Subclinical Cardiovascular Risk Research Articles

Differences and Disparities Among Self-Referred and Physician-Referred Populations Undergoing Coronary Artery Calcium Scanning.

Coronary artery calcium computed tomography (CAC) is an important tool for identifying subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk stratification. Despite robust evidence and inclusion in current guidelines, CAC is considered investigational by some US insurance carriers and requires out-of-pocket expenses. CAC can be obtained via self-referral (SR) or physician referral (PR). We aimed to examine differences in patient, socioeconomic, and CAC characteristics between referral groups. We evaluated demographic, medical history, and CAC results of consecutive patients with a CAC completed at one of multiple Wisconsin sites from March 1, 2019, to June 30, 2021. We separated patients into SR and PR groups. Through census data, we analyzed socioeconomic variables at the block level including race and ethnicity, median income, average household size, and high school completion in the areas where patients resided at the time of CAC. The final analysis included 19 726 patients: 13 835 (70.1%) PR and 5891 (29.9%) SR. Most patients in both groups were White (95.2% versus 95.1%), with the Black/African American population representing 2.7% (SR) and 2.3% (PR). The PR group had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. SR patients were more likely to have a score of 0 (41.2% versus 38.1%; P<0.001); PR patients had a higher prevalence of CAC >300 (16.8% versus 14.8%; P<0.001). SR patients were more likely to be women (55.1% versus 48.9%; P<0.001) and were found to live in higher income areas (19.5% versus 16.4%; P<0.001). Patients from low-income areas comprised the smallest proportion in both groups (7.5%). Patients who obtain out-of-pocket CAC live predominantly in medium- and high-income areas, and patients from lower income locations are less likely to obtain CAC despite having more cardiovascular disease risk factors. Consideration should be made from a policy perspective to promote health equity and improve utilization of CAC testing among underrepresented groups.

Vascular Calcification Heterogeneity from Bench to Bedside: Implications for Manifestations, Pathogenesis, and Treatment Considerations.

Vascular calcification (VC) is the ectopic deposition of calcium-containing apatite within vascular walls, exhibiting a high prevalence in older adults, and those with diabetes or chronic kidney disease. VC is a subclinical cardiovascular risk trait that increases mortality and functional deterioration. However, effective treatments for VC remain largely unavailable despite multiple attempts. Part of this therapeutic nihilism results from the failure to appreciate the diversity of VC as a pathological complex, with unforeseeable variations in morphology, risk associates, and anatomical and molecular pathogenesis, affecting clinical management strategies. VC should not be considered a homogeneous pathology because accumulating evidence refutes its conceptual and content uniformity. Here, we summarize the pathophysiological sources of VC heterogeneity from the intersecting pathways and networks of cellular, subcellular, and molecular crosstalk. Part of these pathological connections are synergistic or mutually antagonistic. We then introduce clinical implications related to the VC heterogeneity concept. Even within the same individual, a specific artery may exhibit the strongest tendency for calcification compared with other arteries. The prognostic value of VC may only be detectable with a detailed characterization of calcification morphology and features. VC heterogeneity is also evident, as VC risk factors vary between different arterial segments and layers. Therefore, diagnostic and screening strategies for VC may be improved based on VC heterogeneity, including the use of radiomics. Finally, pursuing a homogeneous treatment strategy is discouraged and we suggest a more rational approach by diversifying the treatment spectrum. This may greatly benefit subsequent efforts to identify effective VC therapeutics.

Perceptions, Attitudes, and Knowledge of Cannabis and its Use: A Qualitative Study among Herbal Heart Study Young Adult Cannabis Consumers in South Florida

Growing cannabis use among young adults in the United States surpasses research and public understanding, raising health concerns despite potential benefits. Limited research focuses on their knowledge, attitudes, risks, and motivations, especially in states with limited legalization. This study explores cannabis knowledge and attitudes among healthy young adult cannabis consumers to understand their risk and benefit perceptions. Data include a subsample of participants in the Herbal Heart Study, a cohort to examine subclinical cardiovascular risk among healthy young adult (18–35 years old) cannabis consumers and non-consumers. A qualitative thematic analysis of the interviews was performed using a deductive approach driven by the theory of the Health Belief Model to generate categories and codes. Dedoose was used to organize transcripts and coding. A total of 22 young adult cannabis consumers (M age = 25.3, SD = 4.4) were interviewed between May 5, 2021- September 23, 2022. Participants were predominantly female (n = 13) and Hispanic (n = 9) or non-Hispanic Black (n = 7). Five themes were identified: perceived health benefits and risks associated with cannabis use, motivation for cannabis use, knowledge of cannabis, and perceived barriers to cannabis use. Participants discussed knowledge, positive/negative attitudes toward cannabis, and perceived risks/benefits based on personal experience and gathered information. Some showed knowledge deficits, and most wanted more health-related cannabis research. Given the current climate of rising cannabis legalization, availability of novel cannabis products, and societal acceptance, further research and evidence-based cannabis literacy for young adults are essential to keep pace with liberalization trends.

The menopausal transition period and cardiovascular risk.

The menopausal transition period spans, on average, 2-8 years before the final menstrual period and is associated with an increase in clinical and subclinical cardiovascular risk. In this Review, we discuss the metabolic and cardiovascular changes that occur during the menopausal transition period and the role of ovarian ageing, chronological ageing and other ageing-related risk factors in mediating these changes. Disentangling the relative contributions of chronological and reproductive ageing to cardiovascular risk is challenging, but data from longitudinal studies in women transitioning from premenopause to post-menopause have provided valuable insights. We also discuss evidence on how cardiovascular risk is altered by premature or early menopause, surgical menopause, and vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms. Whether targeted interventions can slow the progression of atherosclerosis and subclinical disease during the menopausal transition, thus delaying or preventing the onset of cardiovascular events, remains to be determined. Furthermore, we consider the recommended strategies for cardiovascular risk reduction in women undergoing menopausal transition using the framework of the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health, and discuss the cardiovascular risks and benefits of menopausal hormone therapy. Finally, we also discuss novel therapies that might benefit this population in reducing cardiovascular risk.

Evaluation of subclinical cardiovascular risk in drug-naive pediatric patients with anxiety disorders.

This study examined subclinical atherosclerosis in drug-naïve children with anxiety disorders using non-invasive measures to investigate the clinical features associated with subclinical atherosclerosis. A total of 37 drug-naive children and adolescents with anxiety disorders and 37 healthy controls were included in the study. The Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-T and STAI-S) were used to assess children's depression and anxiety levels. Carotid artery intima-media (cIMT), epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), and periaortic adipose tissue (PAT) thicknesses, which are indicators of subclinical atherosclerosis, were obtained by echocardiographic measurements. Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) revealed a significant main effect on cIMT, EAT thickness, and PAT thickness, independent of confounding factors such as age, sex, body mass index, mean blood pressure, and family income (Pillai's Trace V = .76, F (1, 72) = 35.60, P < .001, ηp2 = .76). Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) showed that cIMT, EAT thickness, and PAT thickness values were significantly higher in the anxiety disorder group compared to the the control group (P < .001). In partial correlation analysis, a positive correlation was observed between STAI-T and cIMT and EAT thickness. In linear regression analyses, age and STAI-T were significantly correlated with cIMT and EAT thickness levels. These results suggest that subclinical cardiovascular risk is significantly increased in children and adolescents with anxiety disorders.

The relationship between combat-related traumatic amputation and subclinical cardiovascular risk

BackgroundThe relationship between acute combat-related traumatic injury (CRTI) to coronary flow reserve (CFR) and subclinical cardiovascular risk have not been examined and was the primary aim of this study. Methods and resultsUK combat veterans from the ADVANCE cohort study (UK-Afghanistan War 2003–14) with traumatic limb amputations were compared to injured non-amputees and to a group of uninjured veterans from the same conflict. Subclinical cardiovascular risk measures included fasted blood atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), triglyceride-glucose index (TyG; insulin resistance), the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP; vascular inflammation), body mass index (BMI) and visceral fat volume (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and 6-min walk distance (6MWD; physical performance). The subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR), to estimate CFR, was calculated using arterial pulse waveform analysis (Vicorder device). In total 1144 adult male combat veterans were investigated, comprising 579 injured (161 amputees, 418 non-amputees) and 565 uninjured men. AIP, TyG, NLR, hs-CRP, BMI, total body fat and visceral fat volume were significantly higher and the SEVR and 6MWD significantly lower in the amputees versus the injured-non-amputees and uninjured groups. The SEVR was lowest in those with above knee and multiple limb amputations. CRTI (ExpB 0.96; 95% CI 0.94–0.98: p < 0.0001) and amputation (ExpB 0.94: 95% CI 0.91–0.97: p < 0.0001) were independently associated with lower SEVR after adjusting for age, rank, ethnicity and time from injury. ConclusionCRTI, traumatic amputation and its worsening physical deficit are associated with lower coronary flow reserve and heightened subclinical cardiovascular risk.

Assessment of Cardiac Functions and Subclinical Cardiovascular Risk in Children with Urolithiasis: A Pilot Study

Assessment of Cardiac Functions and Subclinical Cardiovascular Risk in Children with Urolithiasis: A Pilot Study

CARDIOVASCULAR RISK STRATIFICATION AND CORRELATION BETWEEN SUBCLINICAL ORGAN DAMAGE IN BOTH GENDERS OF HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS

Objective: Assessment of correlation between subclinical organ damage and cardiovascular risk stratification in both genders of hypertensive patients. Design and method: We divided 50 patients with arterial hypertension in two groups: A: 25 women; B: 25 men. The average age of them [yrs]: 55 yrs and 57 yrs. Pulse wave velocity (PWV), ankle-brachial index (ABI) and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) were evaluated. We assessed cardiovascular risk according to: SCORE2 and SCORE2- OP scales. Statistical calculations were performed in the StatSoft Statistica 10. The t-student test was used for the statistical analysis, ⇑ Spearmana was taken to analyze the correlation of statistically significant values. Results: We revealed following results in both groups: A (women) and B (men) respectively (SD) [*for p&lt; = 0,05; **for p&lt;0,001; NS- negligible statistically]: ABI: 0,94(0,16) NS 1,01(0,14); IMT [mm]: 0,73(0,15) * 0,81(0,17); PWV [m/s]: 10,68(2,29) * 12,54(3,01); SCORE2/ SCORE2-OP: 3,16(2,49) ** 7,00(5,10). In the group with hypertension women were characterized by a lower IMT and PWV. The cardiovascular risk according to risk SCORE2/ SCORE2-OP scales in men was significantly higher than in women. In this group the parameters were correlated with the cardiovascular risk according to SCORE2 and SCORE 2 OP scales. In the women there were significant correlations between: ABI and SCORE2/ SCORE2-OP scale, IMT and SCORE2/SCORE2-OP scale. Conclusions:

Long-Term High Level of Insulin Resistance Is Associated With an Increased Prevalence of Coronary Artery Calcification: The CARDIA Study.

Background Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a crucial indicator of subclinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The relationship between long-term insulin resistance (IR) trajectory and CAC has been explored in few studies. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether the long-term IR time series of young adults are associated with the incidence of CAC in midlife. Methods and Results In a cohort study comprising 2777 participants from the CARDIA (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) study, the homeostasis model assessment for IR was used to measure IR levels, and group-based trajectory modeling was used to fit three 25-year homeostasis model assessments for IR trajectories. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between the 3 homeostasis model assessments for IR trajectories and CAC events at year 25. The results showed that among 2777 participants (mean age, 50.10±3.58 years; 56.2% women; 46.4% Black), there were 780 incident CAC events after a 25-year follow-up. After full adjustment, the prevalence of CAC was higher in the moderate- (odds ratio [OR], 1.40 [1.10-1.76]) and the high-level homeostasis model assessments for IR trajectories (OR, 1.84 [1.21-2.78]) than in the low-level trajectory. This association was observed in obese individuals despite the negative interaction between IR and different types of obesity (all P interactions >0.05). Conclusions Our study revealed that young adults with a higher level of IR were more likely to develop CAC in middle age. Furthermore, this association persisted in obese individuals. These findings highlight the importance of identifying subclinical cardiovascular risk factors and implementing primary prevention measures.

Overcoming cohort heterogeneity for the prediction of subclinical cardiovascular disease risk

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of mortality with an estimated half a billion people affected in 2019. However, detecting signals between specific pathophysiology and coronary plaque phenotypes using complex multi-omic discovery datasets remains challenging due to the diversity of individuals and their risk factors. Given the complex cohort heterogeneity present in those with coronary artery disease (CAD), we illustrate several different methods, both knowledge-guided and data-driven approaches, for identifying subcohorts of individuals with subclinical CAD and distinct metabolomic signatures. We then demonstrate that utilizing these subcohorts can improve the prediction of subclinical CAD and can facilitate the discovery of novel biomarkers of subclinical disease. Analyses acknowledging cohort heterogeneity through identifying and utilizing these subcohorts may be able to advance our understanding of CVD and provide more effective preventative treatments to reduce the burden of this disease in individuals and in society as a whole.

ASSESSMENT OF CARDIOVASCULAR RISK IN WOMEN WITH PCOS: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the commonest endocrinopathy of women of reproductive age globally. This clinical condition not only dysregulates the reproductive axis, but also a risk factor for hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, T2DM. All these metabolic states aggravate the cardiovascular risk in women with PCOS. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of evidences of subclinical cardiovascular risk in PCOS women and synthesize the result. To attain this aim, the published research articles were reviewed using the databases PubMed, Google scholar and EMBASE employing key words PCOS, cardiovascular risk, arterial stiffness, endothelial function to obtain relevant information. Total 162 articles were searched and after applying eligibility criteria, 12 articles have been included for qualitative synthesis of the information. Most of the studies are cross-sectional, case-control study conducted on pre-, peri and menopausal, obese, lean women with PCOS. The study participants were mostly diagnosed on the basis of Rotterdam criteria. But, other criteria such as National Institutes of Health criteria (NIH), Androgen Excess Society criteria (AES) were also used to diagnose the condition. Mostly these studies recorded arterial stiffness as assessed by pulse wave velocity (PWV), augmentation index (AIx) and endothelial dysfunction as assessed by brachial artery ow mediated vasodilatation (FMD). The ndings of few cardinal systematic review and metaanalysis were also reported. These studies mainly analysed the data obtained for subclinical cardiovascular status of women with PCOS as assessed by carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), carotid artery calcium (CAC) score and FMD. Majority of the studies concluded that women with PCOS display enhanced arterial stiffness and endothelial dysfunction in comparison to age and BMI-matched healthy control group, though controversy exists is the literature. In this regard, the existing traditional cardiovascular risk factors in PCOS women, make them more prone to cardiovascular disease. It needs further prospective study with hard cardiovascular outcome to prove this point undoubtedly. It must be emphasized that regular cardiovascular screening might be advocated for this vulnerable population to prevent any major cardiovascular eventuality.

Association of triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with subclinical inflammation and 10-year cardiovascular disease risk as determined by Framingham risk scores in Korean male smokers.

Various risk factors and the multifactorial pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) have been studied. We focused on the interaction between insulin resistance and inflammatory processes. Thus, we analyzed the association of triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL) ratio with subclinical inflammation and CVD risk in male smokers. We retrospectively reviewed medical records from the Health Promotion Center of Severance Hospital in Korea between 2015 and 2017. Subjects were currently smoking men aged 30 to 59, with leukocyte counts within the normal range, for a total of 1,566. We grouped participants into four groups using the median TG/HDL ratio and the median leukocyte count. The odds ratio (OR) of high Framingham 10-year CVD risk (≥10%) was calculated using multiple logistic regression. The median Framingham 10-year CVD risk increased significantly from Group 1 (low leukocyte count, low TG/HDL ratio) to Group 4 (high leukocyte count, high TG/HDL ratio). The OR for Group 4 was 2.46 compared with Group 1 after adjusting for various CVD risk factors. In subgroup analysis, the OR of the highest leukocyte group was 1.57 compared to the lowest leukocyte group after adjusting for other variables. In conclusion, TG/HDL ratio and subclinical inflammation were positively related to CVD risk in Korean male smokers.

Association of triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with subclinical inflammation and 10-year cardiovascular disease risk as determined by Framingham risk scores in Korean male smokers.

Various risk factors and the multifactorial pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) have been studied. We focused on the interaction between insulin resistance and inflammatory processes. Thus, we analyzed the association of triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (TG/HDL) ratio with subclinical inflammation and CVD risk in male smokers. We retrospectively reviewed medical records from the Health Promotion Center of Severance Hospital in Korea between 2015 and 2017. Subjects were currently smoking men aged 30 to 59, with leukocyte counts within the normal range, for a total of 1,566. We grouped participants into four groups using the median TG/HDL ratio and the median leukocyte count. The odds ratio (OR) of high Framingham 10-year CVD risk (≥10%) was calculated using multiple logistic regression. The median Framingham 10-year CVD risk increased significantly from Group 1 (low leukocyte count, low TG/HDL ratio) to Group 4 (high leukocyte count, high TG/HDL ratio). The OR for Group 4 was 2.46 compared with Group 1 after adjusting for various CVD risk factors. In subgroup analysis, the OR of the highest leukocyte group was 1.57 compared to the lowest leukocyte group after adjusting for other variables. In conclusion, TG/HDL ratio and subclinical inflammation were positively related to CVD risk in Korean male smokers.

Abstract 14920: Differences in Socioeconomic Factors in Patients Obtaining Coronary Calcium Score Computed Tomography in a Large Midwestern Healthcare Network

Introduction: Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is an important tool for identifying subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk stratification. The 2018 ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guideline includes CACS as a decision aid in asymptomatic, intermediate-risk patients. In most US states, including Wisconsin, CACS is not covered by insurance with out-of-pocket costs ranging from $50-400. This study aimed to examine the socioeconomic factors of Wisconsin patients who obtained a CACS CT at Advocate Aurora Health (AAH). Methods: Using the 2018 American Community Survey data from the Census Bureau, we evaluated the socioeconomic characteristics of the areas in Wisconsin where patients who underwent CACS CT at AAH lived. These included race, ethnicity, median income, median age, average household size, household without vehicles, and completion of high school. We categorized the income as low (≤$35,000), medium (&gt;$35,000 - &lt;$100,000), and high (≥$100,000). Additionally, we compared self-referred versus physician-referred patient characteristics. Results: A total of 19,726 patients presented for CACS CT at AAH from 2019 through 2021. The median income for patient residential areas was $73,981. The median percentage of white race in these areas was 94.6%, while that of black race was only 0.3%. Additionally, median percentage of Hispanics was 2.9%. The median average household size was 2.5 people, median percentage of households who did not own a vehicle was 2.2%, and the median high school completion rate was 95.2%. When we stratified by income, most patients were from areas with medium income (75.2%), followed by high (17.3%), and only 7.5% were from low-income areas. When comparing self-referred versus physician-referred patients, self-referred were found to live in higher-income areas compared to physicians-referred (19.4% vs. 16.4%; p&lt;0.0001). Conclusion: Social and economic factors are well known to affect access to health care. Our study demonstrated that patients in Wisconsin who obtain out-of-pocket CACS CT live predominantly in medium and high-income areas. Patient access to preventive health care may be affected by the lack of insurance coverage.

RF34 | PMON276 The Effect of Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy (GAHT) on Non-Conventional Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Transgender Men: A Systematic Review

Abstract The process of gender transitioning includes the employment of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) to attenuate gender dysphoria. Although considered relatively safe, there is still debate whether GAHT may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in transgender men (TM). Non-conventional subclinical cardiovascular (CV) risk markers, such as inflammation or coagulation markers, endothelial activity-related substances, and the use of ultrasound-assisted vascular function evaluation, may improve CV risk prediction in specific populations. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to summarize the available findings regarding GAHT and its effects on these non-conventional cardiovascular risk markers in TM. Medline, LILACS, SCOPUS, and Embase databases were searched for cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, or randomized clinical trial studies published until July 2020. The selection criteria for the studies were as follows: ≥ 18 years old transgender male, no established CVD, using GAHT (androgens) for at least 2 months and compared with cis women or untreated transmen or before and during/after treatment for cohort studies. From 152 studies initially identified, 7 studies (3 cohorts and 4 case-control) were included in the systematic review. Some of these studies assessed different CV risk markers in the same group of participants. No changes were found in t-PA PAI-1, ICAMs, and PCR-us after 4 and 12 months of GAHT. Fibrinogen did not differ either in TM with or with no GAHT. Three studies evaluated flow-mediated-vasodilation (FMD) of the brachial artery. The only cohort study found no changes in FMD after 12 months of GAHT. One case-control study observed significant impaired FMD, and another one showed impaired FMD- after-nitroglycerin in transmen compared with cis women. One study reported increased homocysteine and higher carotid intima-media thickness (C-MIT) after 12 months of hormone use. Further, one study observed testosterone did not affect distensibility (DC) or compliance (CC) coefficient after 12 months, but the changes in fasting insulin levels were negatively associated with changes in the CC and DC. One study assessed the vascular function using brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and observed a higher risk in TM with GAHT versus the untreated group. The results of the present systematic review suggest that GAHT may be associated with worse subclinical cardiovascular markers in TM. Further studies assessing long-term clinical follow-up of transgender men using GAHT could positively impact the prevention of CVD and management strategies for this population. Presentation: Monday, June 13, 2022 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., Monday, June 13, 2022 1:00 p.m. - 1:05 p.m.

The Africans in America study demonstrates that subclinical cardiovascular risk differs by etiology of abnormal glucose tolerance

Abnormal-glucose tolerance (Abnl-GT) is due to an imbalance between β-cell function and insulin resistance (IR) and is a major risk factor in cardiovascular disease (CVD). In sub-Saharan Africa, β-cell failure is emerging as an important cause of Abnl-GT (Abnl-GT-β-cell-failure). Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) volume and hyperlipidemia are major contributors to CVD risk when Abnl-GT is due to IR (Abnl-GT-IR). Yet, the CVD profile associated with Abnl-GT-β-cell failure is unknown. Therefore, our goals in 450 African-born Blacks (Male: 65%; Age: 39 ± 10 years; BMI 28 ± 5 kg/m2), living in America were to: (1) determine Abnl-GT prevalence and etiology; (2) assess by Abnl-GT etiology, associations between four understudied subclinical CVD risk factors in Africans: (a) subclinical myocardial damage (high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-cTnT)); (b) neurohormonal regulation (N-terminal pro-Brain-natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)); (c) coagulability (fibrinogen); (d) inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)), as well as HbA1c, Cholesterol/HDL ratio and VAT. Glucose tolerance status was determined by the OGTT. IR was defined by the threshold at the lowest quartile for the Matsuda Index (≤ 2.97). Abnl-GT-IR required both Abnl-GT and IR. Abnl-GT-β-cell-failure was defined as Abnl-GT without IR. VAT was assessed by CT-scan. For both the Abnl-GT-β-cell-failure and Abnl-GT-IR groups, four multiple regression models were performed for hs-cTnT; NT-proBNP; fibrinogen and hsCRP, as dependent variables, with the remaining three biomarkers and HbA1c, Cholesterol/HDL and VAT as independent variables. Abnl-GT occurred in 38% (170/450). In the Abnl-GT group, β-cell failure occurred in 58% (98/170) and IR in 42% (72/170). VAT and Cholesterol/HDL were significantly lower in Abnl-GT-β-cell-failure group vs the Abnl-GT-IR group (both P < 0.001). In the Abnl-GT-β-cell-failure group: significant associations existed between hscTnT, fibrinogen, hs-CRP, and HbA1c (all P < 0.05), and none with Cholesterol/HDL or VAT. In Abnl-GT-IR: hs-cTnT, fibrinogen and hsCRP significantly associated with Cholesterol/HDL (all P < 0.05) and NT-proBNP inversely related to fibrinogen, hsCRP, HbA1c, Cholesterol/HDL, and VAT (all P < 0.05). The subclinical CVD risk profile differed between Abnl-GT-β-cell failure and Abnl-GT-IR. In Abnl-GT-β-cell failure subclinical CVD risk involved subclinical-myocardial damage, hypercoagulability and increased inflammation, but not hyperlipidemia or visceral adiposity. For Abnl-GT-IR, subclinical CVD risk related to subclinical myocardial damage, neurohormonal dysregulation, inflammation associated with hyperlipidemia and visceral adiposity.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00001853.

Correlation of subclinic atherosclerosis, proinflammatory status, and insulin resistance with anthropometric measurements in polycystic ovary syndrome

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most frequently encountered endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age. Visceral obesity, cardiovascular complications, insulin resistance, and proinflammatory status are frequently seen in PCOS patients. Many anthropometric measurements are used to evaluate visceral obesity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlations of anthropometric measurements with cardiovascular risk, insulin resistance and proinflammatory status in PCOS patients. &#x0D; Material and Method: This retrospective study included 68 PCOS patients and 83 healthy females. Anthropometric measurements were evaluated of waist circumference, hip circumference, waist/hip ratio, body mass index (BMI), visceral adiposity index (VAI), lipid accumulation product (LAP), body adiposity index (BAI), abdominal volume index (AVI), body roundness index (BRI), and a body shape index (ABSI) of all the participants. Carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) for subclinical atherosclerosis cardiovascular risk evaluation, HOMA for insulin resistance assessment, and hsCRP levels for proinflammatory status assessment were determined as the main outcome measure. Correlations of anthropometric measurements with each other and with the main outcome measures were evaluated. &#x0D; Results: HOMA and CIMT were significantly higher in PCOS patients. Abdominal obesity indicators such as waist circumference, hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, BMI, LAP, BAI, BRI, AVI, VAI and ABSI were significantly higher in the PCOS group. There was no significant difference between the groups in respect of hsCRP levels (p=0.317). When the correlations of anthropometric measurements with PCOS status were evaluated, it was seen that all measurements were correlated. The highest correlation with CIMT was obtained in BMI measurement, and the highest correlation with HOMA was obtained in BRI measurement. The anthropometric measurements were not found to be correlated with proinflammatory status in PCOS patients.&#x0D; Conclusion: It was observed that anthropometric measurements may be functional in predicting PCOS-related subclinical atherosclerosis and insulin resistance. Visceral adiposity was found to be predictive for insulin resistance and subclinical atherosclerosis in PCOS patients.

Subclinical Risk Factors for Heart Failure With Preserved and Reduced Ejection Fraction Among Black Adults

Sparse data exist regarding the contributions of subclinical impairments in cardiovascular and noncardiovascular function to incident heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) among Black US residents, limiting understanding of the etiology of HF subtypes. To identify subclinical cardiovascular and noncardiovascular risk factors associated with HFrEF and HFpEF in Black US residents. This cohort study used cross-sectional and time-to-event analysis with data from the community-based Jackson Heart Study (JHS), a longitudinal cohort study with baseline data collected from 2000 to 2004 (visit 1) and 10-year follow-up for incident HF. Black US residents from the Jackson, Mississippi, metropolitan area enrolled in JHS; those with prevalent HF, with moderate or greater aortic or mitral valve diseases on visit 1, who died before 2005, and who had missing HF status on follow-up were excluded. The analysis included 4361 participants and was performed between June 2020 to August 2021. Quantitative measures of cardiovascular (left ventricular mass index [LVMI], left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF], left atrial [LA] diameter, and pulse pressure) and noncardiovascular (percent predicted forced expiration volume in 1 second [FEV1 (percent predicted)], estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), waist circumference, and hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] level) organ function. Incident HF, HFrEF, and HFpEF over 10-year follow-up. The 4361 participants had a mean (SD) age of 54 (13); 2776 (64%) were women; and there were 163 HFpEF and 146 HFrEF events. In multivariable models incorporating measures reflecting each organ system, factors associated with incident HFpEF included greater LA diameter (hazard ratio [HR], 1.23; 95% CI, 1.03-1.47; P = .02), higher pulse pressure (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.05-1.44; P = .009), lower FEV1 (percent predicted) (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.04-1.43; P = .02), lower eGFR (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.19-1.72; P < .001), higher HbA1c level (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.07-1.45; P = .005), and higher waist circumference (HR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.18-1.69; P < .001). Factors associated with incident HFrEF included greater LVMI (HR, 1.25; 1.07-1.46; P = .005), lower LVEF (HR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.42-1.91; P < .001), lower FEV1 (percent predicted) (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.00-1.42; P = .047), and lower eGFR (HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.04-1.55; P = .02). In this community-based cohort study of Black US residents, subclinical impairments in cardiovascular and noncardiovascular organ function were differentially associated with risk of incident HFpEF and HFrEF.

Subclinical Thyrotoxicosis and Cardiovascular Risk: Assessment of Circulating Endothelial Progenitor Cells, Proangiogenic Cells, and Endothelial Function.

BackgroundSubclinical thyrotoxicosis (SCT) is defined by low or undetectable thyroid-stimulating hormones and normal thyroid hormones. The treatment of SCT is uncertain despite being associated with increased cardiovascular risk (CVR) and mortality. Circulating endothelial progenitor cells (cEPCs) and circulating angiogenic cells (CACs) have been found to be reduced in conditions with CVR. We aimed to evaluate whether endothelial function and cEPC and CAC counts were reduced in SCT and to study the in vitro effect of triiodothyronine (T3) on proangiogenic cell (PAC) function from young healthy controls.MethodscEPCs (quantified by flow cytometry, 20 SCT/20 controls), CACs following in vitro cultures (15 SCT/14 controls), paracrine function of CACs, endothelial function by flow-mediated dilation (FMD, 9 SCT/9 controls), and the effect of T3 on apoptosis and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in PACs were studied.Results p < 0.001, CD133+/VEGFR-2+ 0.4 (0.0–0.7) vs. 0.6 (0.0–4.6), p = 0.009, CD34+/VEGFR-2+ 0.3 (0.0–1.0) vs. 0.7 (0.1–4.9), p = 0.002; while CAC count was similar. SCT predicted a lower cEPC count after adjustment for conventional CVR factors. FMD was lower in SCT subjects versus controls (% mean ± SD, 2.7 ± 2.3 vs. 6.1 ± 2.3, p = 0.005). In vitro studies showed T3 increased early apoptosis and reduced eNOS expression in PACs.ConclusionsIn conclusion, SCT is associated with reduced cEPC count and FMD, confirming increased CVR in SCT. Future outcome trials are required to examine if treatment of this subclinical hyperactive state improves cardiovascular outcome.Clinical Trial Registration http://www.controlled-trials.com/isrctn/, identifier ISRCTN70334066.

Irisin as a Novel Biomarker of Subclinical Atherosclerosis, Cardiovascular Risk and Severe Disease in Axial Spondyloarthritis.

IntroductionPatients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) have a high disease burden mainly due to the rheumatic disease itself, and also exhibit accelerated atherosclerosis, that leads to a higher incidence of cardiovascular (CV) disease. Accordingly, the identification of biomarkers of CV risk and inflammation in axSpA patients is clinically relevant. In this sense, given the beneficial functions exerted by the adipomyokine irisin in processes related to CV disease and inflammation, our aim was to assess, for the first time, the role of irisin as a genetic and serological biomarker of subclinical atherosclerosis, CV risk and disease severity in axSpA patients.MethodsA large cohort of 725 Spanish patients with axSpA was included. Subclinical atherosclerosis (presence of plaques and abnormal carotid intima-media thickness values) was evaluated by carotid ultrasound. Four irisin polymorphisms (rs16835198 G/T, rs3480 A/G, rs726344 G/A, and rs1570569 G/T) were genotyped by TaqMan probes. Additionally, serum irisin levels were determined by ELISA.ResultsLow irisin levels were linked to the presence of plaques (p=0.002) and atherogenic index values ≥4 (p=0.01). Serum irisin were positively correlated with C-peptide levels (p<0.001) and negatively correlated with visual analogue scale and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (p<0.05 in all the cases). Moreover, lower irisin levels were observed in patients with sacroiliitis and in those with a negative HLA-B27 status (p<0.001 and p=0.006, respectively), as well as in those treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (p<0.001 and p=0.002, respectively). Interestingly, the TT genotype and the T allele of rs16835198 were less frequent in axSpA patients with ASDAS >2.1 (Odds Ratio (OR): 0.48 [0.28-0.83] and OR: 0.73 [0.57-0.92], respectively, p=0.01 in both cases). Additionally, the frequency of rs1570569 T allele was higher in these patients (OR: 1.46 [1.08-1.97], p=0.01). Furthermore, the GGGT haplotype was more frequent in patients with ASDAS values >2.1 (OR: 1.73 [1.13-2.66], p=0.01).ConclusionsOur results indicate that low serum irisin levels could be indicators of the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis, high CV risk and more severe disease in axSpA patients. In addition, irisin may also constitute a genetic biomarker of disease activity in axSpA.