Ventricular EF Research Articles

Right ventricular dysfunction in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma undergoing anthracycline-based chemotherapy: a 2D strain and 3D echocardiography study.

To investigate whether 2D strain and 3D echocardiography could early identify the impaired right ventricular (RV) function after anthracycline exposure. Sixty-one patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with anthracycline were studied. Echocardiography was conducted at baseline, after the third cycle of the chemotherapy, after the completion of the chemotherapy, and follow-up at 10months after the initiation of chemotherapy. RV global longitudinal strain (RV GLS) and RV free wall longitudinal strain (RV FWLS) were calculated using speckle tracking echocardiography. RV ejection fraction (RVEF) was analyzed by 3D echocardiography. RV systolic dysfunction was defined by ≥ 2 RV parameters below the threshold value, and cardiotoxicity was defined as a reduction in left ventricular EF > 10 to < 53%. After the third cycle of chemotherapy, only RV GLS was significantly decreased, while after the completion of the chemotherapy, RV GLS, RV FWLS, and RVEF were all significantly decreased compared with baseline measurements. At the end of follow-up, 9 patients (14.8%) were diagnosed with RV systolic dysfunction, and 16 patients (26.2%) had at least 1 abnormal RV function parameter. The proportion of RV systolic dysfunction was significantly higher in patients with cardiotoxicity than in patients without cardiotoxicity, yielding an odds ratio of 5.143. A percentage decrease in RV FWLS and RVEF were independent predictors of RV systolic dysfunction. Two-dimensional strain and 3D echocardiography are valuable methods for evaluating anthracycline-related impairment of RV function in DLBCL patients receiving chemotherapy. RV FWLS and RVEF are reliable predictors of RV systolic dysfunction.

Benefits of exercise-based rehabilitation and Valsartan/Sacubitril association on cardiac function and physical capacites in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and Valsartan/Sacubitril (VS) association improved morbi-mortality and quality of live in patients (P) with Heart Failure and reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF), but few studies reported their impact on global systolic function and physical capacities. We evaluated the benefits of CR and VS in HFrEF P under optimal therapy (OT) (betablocker + conversion enzyme inhibitor or Angiotensin 2 receptor antagonist + Aldosterone antagonist + diuretics + Electric Resynchronization [ER] if necessary) on echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) EF and cardiorespiratory testing (CRT). VS was associated when OT was obtained (initial dosage 24/26 mg or 49/51 if tolerated). During follow-up, one P died, two were excluded for renal failure and nine were lost, leaving 26/38 P for final analysis (25 male, 62.5 ± 12 yo, 25 ± 7 kg/m2). 14 and 12 presented with ischemic (IC) and dilated (DC) cardiomyopathy. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2) and oxygen uptake at the first ventilatory threshold (VT1) were evaluated from CRT on a bicycle ergometer. All variables were serially measured at inclusion (T0), end of CR (28 ± 9 sessions,T1), as well six (T2) and twelve (T3) months later. LVEF in HFrEF P improved gradually from T0 to T2 (T0: 32.1 ± 7 vs. T1: 40.1 ± 8%, p = 0.006; vs. T2: 46.7 ± 9%, P < 0.0001; T1vsT2, p = 0.03) and then plateaued (T3: 49.6 ± 10%, T2vsT3, NS). Interestingly, LVEF kinetics differed between IC and DC P, values increasing up to T1 only in IC while constantly improving up to T3 in DC. Peak VO2 also gradually increased up to T2, differences with baseline being however significant only after six months (T0: 15.3 ± 5.3 vs. T1: 18.4 ± 6.6 ml/min/kg, NS; vs. T2: 20.7 ± 6.3 ml/min/kg, p = 0.01) before levelling-off (T3: 20.9 ± 5.8 ml/min/kg, T2vsT3 NS). Similar results were obtained for VT1 ( Table 1 , Fig. 1 ). CR associated to VS in P presented with HFrEF is able to enhance global systolic function and cardiorespiratory fitness parameters, improvement being particularly significant in the DC population.

Validity of QRS Configuration and Myeloperoxidase Level as Determinants of CAD Severity and Prognosis in Patients with STEMI

Background: Terminal QRS distortion and fragmentation (fQRS) with elevated myeloperoxidase (MPO) were linked to poor cardiovascular outcomes in acute coronary syndrome. We aimed to investigate these parameters in early prediction of coronary artery disease severity based on SYNTAX score and in-hospital adverse events in STEMI patients. Methods: A total of 215 patients with first STEMI admitted for primary PCI were included in the study. They were divided according to the admission ECG into group I with QRS distortion or fQRS, group II with combined QRS distortion and fQRS, and group III without QRS distortion or fQRS. Myeloperoxidase and troponin I levels, ST resolution ratio, left ventricular EF%, and severity of coronary artery lesions using SYNTAX risk score were measured. Results: MPO level, SYNTAX score, and in-hospital mortality were higher in group I and II and were higher in group II compared to group I. By regression analysis, QRS distortion, fQRS, and MPO > 412 ng/ml were independent predictors of both CAD severity and in-hospital mortality. DM was an independent predictor of CAD severity (OR: 2.851, P 0.012) while high SYNTAX score was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality (OR: 6.113, P 0.001). Adding MPO level to any QRS configuration pattern increased predictive value for the detection of CAD severity that was more evident in the combined QRS distortion and fragmentation. Conclusion: Terminal QRS distortion, fragmentation, or combined QRS distortion and fragmentation have a significant value in predicting in-hospital adverse events and CAD severity as assessed by SYNTAX score in association with plasma myeloperoxidase level in STEMI patients. Combined QRS distortion and fragmentation, in spite less common, could be more helpful for early risk stratification and management.

Abstract 13885: Phenotyping Risk Profiles for Heart Failure With Preserved and Reduced Ejection Fraction Among Breast Cancer Survivors

Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) survivors (BCS) are at increased risk for incident heart failure (HF). In this population, the risk for HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has been understudied compared to HF with reduced EF (HFrEF). The purpose of this study was to estimate 1) the incidence of HFpEF and HFrEF, and 2) the phenotypic profiles conferring risk for incident HFpEF and HFrEF in BCS. Methods: This Women’s Health Initiative analysis was conducted in women with invasive BC stages I-IV in the Medical Records Cohort (MRC). Those with pre-existing HF were excluded. Exposures of interest were lifestyle factors [e.g. body mass index (BMI)], comorbidities [e.g. hypertension, diabetes, and myocardial infarction (MI)], and BC treatment. Lifestyle factors and comorbidities most proximal and prior to BC diagnosis were assessed. In the MRC, BC and HF as well as left ventricular EF (LVEF) were ascertained through chart review and physician-adjudication. LVEF ≥50% was classified as HFpEF; and &lt;50% for HFrEF per AHA/ACC guidelines. Cox proportional hazards models estimated risks of HFpEF and HFrEF. Follow up time began at BC diagnosis and HF events were recorded through March 1, 2019. All models adjusted for age at BC diagnosis. Results: In 2,250 BCS, 153 developed HF after BC during a median follow-up of 7.3 years. Of those, 49 had HFrEF and 75 had HFpEF. The cumulative incidences of HFrEF and HFpEF over follow-up were 7.3% and 4.6%, respectively. Diabetes and MI were associated with both HFpEF and HFrEF (Table). Smoking, BMI ≥30, and hypertension were associated with HFpEF. Anthracycline use was associated with HFrEF but not HFpEF (p=0.03). Conclusions: In BCS, lifestyle factors were associated with incident HFpEF, whereas anthracycline use was associated with a higher risk for HFrEF. Understanding risk factors associated with incident HFpEF and HFrEF in BCS is important to guide the implementation of risk profile-specific preventative measures and interventions.

Abstract 15977: Comparison of Clinical and Procedural Outcomes Between High-power Short-duration, Standard-power Standard-duration, and Temperature-controlled Non-contact Force Guided Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction: High-power short-duration (HPSD) ablation via the St. Jude EnSite™ Velocity™ system (St. Paul, MN) utilizes 50W delivered for up to 15s, guided by a Lesion Size Index of 5-6 specific to the Velocity™ system. HPSD is a novel way to use a contact force-sensing catheter optimized for power-controlled radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Procedural and clinical outcomes of HPSD compared to standard-power standard-duration (SPSD; 20-25W until 400-500 gram seconds, up to 60s) and temperature-controlled non-contact (TCNC; 20-40W up to 60s of ablation) settings would inform this strategy. Methods: We studied consecutive cases of patients with paroxysmal or persistent AF undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with TCNC, SPSD, and HPSD between 7/1/13 to 11/1/19. Procedural data collected include total radiofrequency time (RFT), time to isolate the left pulmonary veins (LPVT), time to isolate the right pulmonary veins (RPVT), and safety outcomes. Clinical data collected include sinus rhythm maintenance 3 and 12-months post-procedure. Results: A total of 171 patients were studied (44 TCNC, 51 SPSD, 76 HPSD). There was no difference in age, sex, or AF type between groups. RFT was shorter when comparing HPSD to SPSD (71 vs 101 min; p&lt;0.01), HPSD to TCNC (71 vs 146 min; p&lt;0.01), and SPSD to TCNC groups (101 vs 146 min; p&lt;0.01). This was driven by decreases in LPVT between the HPSD vs SPSD (34 vs 46 min; p=0.04), HPSD vs TCNC (34 vs 72 min; p&lt;0.01), and SPSD vs TCNC groups (46 vs 72 min; p&lt;0.01), as well as decreases in RPVT between the HPSD vs SPSD (42 vs 54 min; p=0.03), HPSD vs TCNC (42 vs 75 min; p&lt;0.01), and SPSD vs TCNC groups (54 vs 75 min; p&lt;0.01). There was no difference in sinus rhythm maintenance after 3 or 12-months between groups overall, and when stratified by AF type, left atrial volume, CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score, or left ventricular EF. There was a numerical difference in safety with no adverse events in HPSD (0/76 in HPSD vs 1/51 in SPSD vs 3/44 in TCNC; p=0.06). Conclusion: AF ablation with contact force utilizing an HPSD ablation strategy reduced procedure times with similar sinus rhythm maintenance compared to SPSD and TCNC approaches. Further research is needed to determine whether clinical outcomes differ with a larger population and longer follow-up.

Potential role of leek, Allium porrum in attenuated cardiotoxicity effects of Trastuzumab

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2) is a gene that can play a role in the development of breast cancer. Herceptin (chemical name: trastuzumab), which works against HER2-positive breast cancers by blocking the ability of the cancer cells to receive chemical signals that tell the cells to grow. Leek, scientifically as Allium porrum, are related to garlic, onions, shallots, and scallions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of leek extracts (Allium porrum) on Trastuzumab (TRA) induced cardiotoxicity after breast cancer chemotherapy treatment. The mice in the pretreated group were given a daily dose of 1.25 ml Allium porrum for 14 days. To induce cardiac injury, TRA (2 mg/kg) in a single injection intraperitoneally and the mice were sacrificed after 72 h. This is first time investigate the cardioprotective effects of Allium porrum on TRA-induced cardiotoxicity. The TRA-treated with Allium porrum groups showed a significant improved left ventricular function EF%, CO; p &lt; 0.05, decrease in the Creatine kinase, creatine kinase MB, lactate dehydrogenase activities and cardiac troponin I, MCP-1 and reduces an inflammatory response in comparison with the TRA-treated group. In conclusion, the present study showed first time that Leek -Allium porrum- may be have potential role in cardio-protector against toxic effects of Trastuzumab.

Epicardial fat tissue: a new tool for identification of coronary artery disease patients?

Abstract Introduction Epicardial fat (EF), the true visceral fat depot of the heart, has been strongly correlated with both coronary artery disease (CAD) incidence and severity. However, the methods for its measurement were not always affordable. Its measurement by echocardiography is fast, accessible and easily reproducible, turning it into a promising clinical tool for assessing cardiovascular risk to predict the incidence of CAD. Purpose To determine the correlation between EF tissue dimensions measured by transthoracic echocardiography and the presence of CAD. Methods We prospectively analysed data from 196 consecutive patients admitted for acute coronary syndrome in our coronary care unit. All patients underwent diagnostic coronary angiography and echocardiogram during stay. EF dimensions were obtained with transthoracic echocardiography by measuring maximum EF diameter (mm) at the basal right ventricular free wall (PLAXB) level and mid-right ventricular free wall (PLAXM) level [in paraesternal long-axis view (PLAX)] and maximum right-ventricle free wall EF diameter at basal (PSAXB) level and papillary-muscle (PSAXM) level [in paraesternal short-axis view (PSAX)]. All measures were taken at end-systole. Patients were divided in 2 groups according to the presence of significant CAD (sCAD) or not (nCAD), defined as having at least 1 diseased epicardial vessel with a stenosis &amp;gt;50%. Results One-hundred and sixty-three (83.2%) had significant CAD. 22 patients (11.2%) were admitted for unstable angina, 60 patients (30.6%) for non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and 93 patients (47,4%) for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Mean EF diameters were as follows: PLAXB (19,3±5.1 mm), PLAXM (11.3±2.6), PSAXB (10,6±2.8), PSAXM (10.5±2.8). We found a direct correlation between number of diseased epicardial coronary vessels and epicardial fat thickness in PLAXB (r=0.506, p&amp;lt;0.001), PLAXM (r=0.372, p&amp;lt;0.001), PSAXB (r=0.445, p&amp;lt;0.001) and PSAXM (r=0.372, p&amp;lt;0.001). EF was significantly different between groups: PLAXB (20,6±4.4 vs. 13.8±3,8, p&amp;lt;0.001), PLAXM (11.8±2.5 vs. 9.0±1.9, p&amp;lt;0.001), PSAXB (11.1±2.7 vs. 8.3±2.3, p&amp;lt;0.001) and PSAXM (11.0±2.6 vs. 8.2±4, p&amp;lt;0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the predictive value of mean right ventricular EF [(PLAXB+PSAXB)/2] for significant CAD was 0.895 (AUC=0.895, CI 95% 0.818–0,972, p&amp;lt;0.001). For a [(PLAXB+PLAXM)/2] value of 12.57 mm, sensitivity was 86.3% and specificity was 79.3%. Conclusions In a population of high suspicion of acute coronary syndromes, echocardiographic EF is a sensitive and specific marker of the presence of significant coronary disease and could become an important tool for coronary risk prediction. Figure 1 Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Right ventricular rather than left ventricular systolic dysfunction predicts outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation: insights from cardiac magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract Background Right ventricular (RV) function is strongly associated with outcome in heart failure. Whether it also adds important prognostic information in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is unknown. Methods We consecutively enrolled patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) scheduled for TAVI and preprocedural cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Kaplan-Meier estimates and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with outcome. A composite of heart failure hospitalization and/or cardiovascular death was selected as primary study endpoint. Results 423 consecutive patients (80.7±7.3 years; 48% female) were prospectively included, 201 (48%) underwent CMR imaging. 55 (27%) patients presented with RV systolic dysfunction (RVSD) defined by RV ejection fraction (RVEF) &amp;lt;45%. RVSD was associated with male sex (69 vs. 40%; p&amp;lt;0.001), New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional status (NYHA ≥ III: 89 vs. 57%; p&amp;lt;0.001), NT-proBNP serum levels (9365 vs. 2715 pg/mL; p&amp;lt;0.001), and history of atrial fibrillation (AF: 51 vs. 30%; p=0.005). On CMR, RVSD was associated with left ventricular (LV) volumes (end-diastolic: 187 vs. 137 mL, end-systolic: 119 vs. 53 mL; p&amp;lt;0.001) and EF (39 vs. 64%; p&amp;lt;0.001). A total of 51 events (37 deaths, 14 hospitalizations for heart failure) occurred during follow-up (9.8±9 months). While LVSD (LVEF &amp;lt;50%) was not significantly associated with outcome (HR 0.83, 95% CI: 0.33 – 2.11; p=0.694), RVSD showed a strong and independent association with event-free survival by multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR 2.47, 95% CI: 1.07–5.73; p=0.035), which was adjusted for all relevant CMR parameters (LV volumes and EF), cardiovascular risk factors (sex, NYHA, AF, diabetes mellitus type II, use of diuretics), and routine biomarkers (NT-proBNP, creatinine). Conclusions RVSD rather than LVSD, as determined on CMR, is an important predictor of outcome in patients undergoing TAVI. RV function might thus add useful prognostic information on top of established risk factors. Figure 1. Kaplan-Meier survival curves Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Classification of HFrEF based on echocardiography using machine learning to predict future HFrecEF events

Abstract Background In recent years, there have been sporadic reports of heart failure with recovered ejection fraction (HFrecEF), wherein the left ventricular EF (LVEF) has been improved by considering temporal changes in the LVEF. Although patients with HFrecEF are known to have a better prognosis than other groups, the type of heart failure associated with reduced EF (HFrEF) that subsequently transitions to HFrecEF is yet to be determined. Purpose In this study, we examined whether it is possible to predict future HFrecEF events by stratifying the HFrEF using machine learning based on previously recorded echocardiographic indices. Methods For 162 patients, with HFrEF and a history of hospitalization owing to heart failure, who underwent echocardiography in a stable hemodynamic state, stratification was performed via machine learning. Regarding temporal changes in the LVEF, 73 patients who underwent another echocardiography under stable conditions were investigated (52 with continued HFrEF and 21 with HFrecEF, with a median follow up of 397 days). HFrEF was defined as a condition for patients with an LVEF of less than 50%, and HFrecEF was defined as a condition for patients who initially had an LVEF of less than 50% but later improved. Patients with severe valvular disease, acute myocardial infarction, acute myocarditis, acute pulmonary embolism, post-cardiac surgery, and pericardial disease were excluded from this group. The random forest method was used as a classification method for machine learning. Results When 162 patients with HFrEF were stratified using machine learning, 63 were classified into Cluster 1 and 99 into Cluster 2. Cluster 1 patients showed a significantly higher tendency to transition to HFrecEF than Cluster 2 patients (p=0.001). The Gini coefficient was calculated to identify echocardiographic indices that are important for the purpose of stratification. As a result, LVEF, left ventricular endo-diastolic volume (LVEDV), the thickness of interventricular septum (IVSth), E/A ratio, and the maximum diameter of the inferior vena cava were found to be particularly important. Compared to Cluster 2 patients, Cluster 1 patients exhibited a significantly higher LVEF (41.5±5.9% vs 27.0±7.6%, p&amp;lt;0.001), lower LVEDV (93.6±36.8 mL vs 141.1±51.7 mL, p&amp;lt;0.001), and a higher IVSth (10.8±2.6 mm vs 9.4±2.5 mm, p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion Stratifying HFrEF via machine learning based on echocardiographic indices can help predict temporal changes in the LVEF and deduce the echocardiographic indices useful for improving LVEF. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Pressure constrained mitral annular dysfunction determines severity of regurgitation in Barlow's disease – a 3D echocardiographic study

Abstract Background Barlow's disease provides both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. The impact of systemic blood-pressure on severity of regurgitation is still unclear. Purpose We hypothesized that mitral annulus behaves passively with enlargement during ventricular systole, and secondly, we tested the hypothesis that severity of regurgitation correlates to systemic blood-pressure (BP) of the patient. Methods Ten patients with Barlow's disease were compared with 10 healthy controls. Brachial blood-pressure was measured according to guidelines. Transthoracic 3D echo was obtained from an apical view (38.6±8.2 frames per second). Data was analyzed using a holographic display. We measured commissure width (CW), septallateral length (SL) and mitral annular surface area throughout the cardiac cycle. Aortic flow ejection time was derived from continuous Doppler across the aortic valve. Timing of aortic valve closure was visually assessed by 3D echo. Onset and end of mitral regurgitation was derived from continuous wave Doppler of transmitral flow. Results Systolic BP in controls and patients were 122±5 and 133±12 mmHg, respectively (p&amp;lt;0.05). Enddiastolic volume was 87±7 ml/m2 (controls) and 100±14 ml/m2 (Barlow), p&amp;lt;0.02. Left ventricular EF in controls and patients were 59±5 and 62±5%, respectively, p=NS. Barlow patients had moderate or severe late systolic regurgitation with mean regurgitation volume of 51±18 ml. Annular surface area, CW and SL behaved passively with enlargement during ventricular systole (Figure 1). Peak systolic surface area, CW and SL in healthy controls and Barlow patients were 8.7±0.5 vs 20.7±3.2 cm2 (p&amp;lt;0.001), 30.1±1.5 vs 49.5±4.9 mm (p&amp;lt;0.001) and 30.9±1.5 vs 44.9±3.3 mm (p&amp;lt;0.001). Peak annular surface area and regurgitation volume in patients showed a positive correlation with systolic BP (y = 0.156x − 0.077, r=0.60 and y = 1.136x − 99.7, r=0.80, respectively). Conclusions We have demonstrated pressure constrained mitral annular dysfunction in Barlow's disease, indicating that systemic blood pressure may modify the severity of regurgitation. The study provides novel insights into mechanisms of mitral regurgitation and potential therapeutic actions in the future. Figure 1 Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Grieg Foundation

Symptomatic endpoint responder rates to BAROSTIM Therapy

Abstract Background Patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) have varying responses to symptomatic endpoints with device-based HF therapies. Purpose Evaluate the symptomatic response to baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) at six months. Methods In a trial of subjects with NYHA Class II (recently III) or III HFrEF, left ventricular EF≤35%, guideline directed medical HF therapy (GDMT), no indication for cardiac resynchronization therapy, and NT-proBNP&amp;lt;1600 pg/ml, 264 subjects were randomized to BAROSTIM therapy plus GDMT (BAT group) or GDMT alone (Control group). Six-minute hall walk (6MHW), Minnesota Living with HF (QOL) and NYHA Class were analyzed. Clinically relevant responders were defined by 6-month improvement in 6MHW&amp;gt;10%, QOL&amp;gt;5 points or improvement in at least one NYHA class; super responders were defined by 6-month improvement in 6MHW&amp;gt;20%, QOL&amp;gt;10 points or improvement to NYHA class I. Results Both clinically relevant and super responders were significantly higher in BAT versus Control subjects for all symptomatic endpoints. In BAT subjects, 72% had clinically relevant improvements in ≥2 endpoints compared to 29% of Control subjects (p&amp;lt;0.001), and 28% of BAT subjects had super responder improvements in ≥2 endpoints versus 10% of Control subjects (p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion Among subjects with symptomatic HFrEF, treatment with BAT resulted in clinically relevant and super responder rates. The BAT clinically relevant and super responder rates are similar to those seen with CRT, in CRT-indicated patients. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): CVRx, Inc.

Myocarditis-associated necrotizing coronary vasculitis: incidence, cause and outcome

Abstract Background Necrotizing coronary vasculitis (NCV) is a rare entity usually associated to myocarditis (M), which incidence, cause and responsiveness to therapy is unreported. Purpose We set out a retrospective study to report our experience in the diagnosis and management of myocarditis-associated necrotizing coronary vasculitis (M-NCV) and patients' outcome. Methods Among 5180 patients undergoing endomyocardial biopsy in our institution, 1916 received a histological diagnosis of myocarditis with associated NCV in 30 (12F, 18M, mean age 47.7 years±15). NVC endomyocardial samples were retrospectively evaluated with, immunohistochemistry for Toll like Receptor 4 (TLR4) and real-time PCR for viral genomes. Serum samples were processed for anti-heart autoantibodies and inflammatory cytokine profile (ELLA assay).Identification of an immunologic pathway (virus-, TLR4+, anti-heart abs +) was followed by immunosuppression including steroids, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, high dose immunoglobulins and anakinra. M-NCV patients were followed for 6-months with resting ECG, Holter monitoring, 2D-echo and in 45% of cases with cardiac magnetic resonance. Increase of ≥10% in left ventricular EF was classified as response to therapy. M-NCV patients were compared to a control group of 60 consecutive patients with virus + and − lymphocithic myocarditis and a control group of 30 patients with mitral stenosis and normal LV size and function, undergoing surgical repair. Results 26 M-NCV patients presented with heart failure or cardiogenic shock; 3 with electrical instability; 1 with infarct-like symptoms. Cause of M-NCV included infectious agents (PVB19, HHV2, EBV and co-infection of Toxoplasma gondii and PVB19) in 4 patients; chest trauma in 1; drug-hypersensitivity in 2; hypereosinophilic syndrome in 1; primary autoimmune disease in 7; giant cells in 3; while it was idiopathic in the remaining cases. CMR imaging did not detect any qualitative difference between M-NVC and M patients. Anti-heart autoantibodies were positive in immune-mediated M-NCV and virus- M; in M-NCV patients in which anti-heart autoantibodies were positive, we found a cross-reaction with vessel walls. Myocardial expression of TLR4 was high in the immune-mediated forms and negative in the viral. Interleukins 1-beta was more elevated (p&amp;lt;0.001) in patients with M-NCV in comparison with virus-M patients. M-NCV patients presented a more severe clinical profile with 24% in-hospital mortality compared with 1.5% of the M group. Immunosuppression resulted in an improvement of cardiac function in 86% of M-NCV and 88% of virus-M cohort. Conclusion NCV can be histologically detected in up to 1.5% of a large population with myocarditis. Major causes include viral, autoreactive and autoimmune processes. Intra-hospital mortality is high (24%). Presence of an immunologic pathway is associated with a beneficial response to immunosuppression. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): European Project ERA-CVD

Central and obstructive apneas prevalence in heart failure with reduced, mid-range and preserved ejection fraction

Abstract Background Central apneas (CA) and obstructive apneas (OA) are highly prevalent in heart failure (HF) both with reduced and preserved systolic function. However, a comprehensive evaluation of apnea prevalence across HF according to ejection fraction (i.e HF with patients with reduced, mid-range and preserved ejection fraction- HFrEf, HFmrEF and HFpEF, respectively) throughout the 24 hours has never been done before. Materials and methods 700 HF patients were prospectively enrolled and then divided according to left ventricular EF (408 HFrEF, 117 HFmrEF, 175 HFpEF). All patients underwent a thorough evaluation including: 2D echocardiography; 24-h Holter-ECG monitoring; cardiopulmonary exercise testing; neuro-hormonal assessment and 24-h cardiorespiratory monitoring. Results In the whole population, prevalence of normal breathing (NB), CA and OA at daytime was 40%, 51%, and 9%, respectively, while at nighttime 15%, 55%, and 30%, respectively. When stratified according to left ventricular EF, CA prevalence decreased from HFrEF to HFmrEF and HFpEF: (daytime CA: 57% vs. 43% vs. 42%, respectively, p=0.001; nighttime CA: 66% vs. 48% vs. 34%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.0001), while OA prevalence increased (daytime OA: 5% vs. 8% vs. 18%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.0001; nighttime OA: 20 vs. 29 vs. 53%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.0001). When assessing moderte-severe apneas, defined with an apnea/hypopnea index &amp;gt;15 events/hour, prevalence of CA was again higher in HFrEF than HFmrEF and HFpEF both at daytime (daytime moderate-severe CA: 28% vs. 19% and 23%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.05) and at nighttime (nighttime moderate-severe CA: 50% vs. 39% and 28%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.05). Conversely, moderate-severe OA decreased from HFrEF to HFmrEF to HFpEF both at daytime (daytime moderate-severe OA: 1% vs. 3% and 8%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.05) and nighttime (noghttime moderate-severe OA: 10% vs. 11% and 30%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.05). Conclusions Daytime and nighttime apneas, both central and obstructive in nature, are highly prevalent in HF regardless of EF. Across the whole spectrum of HF, CA prevalence increases and OA decreases as left ventricular systolic dysfunction progresses, both during daytime and nighttime. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Galectin-3 is related to right ventricular dysfunction in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction and may affect exercise capacity

Galectin-3 is a biomarker of fibrosis, inflammation and oxidative stress, and its role in heart remodelling and exercise intolerance has not been conclusively proven in heart failure (HF) patients with reduced ejection fraction (rEF). We prospectively assessed 67 consecutive patients with symptomatic HF and left ventricular (LV) EF ≤ 35% during optimal medical therapy, with a mean serum galectin-3 concentration of 15.3 ± 6.4 and a median of 13.5 ng/mL. The group with galectin-3 concentrations greater than or equal to the median had significantly worse right ventricular (RV) systolic function parameters (s′, TAPSE), higher pulmonary artery systolic pressure, more advanced tricuspid regurgitation and lower RV-to-pulmonary circulation coupling index, while no significant differences were found in LV parameters. Moreover, this group achieved significantly lower parameters in cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Significant negative correlations were found between galectin-3 concentration and RV parameters and exercise capacity parameters and have persisted after adjustment for glomerular filtration rate, but not all of them have persisted after adjustment for NT-proBNP. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that TAPSE (β coefficient: − 0.605; p < 0.001) and heart rate at peak exercise (β coefficient: − 0.98; p = 0.009) were independently related to galectin-3 concentration. Elevated galectin-3 concentration in patients with HFrEF might indicate concomitant RV dysfunction and exercise intolerance.

Determining LoA between Left Ventricular EF estimated from Abarquez Formula and Left Ventricular EF measured by 2D Echo

Background: The Abarquez formula (aVR QRS amplitude x 2.264) + (age x 0.645) has been offered to provide an estimate for LVEF measured by 2D Echo. However, studies aiming to establish agreement between the Abarquez formula and LVEF measured by 2D Echo are lacking.&#x0D; Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the LVEF estimated from 12-lead ECG using the Abarquez formula with the LVEF measured using the 2DED in the following subpopulations: 18-35 years old, 36-60 years old, &gt;60 years old, male, and female patients. To compare these two measurements, the limits of agreement (LoA) by Altman and Bland was used.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Adult patients admitted in the VLMC from January to May 2019 with both a 12-lead ECG and a 2D Echo were included in the study. LVEF from 2D Echo and LVEF estimated using the Abarquez formula were recorded. Comparison of the two measurements was performed by Altman and Bland method using LoA at 95% confidence interval. This analysis was done using Analyse-It Software. Comparison of the mean differences between the two measurement methods was also done using STATA.&#x0D; Results: LVEF estimate using the Abarquez formula was found to significantly differ from LVEF measured using 2D Echo.&#x0D; Conclusions: The Abarquez formula cannot be used as a surrogate for LVEF measure by 2D Echo.

Impact of arterio-ventricular interaction on first-phase ejection fraction in aortic stenosis.

Aims First-phase ejection fraction (EF1), the EF at the time to peak aortic jet velocity, has been proposed as a novel marker of peak systolic function in aortic stenosis (AS). This study aimed to explore the association of myocardial contractility and arterial load with EF1 in AS patients.Methods and results Data from a prospective, cross-sectional study of 114 patients with mild, moderate, and severe AS with preserved left ventricular EF (>50%) were analysed. EF1 was measured as the volume change from end-diastole to the time that corresponded to peak aortic jet velocity. Myocardial contractility was assessed by strain rate measured by speckle tracking echocardiography. Arterial stiffness was assessed by central pulse pressure/stroke volume index ratio (PP/SVi). The total study population included 48% women, median age was 73 years, and mean peak aortic jet velocity was 3.47 m/s. In univariable linear regression analyses, lower EF1 was associated with higher age, higher peak aortic jet velocity, lower global EF, lower global longitudinal strain, lower strain rate, and higher PP/SVi. There was no significant association between EF1 and heart rate or sex. In multivariable linear regression analysis, EF1 was associated with lower strain rate and higher PP/SVi, independent of AS severity. Replacing PP/SVi by valvular impedance did not change the results.Conclusion In patients with AS, reduced myocardial contractility and increased arterial load were associated with lower EF1 independent of the severity of valve stenosis.

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking Global Longitudinal Strain and Prognosis After Heart Transplantation

ObjectivesThis study determined the long-term prognostic significance of GLS assessed using CMR-FT in a large cohort of heart transplant recipients. BackgroundIn heart transplant recipients, global longitudinal strain (GLS) assessed using echocardiography has shown promise in the prediction of clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that CMR feature tracking (CMR-FT) GLS is independently associated with long-term outcomes in heart transplant recipients. MethodsIn a cohort of consecutive heart transplant recipients who underwent routine CMR for clinical surveillance, CMR-FT GLS was calculated from 3 long-axis cine CMR images. Associations between GLS and a composite endpoint of death or major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including retransplantation, nonfatal myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, and heart failure hospitalization, were investigated. ResultsA total of 152 heart transplant recipients (age 54 ± 15 years; 29% women; 5.0 ± 5.4 years after heart transplantation) were included. The median GLS was −11.6% (interquartile range: −13.6% to −9.2%). Over a median follow-up of 2.6 years, 59 recipients reached the composite endpoint. On Kaplan-Meier analyses, recipients with GLS worse than the median had a higher estimated cumulative incidence of the composite endpoint compared with recipients with GLS better than the median (log rank p = 0.004). On multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression, GLS was independently associated with the composite endpoint after adjustment for cardiac allograft vasculopathy, history of rejection, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), right ventricular EF, and presence of myocardial fibrosis, with a hazard ratio of 1.15 for every 1% worsening in GLS (95% confidence interval: 1.06 to 1.24; p < 0.001). Similar results were seen in subgroups of recipients with LVEF >50% and with no myocardial fibrosis. GLS provided incremental prognostic value over other variables in the multivariate model as determined by the log-likelihood chi-squared test. ConclusionsIn a large cohort of heart transplant recipients, CMR-FT GLS was independently associated with the long-term risk of death or MACE.

Screening for asymptomatic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in mongolian population at high risk.

Objective The goals of the present study were to assess the prevalence of asymptomatic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in subjects at high risk of developing HF and to define the diagnostic accuracy of NT-pro BNP assay compared with echocardiography in this setting.Material and methods This cross-sectional study included subjects aged from 35 to 64 years, with high risk of HF, who had no clinical symptoms of HF. Risk factors of HF were detected by clinical examinations. NT-pro BNP determination was performed using immunoassay analyzer (FIA8000, Getein Bio Medical Inc, China),. The cut-off point for NT-pro BNP was 125 pg/ml. Diagnosis of HFpEF was based on criteria recommended by 2016 ESC heart failure guidelines. Diastolic dysfunction was assessed according to the algorithm proposed in the joint recommendations of the ASE/EACVI.Results 602 patients with risk factors of HF were included in the study, of which 256 (42.5 %) were males and 346 (57.5 %) females. The mean age was 51.71±8.07 years. 83 patients (13.8 %) showed elevated NT-pro BNP levels of ≥125 pg / ml. Our study has shown that NT-pro BNP concentration was positively correlating with age, both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, left ventricular mass and E / e' ratio and negatively correlating with waist circumference, body mass index, left ventricular EF and E / A ratio in asymptomatic population. The likelihood of positive NT-pro BNP test was independently (p&lt;0.05) associated with age, hypertension and diabetes. The diagnosis of asymptomatic HFpEF was confirmed in 12.3 % of studied population. A cutoff value of 125 pg / ml for NT-proBNP concentration showed the following diagnostic re-abilities in identifying asymptomatic HFpEF: sensitivity 85.0 %, specificity 88.6 % and area under curve 0.92 (95 % CI 0.86-0.98).Conclusion Subjects with raised NT-pro BNP level (≥125 pg/ml) were more likely to have a confirmed diagnosis of asymptomatic HFpEF after screening. In summary, in at-risk population, natriuretic peptide based screening combined with echocardiography identifies high prevalence of asymptomatic HFpEF.

Characterizing heart failure with preserved and reduced ejection fraction: An imaging and plasma biomarker approach.

IntroductionThe pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains incompletely defined. We aimed to characterize HFpEF compared to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and asymptomatic hypertensive or non-hypertensive controls.Materials and methodsProspective, observational study of 234 subjects (HFpEF n = 140; HFrEF n = 46, controls n = 48, age 73±8, males 49%) who underwent echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), plasma biomarker analysis (panel of 22) and 6-minute walk testing (6MWT). The primary end-point was the composite of all-cause mortality and/or HF hospitalization.ResultsCompared to controls both HF groups had lower exercise capacity, lower left ventricular (LV) EF, higher LV filling pressures (E/E’, B-type natriuretic peptide [BNP], left atrial [LA] volumes), more right ventricular (RV) systolic dysfunction, more focal and diffuse fibrosis and higher levels of all plasma markers. LV remodeling (mass/volume) was different between HFpEF (concentric, 0.68±0.16) and HFrEF (eccentric, 0.47±0.15); p<0.0001. Compared to controls, HFpEF was characterized by (mild) reductions in LVEF, more myocardial fibrosis, LA remodeling/dysfunction and RV dysfunction. HFrEF patients had lower LVEF, increased LV volumes, greater burden of focal and diffuse fibrosis, more RV remodeling, lower LAEF and higher LA volumes compared to HFpEF. Inflammatory/fibrotic/renal dysfunction plasma markers were similarly elevated in both HF groups but markers of cardiomyocyte stretch/damage (BNP, pro-BNP, N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide and troponin-I) were higher in HFrEF compared to HFpEF; p<0.0001. Focal fibrosis was associated with galectin3, GDF-15, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-8, BNP, pro-BNP and NTproANP; p<0.05. Diffuse fibrosis was associated with GDF-15, Tenascin-C, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, BNP, proBNP and NTproANP; p<0.05. Composite event rates (median 1446 days follow-up) did not differ between HFpEF and HFrEF (Log-Rank p = 0.784).ConclusionsHFpEF is a distinct pathophysiological entity compared to age- and sex-matched HFrEF and controls. HFpEF and HFrEF are associated with similar adverse outcomes. Inflammation is common in both HF phenotypes but cardiomyocyte stretch/stress is greater in HFrEF.

First Series of Combined Heart & Lung Transplantation from India

This study analyses the data of patients undergoing Combined heart and lung transplant(CHLTx) with primary pulmonary hypertension(PPH),advanced lung diseases with right ventricular failure and uncorrected congenital heart diseases which are not uncommon in India unlike the developed countries. Single centre retrospective study of patients who underwent thoracic organ transplantation from April 2017 to October 2019. 107 patients underwent CHLTX,double lung and single lung transplantation. 17 patients underwent CHLTx . Primary etiology was congenital heart disease in 6 (35.3 %), PPH in 6(35.3 %), followed by Group III PH, in 5 (29.4 %) {ILD with severe PH in 4 (30%) and bronchiectasis with severe PH in 1 (7%)}. Post operatively primary graft dysfunction(PGD) was observed in 5 (29.4 %) patients. 2 (11.76 %) had Grade 3 and 3 (17.64 %) had Grade 2 PGD. Post-op ECMO was used in 4 (23.5%) cases. 30 day mortality was observed at n = 3 (17.64 %). 4 (23.5 %) had gram negative sepsis of which 3 (17.64%) expired. For CHLTx in Eisenmenger syndrome with no clear guidelines about the timing,often patient's symptoms and degree of cyanosis are the deciding factors. With well developed congenital cardiac surgery services in developed countries, patients requiring CHLTx for Eisenmenger are rare. However, in India it's not uncommon. The criteria to decide between double lung transplantation vs CHTLX in the other two groups were made with ECHO and right heart catheterisation results. In cases where the results were ambiguous, Cardiac MRI was used to decide between CHTLX vs only lung transplantation. Patients with Right ventricular EF < 25% on Cardiac MRI were advised to undergo CHLTx. Our early experience in CHLTx proves encouraging for patients with end stage cardiopulmonary disorders in India. Cardiac MRI plays a vital role in deciding between CHLTx vs only lung transplantation. Further follow up of the patients is required to establish long term outcomes and complications following combined heart lung transplant.