IABP and 1 p-MCS during support and 1 was changed to VAV ECMO. Change to axillar configuration was perfomed in 1 pts in the unloaded group and in 2 in the only-ECMO group. A higher prevalence of SCAI E (72.2%) was observed in the unloaded-ECMO, compared to the only-ECMO, where SCAI D was more prevalent (60%) (p=0.024). In the LV unloaded group, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was the leading cause of CS, while myocarditis was the predominant one in the other group (p=0.01). The simultaneous support had a higher rate of intubation (94.4% vs 50% p=0.004) and more acute pulmonary edema (44.4% vs 10% p=0.027). In the ECMO-only 2 pts required intubation during support and LV stasis was observed in 1, whereas no cases were reported in the LV-unloaded group (p=0.036). The mean PaO2/FiO2 during support were higher in the not unloaded group (284.54 vs 200.50 mmHg p=0.036), necessitating lower FiO2 levels (40.89 vs 61.47% p=0.003). In terms of complications, we included the 4 patients from the ECMO-only group who eventually required LV unloading in the unloaded-ECMO. There were no significant differences in the duration of support, in-hospital mortality, stroke, embolism, systemic and local bleeding, or hemolysis. Conclusions Pts with ECMO and LV unloading since cannulation debuted with more severe CS, more AMI as the underlying cause, higher rates of acute pulmonary edema, and intubation. Despite these challenges, they did not experience worse outcomes in terms of in-hospital mortality or ischemic and hemorrhagic events. Notably, 4 patients initially managed with ECMO eventually required subsequent LV unloading. Consequently, the simultaneous implantation of ECMO and a LV unloading device appears to be a reasonable alternative for select patients with a higher risk profile.

Contraceptive strategies for reducing the risk of reproductive cancers.

Reproductive cancers, encompassing various malignancies like endometrial, ovarian, cervical cancer, and gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, pose a significant global health burden. Understanding their patterns is vital for effective prevention and management. Contraceptives show a protective effect against some of these cancers. This clinical guidance document aims to elucidate the disease burden of reproductive cancers and the evidence supporting contraceptive methods in prevention and management. Regional disparities in incidence and mortality highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, particularly in low-resource settings. Healthcare providers must weigh individual risk profiles and medical eligibility criteria when discussing contraceptive options. Enhanced health literacy through direct patient education is essential for leveraging low-cost behavioral interventions to mitigate reproductive cancer risks.

Obstetric risk profiles and causes of death: Estimating their association with cesarean sections among maternal deaths in Mexico.

Maternal mortality is a critical indicator of healthcare quality, and in Mexico, this has become increasingly concerning due to the stagnation in its decline, alongside a concurrent increase in cesarean section (C-section) rates. This study characterizes maternal deaths in Mexico, focusing on estimating the association between obstetric risk profiles, cause of death, and mode of delivery. Utilizing a retrospective observational design, 4,561 maternal deaths in Mexico from 2010-2014 were analyzed. Data were sourced from the Deliberate Search and Reclassification of Maternal Deaths database, alongside other national databases. An algorithm was developed to extract the Robson Ten Group Classification System from clinical summaries text, facilitating a nuanced analysis of C-section rates. Information on the reasons for the performance of a C-section was also obtained. Logistic regression and multinomial logistic regression models were used to estimate the relation between obstetric risk factors, mode of delivery and causes of maternal death, adjusting for covariates. Among maternal deaths in Mexico from 2010-2014, 47.1% underwent a C-section, with a significant history of previous C-sections observed in 31.4% of these cases, compared to 17.4% for vaginal deliveries (p<0.001). Early prenatal care in the first trimester was more common in C-section cases (46.8%) than in vaginal deliveries (38.3%, p<0.001). A stark contrast was noted in the place of death, with 82.4% of post-C-section deaths occurring in public institutions versus 69.1% following vaginal births. According to Robson's classification, the highest C-section rates were in Group 4 (67.2%, p<0.001) and Group 8 (66.9%, p<0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed no significant difference in the odds of receiving a C-section in private versus other settings after adjusting for Robson criteria (OR: 1.21; 95% CI: 0.92, 1.60). A prior C-section significantly increased the likelihood of another (OR: 2.38; CI 95%: 2.01, 2.81). The analysis also indicated C-sections were significantly tied to deaths from hypertensive disorders (RRR = 1.25, 95% CI [1.12, 1.40]). In terms of indications, 6.3% of C-sections were performed under inadequate indications, while the indication was not identifiable in 33.1% of all C-sections. This study highlights a significant overuse of C-sections among maternal deaths in Mexico (2010-2014), revealed through the Robson classification and ana analysis of the reported indications for the procedure. It underscores the need for revising clinical decision-making to promote evidence-based guidelines and favor vaginal deliveries when possible. High C-section rates, especially noted disparities between private and public sectors, suggest economic and non-clinical factors may be at play. The importance of accurate data systems and further research with control groups to understand C-section practices' impact on maternal health is emphasized.

Cardio-Oncology: A New Discipline in Medicine and Its Relevance to Hematology.

Cardio-oncology, a burgeoning subspecialty, addresses the complex interplay between cardiology and oncology, particularly in light of increased cardiovascular (CV) disease mortality in cancer patients. This review provides a comprehensive overview of cardio-oncology with a focus on the therapies used in hematological malignancies. We explore the bidirectional relationship between heart failure and cancer, emphasizing the need for collaborative care. The review discusses risk stratification, highlighting the importance of baseline CV risk assessment and personalized surveillance regimens. Primary and secondary prevention strategies, including pharmacological interventions, are outlined. The review also delves into the cardiotoxicity associated with hematological cancer therapies, focusing on anthracyclines, Bruton kinase inhibitors, BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitors, CAR-T cell therapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, multiple myeloma treatments, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We then highlight the high risk of venous and arterial thromboembolisms in cancer patients and the challenges of anticoagulation management in cardio-oncology. Finally, the review touches on the importance of long-term follow-up and appropriate screening in cancer survivors at high risk of CV morbidity and mortality, based on their CV risk profile and the type and dose of cardiotoxic therapies they received such as anthracyclines or high radiation doses.

Clinical implications of DNA methylation-based integrated classification of histologically defined grade 2 meningiomas

The combination of DNA methylation analysis with histopathological and genetic features allows for a more accurate risk stratification and classification of meningiomas. Nevertheless, the implications of this classification for patients with grade 2 meningiomas, a particularly heterogeneous tumor entity, are only partially understood. We correlate the outcomes of histopathologically confirmed grade 2 meningioma with an integrated molecular-morphologic risk stratification and determine its clinical implications. Grade 2 meningioma patients treated at our institution were re-classified using an integrated risk stratification involving DNA methylation array-based data, copy number assessment and TERT promoter mutation analyses. Grade 2 meningioma cases according to the WHO 2021 criteria treated between 2007 and 2021 (n = 100) were retrospectively analyzed. The median clinical and radiographic follow-up periods were 59.8 and 54.4 months. A total of 38 recurrences and 17 deaths were observed. The local control rates of the entire cohort after 2-, 4-, and 6-years were 84.3%, 68.5%, and 50.8%, with a median local control time of 77.2 months. The distribution of the integrated risk groups were as follows: 31 low, 54 intermediate, and 15 high risk cases. In the multivariable Cox regression analysis, integrated risk groups were significantly associated with the risk of local recurrence (hazard ratio (HR) intermediate: 9.91, HR high-risk: 7.29, p < 0.01). Gross total resections decreased the risk of local tumor progression (HR gross total resection: 0.19, p < 0.01). The comparison of 1p status and integrated risk groups (low vs. intermediate/high) revealed nearly identical local control rates within their respective subgroups. In summary, only around 50% of WHO 2021 grade 2 meningiomas have an intermediate risk profile. Integrated molecular risk stratification is crucial to guide the management of patients with grade 2 tumors and should be routinely applied to avoid over- and undertreatment, especially concerning the use of adjuvant radiotherapy.

Longitudinal analysis of microcirculatory parameters in gingival tissues after tooth extraction in patients with different risk profiles for wound healing disorders – a pilot study

ObjectivesWe aimed to establish a risk profile for intraoral wound healing disorders based on measurements of microcirculation in gingival tissues.Materials and methodsOxygen saturation (SO2) and blood flow in gingival tissues were measured with tissue spectrometry and laser doppler spectroscopy in 37 patients before/after tooth extractions. Patients were assigned to four groups: anamnestically and periodontally healthy patients (n = 7), anamnestically healthy but suffering from periodontitis (n = 10), anamnestically healthy but smoking and suffering from periodontitis (n = 10) and suffering from diabetes and periodontitis (n = 10). Measurements were performed at three different time points: Baseline measurement (T0), one day post extractionem (p.e.) (T1) and seven days p.e. (T2).ResultsBaseline SO2 values were higher in control patients (p = .038). This effect was most evident in comparison to smokers suffering from periodontitis (p = .042), followed by diabetics suffering from periodontitis (p = .09). An opposite trend was seen for blood flow. Patients suffering from periodontitis demonstrated higher blood flow values (p = .012). Five patients, which belonged to the group of smokers suffering from periodontitis, showed clinically a delayed wound healing.ConclusionDifferences in SO2 and blood flow of gingival tissue could be detected in different groups of patients with existing periodontitis compared to control patients.Clinical RelevanceLower baseline SO2 values could be a warning signal for possible wound healing disorders after oral surgery.

Impact of diabetes on short-term outcomes in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery in acute coronary syndrome.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with concomitant comorbidities, such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is the optimal therapy in diabetic patients with triple vessel disease. DM is also known to be a relevant risk factor for higher morbidity and mortality in patients who underwent elective CABG procedures. Data regarding outcomes in diabetic patients in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is heterogeneous. This study aimed to investigate the impact of DM on short-term outcomes in patients who underwent CABG surgery in ACS. A retrospective propensity score matched (PSM) analysis of 1370 patients who underwent bypass surgery for ACS between June 2011 and October 2019 was conducted. All patients were divided into two groups: non-diabetic group (n = 905) and diabetic group (n = 465). In-hospital mortality was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were perioperative myocardial infarction, new onset dialysis, reopening for bleeding and duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. A subgroup analysis of patients with insulin-dependent and non-insulin dependent DM was also performed. After performing PSM analysis, baseline characteristics and the preoperative risk profile were comparable between both groups. The proportion of patients who underwent total arterial revascularization (p = .048) with the use of both internal thoracic arteries (p < .001) was significantly higher in the non-diabetic group. The incidence of perioperative myocardial infarction (p = .048) and new onset dialysis (p = .008) was significantly higher in the diabetic group. In-hospital mortality was statistically (p = .907) comparable between the two groups. DM was associated with a higher incidence of adverse outcomes, however with comparable in-hospital mortality in patients who underwent CABG procedure for ACS.

Are Young People with Turner Syndrome Who Have Undergone Treatment with Growth and Sex Hormones at Higher Risk of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Complications?

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS), characterized by visceral obesity, glucose abnormalities, hypertension and dyslipidemia, poses a significant risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Turner syndrome (TS), resulting from X chromosome abnormalities, carries health complications. Despite growing evidence of an increased risk of MetS in women with TS, its prevalence and risk factors remain under investigation. These considerations are further complicated by the varying timing and dosages of treatment with growth hormone and sex hormones. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study comparing 44 individuals with TS with 52 age-matched control subjects. Growth hormone treatment in the study group was administered for varying lengths of time, depending on clinical response. We collected anthropometric, metabolic, endocrine and body composition data. Statistical analyses included logistic regression. Results: Baseline characteristics, including age, BMI and height, were comparable between the TS and control groups. Hormonally, individuals with TS showed lower levels of testosterone, DHEA-S, and cortisol, as well as elevated FSH. Lipid profiles indicated an atherogenic profile, and the body composition analysis showed increased visceral adipose tissue in those with TS. Other metabolic abnormalities were common in individuals with TS too, including hypertension and impaired fasting glucose levels. The risk of MetS components was assessed in subgroups according to karyotypes: monosomy 45X0 vs. other mosaic karyotypes. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between increased visceral adipose tissue in subjects with TS. Those with metabolic complications tended to have less muscle strength compared to those without these complications in both the study and control groups. Conclusions: This study highlights the unique metabolic and cardiovascular risk profile of individuals with TS, characterized by atherogenic lipids, higher levels of visceral adipose tissue and increased metabolic abnormalities. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring metabolic health in individuals with TS, regardless of age, BMI or karyotype, and suggest the potential benefits of lifestyle modification, building more muscle strength, and weight control strategies. Further research is needed to better understand and address the metabolic challenges faced by women with TS.

Cardiovascular Risk Profile in Master Paralympic Athletes, a High-Risk Undertreated Population: A Cross-Sectional Longitudinal Study.

Recently, European Society of Cardiology (ESC)validated aprediction model to estimate 10-year fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular disease risk (CVDR) in individuals (aged 40-60 years) without previous cardiovascular disease or diabetes(ESC-SCORE2)and to provide indications for treatment. At present, data describing the CVDR in Paralympic athletes (PAs) are scarce and inconsistent. Therefore,we sought to assess the prevalence of risk factors in PAs to estimate their CVDR through SCORE2. Weenrolled 99 PAs aged ≥40 y.o., who participated at 2012-2022 Paralympic Games, competing in 22 different sport disciplines classified according to sport type (power, skills, endurance and mixed) and disabilities: spinal cord injuries (SCI) and non-SCI. CVDR factors,anthropometric measurements and blood samples were collected. Among the 99 PAs (78% males, mean age 45.7±4.7 y.o.), 52.5% had SCI; 54% were dyslipidemic and 23% were smokers. According to ESC-SCORE2, 29% had high and 1% very-high CVDR. Women (compared to men) and endurance (compared to other sport) exhibited better CV profile. SCI showed no differences when compared with non-SCI for CVDR, excepted for a lower HDL and lower exercise performance.None of the dyslipidemic athlete was on pharmacologically treatment, despitethe altered lipid profile had already been detected at younger age. PAs are a selected population, presenting a high CV risk profile, with 30% showing either high or very-high CVDR according to ESC-SCORE2. Dyslipidemiawas the most common risk factor, underestimated and undertreated, emphasizing the need for specific preventive strategies in this special setting of athletes.

Secondary Prevention in Patients With Stroke Versus Myocardial Infarction: Analysis of 2 National Cohorts.

The implementation of preventive therapies among patients with stroke remains inadequately explored, especially when compared with patients with myocardial infarction (MI), despite sharing similar vascular risk profiles. We tested the hypothesis that participants with a history of stroke have a worse cardiovascular prevention profile in comparison to participants with MI. In cross-sectional analyses within the UK Biobank and All of Us Research Program, involving 14 760 (9193 strokes, 5567 MIs) and 7315 (2948 strokes, 4367 MIs) participants, respectively, we evaluated cardiovascular prevention profiles assessing low-density lipoprotein (<100 mg/dL), blood pressure (systolic, <140 mm Hg; and diastolic, <90 mm Hg), statin and antiplatelet use, and a cardiovascular prevention score that required meeting at least 3 of these criteria. The results revealed that, within the UK Biobank, patients with stroke had significantly lower odds of meeting all the preventive criteria compared with patients with MI: low-density lipoprotein control (odds ratio [OR], 0.73 [95% CI, 0.68-0.78]; P<0.001), blood pressure control (OR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.59-0.68]; P<0.001), statin use (OR, 0.45 [95% CI, 0.42-0.48]; P<0.001), antiplatelet therapy use (OR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.27-0.32]; P<0.001), and cardiovascular prevention score (OR, 0.42 [95% CI, 0.39-0.45]; P<0.001). Similar patterns were observed in the All of Us Research Program, with significant differences across all comparisons (P<0.05), and further analysis suggested that the odds of having a good cardiovascular prevention score were influenced by race and ethnicity as well as neighborhood deprivation levels (interaction P<0.05 in both cases). In 2 independent national cohorts, patients with stroke showed poorer cardiovascular prevention profiles and lower adherence to guideline-directed therapies compared with patients with MI. These findings underscore the need to explore the reasons behind the underuse of secondary prevention in vulnerable stroke survivors.