Systolic Blood Pressure Levels Research Articles

High salt diet inhibits the expression of Bmal1 and promotes atrial fibrosis and vulnerability to atrial fibrillation in Dahl salt sensitive rats.

Hypertension is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF), and brain and muscle arnt-like protein 1 (Bmal1) regulate circadian blood pressure and is implicated in several fibrotic disorders. Our hypothesis that Bmal1 inhibits atrial fibrosis and susceptibility to AF in salt-sensitive hypertension (SSHT) and our study provide a new target for the pathogenesis of AF induced by hypertension. The study involved 7-week-old male Dahl salt-sensitive that were fed either a high-salt diet (8% NaCl; DSH group) or a normal diet (0.3% NaCl; DSN group). An experimental model was used to measure systolic blood pressure (SBP), left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF), left atrial end-volume index (LAEVI), left atrial index (LAFI), AF inducibility, AF duration, and atrial fibrosis pathological examination and the expression of Baml1 and fibrosis-related proteins (TNF-α and α-SMA) in left atrial tissue. DSH increased TNF-α and α-SMA expression in atrial tissue, level of SBP and LAESVI, atrial fibrosis, AF induction rate and AF duration, and decreased Bmal1 expression in atrial tissue, circadian rhythm of hypertension and level of LAEF and LAFI. Our results also showed that the degree of atrial fibrosis was negatively correlated with Bmal1 expression, but positively correlated with the expression of TNF-α and α-SMA. We demonstrated that a high-salt diet leads to circadian changes in hypertension due to reduction Bmal1 expression, which plays a crucial role in atrial fibrosis and increased susceptibility to AF in SSHT rats.

Systolic blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease in normotensive diabetic adults: a prospective cohort study.

Currently, the special blood pressure (BP) target for normotensive diabetic patients has not been recommended. We investigated the optimal systolic blood pressure (SBP) for lower cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in normotensive diabetic patients. In this 12-year follow-up study using the participants of the Kailuan Study, we mainly compared which SBP, 90-119 mmHg or 120-129 mmHg, had a lower risk of occurrence of CVD (stroke and myocardial infarction) in the 3072 normotensive diabetic participants and 21,532 normotensive and non-diabetic participants, respectively. The SBP was expressed as a mean time-weighted cumulative (MTWC) SBP, calculated from the multiple measurements of SBP during the follow-up. Multivariate competing risk regression analyses were used for the analysis. We found that in normotensive diabetic participants, MTWC SBP of 120-129 mmHg was associated with a lower risk of CVD (HR = 0.69 [0.50-0.95]), myocardial infarction (HR = 0.48 [0.24-0.96]), and trending towards lower risk of stroke (HR = 0.80 [0.55-1.16]), compared to MTWC SBP of 90-119 mmHg. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the relationship between low SBP and increased CVD risk. Whereas, in the normotensive and non-diabetic participants, MTWC SBP of 90-119 mmHg vs 120-129 mmHg did not exhibit any difference in the risk of CVD occurrence (HR = 0.99 [0.83-1.18]). The higher level of SBP in normotensive diabetic patients is especially associated with a lower risk of CVD occurrence.

Associations of TSH, free T3, free T4, and conversion ratio with incident hypertension: results from the prospective Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil).

To evaluate the association of TSH, free T3 (FT3), free T4 (FT4), and conversion (FT3:FT4) ratio values with incident hypertension. The study included data from participants of the ELSA-Brasil study without baseline hypertension. Serum TSH, FT4 and FT3 levels, and FT3:FT4 ratio values were assessed at baseline, and incident hypertension (defined by blood pressure levels ≥ 140/90 mmHg) was estimated over a median of 8.2 years of follow-up. The risk of incident hypertension was evaluated considering a 1-unit increase in TSH, FT4, FT3, and conversion ratio values and after dividing these variables into quintiles for further analysis using Poisson regression with robust variance. The results are presented as relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) before and after adjustment for multiple variables. The primary analysis incorporated data from 5,915 euthyroid individuals, and the secondary analysis combined data from all euthyroid individuals, 587 individuals with subclinical hypothyroidism, and 31 individuals with subclinical hyperthyroidism. The rate of incident hypertension was 28% (95% CI: 27%-29.3%). The FT4 levels in the first quintile (0.18-1.06 ng/dL) were significantly associated with incident hypertension (RR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.06) at follow-up. The association between FT4 levels in the first quintile and incident hypertension was also observed in the analysis of combined data from euthyroid individuals and participants with subclinical thyroid dysfunction (RR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01-1.07). The associations were predominantly observed with systolic blood pressure levels in euthyroid individuals. However, in the combined analysis incorporating euthyroid participants and individuals with subclinical thyroid dysfunction, the associations were more pronounced with diastolic blood pressure levels. Low FT4 levels may be a mild risk factor for incident hypertension in euthyroid individuals and persons with subclinical thyroid dysfunction.

Risk Factors for Delayed Atrioventricular Block after Aortic Valve Surgery: A Retrospective Study

Objective: This study aimed to examine the potential factors that contribute to the occurrence of delayed high-grade atrioventricular block (DHAVB) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 115 patients who underwent TAVR at Jiaozhou Central Hospital of Qingdao Hospital between January 2018, and June 2023. A follow-up period of 30 days post-operation was observed for all patients. The patients were categorized into two groups on the basis of the occurrence of DHAVB: DHAVB group (n = 35) and control group (n = 80). The general clinical data preoperative and postoperative heart disease characteristics of the groups were compared. The risk factors associated with DHAVB after TAVR were analyzed. Results: The mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) level of the DHAVB group significantly increased compared with that of the control group, whereas the heart rate (HR) level significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The average preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly lower in the DHAVB group than in the control group (p < 0.05). The control group exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of preoperative QRS wave broadening, severe calcification of the aortic valve, and right bundle branch block than the control group (p < 0.05). Spearman's correlation and logistic regression analyses identified increased SBP, decreased HR, diminished LVEF, the presence of preoperative and postoperative right bundle branch block, and thickened interventricular septum were as risk factors for DHAVB in patients undergoing TAVR (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Close surveillance of blood pressure, heart rate, and cardiac function is recommended for individuals undergoing TAVR. Pre-operative and post-operative electrocardiography and echocardiography are valuable tools in identifying potential risk factors for DHAVB, offering a solid foundation for effective patient prognostic management.

Acute-on-chronic heart failure leading to cardiogenic shock: any role for intra-aortic balloon pump? Results from a multicenter retrospective data collection

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements None. Background Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) implantation has been significantly reduced since IABP-SHOCK II trial did not show any clinical benefit in acute myocardial infarction (AMI)-related cardiogenic shock (CS)(1). For a long time, AMI has been recognized as the first cause of CS; however, in the last years, acute-on-chronic heart failure (HF)-CS has become predominant. We hypothesized that in HF-CS population the IABP may decrease mortality having a role in decreasing left ventricular afterload and improving peripheral perfusion(2). Purpose To investigate whether, in this phenotypical category of cardiogenic shock, IABP could improve 28-days mortality. Methods Multicenter retrospective observational study including adult HF-CS patients admitted in cardiac or general intensive care units in 3rd level centers. Hemodynamic variables before (T0) and after IABP implantation (T1), pharmacological support and outcome data were collected. Independent samples t-test was applied to assess any difference between IABP and non-IABP group; Kaplan-Meier and Cox’s regression (forward stepwise method) were performed as survival analysis on 28-days mortality. Results 160 patients (35.6% female, 61 [47-74] years-old) were included from three centers; overall mortality was 42.5%. 50% received IABP support; amongst IABP patients, 24 received further MCS with VA-ECMO (p <0.001) and 4 with Impella (p 0.120). Patients’ baseline characteristics are shown in Figure 1-A. IABP patients had lower 28-days mortality. Patients who received IABP were younger, had lower systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP) and lactate levels at T0. In reference to catecholaminergic drugs, patients supported with IABP had lower norepinephrine doses and vasoactive inotropic score (VIS) at baseline. After IABP implantation, no significant difference between the two groups in the time variation of these parameters was observed (Figure 1-B). Survival analysis graphs are shown in Figure 2. At Cox’s regression, a significant effect on 28-days mortality was found for IABP (HR 0.510 [0.293-0.887], p 0.017), SCAI classification-stage D (HR 2.582 [1.315-5.072], p 0.006), VIS-T0 above 15 (HR 2.348 [1.407-3.921], p 0.001) and SBP-T0 above 95 mmHg (HR 1.361 [1.016-1.823], p 0.039); no significant association was found for age above 61 years (overall median value) (p 0.091), mechanical ventilation (p 0.367), PP-T0 (0 0.081) and lactate-T0 (p 0.227). Conclusions Considering the specific pathophysiology of HF-CS, IABP may have a role in reducing mortality. These retrospective data need to be validated and compared with those deriving from ongoing randomized controlled trials(3).

Effects of olive leaf extract and nifedipine, alone and in combination, on blood pressure, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, malondialdehyde, and creatinine levels in an Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester-induced rat model of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia (PE) is a significant health problem in pregnancy, affecting 6–7% of all gestations and leading to fetal growth retardation, infant morbidity and mortality, premature birth, and maternal death. Currently, effective treatment options for PE are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of olive leaf extract (OLE) and nifedipine, alone and in combination, in improving pregnancy outcomes in rats induced with Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-NAME). Rats were treated with single and combination treatments of nifedipine and OLE for four weeks, after being induced with L-NAME for six weeks. Following gestational day assessment and systolic blood pressure testing, the rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected for Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (NGAL), Malondialdehyde (MDA), proteinuria and Creatinine (SCr) Levels examinations. The results revealed the combination of nifedipine and OLE significantly improved the results of several biomarker analyses associated with PE, including increased NGAL levels, a significant decrease in MDA levels, decrease in proteinuria and elevated creatinine levels. The combination nifedipine and OLE treatment also exhibited a significant antihypertensive effect compared to either nifedipine or OLE monotherapy, as evidenced by the reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels. This study provides novel evidence for the potential of olive leaf extract as a nutraceutical adjunct for the prevention and treatment of PE. The significant improvements observed in several pathological features associated with PE, including antihypertensive effects, warrant further investigation. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms of action and exploring the clinical applicability of olive leaf extract in human populations with PE.

Factors influencing optimal diabetes care and clinical outcomes in Thai patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a multilevel modelling analysis

BackgroundIncreasing levels of poor glycaemic control among Thai patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) motivated us to compare T2DM care between urban and suburban primary care units (PCUs), to...

Association between trajectories of systolic blood pressure and frailty outcome in middle-aged and older adults

ObjectivesThe association between blood pressure and frailty outcome in the middle-aged and older population remains controversial. This study aimed to examine the relationship between trajectories of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and new-onset frailty. DesignCohort study with a 7-year follow-up. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTSData were derived from 4 waves (2011, 2013, 2015 and 2018) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study and 6168 participants aged ≥45 years were included in the study. MethodsThe frailty index (FI) was constructed based on 40 scored items, with FI ≥ 0.25 defined as frailty. We identified the 5-year trajectory of SBP by latent class trajectory modeling. The association between SBP trajectories and frailty was explored based on hazard ratios (HR) by four Cox proportional hazards models. Furthermore, we also investigated the relationship between mean SBP and systolic blood pressure variability (SBPV) and frailty. Results6168 participants were included in this study with a mean age of 59 years. We identified five trajectories based on SBP, which are maintained low-stable SBP (T0), moderate-stable SBP (T1), remitting then increasing SBP (T2), increasing then remitting SBP (T3), and remaining stable at high SBP levels (T4). During the 7-year follow-up period, frailty outcome occurred in 1415 participants. After adjusting for other confounders, the two trajectories labeled “T2” and “T4” were associated with a higher risk of frailty compared with T0. In addition, elevated SBP and increased SBPV were associated with risk of frailty. ConclusionsHigher risk of frailty occurred in two trajectories, remitting then increasing and remaining stable at high SBP levels, were associated with a relatively higher risk of frailty.

Troponin I, Hyperlipidemia and Obesity as Predictor of Cardiovascular Complications: A Cross Sectional Study

High levels of Troponin I, cholesterol, triglycerides, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Body Mass Index (BMI) are predictor of cardiac complications. Objective: To investigate the predictive efficacy of Troponin I, BMI, and lipid profiles in detecting cardiovascular problems. Methods: 300 male and female individuals were selected for current study. 100 normal individuals were in Control Group A, while 100 participants were placed in Group B all the individuals of Group B have the indications of different cardiac medical complications. BMI, systolic, diastolic blood pressure, Troponin I, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL levels were measured respectively. Results: In present study BMI, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, Troponin I, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL blood serum levels of male and female in Group A and Group B were measured, the comparative analysis of above biomarkers showed a significant p-Value ≤ 0.05 change (0.02 ± 0.01, 183.01 ± 0.02, 120.01 ± 0.02, 87.01 ± 0.03, 44.01 ± 0.01), (0.02 ± 0.01, 172.01 ± 0.02, 130.01 ± 0.01, 88.01 ± 0.03, 42.01 ± 0.04), (0.39 ± 0.04, 272.01 ± 0.02, 180.01 ± 0.01, 138.01 ± 0.03, 37.01 ± 0.01) and ( 0.37 ± 0.04, 282.01 ± 0.02, 184.01 ± 0.01, 141.01 ± 0.03, 36.01 ± 0.01) were measured respectively. Conclusions: The present study found that there were notable significant p-value <0.05 differences in the blood serum levels of BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, Troponin I, cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL in both the male and female groups in Groups A and B

Burden of hypertension and associated risk factors among the Nicobarese tribe of Car Nicobar Island, India

Background: Hypertension, a significant risk factor for various non-communicable diseases, poses a preventable threat to mortality and disease burden. However, there remains a lack of data on hypertension within Indian tribes, particularly those residing in impoverished areas. Determining the prevalence of hypertension and identifying associated risk factors among the Nicobarese tribes. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 2600 tribal individuals aged 18 years and above from ten randomly selected villages on Car Nicobar Island. Methods: A structured questionnaire was utilized to gather data on blood pressure (BP), anthropometric measurements, and detailed participant characteristics. Prevalence of hypertension was determined and analyzed in relation to various identified risk factors using chi-square, Karl Pearson coefficient of correlation, and generalized linear models. Prevalence ratio and adjusted risk ratio calculated, along with their corresponding confidence intervals. Results: Prevalence of hypertension was 57.9%. Several factors, including age, male gender, illiteracy, diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, and higher body mass index (BMI), were significantly associated with hypertension. Systolic and diastolic BP levels increased significantly with age, socio-economic scores, BMI, and weight. Conclusions: The prevalence of hypertension among the Nicobarese tribes is significantly higher compared to the general population. Adapting preventive strategies based on an understanding of the tribe's specific culture and lifestyle is important for controlling hypertension. However, it is also crucial to consider genetic and environmental influences that may contribute to the high prevalence of hypertension in this tribe.

Restricted Daily Sodium Intake as Heart Failure Management: A Systematic Review

Objective: To evaluate mortality and morbidity in HF patients receiving sodium restriction. Study Design: Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of RCTs and Cohort studies worldwide published between Jan 2013 to Jan 2023. Methodology: We systematically selected RCTs and Cohort studies with sodium restriction as an intervention published within the last decade from five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Medline). The full texts retrieved were assessed for risk of bias, and then a systematic review was performed. The endpoints analyzed were mortality and morbidity. Result: Five RCTs and two cohort studies were included in this study, with 2,505 participants. The endpoints retrieved were mortality and morbidity (hospitalization, NYHA functional class, BNP or NT-proBNP level, quality of life, and congestion). No improvement was seen in mortality and hospitalization, but sodium restriction improved the rest of the morbidity indicators. Over-restricted and overconsumption of sodium intake might worsen HF presentation. When analyzed based on the HF groups, there was not enough evidence to recommend sodium dose based on ejection fraction; however, there was potentially more benefit for patients with higher NYHA classes. However, more evidence is still needed. Conclusion: Sodium restriction did not benefit mortality and hospitalization but improved quality of life, systolic blood pressure, and BNP or NT-pro BNP levels in all HF classes.

Plasma levels of Sirtuin 7 are decreased in patients with essential hypertension

BackgroundSirtuin 7 (SIRT7), as a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-dependent protein/histone deacetylase, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. However, whether SIRT7 is related to hypertension remains largely unclear. Thus, this study aims to explore the effects and correlation between SIRT7 and hypertension. MethodsA total of 72 patients with essential hypertension and 82 controls with non-hypertension were recruited at Beijing Tongren Hospital Affiliated with Capital Medical University from July 2022 to June 2023. Plasma SIRT7 expression was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis. Clinical baseline characteristics, laboratory measurements, echocardiographic data, and medical therapy were collected. ResultsPlasma levels of SIRT7 were lower in hypertensive patients compared with non-hypertensive patients [0.97 (0.58–1.30) vs. 1.24 (0.99–1.46) ng/mL, P < 0.001, respectively]. Furthermore, compared with the low SIRT7 group, there were lower levels of systolic blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, and the ultrasonic electrocardiogram parameters left ventricular end-diastolic diameter and left atrial in diastole in the high SIRT7 group (P < 0.05, respectively). More importantly, multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that plasma SIRT7 was a predictor of hypertension [OR: 0.06, 95 % CI (0.02–0.19), P < 0.001]. Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis revealed that the optimal cutoff value for plasma SIRT7 levels in detecting hypertension was determined as 0.85 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 73.6 % and a specificity of 89.0 %. The area under the curve for SIRT7 was 0.821 (95 % CI, 0.751–0.878; P < 0.001). ConclusionPlasma levels of SIRT7 are decreased in patients with essential hypertension, implying its potential as a biomarker for diagnosing essential hypertension..

Systolic blood pressure status modifies the associations between the triglyceride-glucose index and incident cardiovascular disease: a national cohort study in China

BackgroundThe triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and blood pressure (BP) are correlated and serve as risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). The potential impact of BP status on the association between the TyG index and CVD risk remains uncertain. This study aims to investigate the relationships between the TyG index and incident CVD in Chinese middle-aged and elderly adults, considering variations in BP status among participants.Methods6558 participants (mean age: 58.3 (± 8.7) years; 46.0% were men) without prevalent CVD were recruited from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Participants were divided into three groups according to their systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels (< 120mmHg, 120 ∼ 129mmHg, ≥ 130mmHg). The TyG index was computed as ln[triglyceride (mg/dl) * fasting blood glucose (mg/dl)/2]. The primary outcome was CVD (heart disease and stroke), and the secondary outcomes were individual CVD components. Cox regression models and restricted cubic splines were performed to investigate the associations between continuous and categorical TyG with CVD.Results1599 cases of CVD were captured during 58,333 person-years of follow-up. Per 1-SD higher TyG index was associated with a 19% (HR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.12, 1.27) higher risk for incident CVD, and the participants with the highest quartile of TyG index had a 54% (HR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.29, 1.84) higher risk of CVD compared to those in the lowest quartile. SBP significantly modifies the association between the TyG index and CVD, with higher HRs for CVD observed in those with optimal and normal SBP. SBP partially mediated the associations between the TyG index with CVD. The results were generally consistent among participants with varying pulse pressure statuses rather than diastolic BP statuses.ConclusionsThe associations between the TyG index and CVD were modified by BP status, with greater HRs for CVD observed among those who had SBP < 130mmHg. SBP can partially mediate the association between the TyG index with CVD, highlighting the importance of early screening for the TyG index to identify at risk of hypertension and CVD.

PM2.5 associates with blood pressure: a Mendelian randomization analysis

ABSTRACT The relationship between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and blood pressure (BP) is a controversial issue. We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and identified 58 genome-wide significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with PM2.5 as instrument variables. Inverse-variance weighted (IVW) was used as the primary analysis approach. MR-Egger, weighted median, simple model, and weighted model methods were selected for quality control. We found a significant negative causal association of higher genetically predicted PM2.5 levels with lower systolic BP (SBP), while no causal relationship was identified between PM2.5 and diastolic BP (DBP). For each 1 standard deviation increase in genetically predicted PM2.5 levels, the beta value (95% CI) of SBP was -0.14 (-0.25, -0.03) for IVW (p=0.02), and -0.13 (-0.22, -0.04) for weighted median (p=0.005). Increased PM2.5 concentrations can lead to decreased SBP levels. Our findings provided novel insights into the controversial topic on the causal relationship between PM2.5 and BP.

Non-Invasive Hemodynamic Monitoring System Integrating Spectrometry, Photoplethysmography, and Arterial Pressure Measurement Capabilities.

Minimally invasive and non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring technologies have recently gained more attention, driven by technological advances and the inherent risk of complications in invasive techniques. In this article, an experimental non-invasive system is presented that effectively combines the capabilities of spectrometry, photoplethysmography (PPG), and arterial pressure measurement. Both time- and wavelength-resolved optical signals from the fingertip are measured under external pressure, which gradually increased above the level of systolic blood pressure. The optical channels measured at 434-731 nm divided into three groups separated by a group of channels with wavelengths approximately between 590 and 630 nm. This group of channels, labeled transition band, is characterized by abrupt changes resulting from a decrease in the absorption coefficient of whole blood. External pressure levels of maximum pulsation showed that shorter wavelengths (<590 nm) probe superficial low-pressure blood vessels, whereas longer wavelengths (>630 nm) probe high-pressure arteries. The results on perfusion indices and DC component level changes showed clear differences between the optical channels, further highlighting the importance of wavelength selection in optical hemodynamic monitoring systems. Altogether, the results demonstrated that the integrated system presented has the potential to extract new hemodynamic information simultaneously from macrocirculation tomicrocirculation.

Correlation Between HbA1c and Body Mass Index Among Patients with High Lipid Profile Attending Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare Hospital in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Dyslipidemia is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and stroke. Obesity and elevated HbA1c levels are both risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. OBJECTIVES: The main objective of this study was to examine the relationship between HbA1C and body mass index among patients with high lipid profiles. METHODS: This retrospective, hospital-based study was conducted at Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare Facilities. Data were extracted from medical health records and included demographics, lipid profiles, and HbA1c measurements. The study included 2368 non-diabetic participants, and DATAtab was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: The participants were 57.05% male and 78.42% Saudi. The mean age was 41.48±12.1 years, and the mean body mass index was 28.44±5.53. There was a statistically significant relationship between the use of lipid lowering medicine and HbA1c (P&lt;0.001). There was a very weak positive but statistically significant relationship between HbA1c and body mass index (r = 0.18, P&lt;0.001). HbA1c and systolic blood pressure appeared to have a statistically significant positive association (r = 0.16, P&lt; 0.001). There was no correlation between HbA1c and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, or diastolic blood pressure. There was an inverse correlation between HbA1c and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = -0.11, P&lt; 0.001). Regression was performed using a linear multivariable analysis with HbA1c as the dependent variable and age (B 0.192, P&lt;0.001), body mass index (B 0.119, P&lt;0.001), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (B -0.058, P&lt;0.005), triglyceride (B 0.093, P&lt;0.001), lipid-lowering medication (B 0.104, P&lt;0.001), and systolic blood pressure (B 0.060, P&lt; 0.003) as independent variables. CONCLUSION: The results indicated that HbA1c is linked to body mass index, age, systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. There was no correlation between HbA1c and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, or diastolic blood pressure.

An ensemble model for predicting dispositions of emergency department patients

ObjectiveThe healthcare challenge driven by an aging population and rising demand is one of the most pressing issues leading to emergency department (ED) overcrowding. An emerging solution lies in machine learning’s potential to predict ED dispositions, thus leading to promising substantial benefits. This study’s objective is to create a predictive model for ED patient dispositions by employing ensemble learning. It harnesses diverse data types, including structured and unstructured information gathered during ED visits to address the evolving needs of localized healthcare systems.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 80,073 ED patient records were amassed from a major southern Taiwan hospital in 2018–2019. An ensemble model incorporated structured (demographics, vital signs) and pre-processed unstructured data (chief complaints, preliminary diagnoses) using bag-of-words (BOW) and term frequency-inverse document frequency (TF-IDF). Two random forest base-learners for structured and unstructured data were employed and then complemented by a multi-layer perceptron meta-learner.ResultsThe ensemble model demonstrates strong predictive performance for ED dispositions, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.94. The models based on unstructured data encoded with BOW and TF-IDF yield similar performance results. Among the structured features, the top five most crucial factors are age, pulse rate, systolic blood pressure, temperature, and acuity level. In contrast, the top five most important unstructured features are pneumonia, fracture, failure, suspect, and sepsis.ConclusionsFindings indicate that utilizing ensemble learning with a blend of structured and unstructured data proves to be a predictive method for determining ED dispositions.

ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION AS A COMPONENT OF METABOLIC SYNDROME IN MEN IN AN OPEN URBAN POPULATION

Purpose. To determine blood pressure (BP) levels and the prevalence of arterial hypertension (AH), as a component of metabolic syndrome, in men of an open urban population aged 25–64 years. Materials and methods. A one-time epidemiological study was conducted on a representative sample of men 25–64 years old, formed from the electoral lists of citizens of the city of Tyumen in the amount of 1000 people, the response was 85.0%. To analyze the prevalence of AH as a component of the metabolic syndrome, the NCEP ATP III (2004), IDF (2005), All-Russian Scientific Society of Cardiology (2009) assessment criteria were used. Results. The levels of systolic BP in men of the Tyumen population were high due to the average age groups of 35–44 and 45–54 years; in the same groups there was a significant increase in the average values and percentile distribution of the trait. According to the levels of diastolic BP in men of the Tyumen population, a directional age trend of the indicator was formed with a significant increase in its levels in each subsequent age group. In terms of the prevalence of AH, the standardized indicator in the male population of Tyumen 25–64 years old was 59.8%; a positive relationship was established with age in the younger and older age categories. Conclusion. Thus, the study results obtained in an open urban population, which identified the most vulnerable age categories of men with regard to the development of metabolic syndrome, represent a scientific basis for the formation of a preventive program in the region.

The effects of Mediterranean diet on cardiovascular risk factors, glycemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis

To explore the impact of the Mediterranean diet on cardiovascular risk factors, glycemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes(T2D) by a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrance Library, EMBASE and four Chinese databases to identify RCTs that compared the Mediterranean diet with control diets in patients with T2D up to December 2021. The Risk of Bias of the included studies was assessed using the version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tools for randomized trials (ROB 2). Seven RCTs with 1371 patients met the eligibility criteria and entered into the meta-analysis. Compared to control diets, the beneficial effects of Mediterranean diet were not statistically significant in high-density lipoprotein (MD = 2.33; 95% CI: -0.27 to 4.92), low-density lipoprotein (MD = -2.34; 95% CI -5.67 to 0.99) and total cholesterol (MD = 2.60; 95% CI: -0.95 to 6.15). But Mediterranean diet led to reduce the level of diastolic blood pressure (MD = -1.20; 95% CI: -2.21 to -0.19) and systolic blood pressure (MD = -4.17; 95% CI: -7.12 to -1.22). Meanwhile, Mediterranean diet showed beneficial effects in glycemic control (HbA1[%]: MD = -0.39, 95% CI: -0.58 to -0.20; fasting plasma glucose: MD = -15.12, 95% CI: -24.69 to -5.55) and weight loss (BMI: MD = -0.71, 95% CI: -1.30 to -0.78; WC: MD = -1.69; 95% CI: -3.35 to -0.02) compared to the control diets. The meta-analysis presented evidence supporting the beneficial effects of the Mediterranean diet on blood pressure, glycemic control, and weight loss. However, the impact of the Mediterranean diet on the lipid profile was not found to be significant, warranting further verification. This Meta-analysis was registered on the INPLASY website (Registration number: INPLASY 202160096).

Systolic Blood Pressure and Survival to Very Old Age: Results From the Women's Health Initiative.

The relationship between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and longevity is not fully understood. We aimed to determine which SBP levels in women ≥65 years of age with or without blood pressure medication were associated with the highest probability of surviving to 90 years of age. The study population consisted of 16 570 participants enrolled in the Women's Health Initiative who were eligible to survive to 90 years of age by February 28, 2020, without a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or cancer. Blood pressure was measured at baseline (1993 through 1998) and then annually through 2005. The outcome was defined as survival to 90 years of age with follow-up. Absolute probabilities of surviving to 90 years of age were estimated for all combinations of SBP and age using generalized additive logistic regression modeling. The SBP that maximized survival was estimated for each age, and a 95% CI was generated. During a median follow-up of 19.8 years, 9723 of 16 570 women (59%) survived to 90 years of age. Women with an SBP between 110 and 130 mm Hg at attained ages of 65, 70, 75, and 80 years had a 38% (95% CI, 34%-48%), 54% (52%-56%), 66% (64%-67%), or 75% (73%-78%) absolute probability to survive to 90 years of age, respectively. The probability of surviving to 90 years of age was lower for greater SBP levels. Women at the attained age of 80 years with 0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80%, or 100% time in therapeutic range (defined as an SBP between 110 and 130 mm Hg) had a 66% (64%-69%), 68% (67%-70%), 71% (69%-72%), 73% (71%-74%), 75% (72%-77%), or 77% (74%-79%) absolute survival probability to 90 years of age. For women >65 years of age with low cardiovascular disease and other chronic disease risk, an SBP level <130 mm Hg was found to be associated with longevity. These findings reinforce current guidelines targeting an SBP target <130 mm Hg in older women.