bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes and hemodialysis are important factor for decrease coronary flow reserve even in the patients with normal myocardial perfusion
Authors: Umemoto N , Imaoka T , Inoue S , Itou R , Oshima S , Sakakibara T , Shimizu K , Ishii H , Murohara T
Published: November 2020

Background

In clinical setting, patients with traditional coronary risk factors are at high risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). Such patients who complain chest discomfort are usually performed nuclear myocardial perfusion (MP) test. We sometimes find patients whose PET result shows normal MP and abnormal coronary flow reserve (CFR). However, there are limited data about the predictors for decreased CFR. In the view of describe above, we have investigated the parameters for decreased CFR in the patients without MP abnormality.

Methods and results

From 20th April 2013 to 21st December 2018, we performed 2,930 13N- ammonia PET for suspected CAD. After excluding the follows; 966 patients with repeated test, 54 patients with incomplete data, one patient missed, we investigated 1,909 eligible patients' data. We performed least square to identify the factors decreased CFR. Hemodialysis (HD), age, prior revascularization, diabetes (DM) and body mass index (BMI) were independent risk factor for decreased CFR in all population. On the other hand, HD, age, DM, hypertension and BMI were independent risk factor for decreasing CFR in patients without MP abnormality. According to the result of least square methods, we classified all patients into four groups; without DM/ without HD group, with DM/ without HD group, without DM/ with HD group and with DM/ with HD group. The value of CFR in each group were as follows: without DM/ without HD group (median, 1st quartile-3rd quartile; 2.88, 2.21–3.52), with DM/ without HD group (2.65, 2.00–3.38), without DM/ with HD group (2.29, 1.67–2.95) and with DM/ with HD group (1.97, 1.43–2.68). There were statistically significant intergroup differences. The value of CFR in the patients without MP abnormality were as follows: without DM/ without HD group (3.04, 2.47–3.65), with DM/ without HD group (2.98, 2.40–3.61), without DM/ with HD group (2.52, 2.10–3.08) and with DM/ with HD group (2.38, 1.86–2.97). Even in the patients without MP abnormality, there were also statistically significant intergroup differences.

Conclusion

According to our 13N-ammonia PET data analysis, DM and HD were important and independent factors for decreased CFR. Even in the patients without MP abnormality, DM and HD were important factor for decreased CFR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Right ventricular morphology and function analysis in moderately preterm-born young adults
Authors: Mohamed A , Lamata P , Williamson W , Alsharqi M , Tan C.M.J , Burchert H , Huckstep O , Suriano K , Francis J , Leal Pelado J , Monteiro C , Neubauer S , Levy P.T , Leeson P , Lewandowski A.J
Published: November 2020

Background

Previous studies have shown that prematurity leads to altered right ventricular (RV) geometry and performance with persistent impairments in RV systolic function in young adulthood. It is unknown to what extent pulmonary physiology impacts these findings.

Purpose

To better quantify known alterations in RV morphology and function in preterm-born young adults and to determine to what extent these changes are influenced by the pulmonary circulation.

Methods

A total of 101 normotensive preterm-born (n=47, mean gestational age 32.8±3.2 weeks) and term-born (n=54) young adults were recruited. Echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging were performed to characterise RV morphology, RV function, pulmonary hemodynamics and RV-pulmonary arterial vascular (PA) coupling. CMR cine images were used to create a 3D computational atlas of the RV geometry and principal component analysis was undertaken to identify the key modes of shape variation. Spirometry was performed to assess lung function.

Results

RV CMR revealed a higher absolute and indexed RV mass (P<0.05) and lower ejection fraction (54.90±5.17 versus 57.48±4.39%, P=0.008) in young adults born preterm. RV end-diastolic areas and volumes for CMR and echocardiography were lower in preterm-born compared to term-born young adults (P≤0.001). Principal component analysis of the computational atlas defined the anatomical modes of the RV geometry, with mode 1 accounting for 25.3% of the population variance. Preterm and term cohorts showed significant differences (P<0.001) in mode 1, which represented a smaller and shorter RV cavity in the preterm group (Figure 1). Measurements of RV function by echocardiography, including RV fractional area of change (FAC) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), were lower in preterm-born compared to term-born adults (P<0.05). Despite lower pulmonary artery acceleration times (PAAT) in those born preterm (141.1±15.1 versus 159.2±21.6msec, P<0.001), indicating increased pulmonary vascular resistance, the RV remained coupled to its pulmonary circulation (TAPSE/PAAT: 0.13±0.02 versus 0.14±0.03m/sec, P=0.153). Reduced RV performance in preterm-born individuals remained significant when adjusting for pulmonary function parameters (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Multimodality cardiac imaging demonstrated that moderately preterm-born young adults exhibit structural and functional RV alterations, independent of lung physiology. Their RV remains hemodynamically coupled to its pulmonary circulation despite higher RV afterload, lower RV function and altered morphology.

Figure 1. Statistical shape model of the RV

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Foundation. Main funding source(s): British Heart Foundation
Association between near-infrared spectroscopy defined lipid rich plaque and pericoronary adipose tissue inflammation on computed tomography angiography
Authors: Yamaguchi M , Hoshino M , Nogami K , Ueno H , Misawa T , Sumino Y , Hada M , Kanaji Y , Sugiyama T , Yonetsu T , Kakuta T
Published: November 2020

Background

A recent study has shown that lipid-rich plaque (LRP) detected by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a significant predictor of future adverse events. Pericoronary adipose tissue inflammation (FAI; fat attenuation index) evaluated by computed tomography angiography (CTA) has also been reported to be linked with cardiac events. The relationship between NIRS-defined LRP and FAI remains to be determined.

Methods

A total of 82 de novo culprit lesions in 82 patients with chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) who underwent perprocedural CTA and NIRS was retrospectively studied. FAI was assessed by the crude analysis of the mean CT attenuation value (−190 to −30 Hounsfield units; higher values indicating inflammation) of pericoronary adipose tissue. Plaque morphology was assessed by coronary CTA and grey-scale intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). NIRS-defined LRP was defined as a maximum lipid core burden index (LCBI) in 4 mm ≥400. Relationship between NIRS-defined LRP, CTA/grey-scale IVUS findings, and FAI was assessed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the predictors for NIRS-derived LRP.

Results

NIRS-defined LRP was observed in 35 (42.6%) patients. Maximum LCBI showed modest correlations both with FAI (r=0.29, p-value=0.007) and CT-derived remodeling index (r=0.51, p<0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that the best cut-off values of FAI and CT-derived remodeling index for predicting NIRS-defined LRP were −70.7 (AUC: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.53–0.71, P<0.05) and 1.11 (AUC: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.63–0.86, P<0.01), respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed FAI ≥−70.7 (odds ratio [OR]: 4.27; 95% CI: 1.28–14.3; p-value = 0.02) and CT-derived remodeling index (OR: 10.7; 95% CI: 2.99–32.2; p-value <0.001) were independent predictors of the presence of NIRS-defined LRP, whereas there was no statistically significant and independent predictor of IVUS-derived factors for NIRS-defined LRP. When stratified according to the presence or absence of FAI ≥−70.7 and CT-derived remodeling index ≥1.11, 93% of the lesions showed NIRS-derived LRP when both factors were present, and NIRS-derived LRP was safely ruled out (88%) when both factors were absent.

Conclusions

FAI of the culprit lesion in CCS was an independent predictor of NIRS-defined LRP, supporting the notion that local pericoronary adipose tissue inflammation may correlate to the presence of LRP. Comprehensive assessment of coronary CTA including FAI evaluation may provide a highly accurate information with high sensitivity and specificity for identifying high risk lesions potentially leading to future cardiac events.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Inflammation of conduction tissue in patients with arrhythmic phenotype of myocarditis
Authors: Frustaci A , Verardo R , Alfarano M , Agnes G , Chimenti C
Published: November 2020

Background

Manifestation of arrhythmias in otherwise normal heart suggests a possible compromise of conduction tissue. It, however, remains, usually, a supposition with limited therapeutical implications.

Purpose

Reporting histology of inflammation/infection of conduction tissue as a cause of arrhythmic phenotype of myocarditis.

Material and methods

Among 420 patients with a biopsy proven myocarditis diagnosed from 2009 to 2019, 42 presented with an arrhythmic phenotype and normal cardiac anatomy and function (LVEF >50%). Of the latter, 12 subjects (28.5%; M 9; F 3; mean age 44,75±14.9 years) had included in a left ventricular endomyocardial biopsy sections of conduction tissue (CT). CT was identified by recognition of morphological Aschoff and Monckeberg criteria and positive immunostaining for HCN4. CT inflammation was defined by ≥7 CD3+ T lymphocytes with focal necrosis of adjacent cells. Cause of CT inflammation was investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of 2 frozen endomyocardial samples, immunohistochemistry for the identified viral antigens and for Tall like receptor 4 (TLR4).

Results

Four pts presented with non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (nsVT), seven pts with sustained (S) VT, 1 died during hospitalization because of ventricular fibrillation (VF). Inflammatory involvement of CT was documented in all 12 pts. PCR was positive for Influenza A virus in 2 pts and HHV2 in 1 with positive CT immunostaining for related antigens. In the remaining 8 pts negative PCR for viral genomes and overexpression of TLR4 suggested an immune-mediated pathway of CT inflammation. Pts with Influenza A myocarditis and CT infection responded to tamiflu (1 cp bid for 5 days) with ECG normalization while the pt with HHV2 infection died.

The 8 pts with virus-negative myocarditis and TLR4 overexpession were treated with steroids and azathioprine based on TIMIC protocol. Seven of them had no more repetitive ventricular ectopic beats at Holter of 2 weeks follow-up.

Conclusions

Arrhythmic phenotype of myocarditis is caused by elective inflammation/infection of CT. Molecular characterization of CT damage may bring to pharmacologic control of arrhythmias in up to 75% of cases.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): European Project ERA-CVD “Transnational Research Projects on Cardiovascular Diseases”
Sequencing candidate genes in African American and Hispanic/ Latino probands with early-onset Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chalazan B , Mol D , Sridhar A , Ornelas-Loredo A , Darbar F , Qiao V , Alzahrani Z , Chen Y , Ellinor P , Darbar D
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Mutations in cardiac ion channels, structural proteins and signaling molecules have been identified in European whites with early-onset AF (EOAF). However, it remains unclear if genetic variation also contributes to the etiology of EOAF in ethnic minorities.

Purpose

To determine the prevalence of disease causing variants in candidate AF genes in African American and Hispanic/Latino probands with EOAF.

Method

In this family-based study, probands of African and Hispanic descent with EOAF (defined as AF ≤65 years) were prospectively enrolled in a clinical-DNA biorepository and underwent targeted sequencing for 60 AF candidate genes. Variants were filtered at 20X read depth and clinically evaluated with American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and Association for Molecular Pathology (ACMG/AMP) as well as the Association for Clinical Genomic Science (ACGS) criteria for disease-causing mutations.

Results

Among 227 EOAF probands with mean (SD) age of AF 51.0 (9.9) years, 132 (58.0%) were men and 148 (65.0%) African American and 79 (35.0%) Hispanic/Latino. Sequencing 60 candidate AF genes revealed 90 variants that met filtering criteria and underwent clinical evaluation. We identified 16 (7.0%) EOAF probands with a likely pathogenic or pathogenic variant with the majority being loss of function (62.5%) and located in the TTN gene (50.0%). We confirmed a family history of AF in 24 probands (10.6%) and 6 families with >1 affected member a variant of unknown significance (VUS) in genes encoding for a sodium channel (SCN10A), potassium channel (KCNE5), sarcomeric proteins (MYH6, TTN) and atrial natriuretic peptide (NPPA) co-segregated with AF.

Conclusion

Gene sequencing in African American and Hispanic/Latinos probands with EOAF identified a small percentage of disease causing variants in patients with EOAF. Our findings not only represent important progress toward molecular phenotyping of EOAF, but also provides insight into the underlying pathophysiology toward targeted mechanism-based therapies for AF in ethnic minorities.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): American Heart Association
Serum interleukin-17A/interferon-gamma ratio as a predictor for the severity of atrial low voltage in atrial fibrillation: from FIB-MARK study
Authors: Kawaji T , Ono K , Aizawa T , Kato M , Yokomatsu T , Miki S , Kimura T
Published: November 2020

Background

Atrial fibrosis is hallmark of structural remodeling in atrial fibrillation (AF), but the inflammatory mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to identify the specific inflammatory biomarkers to atrial fibrosis evaluated by atrial low voltage (LV) in AF patients for clarification of the mechanism.

Methods

Forty inflammatory biomarkers were quantified in 16 consecutive AF patients measured left atrial low voltage during catheter ablation.

Results

Median %LV area was 17%. In Pearson's correlation analysis, interleukin (IL)-17A and interferon (IFN)-γ was the most significant positive and negative correlation with %LV (R=0.35 and 0.43, P<0.001). Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between IL-17A/IFN-γ ratio and %LV (R=0.65, P=0.007). The area under the receiver operator characteristics curve of IL-17A/IFN-γ ratio for significant LV (%LV >10% as a reference standard) was 0.88. IL-17A/IFN-γ ratio was significantly higher in patients with significant LV than those without (1.41 versus 0.97, P=0.01), Furthermore, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for detecting significant LV were 60%, 100%, and 75.0% at the cutoff value of 1.3. The event free survival from recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmias was not significantly different between patients with and without IL-17A/IFN-γ ratio >1.3 (83.3% versus 80.0% at 1-year, P=0.81).

Conclusions

Among inflammatory biomarkers, IL-17A/IFN-γ ratio was a significant predictor for the severity of left atrial low voltage n AF patients. Further study is needed to reveal the association between IL-17A and IFN-γ for development of fibrosis in AF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): JSPS KAKENHI GrantNumber JP19K17594
The obesity paradox in patients with atrial fibrillation: an insight from the Gulf SAFE registry
Authors: Li Y.G , Bai J , Domek M , Alsheikh-Ali A , Almahmeed W , Shehab A , Sulaiman K , Asaad N , Liu S.W , Zubaid M , Lip G.Y.H
Published: November 2020

Background

The prognostic role of obesity among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear.

Methods

A total of 1804 patients with AF had body mass index (BMI) measures from the Gulf survey of atrial fibrillation events (Gulf SAFE) registry were implied. A multivariable model was established to investigate the role of obesity on clinical outcomes, including stroke or systemic embolism, bleeding, admission for heart failure (HF) or AF, all-cause mortality and composite event.

Results

559 (31.0%) patients were identified as obesity (BMI over 30kg/m2). In multivariable analyses, obesity was associated with reduced risks of stroke/systematic embolism (hazard ratio [HR] 0.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.18–0.89), major or clinical relevant bleeding (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.26–0.74), HF admission (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.41–0.90) and composite outcome (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.50–0.84). Higher BMI was associated with lower risks of stroke/systemic embolism, bleeding, admission for HF, all-cause mortality, and composite outcomes as were demonstrated by accumulated incidence of events and restricted cubic splines.

Conclusion

Among patients with AF, higher BMI was associated with a more favorable prognosis.

The hazard ratio for BMI and outcomes

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Pre-implantation interlead EKG heterogeneity is superior to QRS complex duration in predicting mechanical super-response and survival in patients receiving cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Bortolotto A.L , Verrier R.L , Nearing B.D , Marum A.A , Araujo Silva B , Pedreira G , Tessarolo Silva F , Medeiros S.A , Sroubek J , Zimetbaum P , Chang J.D
Published: November 2020

Background

Reliable quantitative predictors of response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are needed. We compared the utility of pre-implantation R-wave and T-wave heterogeneity (RWH, TWH) to standard QRS complex duration for determination of mechanical super-response and mortality risk.

Methods

Of patients who received CRT devices between 2006 and 2018 at our institution, we retrospectively analyzed resting 12-lead ECG recordings from all 155 who met class I and IIA ACC/AHA/HRS guideline-based indications and had echocardiograms before and after implantation. Super-responders (n=35) (patients with ≥20% increase in LVEF and/or ≥20% decrease in LVESD) were compared to non super-responders (n=120), who did not. RWH and TWH, i.e., interlead splay, were measured by second central moment analysis. QRS complex duration was computed from the longest interval in a representative non-premature beat.

Results

Pre-implantation RWHV1–3 (p=0.01) and TWH in all lead sets tested (p=0.004 to 0.04) were significantly lower in super-responders than in non super-responders with corresponding significance for area under the curve (AUC) (p=0.002 to 0.03). Preimplantation QRS complex duration did not differ between super-responders and non super-responders (166±3 vs. 167±2 ms, p=0.8); the AUC for QRS complex duration (0.48, p=0.74) was not significant. RWHV1–3LILII at >420 μV predicted 3-year all-cause mortality (p=0.037) with a hazard ratio of 7.440 (95% CI: 1.015–54.527, p=0.048) but QRS complex duration >150 ms did not predict mortality (p=0.27).

Conclusion

Pre-implantation interlead EKG heterogeneity is superior to QRS complex duration in predicting mechanical super-response to CRT and survival.

Bortolotto ESC graph

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
A novel cardiac signal processing system for electrophysiology procedures: early insights from the pure ep 2.0 study
Authors: Gianni C , Al-Ahmad A , Knight B , Tzou W , Santangeli P , Edzards M , Tarzia K , Lee J , Sharma A , Stephenson J , Bailey S , Horton R , Kessler D , Natale A
Published: November 2020

Background

Intracardiac electrogram data remain one of the primary diagnostic inputs guiding complex ablation procedures. However, the technology to collect, process, and display intracardiac signals has remained relatively unchanged for the past two decades.

Purpose

We test a new platform, the PURE EP™ 2.0 system (PEP; BioSig Technologies) for signal processing and display.

Methods

Identical electrocardiographic and intracardiac signal data were recorded during 15 AF ablation procedures from the PEP system, the signal recording system, and the 3D mapping system (Figure). The collected signals underwent blinded, controlled evaluation by three independent electrophysiologist reviewers to determine whether the PEP signals are a viable alternative to conventional sources and if it provides additional or clearer diagnostic information. Reviewers were asked to record the quality of each signal sample on a scale of 1–10 and select a rationale for their rating in a dropdown menu. Each paired signal rating was collected and unblinded for the analysis. If the reviewer rated the samples in the set within 1 point of each other, the PEP sample was deemed equivalent to the control. Using a 2+1 statistical method, the ratings from the three reviewers were then compared looking for at least two positive reviews for each PEP sample.

Results

Based on the ratings for each pair of signals, a cumulative total of 29 PEP signals out of 34 (85.3%) were rated as statistically equivalent or better for this dataset. In 35.5% of samples, the reviewers selected PEP because “more signal components were visible”.

Conclusion

The PURE EP 2.0 system is able to produce reliable and high-quality signals when compared to available standard of care systems. Further studies with larger dataset across multiple sites are needed to validate these results.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): BioSig Technologies
Chronic follow-up from the pilot study of a novel substernal extravascular implantable cardioverter-defibrillator
Authors: Kotschet E , Crozier I , Haqqani H , Alison J , Thompson A , Portway B , Sawchuk R , Sherfesee L , Liang S , Lentz L , Degroot P , O'Donnell D
Published: November 2020

Background

The investigational Extravascular Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (EV ICD) is an implantable defibrillator with defibrillation and pacing therapies, including the potential for antitachycardia pacing (ATP).

Purpose

To characterize chronic EV ICD system performance through 12 months of follow-up.

Methods

The first-in-human EV ICD Pilot study was prospectively conducted at four centers in Australia and New Zealand. Patients with Class I or IIa indications for ICD were enrolled between July and December of 2018. A defibrillation lead was inserted into the substernal space under radiologic guidance and a device was positioned close to the left midaxillary line. Figure 1 illustrates the implanted EV ICD. Defibrillation testing was conducted at implant and chronically in 5 patients. Follow-ups were conducted at pre-hospital discharge, 2 weeks, 4–6 weeks and 3 months post-implant, and every 6 months thereafter.

Results

A total of 26 patients were enrolled and 21 underwent the EV ICD implant procedure with no intraprocedural complications. Median energy for defibrillation at implant was 15 J; mean R-wave amplitude was 3.4±2.0 mV; mean pacing capture threshold was 5.1±2.0 volts. Seventeen of 21 implanted patients entered into chronic follow-up after successful system placement and implant testing, and 14 patients continue to be followed, representing >180 patient-months of total follow-up.

Multiple episodes of spontaneous ventricular tachycardia (VT) were detected in one patient and either self-terminated or successfully cardioverted following unsuccessful ATP. One patient received an inappropriate shock secondary to lead tip displacement with subsequent P-wave oversensing. Elective chronic defibrillation testing was performed at physician discretion and converted 5 of 5 patients with ≤40 J (maximum energy of device). Three patients had the system electively removed due to 1) inappropriate shock after lead displacement, 2) recurrent VT without ATP termination, and 3) inadequate chronic safety margin for defibrillation.

Conclusions

The EV ICD is a novel platform for delivering high voltage therapy. Chronic system performance has generally remained stable during 12 months of follow-up and the device has demonstrated the ability to detect and treat VT.

Fluoro images of implanted system

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Medtronic plc
Impact of left atrial appendage morphology on the silent cerebral infarction after cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yakabe D , Aso A , Fukuyama Y , Araki M , Nakamura T
Published: November 2020

Aims

Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) is effective for atrial fibrillation (AF), however acute silent cerebral infarction (SCI) is not uncommon after CBA. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between the morphology of LAA and SCI.

Methods and results

From 2015 to 2019, 207 consecutive patients (65.1±11.4 years, 26.6% of female, 31.4% of persistent AF) who underwent CBA for AF at our hospital were enrolled. All patients were evaluated with computed tomography for LAA before CBA and divided into two groups as chicken wing (CW) group and non-CW group. SCI was evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging at the following day after CBA. As a result, 18.4% of patients have occurred SCI after CBA. Although the patients' background didn't differ between the two groups, the Hounsfield scale (LAA/Aorta ratio) was lower (non-CW vs. CW = 0.68±0.12 vs. 0.73±0.11, p=0.004), and LAA orifice size tended to be larger (16.9±4.6 vs. 15.8±4.1, p=0.053) in non-CW group. SCI significantly occurred in non-CW group (29.5% vs. 11.6%, p=0.003), especially in cauliflower shape of 45.0%. In multivariate analysis, non-CW (p=0.002, Odds ratio 3.2, 95% of CI 1.5–7.0), skipped DOAC before CBA (p=0.04, Odds ratio 6.1, 95% of CI 1.1–115.4), and touch-up ablation in left atrium (p=0.02, Odds ratio 2.8, 95% CI 1.2–6.5) were independent predictors of SCI.

Conclusions

SCI was not rare after CBA for AF. Morphology of LAA was strongly associated with SCI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
First clinical experience with KODEX-EPD: a novel dielectric imaging and navigation system for catheter ablation
Authors: Abeln B.G.S , Simmers T.A , Maarse M , Van Dijk V.F , Wijffels M.C.E.F , Balt J.C , Boersma L.V.A , Dekker L.R.C
Published: November 2020

Background

Current electroanatomic mapping systems for catheter ablation often require pre-procedural cardiac imaging, and special catheters. KODEX-EPD is a novel open-platform system that uses dielectric imaging to provide real-time, high-resolution cardiac images, with a potential for tissue characterisation and wall thickness to guide ablation.

Purpose

We report our initial experience with the KODEX-EPD system.

Methods

The KODEX-EPD uses body surface patches (“sensors”) to emit and receive radiofrequency waves across the thorax. Anatomical structures cause gradients in the electrical field, which are measured by a standard electrophysiology catheter and used to generate an anatomical shell of the cardiac chambers. The system requires no direct physical surface contact or fluoroscopy to acquire anatomical information. If direct physical surface contact is added, a voltage map can be created. After mapping with the KODEX-EPD, ablation was continued according to standard of care using radiofrequency or cryoablation.

Results

Since November 2019, 26 patients were included (mean age 57.7 (±13.2), 16 (61.5%) male). Ablations were performed for atrial fibrillation in 13 (50.0%) patients, atrial flutter in 10 (38.5%), atrial tachycardia in 1 (3.8%), AVNRT in 1 (3.8%), AVRT in 2 (7.7%) and ventricular extrasystole in 2 (7.7%). The median procedure time was 99.5 [68.8; 112.3] minutes, and fluoroscopy time 14.4 [10.0; 16.9] minutes. All procedures were successful. No adverse events occurred during follow up.

Conclusion

KODEX-EPD is a novel electroanatomic system for cardiac mapping as well as anatomical imaging that can be safely and effectively utilised for a variety of cardiac arrhythmia ablations. Future versions will allow wall thickness measurement and lesion quality to optimise the ablation process.

KODEX-EPD CTI Ablation

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Increased left ventricular stiffness assessed by diastolic wall strain causes symptoms in patients with premature ventricular contraction
Authors: Fukuhara E , Mine T , Kishima H , Ishihara M
Published: November 2020

Background

Premature ventricular contraction (PVC) is one of common arrhythmias and only some patients complain of PVC-related symptoms, however the mechanisms which cause the symptoms remain unclear in patients with PVCs.

Purpose

We investigated whether the left ventricular (LV) stiffness assessed by diastolic wall strain (DWS) relate symptoms or not in patients with PVC.

Methods

We studied 109 patients (48 males, age 60±19) with frequent monomorphic PVCs who underwent 12-leads electrocardiogram (ECG), signal-averaged electrocardiogram (SAECG), 24h-Holter ECG recording, and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). Patients with structural heart disease or other arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation were excluded. Clinical factors, blood samples for atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and filtered QRS duration (f-QRS) and root mean square voltage of the terminal 40ms of the QRS complex (RMS40) obtained by SAECG were evaluated. We assessed PVC-SV (stroke volume during PVC), PVC-CI (CI between the previous sinus beat and VPC), and left ventricular (LV) stiffness assessed by diastolic wall strain (DWS). DWS was calculated from the M-mode echocardiographic measurement of the LV posterior wall thickness at end-systole (PWs) and end-diastole (PWd) during sinus rhythm, and DWS was defined as (PWs − PWd)/PWs.

Results

31patients (28%) had PVC-related symptoms (18 palpitation and 13 pulse deficit). Patients with PVC-related symptoms showed shorter PVC coupling interval index (52±10 vs. 58±11%, p=0.0140), reduced PVC-SV (21±12 vs. 29±17ml, p=0.0103) and decreased DWS (0.38±0.06 vs. 0.42±0.06, p=0.0011). Meanwhile, the level of BNP and ANP, f-QRS, RMS40, QRS morphology of PVC and the total number of PVC per day were not associated with PVC-related symptoms. On multivariate analysis, decreased DWS was only independently associated with PVC-related symptoms (p=0.0357, OR 2.3629 for each 0.1 decrease in DWS 95% CI 1.0583–5.5815).

Conclusion

The reduced diastolic wall strain relates with PVC-related symptoms. The increased left ventricular stiffness might cause symptoms in patients with PVC.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
High bodyweight variability and increased risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Lee H.J , Choi E.K , Han K.D , Kim D.H , Lee E , Lee S.R , Oh S , Lip G.Y.H
Published: November 2020

Background

Bodyweight variability is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF), but this has not been studied with a focus on patients with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods

A nationwide population-based cohort of 670,797 patients with type 2 DM from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database without a history of AF and with ≥3 measurements of body weight over a 5-year period were followed up for AF development. Intra-individual bodyweight variability was calculated using variability independent of mean (VIM), and high bodyweight variability was defined as the quintile with the highest variability with the lower four quintiles as reference.

Results

During a median of 7.0 years of follow-up, 22,019 patients (3.3%) were newly diagnosed with AF. Risk of incident AF was increased in those in the highest quintile of bodyweight variability, after adjustment for baseline body mass index (BMI), age, sex, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, number of oral anti-diabetic medication, insulin use, duration of DM, and fasting glucose (HR 1.16, 95% CI 1.12–1.20). High bodyweight variability was significantly associated with AF development regardless of baseline BMI group and direction of overall weight change. This association was stronger in subjects with lower BMI, those on insulin, and those with a DM duration of greater than 5 years.

Conclusions

High bodyweight variability was associated with AF development, independently of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and baseline BMI. This association was stronger in underweight patients and in advanced diabetic stage.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Impact of new onset atrial fibrillation on long-term prognosis in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Baturova M.A , Demidova M.M , Carlson J , Erlinge D , Platonov P.G
Published: November 2020

Introduction

New onset AF is a known complication in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, whether new-onset AF affects the long-term prognosis to the same extent as pre-existing AF is not fully clarified and prescription of oral anticoagulants (OAC) in patients with new-onset AF remains a matter of debates.

Purpose

We aimed to assess the impact of new-onset AF in STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous intervention (PCI) on outcome during long-term follow-up in comparison with pre-existing AF and to evaluate effect of OAC therapy in patients with new-onset AF on survival.

Methods

Study sample comprised of 2277 consecutive patients with STEMI admitted to a tertiary care hospital for primary PCI from 2007 to 2010 (age 66±12 years, 70% male). AF prior to STEMI was documented by record linkage with the Swedish National Patient Register and review of ECGs obtained from the digital archive containing ECGs recorded in the hospital catchment area since 1988. SWEDEHEART registry was used as the source of information regarding clinical characteristics and events during index admission, including new-onset AF and OAC at discharge. All-cause mortality was assessed using the Swedish Cause-of-Death Register 8 years after discharge.

Results

AF prior to STEMI was documented in 177 patients (8%). Among patients without pre-existing AF (n=2100), new-onset AF was identified in 151 patients (7%). Patients with new-onset AF were older than those without AF history (74±9 vs 65±12 years, p<0.001), but did not differ in regard to other clinical characteristics. Among 2149 STEMI survivors discharged alive, 523 (24%) died during 8 years of follow-up. OAC was prescribed at discharge in 45 (32%) patients with new onset AF and in 49 (31%) patients with pre-existing AF, p=0.901. In a univariate analysis, both new-onset AF (HR 2.18, 95% CI 1.70–2.81, p<0.001) and pre-existing AF (HR 2.80, 95% CI 2.25–3.48, p<0.001) were associated with all-cause mortality, Figure 1. After adjustment for age, gender, cardiac failure, diabetes, BMI and smoking history, new-onset AF remained an independent predictor of all-cause mortality (HR 1.40, 95% CI 1.02–1.92, p=0.037). OAC prescribed at discharge in patients with new-onset AF was not significantly associated with survival (univariate HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.50–1.50, p=0.599).

Conclusion

New-onset AF developed during hospital admission with STEMI is common and independently predicts all-cause mortality during long-term follow-up after STEMI with risk estimates similar to pre-existing AF. The effect of OAC on survival in patients with new-onset AF is inconclusive as only one third of them received OAC therapy at discharge.

Kaplan-Meier survival curve

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Telomere length is associated with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Sinner M , Kupka D , Wilfert W , Waldenberger M , Peters A , Holdt L , Kaab S
Published: November 2020

Background

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is common and is caused and predisposed to by a complex pathophysiology. Aging is among the most important risk factors for AF. Yet, some individuals develop AF in early years, whereas elderly individuals may remain free of AF. Aside from measurable concomitant risks, we hypothesized that a pathophysiologically relevant biological age exists, which outweighs a patient's calendar age. Telomere length is a measurable marker of age, which might reflect biological age. AF and telomere length have previously been associated, but results remained controversial. Here, we tested the relation between AF and telomere length in a well-characterized and so far largest cohort.

Methods

Since 2005, we enrolled 2475 patients with AF from the prospective AFLMU cohort, preferentially if they developed AF before age 65 years, and 3077 control individuals free of AF from the community-based KORA Study between 2006–08. All participants received a detailed clinical characterization, an electrocardiogram, and a blood draw for biomarker analyses. In all participants, we determined telomere length using a qPCR-based method. In a 384 well format, we employed a multiplex TaqMan assay to determine both telomere length and the single copy gene 36B4. Telomere length was expressed by the delta-CT method and was reformatted to have lower CT values indicate shorter telomere length. We compared telomere length between cases and controls using multi-variably corrected logistic regression models.

Results

Our cohort's mean age was 58 years in AFLMU and 56 years in KORA F4. Men were enrolled more commonly, with 72.3% in AFLMU and 51.7% in KORA F4. For consistency with available information, we confirmed that telomere length is continuously decreasing with age and that men have shorter telomere length compared to women. As a main result we found that AF patients have significantly shorter telomere length compared to controls (controls: telomere length 13,10 [12.60, 13.63] versus AF: 9.81 [5.98, 13.1], p<0,001). This relation remained significant following multi-variable adjustment for sex, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes. The odds ratio per unit longer telomer length was 0.77 [95% confidence interval 0.74–0.77], p<0.001. We also calculated a propensity-score matched model of cases with and without AF confirming our main results (controls: telomere length 13.21 [11.65, 13.67] versus AF: 9.03 [5.35, 12.54], p<0.001). The multi-variable adjusted model revealed an odds ratio of 0,75 [95% confidence interval 0.73–0.76], p<0.001.

Conclusion

AF is significantly associated with telomere length in one of the largest cohorts to date. Assessment of telomere length may adjudicate patients with AF due to premature biological aging. The underlying reasons for such premature aging remain to be identified.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): European Commission - Horizon 2020
Is implantable loop recorder the answer to reduce the increased risk of stroke in cancer patients?
Authors: Ali H , Tahir M.W , Rai D , Tahir Z , Dawdy J , Kabashneh S , Lieberman R
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Recent epidemiologic data suggests increased risk of ischaemic stroke in cancer patients. The etiology of increased ischaemic stroke is unknown. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is among the potential etiologies. The risk of AF has not been studied among cancer patients in the United States.

Purpose

Ascertain the association of AF in cancer patients in the USA by using the largest database i.e. National Inpatient Sample (NIS).

Methods

Patients ≥18 years old were selected in the NIS database for years 2010 to 2014 and stratified based on presence or absence of any of four cancers (lung, colon, breast and prostate; 4CA) using ICD 9 codes. Atrial fibrillation and stroke/TIA were also identified using ICD 9 codes. Components of CHADS2 score (CHF, hypertension, Age>75, diabetes and stroke/TIA) were identified using ICD 9 codes. χ2 tests performed for prevalence of AF in patients with or without these cancers stratified by CHADS2 score. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze individual components of CHADS2 score.

Results

AF and stroke/TIA were significantly higher among 4CA than non-4CA group (18.7% vs 12.0%, P<0.001 and 5.4% vs 4.8%, P<0.001 respectively). AF prevalence increased with CHADS2 and was significantly higher in 4CA group with CHADS2 score 0 to 4 (Table 1 and Figure 1). Logistic regression for the outcome of AF showed “Age >75” OR (3.0), CHF (2.8), CVA (1.2), HTN (1.3) and DM (1.1).

Conclusion

This is the first study using a national database of USA patients to estimate prevalence of AF in cancer patients compared to non-cancer patients and reaffirms the higher burden of AF in cancer patients. Prevalence of both AF and stroke were greater in cancer patients when stratified by CHADS2 score. This may indicate not just an increased risk of AF but an increased risk of stroke/TIA for the same CHADS2 score. Stroke incidence was also higher in the 4CA group (5.4% vs. 4.8% P<0.001). Cancer patients with CHADS2 score >1 may benefit from screening with loop recorder to identify previously undetected AF and initiate anticoagulation therapy. Prospective longitudinal studies are needed to validate this retrospective study.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Risk of ischemic stroke in patients with acute myocardial infarction and new atrial fibrillation: a nationwide analysis
Authors: Fauchier L , Bisson A , Bodin A , Herbert J , Genet T , Ma I , Ivanes F , Clementy N , Pierre B , Babuty D , Angoulvant D , Danchin N
Published: November 2020

Background

In patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), history of atrial fibrillation (AF) and new onset AF during the early phase may be associated with a worse prognosis. Whether both conditions are associated with a similar risk of stroke and should be similarly managed is a matter of debate.

Methods

Based on the administrative hospital-discharge database, we collected information for all patients treated with AMI between 2010 and 2019 in France. The adverse outcomes were investigated during follow-up.

Results

Among 797,212 patients with STEMI or NSTEMI, 146,922 (18.4%) had history of AF, and 11,824 (1.5%) had new AF diagnosed between day 1 and day 30 after AMI. Patients with new AF were older and had more comorbidities than those with no AF but were younger and had less comorbidities than those with history of AF. Both groups with history of AF or new AF had less frequent STEMI and anterior MI, less frequent use of percutaneous coronary intervention but more frequent HF at the acute phase than patients with no AF. During follow-up (mean [SD] 1.8 [2.4] years, median [interquartile range] 0.7 [0.1–3.1] years), 163,845 deaths and 20,168 ischemic strokes were recorded.

Using Cox multivariable analysis, compared to patients with no AF, history of AF was associated with a higher risk of death during follow-up (adjusted hazard ratio HR 1.06 95% CI 1.05–1.08) while this was not the case for patients with new AF (adjusted HR 0.98 95% CI 0.95–1.02). By contrast, both history of AF and new AF were associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke during follow-up compared to patients with no AF: adjusted hazard ratio HR 1.29 95% CI 1.25–1.34 for history of AF, adjusted HR 1.72 95% CI 1.59–1.85 for new AF. New AF was associated with a higher risk of ischemic stroke than history of AF (adjusted HR 1.38 95% CI 1.27–1.49).

Conclusion

In a large and systematic nationwide analysis, AF first recorded in the first 30 days after AMI was associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. Specific management should be considered in order to improve outcomes in these patients after AMI.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Treatment of cryptogenicstroke patients with atrial fibrillation detected by insertable cardiac monitors reduces recurrent stroke risk to background levels
Authors: Kloosterman E , Rosenbaum M.R , Berkowitz E.J.B , Kloosterman N.K , Rosman J , Wettenstein Z.W
Published: November 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a well-known risk factor for ischemic stroke with a reported increased incidence range of 2.5 to 5-fold. However, it is not well established whether treatment of cryptogenic stroke patients with AF detected by insertable cardiac monitors (ICM) reduces the risk of recurrent stroke.

Objective

To compare recurrent stroke rates between cryptogenic stroke patients who have AF detected by ICMs and thus started on oral anticoagulation (OAC) treatment and those without detected AF.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of consecutive patients who received an ICM for the purpose of AF monitoring following a cryptogenic stroke between July 2015 and March 2019. Patients with prior documented AF history were excluded. We calculated the rates of AF detection and OAC initiation. We also compared recurrent stroke rates between patients with and without AF detected.

Results

A total of 298 cryptogenic stroke patients receiving an ICM and home remote monitoring were studied (mean age: 77 SD: 11.7; Female/Male: 147 (49%)/151; virtual CHA2DS2-VASc: 4.96 SD: 1.28). AF was newly detected in 91 (29.6%) patients over a mean follow-up of 46 months. Of these patients 68 (72.4%) were started on OAC, 12 (15.3%) were already on OAC and 11 (12.2%) remained not anticoagulated. Of the total patients evaluated, 22 patients (7.3%) developed recurrent strokes for an annualized stroke rate of 1.926%. Of those, 8 occurred among the 91 patients with newly detected AF, for an annualized stroke rate of 1.72%. The remining 14 recurrent strokes occurred among the 207 patients without AF detected, for an annualized stroke rate of 1.76%; (p=0.87). One recurrent stroke occurred in an AF patient not anticoagulated due to a prior bleeding event. No hemorrhagic strokes were reported in the AF-OAC group.

Conclusion

Our study found that newly AF was detected by ICM in almost 1/3 (29%) of cryptogenic stroke patients (consistent with previous studies), and the vast majority of them (88%) accordingly received oral anticoagulation. There was not a significant difference in recurrent stroke rates among patients with AF detected on OAC and those without AF detected. This suggests that rigorous arrhythmia monitoring with ICMs can help identify cryptogenic stroke patients with new AF and initiate oral anticoagulation accordingly, to reduce their risk of recurrent stroke to background levels.

Annualized Stroke Risk

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
10-year trend analysis of atrioventricular node ablation in patient with atrial fibrillation: 2005–2014 United State hospitalization
Authors: Wu L , Narasimhan B , Shah A.N , Zheng Y.Y , Bhatia K , Kantharia B
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and Atrioventricular Node (AVN) ablation are both important non-pharmacological therapy of AF. In spite of increased availability of AF ablation data, that of AVN ablation per se is limited.

Method

AF ablation was identified using ICD-9 procedure code with principle diagnosis of AF from United States National Inpatient Sample database 2005–2014. From procedure and diagnosis codes of pacemaker insertion followed by ablation, the cohort who underwent AVN ablation was identified. Patients hospitalization with any diagnosis of other type of arrythmia or epicardial ablation were excluded. Complications were defined as per the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality guideline.

Results

Total AF ablation was noted to increase from 2005- 2011, and declined steadily from 2011–2014. In contrast, the number of AVN ablations increased from 4505 cases to 5175 (Figure 1). AVN ablation were mainly performed in elderly patient (mean age 72), and increasingly in patient with higher Charlson Commobidity index (0.9 to 1.7)and higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (2.8 to 3.7) (Table 1). An increasing trend in procedure complications but no significant change in mortalitywere observed with AVN ablation. Progressive increase in the length of stay and the hospitalization cost were also observed over the years with AVN ablation.

Conclusion

AVN ablation is being performed at a steady volume, and increasingly in patients with multiple comorbidities. This trend although was not associated with increased mortality, it was associated with increased hospital complications.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None