Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7040028

Authors: Kate Winkler Regina Doonan Kelsy Rice Jessica Baldwin Morgan Whisenhunt Alicia Clarke George Trip Zorn Todd C. Crawford

Purpose: Unplanned readmissions after cardiac surgery confer an increased risk for adverse outcomes. Early contact with health care providers has been shown to reduce readmissions. Herein, we present the design and early results of an advanced practice provider (APP)-led targeted calling service for postoperative patients. Methods: We performed an institutional quality improvement project with a scripted postoperative telephone call curated to identify and triage postoperative patients at risk for unplanned readmission. Beginning in 2025, patients were categorized as either low risk or high risk for readmission by our clinical discharge nurse coordinator and discharging APP. We attempted to contact all patients within the first 72 h of discharge to review vital signs trends, weight stability, fluid balance, rhythm disturbances, or wound healing complications with a scripted questionnaire. Patients with concerns are triaged at the discretion of the outpatient APPs, with priority given towards in-person assessment. Unplanned readmissions were then evaluated retrospectively, readmit reasons were captured, and readmission rates were compared from January 2021 through November 2025. Results: At our institution, readmission rates after open cardiac surgery have declined from 10.9% in 2021 to 9.50% through November 2025. Our Readmissions Working Group has also observed a consistent decrease in isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) readmission rates from >10% in 2021 and 2022 to 8.5% through November 2025. Pleural and pericardial effusions, arrhythmias, and wounds remain the prevailing reasons for readmission in our postoperative patients. Conclusions: An APP-led postoperative phone call quality improvement initiative with an early triage to nurse-practitioner clinic enabled our group to identify early deviations from the expected course of convalescence and enact timely interventions for our postoperative patients.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7040027

Authors: Kaitlyn E. Heintzelman Enrique M. Carrera Katherine Burkhardt Haseeb Ur Rehman Amy Avakian Muhammad Umair Ahsan Khan

Background/Objectives: Cardioembolic sources account for a substantial minority of ischemic strokes, and in non-valvular atrial fibrillation nearly all left atrial thrombi form in the left atrial appendage (LAA). We asked whether extending a standard CT stroke protocol caudally to cover the LAA would add diagnostic yield for LAA thrombus. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 616 consecutive patients imaged using a revised CT stroke protocol at a single academic center between March 2018 and March 2020. The acquisition was single-phase, arterial and non-gated. Two cardiothoracic radiologists reassessed every study for adequacy of LAA opacification and for thrombus. Acute stroke was confirmed in 418 patients, of whom 342 had adequate opacification and formed the analysis cohort. Clinical characteristics, stroke etiology, echocardiographic results and dose-length product were abstracted. Results: LAA thrombus was identified on CT in 10 of 342 patients (2.9%). Seven underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and all were negative; none underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Atrial fibrillation was more frequent in the thrombus cohort (60% vs. 21.1%, p = 0.010). Among the 332 patients without CT thrombus, 265 of 266 TTE and 17 of 18 TEE studies were also negative, and two patients had positive echocardiography despite a negative CT. Mean dose-length product for the extended protocol was 5054.8 ± 2772.5 mGy·cm and did not differ significantly from the standard protocol (p = 0.66). Conclusions: Extending the CT stroke protocol to the LAA was technically feasible and did not significantly increase radiation dose, but added little diagnostic yield. CT-detected thrombus was not confirmed on subsequent echocardiography. Because no patient in the thrombus cohort underwent TEE, these findings are reported as unconfirmed rather than false-positive and no estimate of diagnostic accuracy can be derived. On current evidence, the extended protocol should complement rather than replace echocardiography.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7030026

Authors: Giraud Ekanmian Carlotta Lunghi Helen-Maria Vasiliadis Line Guénette

Background: Effective hypertension management depends partly on medication adherence. Mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, may influence adherence, but evidence in older populations is limited. This secondary analysis of a cohort study identifies adherence trajectories to antihypertensive medications among older adults and assesses whether anxiety and depression are associated with trajectory membership. Patients and Methods: A cohort of 986 older adults (aged 65 and above) using antihypertensive treatments was analyzed. Adherence was measured using prescription claims over a 12-month period. Adherence patterns over time were characterized using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM). Self-reported symptoms and diagnostic codes for anxiety and depression were used to assess for mental health disorders. Associations between depression or anxiety and adherence trajectories were investigated using logistic regression models adjusting for potential confounders. Results: We identified two stable adherence trajectories: a high-adherence group (83.6%) and a low-adherence group (16.4%). No evidence of an association was observed between the presence of anxiety (adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.2, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8–1.9) or depression (adjusted OR of 1.0, 95% CI: 0.6–1.6) and adherence trajectories. Conclusions: While most older adults in the study maintained high adherence to antihypertensive medications, a notable minority consistently demonstrated low adherence. These findings suggest that additional determinants of adherence trajectory, beyond mental health, should be investigated.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7030025

Authors: Flavia Saraçol Vignol Ronan Adler Tavella Rafael Frizzo Favero Fabrícia Lecheta Priscila Aikawa Flavio Manoel Rodrigues da Silva Júnior

Background/Objectives: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of congenital morbidity and mortality, but evidence from public pediatric cardiology services in Brazil remains limited. This study aimed to characterize the clinical and epidemiological profile of children and adolescents referred to a public pediatric cardiology service in Southern Brazil, including referral patterns, diagnostic findings, and healthcare utilization, and to explore factors associated with age-appropriate development. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, medical records of patients aged 0–17 years referred to and evaluated at a public university hospital in Rio Grande, Rio Grande do Sul, were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic, referral, clinical, diagnostic, hospitalization, family history, school performance and developmental data were extracted. Groups were compared using the chi-square or Fisher’s exact test. Poisson regression with robust variance estimated prevalence ratios in an exploratory secondary analysis of age-appropriate development. Sensitivity analyses were performed excluding isolated patent foramen ovale, applied a stricter structural CHD definition, restricted the adjusted analysis to patients who underwent echocardiography, and modeled age using clinical categories. Results: Among 263 referred patients, CHD was confirmed in 128 (48.7%); among these, 84% had acyanotic and 16% had cyanotic CHD. Suspected heart disease was the most frequent reason for referral (64%). Echocardiography was performed in all patients with confirmed CHD compared with 24% of those without CHD, and hospitalization was more frequent among patients with confirmed CHD (52% vs. 21%). In the exploratory adjusted analysis, no statistically significant overall association was detected between CHD category and age-appropriate development (p = 0.122). The estimate for cyanotic CHD suggested a lower prevalence than no CHD, but the confidence interval included the null and the estimate was imprecise (adjusted PR 0.745; 95% CI 0.553–1.002). Age at evaluation showed a small inverse association. Sensitivity analyses yielded estimates in the same direction as the primary model, while the overall CHD-category association was statistically significant only in the analysis restricted to patients who underwent echocardiography. Conclusions: Under the record-based operational definition, CHD was confirmed in nearly half of the referred patients, predominantly acyanotic. These findings characterize the clinical and epidemiological profile and healthcare demands of children reaching specialized pediatric cardiology care in southern Brazil and may support improvements in referral pathways and planning of specialized care for patients with CHD.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7030024

Authors: Yael Sarig Amy Avakian Muhammad Umair

Background/Objectives: Myocardial bridging is a common anatomic variant in which an epicardial coronary artery takes an intramyocardial course. A true intracameral, or intracavitary, coronary course is rare. On coronary CT angiography (CTA), multiplanar and curved planar reformations answer most of these questions, but some cases stay equivocal because of partial-volume effects, cardiac motion, and loss of depth cues. A vessel next to a thin or fat-infiltrated wall can also mimic an intracameral course. Cinematic rendering (CR) is a photorealistic three-dimensional post-processing method that uses Monte Carlo path tracing with global illumination to reproduce natural depth and soft-tissue shading. Methods: In this retrospective, single-center, four-patient case series, we describe patients in whom CR was used alongside standard two-dimensional and reformatted CTA after the planar reconstructions had been read as equivocal. The cases were purposively selected as illustrative examples rather than consecutively enrolled, and the report is intended to be hypothesis-generating. Results: In two patients with left anterior descending (LAD) myocardial bridging, CR showed the tunneled segment with depth and was useful for discussion with referring clinicians and for teaching. In two patients whose coronary segment looked intracameral on planar images, CR showed intact overlying myocardium, which favored an intramyocardial course over chamber entry. Conclusions: In these selected patients, CR did not add anatomic information that was unavailable on expert reformations. It appeared to improve perceived depth and reader confidence in these equivocal cases and was useful for communication and teaching; no quantitative image analysis or formal reader study was performed. Because this is a small, retrospective case series without a comparison group, these observations are illustrative and hypothesis-generating and cannot be extrapolated to coronary CTA in general; prospective comparative studies are needed to determine whether CR adds diagnostic value over standard reconstructions.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7030023

Authors: Michelle O’Dwyer Cian Murray May Harley Amal John Sajjad Matiullah

Background: Pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) radiomics on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) may capture inflammatory and structural information beyond conventional attenuation measures. We assessed whether PCAT radiomics predicts future coronary events or quantifies plaque progression. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from inception to 29 August 2025. Eligible studies included adults undergoing CCTA with quantitative PCAT, or anatomically equivalent coronary perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), radiomics, and longitudinal clinical or serial-CCTA outcomes. Findings were synthesised narratively because no common estimand supported meta-analysis. Methodological quality was assessed using QUADAS-2 and the Radiomics Quality Score (RQS). Results: Eleven full-text studies, representing at least 6307 participants were included; one study also analysed 127 plaques in 97 patients, and one reported a separate 202-person model-development sample whose overlap with its 1575-person cohort evaluation was not quantified. Eight studies evaluated coronary clinical events, and three evaluated plaque progression. Seven clinical-event studies reported better discrimination for radiomics-based or integrated models than at least one conventional comparator, although calibration and clinical-utility reporting were inconsistent. Two studies included clearly independent external validation. QUADAS-2 identified high patient-selection risk in 4/11 studies; RQSs ranged from 10/36 to 15/36 (mean: 12.5/36). Conclusions: PCAT radiomics shows preliminary prognostic potential, but confidence in the evidence is low because of retrospective designs, heterogeneous outcomes and workflows, restricted geographic sampling, and limited independent external validation. Current evidence is insufficient for routine clinical decision-making. Prospective multicentre validation with standardised acquisition, analysis, reporting, and clinically consistent endpoints is required.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7030022

Authors: Ezaan Khan Jessica Fernandes Vishal Gohel Rihi Jain William Jayne Colton Peck Tara S. Shah Radha S. Shah Judithe LaBarge Sidhartha D. Ray Nilank Shah

Semaglutide, a recombinant DNA-derived long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist, has emerged as a key player for patients with or without T2DM and obesity. It exerts pleiotropic effects by modulating glycemic regulation and energy homeostasis. Mechanistically, it stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppresses glucagon while enhancing satiety through POMC/NPY modulation in the arcuate nucleus and delaying gastric emptying. Beyond its metabolic utility, semaglutide is cardioprotective, leveraging the PI3K/Akt and eNOS pathways to improve vasodilation, reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), and stabilize atherosclerotic plaques by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α. While it improves cardiac output via PKA-mediated inotropy, potential cardiotoxicity, including resting tachycardia and autonomic-driven arrhythmias, requires clinical vigilance, particularly regarding electrolyte imbalances in heart failure patients. Ultimately, its robust vasculoprotective profile reinforces its potential as a cornerstone in cardiovascular pharmacotherapy. Further research is needed to better understand the effects of semaglutide on cardiac function and pathologies as it advances as a cardiac drug. This review discusses multiple molecular targets of semaglutide on the heart.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7030021

Authors: Dalia Aziz Mehmet Yildiz Timothy D. Henry Danielle Tapp Seth Bergstedt Jenny Chambers Larissa Stanberry Heather S. Rohm Frank V. Aguirre Santiago Garcia Scott W. Sharkey Odayme Quesada

Background: The ‘obesity paradox’, whereby obese patients demonstrate better clinical outcomes compared to normal-weight patients, has been reported in acute myocardial infarction, including ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, potential sex differences in this association remain largely unexplored. Methods: Using a prospective registry-based multicenter cohort of consecutive STEMI presentations, we evaluated the association between body mass index (BMI) and mortality in patients with STEMI. Patients were divided into three groups based on BMI: normal weight (18.5–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25–29.9 kg/m2), and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2). We studied the odds of in-hospital, hospital discharge-to-5-year, and presentation to 5-year all-cause mortality by BMI groups in the overall cohort and in sex-stratified analyses. Results: Among 4682 consecutive STEMI patients, 30.1% were female, and 22.2% were normal weight, 36.2% overweight, and 41.6% obese. In the overall cohort, compared to normal-weight patients, the odds of in-hospital mortality were higher in obese patients (aOR 1.73, 95% CI 1.08–2.8) and the risk of discharge-to-5-year mortality was lower in overweight (aHR 0.69, 95% CI 0.57–0.85) and obese (aHR 0.66, 95% CI 0.53–0.82) patients. In sex-stratified analysis, compared to normal-weight males, obese males had higher odds of in-hospital mortality (aOR 2.25, 95% CI 1.18–4.51). Overweight and obese males (aHR 0.63, 95% CI 0.49–0.82, aHR 0.64, 95% CI 0.48–0.85) and obese females (aHR 0.68, 95% CI 0.49–0.94) had a lower discharge-to-5-year mortality risk. Conclusions: In this large STEMI cohort, obesity was associated with higher odds of in-hospital mortality but lower risk of discharge-to-5-year mortality. Sex-stratified analyses demonstrated that obese males were at high odds of in-hospital mortality and both obese males and females were at lower risk of discharge-to-5-year mortality.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020020

Authors: Shannon Parness Jordan Besh Ryan Sappington Thibaut Davy-Mendez Sirui Wu Andreas Koehler Ross J. Simpson

Background: Unhealthy alcohol use may lead to arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy, but its impact on sudden death is not well understood. Objective: To investigate the association of unhealthy alcohol use with sudden death. Methods: We conducted a case-control study in Wake County, a large (~1 million inhabitants), diverse county in North Carolina. We screened and adjudicated victims of sudden, unexpected, out-of-hospital deaths in adults aged 18–64 years reported by emergency medical services between 2013 and 2015. We randomly selected sex- and age-matched control patients from a university health system from the same county and time period. Characteristics of sudden death victims and controls were ascertained via standardized chart reviews. Unhealthy alcohol use was identified via chart review and was defined as any evidence of excessive alcohol use, such as it being stated in the social history or medical history, alcohol abuse being listed as a possible contributor to death, or alcohol-related diagnoses. We used logistic regression to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for the association of unhealthy alcohol use and sudden death, adjusting for age, sex, race, and other psychiatric diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders other than tobacco and alcohol. We also calculated the E-value to estimate the impact of any unmeasured confounders. Results: We identified 399 sudden death victims, of whom 374 (94%) had alcohol use data available. Among these 374 included victims, 256 (68%) were male, and 239 (62%) were White, with a median age at death of 55 years (IQR 48, 60). The demographic characteristics of the 1114 matched controls were similar to those of sudden death victims. Unhealthy alcohol use was present in 115 (31%) sudden death victims and 27 (2%) controls. In analyses adjusted for demographics only, unhealthy alcohol use was associated with a higher incidence of sudden death, with an OR of 17.5 (95% CI 11.4, 27.8). When further adjusted for other psychiatric diagnoses, the OR was 11.2 (95% CI 7.1, 18.0). The calculated E-value was 21.8, meaning an unmeasured confounder would need to be associated with both unhealthy alcohol use and sudden death by 21.8-fold to explain away the observed OR. Conclusions: Unhealthy alcohol use was strongly associated with higher sudden death risk in working-age adults. Our calculated E-value indicates it is unlikely that any unmeasured confounders alone would account for the observed association. Our findings suggest that interventions to reduce unhealthy alcohol use may be an effective strategy to prevent sudden death in working-age adults.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020019

Authors: Yaw Amo Wiafe Collins Kokuro Gordon Manu Amponsah Prince Nyansah Adotey Eugene Osei Amaniampong Buadee Isaac Kofi Owusu

Background: Regular physical activity induces physiological cardiac remodeling (“athlete’s heart”), which may overlap with pathological hypertrophy. Regional echocardiographic and electrocardiographic data among young African adults are limited. This study evaluated how graded physical activity relates to cardiac structure and function among university students in Ghana. Methods: In this comparative cross-sectional study, 174 apparently healthy students aged 18–30 years were categorized into four physical activity groups in the preceding six months: level 1, no regular exercise (n = 29, 16.7%); level 2, <30 min/day of exercise (n = 41, 23.6%); level 3, 30 to 60 min/day of moderate exercise (n = 29, 16.7%); and level 4, >1 h/day of vigorous exercise (n = 75, 43.1%). Anthropometry, blood pressure, 12-lead electrocardiography, and comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography were obtained. Cardiac indices were compared across activity levels using the Kruskal–Wallis or Welch’s ANOVA test, with post hoc comparisons and regression analyses performed where appropriate. Results: Participants were predominantly male (56.3%), with a mean age of 22.3 ± 3.50 years, BMI of 23.0 ± 4.39 kg/m2, systolic blood pressure of 118 ± 13.0 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure of 71.3 ± 9.11 mmHg, and heart rate of 66.9 ± 10.9 bpm. Compared with sedentary participants, those in level 4 had a higher IVSd (9.87 ± 1.61 vs. 8.17 ± 1.47 mm, p < 0.001), LVIDd (43.6 ± 6.96 vs. 40.2 ± 3.58 mm, p = 0.002), LVPWd (10.1 ± 1.95 vs. 8.91 ± 1.60 mm, p = 0.003), and LVM (54.6 ± 7.45 vs. 47.1 ± 6.57 g, p < 0.001). EDV and ESV also increased with activity (90.1 ± 24.8 vs. 69.7 ± 17.8 mL, p < 0.001; 32.4 ± 12.8 vs. 25.6 ± 6.52 mL, p = 0.023). Systolic function was preserved across groups, with an EF of 59.3 ± 4.86% in level 4 vs. 58.3 ± 5.34% in level 1 (p = 0.707). Level 4 participants had a higher SV (57.6 ± 16.7 vs. 46.3 ± 10.4 mL, p = 0.003), CO (3.83 ± 1.17 vs. 3.05 ± 0.70 L/min, p = 0.022), and CI (2.19 ± 0.66 vs. 1.77 ± 0.37 L/min/m2, p = 0.015). Bradycardia was most frequent in level 4 (35.8% vs. 18.2% in level 1, p = 0.041), and PR interval was longer in participants exercising ≥30 min/day than in those exercising <30 min/day (166 ± 23.2 vs. 162 ± 21.8 ms, p = 0.031). Conclusions: In young African university students, greater physical activity was associated with mild physiological remodeling, including a higher left ventricular wall thickness, cavity size, and mass, while systolic and diastolic indices remained preserved. The mean values in the most active group were 9.87 mm IVSd and 10.1 mm LVPWd with preserved EF, supporting activity-related adaptation rather than overt pathological hypertrophy and highlighting the need for population-specific cardiovascular interpretation.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020018

Authors: Odayme Quesada Madison Pico Marie Lauzon Janet Wei Nissi Suppogu Leslee J. Shaw Vera Bittner Steven E. Reis Carl J. Pepine C. Noel Bairey Merz

Background: Obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS) often co-exist; however, these conditions can exist independently as metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) and as metabolic obesity (MO). Methods: We investigated the association between metabolic status and body weight and risk of obstructive angiographic coronary artery disease (CAD), long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), and all-cause mortality in women with signs/symptoms of ischemic heart disease (IHD) enrolled in the original cohort of the Women’s Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation (WISE) study (1997–2001) followed for mortality for a median of 8.6 years (range: 0–11.3 years). Normal weight (NW) was defined as a body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2, overweight (OW) was defined as a BMI of 25–29 kg/m2, obesity (O) was defined as ≥30 kg/m2. MS was defined according to the NCEP ATP III Harmonized definition, metabolically healthy (MHO) was defined as obesity in the absence of MS, and MO was defined as MS in NW individuals. Results: 503 women were evaluated including 20.7% MH-NW, 14.7% MH-OW, 8.5% MHO, 6.2% MO, 21.9% MS-OW, 28.0% MS-O. Compared to MH-NW (reference), MHO was associated with a lower risk of MACEs (aHR 0.50; 95% CI 0.29, 0.85, p = 0.011) and mortality (aHR 0.50; 95% CI 0.27, 0.95, p = 0.035). MO was associated with higher odds of obstructive CAD (aOR 2.10; 95% CI 1.33, 3.33, p = 0.002) and a higher risk of MACEs (aHR 1.67, 95% CI 1.07, 2.59, p = 0.023). Conclusions: In women with suspected IHD, compared with MH-NW, MHO was associated with a lower risk of MACEs and mortality, whereas MO had higher odds of obstructive CAD and a greater MACE risk. These findings challenge simplistic BMI-based risk paradigms and emphasize the benefits of using metabolic status assessment over weight alone.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020017

Authors: Jathniel Panneflek Béatrice Lauzea Mahmoud Barbarawi Atari Greenaway

Cardiovascular disease is traditionally interpreted through macrocirculatory parameters such as cardiac output, vascular resistance, and epicardial coronary anatomy. However, clinical outcomes frequently diverge from predictions based solely on these indices, particularly in syndromes such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), cardiogenic shock, and sepsis-associated myocardial dysfunction. Increasing evidence suggests that the integrity of the microvascular–immune interface plays a central role in determining tissue perfusion and cardiovascular resilience. This review proposes a staged framework of cardiovascular decompensation centered on progressive failure of this interface. In Stage 1, chronic cardiometabolic and inflammatory stress produces a primed but compensated microvascular state characterized by endothelial activation, glycocalyx vulnerability, pericyte remodeling, platelet sensitization, and reduced lymphatic reserve. Perfusion is preserved at rest, but vasodilatory reserve and microvascular stability are reduced, narrowing the effective perfusion window under physiologic stress. In Stage 2, acute insults such as infection, ischemia, or neurohumoral activation precipitate threshold instability within the microcirculation. Perfusion becomes governed by the arterial pressure–critical closing pressure (Pa − Pcrit) relationship rather than traditional arterial–venous gradients. As this window narrows, segmental capillary derecruitment and heterogeneous flow emerge, producing loss of hemodynamic coherence in which systemic blood pressure and cardiac output may appear preserved despite impaired tissue perfusion. In Stage 3, inflammatory amplification and immunothrombotic processes consolidate microvascular dysfunction. Pericyte contraction, endothelial injury, cytokine escalation, and neutrophil extracellular trap formation promote platelet–fibrin deposition and capillary obstruction, transforming reversible conductance failure into structural microvascular impairment. This framework provides a unifying physiologic lens for diverse cardiovascular syndromes, including Type 2 myocardial infarction, HFpEF decompensation, and cardiogenic shock. It also suggests that therapeutic efficacy may depend less on macrocirculatory normalization alone and more on preserving microvascular integrity before immunothrombotic consolidation occurs. Although this model remains hypothesis-generating, it highlights the microvascular–immune interface as a central determinant of cardiovascular stability and a potential target for future precision hemodynamic and immunomodulatory strategies.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020016

Authors: Rafik Margaryan Giovanni Concistrè Giacomo Bianchi Marco Solinas

Background: Traditional intraoperative sizing for sutureless aortic valves, such as the Corcym Perceval Plus (CPP), often relies on subjective tactile feedback, which can lead to excessive over-sizing. Significant over-sizing is associated with complications like increased trans-prosthetic gradients, valve thrombosis, and conduction disturbances requiring permanent pacemakers. This study aims to develop an AI-driven predictive recommendation system using Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT) data to optimize valve sizing and improve patient outcomes. Methods: Data were collected from 380 consecutive patients who underwent aortic valve replacement with a CPP prosthesis between 2011 and 2026. Two machine learning models were trained using preoperative MDCT features, including annular area, perimeter, and diameters. The first model predicted “normal” clinical labels, while the second used “penalized” labels adjusted for postoperative hemodynamic performance to discourage over-sizing. The dataset was split into training (80%) and testing (20%) subsets. Results: The mean patient age was 77.6 years. The model using normal labels achieved an overall accuracy of 91.84% (68.75% on the test set). The penalized label model showed improved performance with an overall accuracy of 92.89% (72.16% on the test set). MDCT provided highly reproducible objective metrics superior to echocardiography for calculating optimal sizing. Conclusions: The AI-driven recommendation system proves to be a reliable and reproducible tool for preoperative planning. By transitioning from subjective tactile assessment to predictive modeling, surgeons can better select valve sizes that minimize complications, particularly in minimally invasive approaches.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020015

Authors: João Pontes Isabella Reis Anastácio Pereira Neise Pacheco Celso Borges Antônio Júnior Fernando Silva

Background/Objectives: Intraoperative methadone has emerged as a significant pharmacological strategy in cardiac surgery to improve postoperative analgesic outcomes and reduce the reliance on rescue short-action opioids. This review aims to synthesize evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of intravenous methadone compared to other strategies for postoperative pain control in adult and pediatric cardiac surgeries. Methods: This narrative review relied on electronic searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE up to January 2026. From 199 articles retrieved, 41 were included, focusing on analgesic efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetic variations during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and cost-effectiveness. Results: The implementation of methadone results in up to 70% reduction in postoperative opioid requirements. Patients experience significantly lower pain scores from 24 to 72 h and improvement in satisfaction regarding pain management. In pediatric populations (neonates and children), the use of methadone leads to a significant reduction in opioid needs and a high rate of extubation in the operating room. Pharmacokinetically, a 48% drop in methadone concentration occurs during CPB due to hemodilution and sequestration. Safety data confirms that intraoperative use does not prolong mechanical ventilation; however, doses exceeding 0.25 mg/kg are linked to an increased incidence of delirium. Economically, methadone can be cost-effective, resulting in savings of up to $6355 per patient. Conclusions: Intraoperative methadone improves postoperative analgesia, opioid consumption, patient satisfaction, and costs after cardiac surgery. Its opioid-sparing effects make it particularly attractive for ERAS protocols, although vigilance against dose-related delirium and QT prolongation remains essential. Further research, especially in pediatrics, is needed to refine dosages and safety protocols.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020014

Authors: Eun Seo Kwak Momin Shah Abdulmajeed Alharbi Nahush Bansal Qutaiba Qafisheh Shariq Ahmad Wani Mohanad Qwaider Ayman Salih Ahmed El-Rahyel Hafsa Shah Omar Sajdeya Ehab Eltahawy

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Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020013

Authors: Marcello Marcì Francesca Macaione Grazia Crescimanno

Background: Cardiomyopathy is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We evaluated whether N-terminal pro–brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) identifies severe systolic dysfunction and assessed its diagnostic performance. Methods: Male patients with genetically confirmed DMD and established cardiomyopathy were included if NT-proBNP measurement and echocardiographic ejection fraction (EF) were available within one month. Severe systolic dysfunction was defined as EF < 40%. Clinical, cardiac, and respiratory variables were analysed. ROC analysis with bootstrap validation and exploratory logistic regressions was performed. Results: NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in patients with EF < 40% (median 843 vs. 81 pg/mL). A cut-off >200 pg/mL identified severe systolic dysfunction with 90.5% sensitivity and 90.9% specificity (AUC 0.96, 95% CI 0.88–1.00). During 24 months of follow-up, five deaths occurred. NT-proBNP showed moderate discrimination for mortality (AUC 0.79) and was associated with mortality in exploratory analysis. Conclusions: NT-proBNP was associated with severe systolic dysfunction in Duchenne cardiomyopathy and may complement imaging. Prospective validation is warranted.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020012

Authors: Sumi Singh Mays Tawayha Manoj Sharma Taher Sbitli Wassim Mosleh

We describe the case of a 26-year-old man who presented with acute chest pain and was found to have single-vessel coronary occlusion most consistent with probable paradoxical embolism. Coronary angiography demonstrated complete occlusion of the ramus intermedius artery. Aspiration thrombectomy restored flow without stent implantation. Intravascular ultrasound showed no plaque rupture, atherosclerosis, or coronary dissection, supporting but not definitively confirming an embolic etiology. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography subsequently identified a large patent foramen ovale with bidirectional shunting. Lower-extremity Doppler studies and an extensive hypercoagulable evaluation were negative. The patient later underwent successful percutaneous closure of the patent foramen ovale. This case highlights probable paradoxical coronary embolism as a rare cause of acute myocardial infarction in a young patient without significant atherosclerotic disease and underscores the value of multimodality imaging in supporting the diagnosis and guiding management.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7020011

Authors: Cian Murray Abdullahi Khair Solomon Asgedom

Background/Objectives: Twiddler’s syndrome is an uncommon but clinically important complication of implantable cardiac devices, in which generator rotation within the pocket results in lead torsion, lead retraction, and device malfunction. Recurrence can necessitate repeated surgical intervention and may be preventable through early risk identification and procedural strategies. Methods: We describe a single-centre case series of three female patients with pacemaker-associated Twiddler’s syndrome. Clinical presentation, timing of lead retraction, management strategies (including pocket location and fixation approach), recurrence, and follow-up outcomes were reviewed. Results: All patients were older women and developed symptomatic device failure early after implantation, with radiographic confirmation of lead retraction and coiling occurring within three weeks in all cases. Recurrence was observed when enhanced preventive measures were not employed. Notably, in one patient, recurrence occurred after an initial revision in a second prepectoral pocket, prompting subsequent reimplantation in a subpectoral location with reinforced fixation and structured patient and family counselling, after which no further recurrence occurred at one year. In the remaining cases, revision with reinforced generator fixation and counselling was associated with stable lead position and satisfactory device function during follow-up. Conclusions: Twiddler’s syndrome most commonly presents in the first weeks following implantation. Proactive identification of at-risk patients and consideration of reinforced fixation and pocket strategies at the index procedure may reduce recurrence and avoid repeat interventions.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010010

Authors: Cosmin Balan Marina Petersen Saadi Miguel Ayala Leon Matteo Cameli Hatem Soliman Aboumarie

Background: Left ventriculo-arterial coupling (VAC) integrates the interaction between left ventricular contractility and the arterial system, representing a key determinant of cardiovascular efficiency. In rapidly changing hemodynamic states such as septic or cardiogenic shock, conventional indices of pressure or flow alone may be misleading. VAC provides a unified physiological framework to assess global cardiovascular performance and guide therapy. Objective: To review the physiological foundations, bedside assessment, and therapeutic applications of VAC in critically ill patients with rapidly fluctuating circulatory conditions. Methods and Content: The article revisits the underlying principles of VAC, expressed as the ratio between arterial elastance (Ea) and end-systolic elastance (Ees), and discusses their derivation from the pressure–volume relationship. Practical echocardiographic methods for bedside estimation, including the non-invasive single-beat approach, are outlined with illustrative figures. The review further examines how VAC patterns evolve in sepsis, cardiogenic shock, and heart failure and how this integrative index clarifies paradoxical responses to vasoactive and inotropic therapies. Specific therapeutic phenotypes are proposed according to Ea/Ees profiles, providing a structured approach to optimise coupling and restore circulatory efficiency. Summary: VAC offers a physiology-based perspective on cardiovascular performance, enabling clinicians to interpret complex hemodynamic changes beyond traditional measures of ejection fraction or mean arterial pressure. Its dynamic tracking may refine the assessment of therapeutic trajectories and improve bedside decision-making. Conclusions: By integrating ventricular and arterial function into a single measure, VAC bridges cardiovascular physiology and clinical practice. Its incorporation into routine critical care monitoring could enhance individualised hemodynamic management and serve as a foundation for future outcome-driven studies. Methodology: This narrative review was conducted using a structured literature search to ensure comprehensive coverage of contemporary evidence regarding ventriculo-arterial coupling (VAC) in critical care and shock states. A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases was performed from database inception through October 2025. The following key search terms were used: “ventriculo-arterial coupling”; “arterial elastance”; “end-systolic elastance”; “Ea/Ees”; “pressure–volume loops”; “septic shock”; “cardiogenic shock”; “critical care echocardiography”; “point-of-care ultrasound”; “mechanical circulatory support”. Reference lists of relevant articles, review papers, and consensus documents were also manually screened to identify additional pertinent studies. Only English-language publications were included. Both seminal foundational studies and recent contemporary investigations were reviewed to provide historical context and up-to-date clinical applicability.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010009

Authors: Juliette J. Crooijmans Kayleigh M. van de Wiel Kun He Max C. Keuken Viktor Wottschel Christine Widrich Koos A. H. Zwinderman Sara-Joan Pinto-Sietsma

Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is one of the most important causes of morbidity worldwide. Registries show an impressive decline in prevalent ASCVD morbidity over the last years. Whether this decline is due to the improvement in treatment options for ASCVD or whether we are also able to prevent first ASCVD events is still unknown. Methods: A nationally representative real-world data longitudinal prescription (LRx) database (IQVIA) was used over a period from 2008 to 2019. All patients ≥20 years were included from the moment they had been prescribed ASCVD medication. The primary outcome was the standardized incidence of first ASCVD events among men and women of different age groups. The secondary outcome of this study was to identify comorbidities in the year 2019. Results: The prescription data on 296.050 individuals were analyzed, and the results indicate the standardized cumulative incidence (%) among women of first ASCVD event prescriptions. This rise in incidence was most pronounced for young women (women 20–39 yr: + 109.46%). The comorbidity analysis indicated that, e.g., thyroid hormones were significantly more often prescribed in the young patients with a first ASCVD event than in those patients without ASCVD events. Conclusions: Prescriptions for the first ASCVD event increased over a period of 12 years among young women. This study suggests that although ASCVD as a whole has decreased over time, this does not seem to be the case for first ASCVD events and that young women are particularly affected.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010008

Authors: Lucio Giuseppe Granata Marcello Marchetta Simona Giubilato Michele Massimo Gulizia Giuseppe Massimo Sangiorgi Giuseppina Maura Francese

Background/Objectives: Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) has become an established therapeutic option for selected patients with mitral regurgitation (MR). However, primary (degenerative) and secondary (functional) MR represent distinct disease entities, characterized by different pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical trajectories, and determinants of benefit. This review aims to provide an interventional cardiology-oriented synthesis of TEER, emphasizing the fundamental differences between primary and secondary MR and their implications for patient selection, procedural strategy, and outcome interpretation. Methods: A targeted literature search was performed in PubMed and Embase to identify pivotal randomized trials, registries, guideline documents, and high-quality reviews addressing TEER in MR. The available evidence was synthesized narratively, with a focus on mechanistic insights, TEER-specific imaging and procedural endpoints, and clinically relevant outcomes. Results: In primary MR, TEER functions as a valve-centered therapy, with procedural success primarily determined by anatomical suitability and the balance between durable MR reduction and avoidance of elevated transmitral gradients. In secondary MR, TEER should be considered an adjunctive intervention within a comprehensive heart failure strategy, with benefit dependent on patient phenotype, myocardial substrate, optimization of background therapy, and appropriate timing. Emerging phenotypes, such as atrial functional MR, further challenge traditional classification and highlight the need for mechanism-based selection. Across MR subtypes, residual MR and transmitral gradients emerge as key post-procedural endpoints with differential prognostic implications. Conclusions: TEER represents a phenotype-specific intervention rather than a uniform solution for MR. Recognizing the distinct interventional paradigms of primary and secondary MR is essential to optimizing patient selection, procedural decision-making, and clinical outcomes.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010007

Authors: Noriko Arakaki Kaoru Kawasaki Kaori Moriuchi Iiji Koh Yoshie Yo Noriomi Matsumura

We present the case of a 27-year-old woman diagnosed with Löffler’s endomyocarditis complicated by intraventricular thrombus and cerebral infarction. She was treated with prednisolone and anticoagulation therapy; however, tapering of corticosteroids resulted in recurrence of intraventricular thrombosis. Given disease relapse after medication withdrawal, lifelong anticoagulation was indicated. At 29 years of age, she sought pregnancy counseling. Conception was permitted after stabilization of prednisolone dosage, with a planned switch from a vitamin K antagonist to therapeutic-dose unfractionated heparin during pregnancy. Following disease stabilization, she conceived via artificial insemination. Serial echocardiography at 22 and 34 weeks of gestation demonstrated preserved cardiac function without thrombus recurrence. She delivered a healthy infant by emergency cesarean section at 39 weeks of gestation due to fetal distress. No thrombus recurrence was observed postpartum, and she remained clinically stable during 13 months of follow-up. This represents the case of a successful pregnancy in a woman with a history of recurrent intraventricular thrombosis due to Löffler’s endomyocarditis, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, sustained immunosuppression, individualized anticoagulation, and multidisciplinary preconception planning.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010006

Authors: Alessandro Faraci Salvatore Evola Daniele Adorno Giuseppe Vadalà Cristina Madaudo Giulia Mingoia Giuseppe Astuti Vincenzo Sucato Alfredo Ruggero Galassi

“Pinch-Off Syndrome,” first described by Hinke, is a mechanical complication of totally implantable central venous catheters inserted via subclavian venous access. It occurs when the catheter is compressed between the clavicle and the first rib. Compression can cause transient catheter obstruction and may result in rupture or even complete resection and embolization of the catheter. In this case report, we describe our experience of percutaneous transvenous removal of an embolized port-a-cath fragment within the right heart chambers following a rupture. We used the “retrieval snare” technique and subsequent reimplantation through internal jugular access. The intervention occurred in the same session and involved a multidisciplinary team for a 55-year-old man in need of adjuvant chemotherapy.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010005

Authors: Karuna Rayamajhi Fnu Parul Mahmoud Khairy Sumugdha Rayamajhi Appa Bandi

Biventricular Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a rare variant characterized by involvement of both the left and right ventricles. This variant is associated with greater hemodynamic instability and longer hospital stays compared to the isolated left ventricular-only variant. We report the case of a 67-year-old female patient who underwent elective resection of a left adrenal adenoma. While her preoperative and intraoperative courses were uneventful, she developed cardiogenic shock postoperatively, necessitating prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) management and vasopressor support. Further evaluation revealed elevated high-sensitivity troponin levels and reduced ejection fraction on echocardiography (30–35%). Hypokinesis was noted in the apical and mid-ventricular segments of both ventricles. A coronary angiogram performed two months prior to admission showed no significant coronary artery disease. Based on these findings, a diagnosis of biventricular TCM was established. The patient was managed supportively and discharged in stable condition with ongoing therapy, including beta-blockers, renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASis), and statins. Follow-up echocardiography showed resolution of regional wall motion abnormalities. Although rare, biventricular TCM is associated with increased severity and a higher risk of complications. Early recognition and timely management are essential to improve outcomes in affected patients.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010004

Authors: Giuseppe Sgarito Francesco Campo Davide Genovese Giacomo Mugnai Francesco Santoro Pietro Francia Donatella Ruggiero Laura Perrotta Sergio Conti

The role of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), including implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices, in patients supported with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) remains controversial. Although ICDs clearly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and improve outcomes in advanced heart failure (HF), their benefit in patients with continuous-flow mechanical circulatory support is less certain. Initial small studies involving LVAD patients, particularly those with older pulsatile devices, suggested that ICDs confer a survival benefit during LVAD support. However, more recent evidence has been inconsistent. Some studies show modest protection against arrhythmic death, whereas others show no improvement in overall mortality. Similarly, CRT does not appear to offer significant additional hemodynamic benefits after LVAD implantation, and current evidence does not strongly support its routine continuation. Device-related complications—including lead failure, infection, electromagnetic interference, and inappropriate shocks—are major clinical concerns that can offset potential benefits. Accordingly, current guidelines recommend maintaining pre-existing ICD or CRT devices in LVAD patients but do not endorse the routine implantation of new devices after LVAD placement. The existing evidence highlights the need for a nuanced and individualized approach to CIED therapy in patients with LVAD. Future research should focus on randomized trials, registry-based analyses, and the exploration of novel technologies such as leadless pacing, subcutaneous ICDs, and advanced programming algorithms. Patient-centered outcomes, particularly quality of life and ethical considerations—such as ICD deactivation in end-of-life scenarios—must be considered in decision-making in this evolving field.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010003

Authors: Myrthe F. Kuipers Joey R. F. N. Snel Mellanie T. Hills Bianca J. J. M. Brundel Umut Konus

Background: This study investigates the impact of engagement with online health platforms (OHPs), perceived treatment effectiveness, and country of residence on patient attitudes toward atrial fibrillation (AF) treatments, mediated by threat perception and behavioral evaluation within an adapted Health Belief Model (HBM). Methods: A cross-sectional survey conducted in June 2024 included 589 members of two professionally curated OHPs: the AFIP Foundation (Amsterdam, The Netherlands) and StopAfib.org (Decatur, United States). Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine both direct and indirect relationships among engagement behaviors, perceived treatment effectiveness, country of residence, and patient attitudes toward AF treatments (PAAT). Results: Results indicate that higher engagement (i.e., frequency of OHP visits and time spent on the OHP) positively predicts more favorable PAAT, whereas the number of content types consumed showed no significant mediating effect via threat perception or behavioral evaluation. Conclusions: By increasing awareness of AF and reinforcing the perceived effectiveness of treatments, OHPs can serve as effective tools for patient education and support. From a managerial perspective, these findings provide actionable insights for platform operators and healthcare stakeholders on which engagement factors most effectively enhance patient attitudes toward treatment options.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010002

Authors: Giovanni Balestrucci Vitaliano Buffa Maria Teresa Del Canto Maria Chiara Brunese Salvatore Cappabianca Alfonso Reginelli

Mitral annular disjunction (MAD) is a structural abnormality of the mitral valve increasingly detected with advanced cardiac imaging, particularly cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). However, the clinical impact of different degrees of disjunction and the lack of standardized measurement criteria remain controversial. This study aimed to describe a series of patients with MAD assessed by CMR and to discuss, in the context of current literature, potential cut-off values that may distinguish physiological from pathological MAD. We retrospectively identified all CMR examinations performed at our institution over a 6-month period in which MAD was visible in at least two cine steady-state free precession (SSFP) projections. For each patient, we recorded MAD extent, presence of mitral valve prolapse/regurgitation, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) pattern, and main clinical presentation. Nine patients (mean age 57 years; 5 men) were included. Larger MAD distances (>4 mm) were frequently associated with non-ischemic LGE in the basal lateral wall and with valvular abnormalities, whereas smaller disjunctions (≤3 mm) were often observed in patients without significant structural disease. Non-ischemic LGE was present in 6/9 patients, all with MAD > 5 mm. These observations, together with published data, support the hypothesis that small degrees of MAD may represent a frequent anatomical variant, while more extensive disjunction, especially when associated with fibrosis, may indicate a pathological substrate for arrhythmias. Standardized CMR-based criteria and validated MAD cut-off values are needed to improve risk stratification and to incorporate MAD assessment into routine clinical practice.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts7010001

Authors: Walid Elmahdy Brianda Ripoll Mohamed Sherif Yama Haqzad Ahmed Omran James O’Neill Christopher Malkin Dominik Schlosshan

Background: Prosthesis patient mismatch (PPM) is associated with poor outcomes in literature. Prevention of mismatch is crucial in aortic valve replacement, yet there is no current consensus on preventative strategies. Objectives: This study introduces a novel clinical framework, nomenclature, and algorithm for contemporary Heart Team practice, providing a systematic approach for a tailored surgical strategy to anticipate and prevent mismatch. Methods: This was a single-center observational study performing a descriptive analysis of an evolving practice on 100 consecutive patients operated for aortic valve stenosis between 2020 and 2024. A step-by-step No-Mismatch algorithm was designed for the Heart Team to triage, discuss, and decide the surgical strategy prior to the procedure, identifying patients at risk of mismatch, and guiding the surgeon’s plan to prevent PPM and consider a Lifetime Valve Strategy. Results: The algorithm identified 26% of patients at risk of mismatch requiring a No-Mismatch strategy, and 20% at risk of small valve implantation requiring a Lifetime Valve Strategy. This cohort included 51 urgent cases. Valve pathology included 35% congenital, 59% degenerative, 1% rheumatic, and 5% redo operations. Valve implant type: 82% biological, including 29% rapid deployment valve (RDV), and 18% mechanical; 20% of patients required aortic root enlargements (AREs). Pre-, intra-, and post-operative data are presented. Mortality occurred at 1%. All degrees of mismatch were prevented. Conclusions: The surgeon was able to predict mismatch and elected either ARE, RDV, or a mechanical valve as required. Patient selection and a No-Mismatch Heart Team approach are essential to provide a tailored strategy for aortic valve interventions.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040034

Authors: Gianluigi Cuomo Paolo Tirelli Gabriella Oliva Domenico Birra Antonietta De Sena Fabio Granato Corigliano Mariavittoria Guerra Claudio De Luca Benedetta Tartaglia Vittoria Gammaldi Carmine Fierarossa Pasquale Madonna Vincenzo Nuzzo Francesco Giallauria

Background: Serum albumin is a well-known marker of nutritional and inflammatory status and has been associated with adverse outcomes in heart failure (HF). However, its predictive value for length of hospital-stay and short-term mortality in elderly HF patients remains underexplored. Objectives: To investigate the association between serum albumin levels at hospital admission and length of stay, as well as post-admission mortality, in a cohort of elderly patients hospitalized for HF. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 56 consecutive patients aged ≥65 years admitted for HF. Comorbidities were assessed using the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale for Geriatrics (CIRS-G), and inflammatory status was measured via C-reactive protein (CRP). Negative binomial regression with robust confidence intervals was employed to evaluate the relationship between serum albumin and length of hospital-stay, adjusting for age, comorbidity burden, and CRP. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess mortality at 6 months and 1 year, adjusting for age, comorbidity, CRP, and HF subtype, with Kaplan–Meier curves illustrating unadjusted survival differences according to albumin levels and HF subtype. Results: Mean age was 78.6 ± 7.5 years, with 69.6% female patients. Mean serum albumin at admission was 3.58 ± 0.60 g/dL, and mean length of stay was 14.8 ± 10.1 days. Each 1 g/dL increase in albumin was associated with a 32% reduction in length of stay (adjusted IRR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.54–0.85; p = 0.01), independently by age, inflammatory status and comorbidity. Serum albumin was independently associated with reduced risk of death at 6 months (HR 0.30; 95% CI: 0.11–0.82; p = 0.019) and 1 year (HR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.17–0.96; p = 0.041). Conclusions: Serum albumin at hospital admission independently predicts length of stay and short-term mortality in elderly patients with HF. Albumin measurement, simple, cheap and universally available biomarker, is helpful for early risk stratification and may guide clinical management in this vulnerable population.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040033

Authors: Reiner Buchhorn Elisabeth Hofmann

Background: In cardiology, vasoregulation is one of the most important targets of pharmacotherapy. SOMNOtouch™-NIBP (SOMNOmedics AG, Randersacker, Germany) is a cuffless device designed for continuous, non-invasive blood pressure measurements, and it appears to be ready for use in infants and children with congenital heart disease. For infants, minor methodological modifications are required due to their small body size. Methods: Using this device, we demonstrate fluctuations in diastolic blood pressure in three patients: an infant with hypoplastic left heart syndrome after Norwood stage 1 and 2 operations; an infant with Tetralogy of Fallot with heart failure due to pulmonary overcirculation after an aorto-pulmonary shunt implantation; and a 13-year-old girl with chronic cyanosis due to a congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA) with a ventricular septal defect and pulmonary stenosis. The measurement procedures are completely non-invasive and feasible in an outpatient setting. Results: The results demonstrate strong correlations between blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels as well as heart rate variability. We discuss our results in relation to current concepts of hypoxic pulmonary/systemic vasoconstriction and hypoxemia-related pathways. Conclusions: The cuffless device for continuous, non-invasive blood pressure measurement seems to be useful for infants with and without congenital heart defects who receive pharmacotherapies that modulate vasoregulation. These patients should also be non-invasively monitored for safety reasons and for a better understanding of their pathophysiology.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040032

Authors: Eman R. Rashed Swethika Sundaravel Juan M. Ortega-Legaspi

Heart transplantation is the gold standard in patients with end stage heart failure, offering vastly improved survival, mortality and quality of life. However, hypertension occurring after cardiac transplantation is a serious issue, with the incidence ranging from 50 to 80% of patients. The pathophysiology of the hypertension encompasses a more varied and unique set of causes than those identified in non-organ transplant patients, particularly related to the use of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) especially cyclosporine. An in-depth understanding of hypertension after heart transplantation remains a critical issue that necessitates further clarification, due to its deleterious long-term consequence such as impaired graft survival, cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), and overall survival. This article provides a comprehensive review of the prevalence, risk factors, etiology, complications, and management of hypertension after heart transplantation.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040031

Authors: Ahmed Elhendawy Elizabeth Jones

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cerebrovascular disease (CeVD) remain leading causes of death in the United States, with Mississippi consistently reporting some of the nation’s highest mortality rates. Despite earlier national declines, recent evidence suggests stagnation or increases, particularly in high-burden regions. This study examined short-term trends in CVD and CeVD mortality in Mississippi between 2018 and 2022, stratified by age, sex, and race. Methods: Mortality data for adults aged ≥45 years were obtained from the Mississippi Statistically Automated Health Resource System (MSTAHRS). Age-adjusted mortality rates were calculated per 100,000 population and standardized to the 2000 U.S. population. Joinpoint regression was used to estimate annual percent change (APC) and average annual percent change (AAPC) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Analyses were stratified by sex, and within each racial group (White, Black, Other), mortality trends were further examined across age categories (45–54, 55–64, 65–74, 75–84, ≥85 years). Results: Cardiovascular mortality increased significantly among White women in midlife (ages 45–74), while “Other race” men in early midlife and “Other race” women in the oldest age group showed steep increases. Although Black adults did not experience significant changes over time, their mortality rates remained consistently higher than those of White adults. Conclusions: Progress in reducing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular mortality in Mississippi has reversed in several subgroups, particularly midlife White women and smaller racial populations. These findings mirror national stagnation and pandemic-related disruptions, highlighting the urgent need for equity-focused prevention, improved healthcare access, and targeted interventions addressing structural determinants of health.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040030

Authors: Madison Garrity Jeremy Poppers Deborah Richman Jonathan Bacon

Tricuspid atresia (TA) is a cyanotic congenital heart defect defined by agenesis of the tricuspid valve and resultant right ventricular hypoplasia, representing 1.4–2.9% of congenital heart disease. Survival depends on interatrial and interventricular shunts that permit systemic and pulmonary blood flow, with staged surgical palliation culminating in the Fontan procedure. While surgical advances have improved long-term outcomes, Fontan circulation remains a delicate physiology characterized by preload dependence, elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, chronic venous hypertension, and a prothrombotic state. These features predispose patients to arrhythmias, lymphatic complications, hepatic congestion, and progressive circulatory failure. For anesthesiologists, perioperative management of TA and Fontan patients is uniquely complex. Anesthetic considerations include meticulous preload optimization, modulation of systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance, and ventilatory strategies that minimize adverse effects on venous return. Additional challenges include the high risk of air embolism, individualized anticoagulation needs, and hemodynamic sensitivity to patient positioning. Preoperative evaluation with echocardiography and electrocardiography provides critical insight into anatomy and physiology, while intraoperative planning must emphasize goal-directed fluid management, careful agent selection, and tailored ventilation. Postoperatively, vigilant monitoring, effective pain control, and prevention of complications are essential. This review synthesizes classification systems, pathophysiology, and the evolution of surgical palliation, while emphasizing anesthetic principles for the perioperative care of patients with TA and Fontan circulation. As survival improves and the population of Fontan patients expands, a nuanced understanding of this physiology is essential for optimizing outcomes across cardiac and non-cardiac surgical settings.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040029

Authors: Rasi Mizori Ali Hassan Sukruth Pradeep Kundur Ali Malik Serdar Farhan Sanjay Sivalokanathan

Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) poses a significant challenge in diagnosis, is frequently identified in advanced stages, and has limited therapeutic options, which may lead to adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This narrative review examines the application of artificial intelligence (AI) across key diagnostic modalities and delineates priorities for translational advancement. The discussed diagnostic tools include echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), electrocardiography (ECG), and electronic health records (EHR). A targeted, non-systematic search of PubMed and Scopus was performed to identify studies focused on model development, validation, or diagnostic accuracy concerning RCM and related infiltrative disorders. The findings suggest that AI can enable earlier detection, standardize imaging protocols, and enhance phenotype-driven management of RCM. Nonetheless, several challenges exist, including limited data access, the absence of external validation, variability across imaging devices and locations, and the imperative for transparent, explainable systems. Key priorities for successful implementation encompass establishing multi-center collaborations, detecting and correcting bias, clinician involvement in deployment, and integrating multimodal data, including imaging, signal data, and -omics. If effectively integrated into clinical practice, AI has the potential to redefine the management of RCM from a condition recognized primarily in its later stages to one characterized by early detection, dynamic risk assessment, and personalized treatment strategies.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040028

Authors: Marco Cirillo

Background: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are the foundation of evidence-based medicine. However, the rapid pace of technological innovation in cardiovascular surgery and interventional cardiology challenges the traditional RCT framework. Observational studies may hold renewed value in fields where device evolution outpaces the time required to validate clinical outcomes. Methods: This analysis evaluates 270 randomized and non-randomized studies in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), one of the most rapidly evolving areas in cardiovascular medicine. The investigation follows two lines: first, mapping the timeline of major RCTs against the introduction of new prosthetic models; second, comparing the prevalence, duration, and role of randomized (R) versus non-randomized (NR) studies. Results: The timeline reveals a persistent misalignment between innovation and validation. New prosthetic models frequently enter the market while RCTs for prior generations are still ongoing. For example, the Sapien 3 valve was approved, while trials on Sapien XT were still enrolling. Similarly, newer Evolut and Acurate models were introduced during ongoing studies of earlier versions, often prompting new studies before existing ones concluded. This leapfrogging effect fragments the evidence base and delays definitive comparisons. In parallel, randomized trials have increased in number and tend to be shorter in duration, reflecting a maturing field. However, non-randomized studies remain crucial for early testing and post-market surveillance. Conclusions: In a field with rapid technological evolution a sort of Zeno’s paradox occurs: long-term validation cannot keep pace with fast innovation, resetting the evidence base with each new model. To overcome this paradox, a paradigm shift in evidence generation is desirable. Future strategies must augment adaptive trial designs, leverage real-world data and use higher-level, advanced analyses to incorporate subjective variables and phenotypic diversity, to reduce confounding factors and speed up data access. Higher-level, integrative evidence analytics could help Achilles walk alongside the tortoise.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040027

Authors: Cian Peter Murray Hugo C. Temperley Robert S. Doyle Abdullahi Mohamed Khair Patrick Devitt Amal John Sajjad Matiullah

Background: Myocardial scar and fibrosis predict adverse cardiac outcomes. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the reference standard for detection. However, it requires gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs), which may be unsuitable for some patients. Cine balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) sequences are universally acquired in routine CMR. They may enable contrast-free scar detection via radiomics analysis. Aim: To systematically review the diagnostic accuracy of cine CMR radiomics for myocardial scar or fibrosis detection. The reference standard is visual or threshold-based LGE. Methods: This review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251121699). We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to 8 August 2025. Eligible studies compared cine CMR radiomics with LGE-based assessment in patients with suspected or known scar/fibrosis. Quality was assessed using QUADAS-2 and Radiomics Quality Score (RQS). Results: Five retrospective studies (n = 1484) were included. Two focused on myocardial infarction, two on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and one on ischaemic versus dilated cardiomyopathy. Diagnostic performance was good to excellent (AUC 0.74–0.96). Methodological heterogeneity was substantial in reference standards, segmentation, preprocessing, feature selection, and modelling. Only one study used external validation. QUADAS-2 showed high bias risk in patient selection and index test domains. RQS scores were low (30–42%), indicating limited reproducibility and validation. Conclusions: Cine CMR radiomics shows promise as a non-contrast alternative for detecting myocardial scar and fibrosis. However, methodological standardisation, multicentre validation, and prospective studies are needed before clinical adoption.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040026

Authors: Alejandro Gallego-Cuenca Esperanza Bueno-Juana Amelia Campos-Sáenz de Santamaría Vanesa Garcés-Horna Marta Sánchez-Marteles Juan I. Pérez-Calvo Ignacio Giménez-López Jorge Rubio-Gracia

Background: Heart failure (HF) is common and deadly, affecting over 60 million people worldwide, and it remains a leading cause of hospitalization and post-discharge death. One-year mortality after an acute decompensated HF (ADHF) admission often approaches 40%. Prognostic models are critical for stratifying mortality risk in heart failure (HF) patients. This study compared the performance of the MAGGIC and BCN Bio-HF models in predicting 1-year and 3-year all-cause mortality (ACM) in patients discharged after acute decompensated HF (ADHF). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 229 patients hospitalized for ADHF at the Clinical University Hospital of Zaragoza. The required variables were extracted from medical records, and ACM risks were calculated using web-based tools. Calibration, discrimination (AUC), and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and calibration curves assessed risk stratification and alignment with observed outcomes. Reclassification metrics (Net Reclassification Index [NRI], Integrated Discrimination Improvement [IDI]) were used to compare the models’ predictive performances. Results: Both of the models demonstrated robust discrimination for 1-year ACM (AUC: MAGGIC = 0.738, BCN Bio-HF = 0.769) but showed lower performance for 3-year predictions. Calibration was poor, with both models exhibiting significant risk underestimation at the individual level. MAGGIC achieved higher sensitivity (1-year: 0.911; 3-year: 0.685), favoring high-risk patient identification, whereas BCN Bio-HF offered superior specificity (1-year: 0.679; 3-year: 0.746) and a positive prediction value, reducing false positives. BCN Bio-HF showed a significant 12.7% reclassification improvement for 1-year mortality prediction. Conclusions: BCN Bio-HF did not outperform MAGGIC in our cohort. MAGGIC is preferable for the initial high-risk patient identification, requiring more intense short-term follow-up, while BCN Bio-HF’s higher specificity is best-suited to avoid overtreatment. Altogether, the clinical utility of both models was limited in our cohort by severe miscalibration, which may render adequate risk stratification difficult.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6040025

Authors: Jiazhe Tang Xiaoyu Huang Timothy Williams David Hildick-Smith Rodrigo Aviles-Espinosa Elizabeth Rendon-Morales

Background: Balloon aortic valvuloplasty is a procedure for treating aortic stenosis, as well as being a preliminary step before transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty requires inserting a balloon catheter into the aortic valve and repeatedly inflating it to widen the narrowed valve. With a wide range of equipment, operators rely on manufacturer data to guide the balloon use during surgery. However, such data can have variations of up to 10%, which can affect the procedures’ efficacy. Methods: In this paper, we report a bench-top proof-of-concept, automated, non-contact optical system that combines a linear delta robot (ROMI) equipped with a bright-field microscopy system, image stitching, and passive autofocusing algorithms to measure the diameters of aortic valvuloplasty balloons inflated using clinically relevant pressures. The system also introduces a laser projection system, enabling the use of passive autofocus algorithms to allow measuring transparent balloons. We evaluate three balloon brands (TRUE Dilatation, Edwards, and Z-MED II) across commonly used sizes and compare the measured diameters with vendor specifications. The developed system allows us to systematically determine the balloons’ diameters with submillimeter-level accuracy. Results: The experimental data shows that the TRUE Dilatation balloon presented the smallest deviations from the manufacturers’ data, even though the 22 and 24 mm balloons exceeded the 1% tolerance by +2.26% (over-inflation) and −1.56% (under-inflation), respectively. The Edwards Lifesciences and Z-MED II balloons presented inflation diameter variations ranging from −5.97% to + 8.81%, which led to a deviation of the specified balloon diameter of 1.76 mm. The standard error value obtained within our measurements revealed that the balloon diameters were consistent despite multiple inflations and were also resilient to repeated inflations up to the rated burst pressure. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the potential of the system presented herein to be adapted for in situ, contactless pre-operative balloon assessment in clinical settings.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030024

Authors: Luca Martini Antonio Pagliaro Hatem Soliman Aboumarie Massimo Maccherini Serafina Valente Giulia Elena Mandoli Michael Y. Henein Matteo Cameli

Background: Left ventricular myocardial work (MW) derived from non-invasive pressure–strain loops has emerged as a load-adjusted index of contractile performance. Its value for risk stratification in advanced heart failure (HF) remains uncertain. Methods: We retrospectively studied 151 consecutive patients with advanced HF undergoing comprehensive evaluation at our tertiary centre between January 2016 and December 2022. MW parameters—left ventricular global work index (LVGWI), global constructive work (LVGCW), global wasted work (LVGWW) and global work efficiency (LVGWE)—were derived from speckle-tracking echocardiography integrated with brachial blood pressure. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), right heart catheterisation (RHC) and biochemical markers were obtained. Patients were stratified according to an LVGWI threshold of 600 mmHg%, identified by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis for predicting the combined end point of cardiovascular mortality or HF hospitalisation. Correlations between MW and traditional indices were assessed, and event-free survival was analysed by Kaplan–Meier curves. Results: LVGWI correlated modestly with pVO2 (r = 0.35, p = 0.01) and left ventricular ejection fraction (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and inversely with NT-proBNP (r = −0.30, p = 0.03). LVGWI displayed the largest area under the curve (AUC 0.76 [95% confidence interval 0.65–0.85]) for predicting the combined end point compared with pVO2 (AUC 0.73) and LVEF (AUC 0.67). Dichotomisation by LVGWI ≤ 600 mmHg% identified a high-risk group (Group A) with worse NYHA class, lower systolic blood pressure and reduced exercise capacity. After a median follow-up of 24 months, Group A exhibited significantly lower event-free survival (log-rank p = 0.02). Multivariable analysis was not performed owing to the limited sample size; therefore, findings should be interpreted with caution. Conclusions: In patients with advanced HF, left ventricular myocardial work, particularly LVGWI, provides incremental prognostic information beyond conventional markers. An LVGWI cut-off of 600 mmHg% derived from ROC analysis identified patients at increased risk of cardiovascular events and may inform timely referral for mechanical circulatory support or transplantation. Larger prospective studies are warranted to confirm these observations and to establish standardised thresholds across vendors.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030023

Authors: Isabel Uphoff Charlotte Schöneburg Renate Oberhoffer-Fritz Peter Ewert Jan Müller

Background: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression in adults. However, little is known about the mental health of children and adolescents with CHD. The aim of this study was to assess differences in anxiety and depression symptoms between children and adolescents with CHD and healthy controls. Methods: A total of 232 children and adolescents (age 7–18 years; mean age 13.5 ± 2.7 years, 50.9% female) were enrolled, consisting of 116 patients with CHD and 116 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Participants were recruited during routine medical examinations at the German Heart Center and Munich schools, respectively. The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the Depression Inventory for Youth (BDI-Y) were used to assess anxiety and depression symptoms. Results: The CHD cohort included patients with right heart obstruction (11.2%), left heart obstruction (19.8%), isolated shunts (15.5%), transposition of the great arteries (14.7%), univentricular heart (14.7%), and other defects (24.1%). According to published cut-off values, at least a mild form of anxiety was present in 46.5% CHD patients. However, no significant differences were observed between the CHD group and healthy controls in either the BDI-Y score (CHD: 7.9 ± 7.7 vs. controls: 8.6 ± 8.5; p = 0.569) or the BAI score (CHD: 9.3 ± 8.6 vs. controls: 9.3 ± 10.3; p = 0.429). The complexity of the heart defect was not associated with BAI scores (simple: 5.9 ± 5.7; moderate: 11.1 ± 8.1; complex: 9.3 ± 9.0; p = 0.073) or BDI-Y scores (simple: 7.4 ± 7.5; moderate: 9.0 ± 7.1; complex: 7.0 ± 7.7; p = 0.453). No significant differences in BAI (p = 0.141) or BDI-Y (p = 0.326) scores were found by type of heart defect. Conclusions: Children and adolescents with CHD did not exhibit significantly higher levels of depression or anxiety symptoms compared to healthy controls. Nevertheless, given the increased psychological risk observed in adults with CHD, ongoing mental health monitoring remains important to enable early identification and timely intervention. Further research, particularly through longitudinal studies, is needed to monitor mental health trajectories over time and to identify early predictors of psychological vulnerability in this population.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030022

Authors: Robert S. Doyle Ross Walsh Jamie Walsh Hugo C. Temperley John McCormick Gerard Giblin

Background/Objectives: Heart failure (HF) often develops from a prolonged asymptomatic phase where early detection could prevent progression. Pre-heart failure (pre-HF) populations—those with risk factors (Stage A) or subclinical myocardial changes (Stage B)—are critical for intervention. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with T1 and extracellular volume (ECV) mapping offers a non-invasive approach to detect early myocardial changes in these groups. This systematic review evaluates the role of T1 and ECV mapping in pre-HF populations, focusing on their diagnostic and prognostic utility. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane was conducted up to April 2025, identifying 17 studies that met inclusion criteria. Data was extracted directly into Excel, and methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) for cohort and cross-sectional studies and AMSTAR-2 for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager (RevMan) to compare T1 and ECV values between pre-HF and control groups. Results: Studies consistently reported elevated T1 (989.6–1415.41 milliseconds) and ECV (25.7–42.81%) in pre-HF groups compared to controls (T1: 967–1310.63 ms, ECV: 23.5–29.9%). Meta-analysis showed a significant increase in T1 (MD: 27.62 ms, 95% CI: 8.04–47.19, p < 0.006) and ECV (MD: 2.97%, 95% CI: 1.88–4.06, p < 0.00001) in pre-HF groups. RQS scores ranged from 17.2% to 77.8% (mean: 37.9%), and NOS scores ranged from 5 to 8 (mean: 6.2), reflecting variability in study quality. The AMSTAR-2 rating for the systematic review was moderate. Conclusions: T1 and ECV mapping enhance CMR-based detection of early myocardial changes in pre-HF, offering a promising non-invasive approach to predict HF risk. However, variability in study quality, small sample sizes, and methodological inconsistencies limit generalisability. Future research should focus on standardised protocols, prospective designs, and multi-center studies to integrate these techniques into clinical practice, potentially guiding preventive therapies such as SGLT2is and tafamidis.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030021

Authors: Peter McGranaghan Doreen Schoeppenthau Antonia Popp Anshul Saxena Sharat Kothakapu Muni Rubens Gabriel Jiménez Pablo Gordillo Emir Veledar Alaa Abd El Al Anja Hennemuth Volkmar Falk Alexander Meyer

Background/Objectives: Invasive coronary angiography (ICA) is the gold standard for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD), with various non-invasive imaging modalities also available. Machine learning (ML) methods are increasingly applied to overcome the limitations of diagnostic imaging by improving accuracy and observer independent performance. Methods: This meta-analysis (PRISMA method) summarizes the evidence for ML-based analyses of coronary imaging data from ICA, coronary computed tomography angiography (CT), and nuclear stress perfusion imaging (SPECT) to predict clinical outcomes and performance for precise diagnosis. We searched for studies from Jan 2012–March 2023. Study-reported c index values and 95% confidence intervals were used. Subgroup analyses separated models by outcome. Combined effect sizes using a random-effects model, test for heterogeneity, and Egger’s test to assess publication bias were considered. Results: In total, 46 studies were included (total subjects = 192,561; events = 31,353), of which 27 had sufficient data. Imaging modalities used were CT (n = 34), ICA (n = 7) and SPECT (n = 5). The most frequent study outcome was detection of stenosis (n = 11). Classic deep neural networks (n = 12) and convolutional neural networks (n = 7) were the most used ML models. Studies aiming to diagnose CAD performed best (0.85; 95% CI: 82, 89); models aiming to predict clinical outcomes performed slightly lower (0.81; 95% CI: 78, 84). The combined c-index was 0.84 (95% CI: 0.81–0.86). Test of heterogeneity showed a high variation among studies (I2 = 97.2%). Egger’s test did not indicate publication bias (p = 0.485). Conclusions: The application of ML methods to diagnose CAD and predict clinical outcomes appears promising, although there is lack of standardization across studies.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030020

Authors: Alaukika Agarwal Rubab Sohail Supreeti Behuria

Background/Objectives: While elevated Lp(a) levels are associated with incident heart failure development, the role of Lp(a) in established heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) versus heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains unexplored. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 387 heart failure patients from our institutional database (January 2018–June 2024). Patients were categorized as HFrEF (n = 201) or HFpEF (n = 186) using ICD-10 codes. Categorical variables were compared between heart failure types using the Chi-square test or Fisher’s Exact test, and continuous variables were compared using the two-sample t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test, as appropriate. Logistic regression was utilized to assess heart failure type as a function of Lp(a) levels, adjusting for covariates. Spearman correlation assessed relationships between Lp(a) and pro-BNP levels. Results: Despite significant demographic and clinical differences between HFrEF and HFpEF patients, Lp(a) concentrations showed no significant variation between groups. Median Lp(a) levels were 60.9 nmol/dL (IQR: 21.9–136.7) in HFrEF versus 45.0 nmol/dL (IQR: 20.1–109.9) in HFpEF (p = 0.19). After adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates, Lp(a) showed no association with heart failure subtype (OR: 1.001, 95% CI: 0.99–1.004; p = 0.59). Conclusions: Lp(a) levels do not differ significantly between HFrEF and HFpEF phenotypes, suggesting possible shared pathophysiological mechanisms rather than phenotype-specific biomarker properties. These preliminary findings may support unified screening and treatment strategies for elevated Lp(a) across heart failure, pending confirmation in larger studies.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030019

Authors: Michele Danilo Pierri Michele Galeazzi Simone D’Alessio Melissa Dottori Irene Capodaglio Christian Corinaldesi Marco Marini Marco Di Eusanio

Background: Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini are being increasingly adopted in medicine; however, their reliability in cardiology remains underexplored. Purpose of the study: To compare the performance of three general-purpose LLMs in response to cardiology-related clinical queries. Study design: Seventy clinical prompts stratified by diagnostic phase (pre or post) and user profile (patient or physician) were submitted to ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini. Three expert cardiologists, who were blinded to the model’s identity, rated each response on scientific accuracy, completeness, clarity, and coherence using a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical analysis included Kruskal–Wallis tests, Dunn’s post hoc comparisons, Kendall’s W, weighted kappa, and sensitivity analyses. Results: ChatGPT outperformed both Claude and Gemini across all criteria (mean scores: 3.7–4.2 vs. 3.4–4.0 and 2.9–3.7, respectively; p < 0.001). The inter-rater agreement was substantial (Kendall’s W: 0.61–0.71). Pre-diagnostic and patient-framed prompts received higher scores than post-diagnostic and physician-framed ones. Results remained robust across sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: Among the evaluated LLMs, ChatGPT demonstrated superior performance in generating clinically relevant cardiology responses. However, none of the models achieved maximal ratings, and the performance varied by context. These findings highlight the need for domain-specific fine-tuning and human oversight to ensure a safe clinical deployment.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030018

Authors: Sherldine Tomlinson

Hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is an ominous cardiovascular sequel to chronic hypertension, marked by structural and functional alterations in the heart. Identified as a significant risk factor for adverse cardiovascular outcomes, LVH is typically detected through echocardiography and is characterized by pathological thickening of the left ventricular wall. This hypertrophy results from chronic pressure overload (increased afterload), leading to concentric remodelling, or from increased diastolic filling (preload), contributing to eccentric changes. Apoptosis, a regulated process of cell death, plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of LVH by contributing to cardiomyocyte loss and subsequent cardiac dysfunction. Given the substantial clinical implications of LVH for cardiovascular health, this review critically examines the role of cardiomyocyte apoptosis in its disease progression, evaluates the impact of pharmacological interventions, and highlights the necessity of a comprehensive, multifaceted treatment approach for the prevention and management of hypertensive LVH. Finally, we address the health disparities associated with LVH, with particular attention to the disproportionate burden faced by African Americans and other Black communities, as this remains a key priority in advancing equity in cardiovascular care.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030017

Authors: Ankit Agrawal Joseph El Dahdah Elio Haroun Aro Daniela Arockiam Ahmad Safdar Sharmeen Sorathia Tiffany Dong Brian Griffin Tom Kai Ming Wang

Cardiac iron overload is a rare but important adverse consequence of systemic iron overload, marked by the abnormal accumulation of iron in the myocardium. It is most typically caused by hereditary hemochromatosis (mutations in the HFE gene) or secondary iron overload conditions, such as transfusion-dependent anemias. Excess iron in the myocardium causes oxidative stress, cardiomyocyte damage, and progressive fibrosis, ultimately leading to cardiomyopathy. Clinical manifestations are diverse and may include heart failure, arrhythmias, and restrictive or dilated cardiomyopathy. Given the worsened prognosis with cardiac involvement, timely diagnosis and management are essential to improve clinical outcomes. This review provides a contemporary overview of the cardiovascular complications associated with iron overload, including clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6030016

Authors: Ibrahim Antoun Sotirios Dardas Falik Sher Mueed Akram Navid Munir Georgia R. Layton Mustafa Zakkar Kamal Chitkara Riyaz Somani Andre Ng

Background/Objectives: Cangrelor, an intravenous P2Y12 inhibitor, is increasingly used during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for rapid and reversible platelet inhibition in patients unable to take oral antiplatelet agents, particularly in emergencies such as ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), cardiac arrest, or cardiogenic shock. This single-centre study evaluates cangrelor and outcomes in a non-surgical centre. Methods: Between June 2017 and December 2021, all the patients for whom cangrelor was used at a district general hospital (DGH) in the UK were included in this study. Data collection included baseline characteristics, admission, procedural details, and patient outcomes. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality, bleeding, and cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, and stroke, within 48 h. Secondary outcomes included predictors of the composite outcome at 48 h. Results: During the study period, cangrelor was administered peri-procedurally to 93 patients. Males comprised 85% of the patients; the mean age was 65.5 ± 10.6 years. A total of 1 patient (1.1%) had a cardiovascular event within 48 h of cangrelor administration, whereas all-cause mortality occurred in 17 patients (18%) within 48 h. No major bleeding events were noted at 48 h following cangrelor administration. Regression analysis did not find predictors of composite outcomes at 48 h. Conclusions: Cangrelor offers a potential alternative to oral P2Y12 inhibitors in specific high-risk scenarios. Further research is needed to validate its role in broader populations.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020015

Authors: Mbakise P. Matebele Kanthi R. Vemuri John F. Sedgwick Lachlan Marshall Robert Horvath Nchafatso G. Obonyo Mahesh Ramanan

Background: This study aims to evaluate the impact of critical illness, defined as the need for preoperative intensive care unit (ICU) admission for invasive monitoring or organ support, on cardiac surgery outcomes for patients with acute infective endocarditis (IE). Methods: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from patients treated between 1 January 2017 and 30 May 2024 at a single Australian tertiary cardiothoracic centre was performed. Data were collected from the Australian and New Zealand Cardiothoracic Society (ANZCTS) database and the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Adult Patients Database (ANZICS-APD). Results: Among 342 patients who underwent cardiac surgery for IE, 32 (9.4%) were critically ill. The critically ill patients were admitted to the ICU before surgery with a diagnosis of septic or cardiogenic shock, with 86% (n = 30) requiring mechanical ventilation. Compared to the non-critically ill cohort, critically ill patients were more likely to have a history of intravenous drug use (IVDU) (41% vs. 14%, p = 0.03) and a younger age (median age 49 years [42–56] vs. 61 years [44–70], p = 0.03), and although methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) was the most common causative organism in both groups, it was found significantly more often in the critically ill cohort (66% and 27%, p = 0.001). The median EuroSCORE II was comparable between the groups (2.1 [1.3–10] vs. 2.8 [1.3–5.7], p = 0.69); however, the APACHE III (57 [49–78] vs. 52 [39–67], p = 0.03) and ANZROD scores (0.04 [0.02–0.09] vs. 0.013 [0.004–0.038], p = 0.00002) were significantly higher in the critically ill patients. The overall 30-day mortality rates were similar between the groups (13% vs. 5%, p = 0.60). The median ICU length of stay (LOS) was significantly longer for the critically ill patients (5 days [IQR 2–10 days] vs. 2 days [1–4 days], p = 0.0004), with a similar hospital LOS (23 days [IQR 14–36] vs. 21 days [12–34], p = 0.46). Renal replacement therapy was three times higher in the critically ill (34% vs. 11%, p = 0.0001). Reoperations for bleeding were similar between the groups (16% vs. 11%, p = 0.74). Conclusions: Despite being associated with higher ANZROD and APACHE III scores, a longer ICU length of stay, and higher use of renal replacement therapy, critical illness did not have an impact on the EuroSCORE II, hospital length of stay, or reoperation rates for bleeding or 30-day mortality among patients with IE undergoing cardiac surgery. The lessons from this study will guide and inform the development of better infective endocarditis databases and registries.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020014

Authors: Tom Siby Seena Babu Inuri Patabendi Sudarshan Ramachandran Jyoti Baharani

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) face an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly those with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 mL/min/1.73 m². Aims: To assess low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) values and the proportion of pre-dialysis patients achieving national and international targets. Methods: This was a retrospective audit (May–October 2024) of 272 patients aged >18 years attending pre-dialysis clinic (estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min/1.73 m2) at the Renal Unit, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital. Data on age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index, smoking status, CVD status, hypertension, diabetes, lipids (including LDL-C using the Friedewald and Sampson algorithms) and lipid-lowering therapy were collected from the hospital electronic records. Statistical analyses evaluated factors that were associated with LDL-C (linear/multiple regression) and statin therapy (Chi square). Results: The median (interquartile range) calculated LDL-C values were 2.2 (1.7–2.8) mmol/L and 2.3 (1.7–2.9) mmol/L using the Friedewald and Sampson algorithms respectively. Age and statin therapy were independently associated with LDL-C. Using the Friedewald algorithm, 83.8%, 70.6% and 60.3% did not achieve LDL-C targets of 1.4 mmol/L, 1.8 mmol/L and 2.0 mmol/L respectively, these figures were higher when the Sampson algorithm was applied. Only 18 and 3 of the patients were on ezetimibe and inclisiran respectively, whilst not a single patient was on bempedoic acid or proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors. Conclusion: Our data highlight deficiencies in the management of LDL-C in advanced CKD. We would recommend greater awareness of LDL-C targets and the use of combination lipid-lowering therapy following optimisation of statin therapy.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020013

Authors: David Derish Rayhaan Bassawon Jeremy Y. Levett Roupen Hatzakorzian Dominique Shum-Tim

Background: Infected aortic aneurysms pose significant therapeutic challenges, given the fragility of infected aneurysmal tissue. Mycotic aneurysms caused by Streptococcus agalactiae are rare and may progress in the absence of classical systemic infection signs. Here, we discuss the surgical management of an unusual presentation of a mycotic aneurysm and its rapid progression with no incremental changes in the patient’s symptoms. Case: A 72-year-old woman presented with subacute general deterioration and back pain. A general workup revealed a mycotic aneurysm of the aortic arch, at the level of the brachiocephalic artery. Initial CT showed a 7 × 5.5 mm pseudoaneurysm that enlarged to 41 × 26 mm within three weeks, despite clinical improvement of her presenting symptoms on antibiotics. Given that the lesion progressed, a staged procedure, consisting of a left carotid–subclavian bypass followed by proximal arch repair, was undertaken with success. Intra-operatively, a completely thrombosed innominate vein was found compressing—and likely tamponading—the pseudoaneurysm, a phenomenon that may have prevented catastrophic rupture. A Dacron graft was sewn end-to-end to the distal ascending aorta; the posterior half of this distal anastomosis incorporated the rim of the innominate artery defect to create a single hemostatic suture line. Conclusions: This case demonstrates a benign initial presentation can degenerate into a catastrophic pseudoaneurysm and how rapidly progressive thoracic infected aneurysms can develop. Heightened clinical acumen is required for accurate diagnosis. Close follow-up is also suggested based on the rapid progression experienced by our patient. Serial imaging, rather than symptomatic or laboratory response alone, should guide the timing of intervention.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020012

Authors: Roopeessh Vempati Ayushi Garg Maitri Shah Nihar Jena Kavin Raj Yeruva Madhu Reddy Amit Noheria Quang Dat Ha Dinakaran Umashankar Christian Toquica Gahona

Catheter ablation (CA) was found to outperform antiarrhythmic drug therapy (AAD), and it is a key treatment for rhythm control for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF). Nevertheless, the procedure’s effectiveness is limited by recurrence rates. Identifying determinants of effective ablation is critical for optimizing patient selection, operative results, and long-term rhythm management strategies. In this state-of-the-art review, we have comprehensively discussed the various factors that can determine the recurrence of AF after a successful CA.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020011

Authors: Andre Korshin Peter Hasse Møller-Sørensen Jacob Eifer Møller Christian Lildal Carranza

Background/Objectives: The complexity of Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery (MIMVS) could cause a slow learning curve and potentially patient harm. We thus investigated if a novice mitral valve center encountered difficulties implementing MIMVS. Methods: We investigated seven hundred and forty-eight mitral valve surgery patients, two years before and after MIMVS introduction. Results: We propensity score matched two hundred and sixty elective mitral valve patients for comparison, with one hundred and thirty patients in each group. Surgical- (5.5 vs. 4.3 h), Cardiopulmonary bypass- (180 vs. 102 min) and aortic cross-clamp times (98 vs. 81 min) became longer after MIMVS introduction. One-year mortality and in-hospital outcomes remained unaffected. Hospital length of stay shortened significantly after MIMVS (5 d vs. 7 d; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Adopting MIMVS in a mitral valve center without prior experience in the procedure showed feasibility, equally good outcome and shorter hospital stay when compared to conventional sternotomy.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020010

Authors: Giuseppe Sgarito Antonio Cascino Giulia Randazzo Giuliano Ferrara Annalisa Alaimo Sabrina Spoto Sergio Conti

Adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) represents a significant portion of congenital anomalies, and with improved treatments leading to an increased life expectancy, its prevalence has been increasing over the past few decades. Nonetheless, a considerable number of patients with ACHD require cardiac rhythm management devices during their lifetime. Traditionally, transvenous pacemaker placement has been the standard mode of treatment for these patients. However, some patients with ACHD have anatomical barriers that obscure this mode of treatment. Leadless pacing systems (LPSs) have changed the field of pacing. Currently, two different LPSs are available. In a real-world setting, implanting an LPS in patients after tricuspid valve (TV) surgery seems to be a straightforward procedure with a low risk of complications, with patients showing no valvular dysfunction after the intervention. LPS implantation is an option to avoid device-related complications in patients with previous TV surgery. Moreover, it has been demonstrated that even the jugular approach seems as safe as the femoral approach and could be considered an alternative implantation method for LPSs. The Aveir VR leadless pacemaker is a helix LPS with unique features, such as its capacity as a dual-chamber leadless pacemaker, the ability to map electrical parameters before releasing the device, and its possibility of being retrievable. Hereby, we present the case of Ebstein’s anomaly, atrial septal defect closure, and previous TV surgery with symptomatic intermittent advanced atrioventricular block. This case illustrates that a transjugular approach for LPSs is also feasible in patients with ACHD.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6020009

Authors: Shannon Parness Tori E. Hester Harish Pandyaram Panagiotis Tasoudis Aurelie E. Merlo

Right heart failure (RHF) is a common manifestation after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement and is associated with a high mortality rate. Historically, RV failure requiring an RVAD at the time of LVAD implantation has been associated with an especially high mortality. However, more recently, some studies have shown reasonable outcomes after LVAD implantation even when an RVAD is required, especially if RV failure is recognized early and treated with RV mechanical support. This article analyzes the current trends and studies investigating the use of RVAD placement post-LVAD implantation with an emphasis on the newest devices and treatment paradigms.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010008

Authors: Maren Downing Eren Sakarcan Kristen Quinn

Cardiac arrest remains a leading cause of death worldwide and is a global health crisis. First described in the medical literature in the 18th century, modern cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with closed chest compressions has remained the standard of care since 1960. Despite exponential advances in basic science research and technological innovations, cardiac arrest survival remains a dismal 10%. The standard of care closed chest compressions provide only 20–30% of baseline cardiac output to the body. Have modern therapies plateaued in effectiveness? This article reviews the history of cardiac arrest, its therapies, and opportunities for future treatments. Through an exploration into the history of CPR and breakthroughs in its treatment paradigms, modern-day researchers and providers may find further inspiration to combat the cardiac arrest public health crisis.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010007

Authors: Jacqueline A. Jones Leanna L. Huard Michael J. Hui Nicholas J. Jackson Myke D. Federman

Background: The increased hospital morbidity and mortality associated with hyponatremia is well recognized in the critically ill pediatric population. Neonates and infants exposed to vasopressin following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) may be at increased risk for hyponatremia. We aimed to determine the associated effect and potential risk factors leading to hyponatremia and sodium variability in the immediate postoperative period in neonates and infants up to 90 days of age exposed to vasopressin following surgery for congenital heart disease. Methods: This was a retrospective review of 75 consecutive patients at a single tertiary cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) from 2018 to 2020. Using mixed-effects linear regression, we compared sodium trends and variability between the groups who did and did not receive vasopressin. Results: While sodium levels fell in both groups, beyond the first postoperative day, the group exposed to vasopressin had a significantly increased fall in sodium relative to the control (p < 0.001). Vasopressin exposure was associated with increased within-day sodium variability on postoperative days one and two (p < 0.05). Total incidents of moderate to severe hyponatremia (sodium < 130 mmol/L) were higher in the vasopressin group but did not reach statistical significance. Age, volume of modified ultrafiltration, and total diuretic dose were not risk factors for either effect in this study. Conclusions: While all patients in this study appeared to be at risk of postoperative hyponatremia, cumulative vasopressin dose appeared to increase the risk for absolute hyponatremia as well as greater sodium variability within the early postoperative period.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010006

Authors: Khalid Sawalha Deya A. Alkhatib

Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (TTR-CA) is a pathological condition characterized by the accumulation of misfolded transthyretin (TTR) protein in the heart, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy. TTR-CA has gained increasing recognition in recent years due to its significant impact on morbidity and mortality. It is typically diagnosed when symptoms of heart failure appear. However, with advancements in non-invasive imaging, early and precise diagnosis of TTR-CA is now possible, enabling clinicians to take advantage of current therapeutic interventions that are more effective when initiated at an earlier stage of the disease. Moreover, genetic testing can now assist clinicians in identifying asymptomatic individuals who are at risk of developing the disease before clinical features manifest. In this review, we provide a general overview of TTR-CA and summarize expert opinions on pre-symptomatic testing and the management of asymptomatic patients, with a particular focus on the V122I mutation. This article aims to provide clinicians with a better understanding of TTR-CA and the current best practices for managing asymptomatic patients with this genetic predisposition.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010005

Authors: Eun Seo Kwak Momin Shah Abdulmajeed Alharbi Nahush Bansal Qutaiba Qafisheh Shariq Ahmad Wani Mohanad Qwaider Ayman Salih Ahmed El-Rahyel Hafsa Shah Omar Sajdeya Ehab Eltahawy

Background: Obesity presents a significant global health impact and is linked to cardiovascular diseases. While obesity often exacerbates the severity of cardiovascular conditions, an “obesity paradox” has previously been observed, where patients with higher body mass index (BMI) exhibit improved in-hospital and long-term outcomes in certain contexts. As minimally invasive procedures such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) continue to become more relevant, understanding the impact of different patient characteristics on clinical outcomes becomes increasingly important. Methods: A comprehensive analysis was conducted using a large cohort of patients who underwent PCI. In this study, we identified patients who underwent PCI in the year 2020 using the International Classification of Disease (ICD) codes. Patients were categorized into five groups based on their Body Mass Index (BMI). This study aimed to examine the impact of BMI on inpatient outcomes among patients undergoing PCI, focusing on mortality, length of stay, and hospitalization costs across different BMI categories. Results: Our analysis revealed a U-shaped relationship between BMI and inpatient outcomes. Patients with a BMI ≥ 25 demonstrated significantly reduced inpatient mortality (adjusted odds ratio 0.31, 95% CI: 0.18 to 0.54 for BMI 25–29.9 group and adjusted odds ratio 0.32, 95% CI: 0.20 to 0.51 for the BMI 30–39.9 group, with p ≤ 0.001); shorter hospital stays (BMI of 25 or higher with mean reduction of −2.40 to −3.66 days, with p ≤ 0.001); and lower hospitalization costs with a cost reduction of −$40,881 (95% CI: −$64,540 to −$17,223) for the BMI 25–29.9 group, −$57,900 (95% CI: −$80,308 to −$35,492) for the BMI 30–39.9 group, and −$41,463 (95% CI: −$65,151 to −$17,775) for the BMI ≥40 group compared to those with normal BMI (20–24.9). However, these benefits diminished for patients with a BMI ≥ 40, where no significant differences in mortality or cost reductions were observed. Conclusions: These findings underscore the complexity of the obesity paradox and its limitations in extreme obesity. This study highlights the need for tailored management strategies in PCI patients with varying BMI profiles.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010004

Authors: Zubair Bashir Bilal Khan Syed Bukhari

The prevalence of cardiac amyloidosis (CA), especially as a cause of heart failure, has significantly increased in recent years. Early detection and accurate assessment of the disease burden are crucial for initiating timely treatment and ensuring precise prognosis. CA primarily results from the infiltration of the myocardium by either immunoglobulin light chain fibrils (AL) or transthyretin fibrils (ATTR), leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy and eventual death if untreated. Over the past decade, advancements in diagnostic imaging and heightened clinical awareness have revealed a substantial presence of CA, particularly ATTR, among the elderly. These diagnostic improvements encompass echocardiography, cardiac computerized tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging, and radionuclide scintigraphy with bone-avid tracers. Concurrently, significant progress has been made in therapeutic options, with new disease-modifying treatments now available that can dramatically alter the disease trajectory and improve survival rates when administered early. However, despite these advancements, there remains an urgent need for the early and accurate detection of CA to ensure that patients can fully benefit from these emerging therapies.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010003

Authors: Fulvio Cacciapuoti Ilaria Caso Salvatore Crispo Nicola Verde Valentina Capone Rossella Gottilla Crescenzo Materazzi Mario Volpicelli Francesca Ziviello Ciro Mauro Pio Caso

Atrial fibrillation is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia influenced by multifactorial mechanisms, including the emerging role of epicardial adipose tissue. Left atrial epicardial adipose tissue, through its endocrine and paracrine activities, contributes to atrial remodeling by fostering inflammation, fibrosis, and electrical remodeling. Objectives: This review aims to explore the interaction between left atrial epicardial adipose tissue and atrial dysfunction, highlighting the utility of strain imaging as a diagnostic and prognostic tool in atrial fibrillation management. Additionally, it examines emerging therapeutic strategies targeting epicardial adipose tissue to improve outcomes. Methods: We analyzed recent advances in imaging techniques, with a specific focus on speckle-tracking echocardiography for non-invasive strain assessment. Strain imaging parameters, including atrial reservoir, conduit, and contractile strain, were evaluated alongside volumetric measures of epicardial adipose tissue. Emerging therapies, such as weight management and GLP-1 receptor agonists, were reviewed for their impact on left atrial epicardial adipose tissue and atrial remodeling. Results: Strain imaging demonstrates a significant association between reduced strain parameters and atrial remodeling induced by left atrial epicardial adipose tissue. Combining strain assessment with volumetric measures enhances diagnostic accuracy and stratification of patients at risk for recurrent or progressive atrial fibrillation. Emerging therapies, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists, show promise in reducing epicardial adipose tissue volume and mitigating atrial remodeling, thereby improving catheter ablation outcomes. Conclusions: Strain imaging is a valuable tool for the early detection of atrial dysfunction and personalized treatment planning in atrial fibrillation. Integrating these imaging approaches into routine clinical practice can optimize atrial fibrillation management and improve patient outcomes.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010002

Authors: Philip Houck

Introduction: Risk factors, a 75-year-old concept, are instrumental in the management of the general population. Newer biomarkers can explain residual risk and protection from risk. The population needs a new platform to make more comprehensible the importance of managing risk. Biologic age, the number of years left to live, is the platform that will receive the attention of patients. Method: Risk factor odds ratios are used to approximate the years lost to the modifiable risk, calculating a biologic age. Newer biomarkers confirm the predication and can be used to explain the pleomorphic properties of medications and unrealized risk. The biomarkers represent the following biologic processes: repair, inflammation, immune function, hematologic, clotting factors, metabolic-nutritional, organ maintenance, anthropomorphic, environmental, endothelial function, sleep, co-morbidities, frailty, and electromagnetic. Risk factors and biomarkers are ranked in the order of significance in reducing biologic age. Results: A six-step method of patient management using biologic age and biomarkers is presented. Conclusions: Knowledge of risk factors and therapies to improve risk has increased over the last 75 years. Biologic age is more appropriate in explaining the significance of this knowledge and may improve patient compliance to lifestyle changes and medication compliance. Appropriate counseling with utilization of biomarkers of biologic processes, such as high sensitivity-CRP, circulating stem cells, number of co-morbidities, frailty, electrocardiogram, and pulse wave velocity will improve compliance and personalize care. The 6-minute walk should be incorporated into the vital signs due to prognostic significance.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts6010001

Authors: Giovanna Rodio Marilisa Ludovico Alessio Angelini Maria Alfeo Dennis Andrenucci Giovanni Pugliese Walter Luvera Giovanni Luzzi

Cardiac Contractility Modulation (CCM) is an electrical therapy based on an implantable device. This device is approved for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Randomized clinical trials and thousands of described cases and studies have shown how CCM can improve exercise tolerance, quality of life, re-hospitalization for HF, and cardiac function by reverse left ventricular modelling. In this case report, we describe a patient candidate for a cardiac transplant based on dilated cardiomyopathy with severe LV dysfunction and narrow QRS. The patient had frequent heart failure-related hospitalizations, despite the optimal medical therapy. The strategy was to adopt the Cardiac Contractility Modulation (CCM) therapy while waiting for a cardiac transplant. During a consultation on all prospective therapy options, the patient refused the LVAD therapy, and was more confident in adopting a less invasive device therapy like CCM. This strategy had a very fast and beneficial impact on the patient’s health; the CCM improved heart failure symptoms, hemodynamics flow and cardiac functionality. Moreover, after a relatively short time, the patient went from persistent AF to Sinus Rhythm, although he started with a severe bi-atrial dilatation. These parameters were stable during an extended follow-up of 18 months.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts4020014

Authors: Shu-Kun Lin

According to our publication standards, each journal issue should contain at least one paper [...]

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040049

Authors: Joshua M. Holbert Manasa Gadiraju Samir Mehta Maria Kiaffas Sanket S. Shah Edo Bedzra

D-transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA) is a common cyanotic critical congenital heart disease. An arterial switch operation (ASO) with/without a ventricular septal defect (VSD) closure is the preferred surgical approach, with an added challenge when an intramural coronary artery (IMC) is present (1), with a reported increased incidence of postoperative complications and mortality (2,3). We present our recent D-TGA with intramural coronary artery (TGA-IMC) experience, focusing on the salient features identified on echocardiography, computed tomography (CT) angiography, and invasive angiograms, as well as variations in ASO surgical techniques for repair. Diagnostic imaging evaluation allowed for identification of the lesion, as well as planning for and undertaking of two different surgical approaches. While the two patients had differing immediate postoperative courses, both were asymptomatic at discharge, with normal biventricular systolic function. Our experience demonstrates that the suspicion for a coronary anomaly in TGA can be raised prenatally and confirmed postnatally with focused trans-thoracic echocardiography and ECG-gated CT angiogram evaluation while also aiding in operative planning. Moreover, suggesting further exploration of the optimal surgical technique for the repair of TGA-IMC.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040048

Authors: Sami Fouda Robert Hammond Peter D Donnelly Anthony R M Coates Alexander Liu

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is responsible for one of the worst pandemics in human history. The causative virus, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), can invade host cells in multiple organs by binding the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) II expressed on the cell surface. Once inside the host cell, viral replication takes place, leading to cellular disruption and the release of signal molecules that are recognised by the innate immune system. Innate immunity activation leads to the release of proinflammatory cytokines and primes the adaptive immune system. The proinflammatory environment defends against further viral entry and replication. SARS-CoV-2 infection is thought to lead to myocardial injury through several mechanisms. Firstly, direct viral-mediated cellular invasion of cardiomyocytes has been shown in in vitro and histological studies, which is related to cellular injury. Secondly, the proinflammatory state during COVID-19 can lead to myocardial injury and the release of protein remnants of the cardiac contractile machinery. Thirdly, the hypercoagulable state of COVID-19 is associated with thromboembolism of coronary arteries and/or other vascular systems. COVID-19 patients can also develop heart failure; however, the underlying mechanism is much less well-characterised than for myocardial injury. Several questions remain regarding COVID-19-related heart failure, including its potential reversibility, the role of anti-viral medications in its prevention, and the mechanisms underlying heart failure pathogenesis in long COVID-19. Further work is required to improve our understanding of the mechanism of cardiac sequelae in COVID-19, which may enable us to target SARS-CoV-2 and protect patients against longer-lasting cardiovascular complications.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040047

Authors: Xiao Yang Jacob Chaney Aaron S. David Fang Fang

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. While sex differences in CVD have been well documented, the physiological mechanisms of those sex differences remain unclear. As important components of the cardiovascular system, cardiac vagal control and baroreflex serve as mechanisms of sex differences in CVD and are modifiable factors for gender-specific CVD preventions. Methods: Ninety-four healthy adults (18–44 years of age; Mage = 21.09 years; 46 female) were recruited to complete the assessments of heart rate variability (HRV) at a resting baseline and the cardiac timing effect on an R-wave-locked reaction time (RT) task, which were used as the indicator of cardiac vagal control and a novel behavioral measure of baroreflex activity, respectively. HRV metrics (including the root mean square of successive R-R interval differences, high frequency and low frequency heart rate variability, and low frequency-to-high frequency ratio), the cardiac timing effect (the inhibition of RT response at the phase of cardiac systole compared to diastole), and their associations were compared between female and male participants. Results: Female participants showed higher levels of vagally mediated HRV after adjusting for basal resting heart rate. Importantly, the cardiac timing effect on RT responses was positively correlated with vagally mediated HRV among males but not among females. Conclusions: Females and males exhibited different physiological processes to regulate cardiovascular functions and behavioral outcomes. The present findings will help to reduce gender disparities in the preventive care of CVD and improve cardiovascular health for both women and men.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040046

Authors: Saadia Aslam Muhammad Haris Keith Nockels Amitha Puranik Srdjan Aleksandric Marko Banovic Gerry P. McCann Anvesha Singh

Background: Coronary microvascular disease is associated with adverse prognosis in a range of cardiovascular diseases, but its prognostic role in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) is unclear. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the prognostic role of myocardial perfusion and coronary flow reserve, assessed using non-invasive imaging modalities, in patients with AS. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all studies assessing myocardial perfusion reserve (MPR) or coronary flow reserve (CFR) in patients with AS and reporting clinical outcomes, from inception to January 2024. The definition of abnormal MPR/CFR and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was that used in each study. Estimates of effect were calculated from hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random-effects model. Results: Four studies comprising 384 participants met the inclusion criteria. Myocardial/coronary blood flow was assessed using Doppler echocardiography (n = 2), PET (n = 1), or cardiac magnetic resonance (n = 1). The median optimal cutoff for MPR/CFR across all studies was 2.01 (range 1.85–2.13), with 109 events. Impaired MPR/CFR was associated with a higher incidence of MACE (HR 3.67, 95% CI: 1.66, 8.09, I2 = 63%) in the overall population. Conclusions: Reduced MPR/CFR is associated with increased risk of MACE in patients with AS, although significant heterogeneity exists in published studies. Further studies are required to establish its role in the risk stratification of asymptomatic patients with AS.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040045

Authors: Cian P. Murray Hugo C. Temperley Niall J. O’Sullivan Andrew P. Kenny Ross Murphy

Background/objectives: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a major global health issue primarily caused by the rupture or erosion of vulnerable coronary plaques. Non-invasive identification of these plaques through coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) can be improved with radiomics, which extracts and analyses quantitative features from medical images. This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate the literature surrounding the role of radiomics in assessing coronary plaques via CCTA. Methods: A systematic search of Medline, EMBASE, and Web of Science was conducted up to July 2024. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, and their methodological quality was assessed using the radiomic quality score (RQS) and the QUADAS-2 tool. Results: All studies that evaluated radiomic models for plaque vulnerability reported area under the curve (AUC) values exceeding 0.7, indicating at least modest diagnostic performance. In the four studies that made direct comparisons, radiomic models consistently outperformed conventional CCTA markers. However, RQS scores ranged from 2.7% to 41.7%, reflecting variability in study quality and underscoring the need for more robust validation. Conclusions: Radiomics has the potential to enhance CCTA-based identification of vulnerable coronary plaques, offering a promising non-invasive approach to predicting major adverse cardiovascular events. However, the current body of research is limited by the lack of external validation, reliance on small, single-centre retrospective studies, and methodological inconsistencies, which impact the generalisability and reproducibility of findings. Future research should prioritise prospective, multi-centre studies with standardised protocols and rigorous validation frameworks to effectively incorporate radiomics into clinical practice.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040044

Authors: Ahmad Al Samarraie Roger Godbout Remi Goupil Catalin Paul Suarasan Samaya Kanj Melina Russo Mathilde Dano Justine Roy Laurence Reiher Guy Rousseau Maxime Pichette

Background: Recent studies have suggested an increased risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) following daylight saving time (DST) transitions in cohorts of American and European patients. We aim to validate this finding in a Canadian population. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients admitted to the Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal with a diagnosis of AMI requiring a coronary angiogram from 28 February 2016 to 3 December 2022. The transition period was defined as two weeks following DST, while the control periods were two weeks before and two weeks after the transition period. Patients aged 18 years or older were included. The primary endpoint was the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of AMI following DST transitions while the secondary endpoint was infarct size by biomarkers. A subgroup analysis compared the pre-COVID-19 period (2016–2019) to the post-COVID-19 period (2020–2022). Results: A total of 1058 patients were included (362 in the transition group and 696 in the control group). The baseline clinical characteristics were comparable between both groups. The rate of AMI per day following the DST transitions was 1.85 compared to 1.78 during control periods. The DST transitions were not associated with an increase in AMI (IRR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.91–1.18, p = 0.56) nor with infarct size. In the subgroup analysis, DST was associated with a significant increase in the incidence of AMI only in the pre-COVID-19 period, with a rate of 2.04 AMI per day in the transition group compared to 1.71 in the control group (IRR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.01–1.41, p = 0.041). In contrast, there was a significant increase in the size of AMI following DST in the post-COVID-19 period subgroup, with a creatine phosphokinase-MB (CK-MB) concentration of 137 ± 229 µg/L compared to 93 ± 142 µg/L (p = 0.013). Conclusions: In this Canadian cohort, there was a significant increase in the incidence of AMI in the pre-COVID-19 period, and infarct sizes were significantly larger following the DST transitions in the post-COVID-19 period. No significant associations emerged when pre- and post-COVID-19 periods were pooled.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040043

Authors: Yun Yun Go Patrizio Lancellotti

Clinical equipoise remains regarding the optimal revascularization strategy for single-vessel disease, specifically isolated left anterior descending (LAD) artery disease, owing to the scarcity of contemporary randomized controlled trials [...]

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040042

Authors: Christoph A. Nienaber Stephan Nienaber

The group around Gabriel Yeap et al [...]

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040041

Authors: Gabriel Yeap Kamleshun Ramphul Javed M. Ahmed Asif Shah Saddam Jeelani Hemamalini Sakthivel Mansimran Singh Dulay Farhan Shahid Raheel Ahmed

Background/Objectives: Few studies have analyzed in-hospital complications and events following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) procedures for patients who underwent these interventions for single-vessel coronary artery disease (CAD). This study aims to compare the outcomes of PCI and CABG in such patients using a large propensity-matched real-world database based on procedural codes. Methods: Adult patients receiving PCI or CABG for single-vessel CAD were identified from the 2016–2020 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database. Any cases targeting multi-vessel disease or employing a multi-treatment approach were excluded using appropriate procedural codes. Differences in events and complications from admission to discharge were studied between the two procedures (PCI vs. CABG) via logistic regression analysis. Results: After propensity matching with 273,380 patients in both groups, complication risks such as cardiac tamponade (aOR: 3.6 [3.27–3.96]), acute kidney injury (aOR: 1.53 [1.51–1.56]), cardiogenic shock (aOR: 1.38 [1.34–1.40]), procedural bleeding (aOR: 1.75 [1.67–1.83]), acute ischemic stroke (aOR: 1.89 [1.80–1.97]), and all-cause mortality (aOR: 1.05 [1.02–1.08]) were higher among CABG patients. No differences were observed for events of cardiac perforation (aOR: 0.92, [0.84–1.01]). Conclusions: In this large real-world propensity-matched analysis, CABG was associated with higher risks of multiple in-hospital complications and all-cause mortality compared to PCI following a single-vessel coronary intervention.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040040

Authors: Abdulmajeed Alharbi Nahush Bansal Anas Alsughayer Momin Shah Waleed Alruwaili Mohammed Mhanna Halah Alfatlawi Eun Seo Kwak Ayman Salih Mohanad Qwaider Ragheb Assaly

Background/Objectives: Heart failure presents a significant public health challenge, affecting millions in the US, with projections of increasing prevalence and economic burdens. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent among HF patients. This study analyzes the impact of OSA on the outcomes in patients admitted with acute decompensated heart failure. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Inpatient Sample database (NIS) 2020, focusing on patients admitted with acute heart failure. Patient outcomes were compared between those with and without a secondary diagnosis of OSA, identified via validated ICD-10 codes. Subgroup analysis was conducted between heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Results: Among 65,649 patients with acute heart failure, 4595 (7%) patients were found to have OSA. The patients with OSA were more likely to be male, older in age and had a higher burden of comorbidities. No significant differences were observed in mortality between heart failure patients with and without OSA. In HFrEF patients, OSA was associated with longer hospital stays (6.45 days vs. 5.79 days, p < 0.001), higher rates of acute kidney injury (AKI) (adjusted odds ratio 1.28, 95% CI: 1.07–1.54, p = 0.007), and atrial fibrillation (adjusted odds ratio 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13–1.61, p = 0.001). In HFpEF patients, an association between OSA and AF was observed (adjusted odds ratio 1.20, 95% CI: 1.01–1.42, p = 0.03). Conclusions: OSA is associated with poor in-hospital outcomes in patients admitted with acute heart failure. HFrEF subgroup is especially vulnerable, with OSA leading to a significant increase in healthcare utilization and complication rates in these patients. This nationwide study underscores the importance of timely identification and treatment of OSA in heart failure to alleviate healthcare burdens and improve patient outcomes.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040039

Authors: Linda Piras Michela Zuccanti Giacomo Tini Melato Massimo Volpe Giuliano Tocci Emanuele Barbato Allegra Battistoni

Sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), originally developed for type II diabetes mellitus, have recently been approved for the treatment of heart failure in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients due to their significant cardiovascular benefits. Beyond their established role in diabetes and heart failure management, current research is exploring the potential applications of SGLT2 inhibitors in the field of cardio-oncology. This interest is driven by dual possible benefits: cardioprotection against the adverse effects of antitumor therapies and inherent antitumor properties. Patients affected by cancer often face the challenge of managing cardiovascular toxicity induced by antineoplastic treatments. SGLT2 inhibitors have shown promise in mitigating toxicities, thereby enhancing the cardiovascular health of these patients. Additionally, emerging evidence suggests that SGLT2 inhibitors may possess direct antitumor effects, further contributing to their therapeutic potential in oncology. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms through which SGLT2 inhibitors exert their cardioprotective and antitumor effects. Furthermore, we will examine the current body of evidence supporting the use of these inhibitors in a cardio-oncology setting.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040038

Authors: Faria Khimani Chandana Kulkarni Erin Haase Peyton Moore Paul Murdock Akash Ramanathan Adam Wolf Mohanakrishnan Sathyamoorthy

Six patients in our clinical program who were diagnosed with high burden (>10%) premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) and concomitant significant upper GI disease with no other significant cardiac history demonstrated a significant reduction in the burden of PVCs following surgical or procedural interventions of the upper GI tract (68.34% reduction, p = 0.024). Furthermore, in all cases, the origin of the PVCs was from the base of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT). This is the first report in the literature that we are aware of that makes the unique association that we propose a dual mechanism of action of the upper GI and vagally mediated PVCs and through direct, anatomical extrinsic triggering of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) of the heart. These are very preliminary findings that warrant larger clinical and mechanistic studies that if confirmed, may define a new physiologic subset of PVCs for which we propose a new term, “E-PVCs”.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040037

Authors: Niken Prasasti Martono Hayato Ohwada

(1) Background: Arrhythmias, or irregular heart rhythms, are a prevalent cardiovascular condition and are diagnosed using electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. Advances in deep learning have enabled automated analysis of these signals. However, the effectiveness of deep learning models depends greatly on the quality of signal preprocessing. This study evaluated the impact of different windowing techniques applied to Fourier transform-preprocessed ECG signals on the classification accuracy of deep learning models. (2) Methods: We applied three windowing techniques—Hamming, Hann, and Blackman—to transform ECG signals into the frequency domain. A one-dimensional convolutional neural network was employed to classify the ECG signals into five arrhythmia categories based on features extracted from each windowed signal. (3) Results: The Blackman window yielded the highest classification accuracy, with improved signal-to-noise ratio and reduced spectral leakage compared to the Hamming and Hann windows. (4) Conclusions: The choice of windowing technique significantly influences the effectiveness of deep learning models in ECG classification. Future studies should explore additional preprocessing methods and their clinical applications.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040036

Authors: Ana Lopez Jing Wang Manasi Prashant Michelle C. Johansen

Introduction: Whether the association between atrial fibrillation (AF) and ischemic stroke (IS) outcomes differs by IS treatment type is unknown. We hypothesize that patients with IS who have AF will have a worse NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score than non-AF, with differences by IS treatment type. Methods: Patients with, and without AF admitted to Johns Hopkins (2020–2023) with confirmed IS and complete covariates were eligible for inclusion. Consecutive patients either received acute IS treatment (intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IVtPA), mechanical thrombectomy (MT), or both) or did not receive treatment (2:1 ratio). Multivariable regression models were used to determine the association between AF and discharge NIHSS, or 90-day mRS, separately, with interaction terms for IS treatment type as appropriate. Results: Among 353 IS patients (mean age 69 years, 52.1% female, 54.7% Black), 62 received IVtPA only, 66 received IVtPA then MT, 108 received MT only, and 117 were not treated. Patients with AF (N = 152) were, on average, 11 years older and had more comorbidities than non-AF. AF was associated with higher odds of an NIHSS > 5, even after adjusting for demographics and comorbidities (OR 2.09, 95% CI 1.29–3.40). AF increased the odds of a worse 90-day mRS (Ordinal OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.03–2.64). The association between AF and NIHSS differed by whether MT was received (p-interaction 0.037), but not by IVtPA (p-interaction 0.105). AF and 90-day mRS differed by whether MT was received (p-interaction 0.020), but not by IVtPA (p-interaction 0.139). Patients with AF who did not receive MT had a worse NIHSS (OR 4.24, 95% CI 1.38–13.00) and 90-day mRS (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.30–1.97) compared to non-AF. The individual effect estimates were not significant for those treated with MT when comparing AF to non-AF. Conclusions: The association between AF (vs non-AF) and both NIHSS and 90-day mRS differed by whether MT was received, but not by IVtPA. Patients with AF who did not receive MT had more severe strokes and worse outcomes than non-AF. These findings suggest that while AF is typically linked to more severe strokes, not receiving MT when eligible is particularly detrimental. Receipt of IVtPA did not appear to make a difference, possibly due to treatment contraindications and delays among those with AF.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040035

Authors: Lyuboslav Katov Yannick Teumer Alyssa Schlarb Sonja Reiländer Deniz Aktolga Federica Diofano Carlo Bothner Wolfgang Rottbauer Karolina Weinmann-Emhardt

Background: Cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI)-dependent atrial flutter (AFL) is the most common atrial macro-reentrant tachycardia, characterized by a typical ECG pattern (type I ECG). Often, tachycardia terminates before it can be confirmed by an electrophysiological study (EPS), necessitating CTI ablation in sinus rhythm (SR). This study aims to compare the success rate of CTI ablation in patients with type I ECG during SR versus ongoing CTI-dependent AFL, focusing on arrhythmia recurrence. Methods: We screened patients at Ulm University Heart Center from January 2010 to November 2020 with type I ECG who underwent CTI ablation. Patients were divided into two groups: those whose tachycardia terminated before EPS and underwent ablation in SR, and those with ongoing CTI-dependent AFL during EPS. CTI ablation was deemed complete when a bidirectional conductance block was achieved, confirmed after 30 min. Results: A total of 230 patients were included, all showing typical AFL in ECG recordings. Of these, 67 patients underwent ablation in SR, while 163 were ablated during ongoing AFL. The median follow-up time was 2.7 years. Recurrence of CTI-dependent AFL occurred in 8.3% of patients: 4.5% in the SR ablation group and 9.8% in the ongoing AFL group. Kaplan–Meier estimation showed similar efficacy for both methods regarding arrhythmia recurrence (log-rank p = 0.07). Conclusions: Our decade-long study indicates that CTI ablation during SR is as effective as ablation during ongoing CTI-dependent AFL in achieving long-term freedom from arrhythmia. This research supports the efficacy of both techniques in clinical settings, validating a widely practiced approach.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040034

Authors: Livija Sušić Marina Vidosavljević Marko Burić Antonio Burić Lana Maričić

A 67-year-old man started treatment due to frequent asymptomatic premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) accidentally being registered during a preventive examination by a specialist, because of which he was referred to cardiologist. During the initial 24-hour (h) ECG monitoring, 4.5% PVCs and one episode of asymptomatic non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) with three PVCs in row, at a frequency of 150 beats per minute (bpm), were detected. After the introduction of beta blockers into therapy, a lower number of PVCs, without NSVT, were recorded in the control 24 h Holter ECG, while transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function without cardiomyopathy. So, an exercise test was indicated, and it was interrupted in the third minute at 120 beats per minute (bpm) due to fatigue and pain in the hips, without malignant arrhythmias, angina or dyspneic complaints. During the rest period, a significant inferolateral depression of the ST junction was observed, which recovered in the ninth minute. Immediately after the ECG monitoring stopped, the patient lost consciousness; his pulse was not palpable, but breathing was audible, so cardiac massage was started. After he had regained consciousness, the ECG showed alternating sinus and junctional rhythm with the lowest frequency of 33 bpm, which was accompanied by marked hypotension (80/50 mmHg). The patient was immediately hospitalized; coronary angiography and repeated TTE were completely normal, while continuous ECG monitoring did not confirm malignant rhythm disorders or asystole. It was concluded that it was vasovagal syncope (VVS), most likely caused by the Bezold–Jarisch reflex (BJR).

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040033

Authors: Maryam Izadi Shiva Shafabakhsh Amir Mirnateghi

Background: Even though beta-blockers had been used as a first-line therapy for hypertension, since the late 1960s, the Eighth Joint National Committee, JNC 8, decided to recommend them no longer. This decision was based on relatively weak evidence from previous studies, which found that first-line beta-blockers were less effective in reducing stroke and heart failure, the main outcomes of hypertension. Despite the general perception, the most common events caused by hypertension are death and MI, not stroke or heart failure. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify beta-blocker efficacy by incorporating the data from all relevant beta-blocker trials, using the composite outcome of major cardiovascular events. Method: A search was conducted on MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, restricted to published, peer-reviewed, human, meta-analysis, and controlled clinical trials. The term words used were “beta-blockers or adrenergic beta antagonists”, “hypertension”, and “death or coronary heart disease or stroke or congestive heart failure or myocardial infarction”. For this research, we selected six randomized controlled trials, and three meta-analyses were also chosen. Results: The results showed that beta-blockers were as effective as other first-line medications in younger hypertensive patients. On the other hand, in the patients aged above 60, the results were mixed. Beta-blockers were more effective than diuretics, but inferior to angiotensin receptor blockers. Also, beta-blockers were as safe and effective as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in reducing coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and sudden death. However, beta-blockers were inferior to calcium channel blockers in reducing strokes. Conclusions: Beta-blockers were found to be the most effective in many aspects except for strokes. Further studies are needed to assess beta-blockers’ effectiveness in treating primary hypertension.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040032

Authors: Philip Houck

Introduction: The problem can be stated as over three billion choices to improve 14 disease states with nine optimization goals (some of the optimization goals are diametrically opposed) to improve dyspnea, shortness of breath, fatigability, exercise intolerance, edema, swelling, fluid retention, and arrhythmias. The goal is to increase the Left Ventricular Outflow Integral, reduce mitral regurgitation, increase longitudinal conduction velocities, and restore synchrony of the septum to the ventricle that needs it the most. The paper is organized in the following sections: (I) Spectrum of Cardiac Disease and Desired Pacing Outcomes; (II) Echo Evaluation of Disease Processes; (III) Pacing Goals in the Spectrum of Disease; (IV) Remodeling—Mathematical Model; (V) Method of Optimization of the Pacing Devices. Conclusions: Pacing trials provided the basic justification for an additional pacing lead but fell short in optimizing individual patients. The physician needs to recognize the spectrum of disease and use the protocol to improve the quality of life of the individual patient. A method to accomplish this task for the spectrum of cardiac disease is presented.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040031

Authors: Riya Kar Debabrata Mukhopadhyay Ramcharan Singh Angom

Recent advancements in disease modeling for myocardial infarction (MI) and coronary artery disease (CAD) have significantly enhanced our understanding of cardiovascular pathology and therapeutic development. This review comprehensively reviews the integration of in vivo and in vitro approaches to better model and study these conditions. We specifically focus on cutting-edge in vitro techniques, such as cardiac organoids, engineered heart tissues, and patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which allow for detailed exploration of cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in MI and CAD. These models provide insights into ischemic injury, myocardial remodeling, and the effects of potential therapeutic interventions at a cellular level. In parallel, we discuss advances in the in vivo models, including genetically modified mice and large animal models, which offer valuable information on disease progression, cardiac function, and response to treatments within a more complex physiological context. By bridging these in vivo and in vitro approaches, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of disease mechanisms, validate experimental findings, and accelerate the development of effective therapies. This review highlights recent progress, identifies current limitations, and proposes strategies for future research to enhance the translation of model-based discoveries into clinical practice for MI and CAD.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5040030

Authors: Vivek Joseph Varughese Yoshua Mathai Cara Joseph Logan Carlyle

Background: With the growing trends in recreational marijuana use, our study aims at analyzing the association between acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and ventricular fibrillation (Vfib) and cannabis use disorder in young adults (18–45). Methods: Young adult hospitalizations (18–45 years) with documented ACS/ventricular fibrillation and documented cannabis use were identified from the National Inpatient Sample (2019). Primary outcomes included prevalence and odds of ACS/ventricular fibrillation with cannabis use disorder. Patient factors that held significant association with adverse cardiovascular events in young cannabis users were studied. Propensity scoring and neighbor matching were used to compare resource utilization and in-hospital outcomes in the study population. Results: Among young patients (18–45) admitted for ACS, documented cannabis use disorder (CUD) had a statistically significant association with an odds ratio of 2.29 (2.48–3.04) after adjusting for age, sex, race, household income, smoking, cocaine use, uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Documented CUD had a significant association with ventricular fibrillation in the population with an odds ratio of 2.29 (1.51–3.49) after adjusting for the above-mentioned factors. Among admissions with documented CUD, patient factors that held significant association with admitting diagnosis of ACS/Vfib were: black race (OR: 1.73), uncontrolled hypertension (OR: 4.08) and diabetes (OR: 2.45). Propensity-matched cohorts with documented CUD and ACS had significantly higher mean length of hospital stay 3.28 (2.98–3.53) days when compared to the cohort without documented CUD, 2.69 (2.32–2.82) days. The mean of total hospital charges was higher in the cohort with documented CUD at $92,390.64 (92,240.31–92,445.76) compared to $90,886.44 (89,932.21–91,042.56) in the cohort without cannabis use disorder. Conclusions: Documented diagnosis of cannabis use disorder had statistically significant association with admission diagnosis of ACS/Vfib even after accounting for confounders. A documented race as black and co-existing diagnosis of uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes had a significant association with admission diagnosis of ACS in the population with documented cannabis use disorder. Propensity-matched cohorts with cannabis use disorder with the main admitting diagnosis of ACS/Vfib were associated with a higher mean length of hospital stay and a higher mean of total charges compared to the matched cohorts without documented cannabis use disorder.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030029

Authors: Silverio Sbrana Stefano Salvadori Rosetta Ragusa Elisa Ceccherini Adrian Florentin Suman Antonella Cecchettini Chiara Caselli Danilo Neglia Gualtiero Pelosi Silvia Rocchiccioli

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease wherein neutrophils play a key role in plaque evolution. We observed that neutrophil CD11b was associated with a higher necrotic core volume in coronary plaques. Since platelets modulate neutrophil function, we explored the influence of neutrophil–platelet conjugates on the cytokine-modulated neutrophil complex CD11b/CD18 and CCR5 receptor expression. In 55 patients [68.53 ± 7.95 years old (mean ± SD); 71% male], neutrophil positivity for CD11b, CD18 and CCR5 was expressed as Relative Fluorescence Intensity (RFI) and taken as a dependent variable. Cytokines and chemokines were assessed by ELISA. Following log-10-based logarithmic transformation, they were used as independent variables in Model 1 of multiple regression together with Body Mass Index and albumin. Model 1 was expanded with the RFI of neutrophil CD41a+ (model 2). The RFI of neutrophil CD41a+ correlated positively and significantly with CD11b, CD18, and CCR5. In Model 2, CCR5 correlated positively only with the RFI of neutrophil CD41a+. Albumin maintained its positive effect on CD11b in both models. These observations indicate the complexity of neutrophil phenotypic modulation in stable CAD. Despite limitations, these findings suggest there is a role played by neutrophil–platelet interaction on the neutrophil cytokine-modulated expression of adhesive and chemotactic receptors.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030028

Authors: Sri Harsha Kanuri Yashashree Apparao Vegi

Cardiac angiosarcoma is the most common malignant tumor of the heart. The typical clinical profile is a young male with 30–50 years of age. Due to varied clinical presentation, it can disguise common cardiovascular disorders, such as pericarditis, congestive cardiac failure, and angina. This can delay the diagnosis, thus allowing the tumor to progress to the advanced stage by the time it is detected. Depending on tumor grade and size, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is advocated. Despite aggressive management, these tumors have a propensity to recur, advance, and metastasize, thereby underscoring the treatment resistance commonly encountered with these tumors. Resultantly, most of the patients are more prone to have shorter survival time, worse clinical outcomes, and grave prognosis. Research efforts should be directed toward decoding the inherent immune-genetic traits of these aggressive tumors so that their rapid progression can be extensively repressed. So, we propounded basic and clinical research studies to grasp the genetic makeup of these tumors so that crafting novel therapeutic modalities for improving prognosis and survival interval in these malignant tumors can materialize.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030027

Authors: Matthew L. Repp Mark D. Edwards Christopher S. Burch Amith Rao Ikeotunye Royal Chinyere

The field of cardio-oncology is an expanding frontier within cardiovascular medicine, and the need for evidence-based guidelines is apparent. One of the emerging focuses within cardio-oncology is the concomitant use of medications for cardioprotection in the setting of chemotherapy regimens that have known cardiovascular toxicity. While clinical trials focusing on cardioprotection during chemotherapy are sparse, an inaugural trial exploring the prophylactic potential of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) for anthracycline (ANT)-induced cardiotoxicity has recently commenced. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, though less studied in this oncology demographic, have exhibited promise in preclinical studies for conferring cardiac protection during non-ischemic toxic insults. While primarily used to reduce low-density lipoprotein, PCSK9 inhibitors exhibit pleiotropic effects, including the attenuation of inflammation, reactive oxygen species, and endothelial dysfunction. In ANT-induced cardiotoxicity, these same processes are accelerated, resulting in premature termination of treatment, chronic cardiovascular sequelae, heart failure, and/or death. This review serves a dual purpose: firstly, to provide a concise overview of the mechanisms implicated in ANT-induced cardiotoxicity, and, finally, to summarize the existing preclinical data supporting the theoretical possibility of the cardioprotective effects of PCSK9 inhibition in ANT-induced cardiotoxicity.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030026

Authors: Oscar Wickzén Martin Sundqvist Raffaele Scorza

Echocardiography is recommended as a first-line diagnostic tool in patients with premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). However, standard echocardiography is not always able to identify early signs of myocardial dysfunction and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) may offer additional information. Since CMR has lower accessibility and higher cost compared to echocardiography, we wanted to evaluate how additional echocardiographic parameters, not included in routine examinations, perform compared to CMR in detecting signs of cardiomyopathy in PVC patients with normal findings at a standard echocardiogram. We compared CMR findings and results from an extended echocardiographic examination in thirty-nine patients who had a high PVC burden. The additional echocardiographic parameters were global longitudinal strain, mechanical dispersion, ventricular–arterial coupling, integrated backscatter and left atrial activation time. Eleven patients had pathological findings at CMR. The additional echocardiographic parameters did not significantly differ between patients with or without CMR findings. However, several patients with normal CMR findings showed signs of ventricular dysfunction when evaluated with the additional echocardiographic parameters, which suggests that these could possibly offer supplementary information in the assessment of PVC patients.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030025

Authors: Rostand Moreira Fernandes João Paulo Jordão Pontes Celso Eduardo Rezende Borges Demócrito Ribeiro de Brito Neto Anastácio de Jesus Pereira Vergílio Pereira Carvalho Lucas Gonçalves Gomes Fernando Cássio do Prado Silva

In cardiac surgery, poststernotomy pain is a significant issue, peaking within 48 h and requiring proper analgesia for both acute relief and avoidance of chronicization. Opioids are commonly used for pain management postsurgery but pose risks such as adverse effects and dependency. Post-cardiac surgery pain can stem from various sources—somatic, visceral, and neuropathic—making opioid reliance a concern. Multimodal analgesia, which combines different medications and regional anesthesia techniques, is increasingly recommended to decrease opioid use and its related problems. Strategies include acetaminophen, gabapentinoids, NMDA antagonists, alpha-2 agonists, intravenous lidocaine, anti-inflammatory drugs, and regional anesthesia. These approaches can enhance pain control, reduce opioid reliance, and improve cardiac surgery outcomes. The ERAS® Cardiac Society strongly advocates for an opioid-sparing multimodal approach to improve patient recovery by reducing complications and increasing patient satisfaction. This review aims to consolidate current evidence to assist healthcare providers in customizing pain management for patients post-cardiac surgery, emphasizing reduced opioid use and optimizing the recovery process.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030024

Authors: Deepak Chandramohan Prathap Kumar Simhadri Nihar Jena Sujith Kumar Palleti

Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a life-threatening disorder that involves a complex interplay between the two organs. Managing this multifaceted syndrome is challenging in the hospital and requires a multidisciplinary approach to tackle the many manifestations and complications. There is no universally accepted algorithm to treat patients, and therapeutic options vary from one patient to another. The mainstays of therapy involve the stabilization of hemodynamics, decongestion using diuretics or renal replacement therapy, improvement of cardiac output with inotropes, and goal-directed medical treatment with renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system inhibitors, beta-blockers, and other medications. Mechanical circulatory support is another viable option in the armamentarium of agents that improve symptoms in select patients.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030023

Authors: Jennifer Santos Pereira Anna Carolina Neves Leutz Brenda P. F. A. Gomes Lauter E. Pelepenko Marina Angélica Marciano

Endocarditis is a severe infection affecting the heart’s inner layer, the endocardium. Its pathophysiology may involve heart valve damage, bacteria adhesion and biofilm formation, potentially leading to fatal complications. Bacteria from various sources, including from endodontic diseases and its treatments may enter the bloodstream provoking this condition. This systematic review aimed to explore the influence of endodontic factors on endocarditis. Searches across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and manual sources yielded 14 relevant articles from 1562 screened studies. Assessment platforms from JBI Critical Appraisal Tools evaluated studies biases. Findings mainly focused on transient bacteraemia as a key indicator of risk correlating bacterial virulence and counts with endocarditis development. Worryingly, multi-species bacteraemia post-endodontic treatment was noted including the genera Enterococcus, Parvimonas, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus. Conclusive validation of the incidence and association between endodontic patients and endocarditis was limited due to a lack of robust longitudinal investigations, such as randomized controlled trials. This emphasizes the need for further research with well-designed methodologies to provide a full understanding of the causative bacterial population and its pathological mechanisms. A current guideline (2023 European Society of Cardiology) was developed to support healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing infective endocarditis; this 2023 version is introducing a new diagnostic algorithm to aid in patient classification aiming to improve outcomes for this challenging disease. The study was a priori registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023407736).

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030022

Authors: Lee P. Liao Anushriya Pant Simone Marschner Peter Talbot Sarah Zaman

There is emerging evidence to suggest that diet and dietary interventions can have an impact on heart failure (HF) outcomes. Currently, the restriction of salt intake is the only dietary advice that is consistently guideline-recommended for the management of HF despite conflicting evidence for its efficacy. Dietary components that have been investigated in people with HF include middle-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) salts, ketone esters and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Supplementation with these components is thought to be cardioprotective possibly due to an increase in myocardial energy production. There have been research studies on the effectiveness of The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and the Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) in the treatment of HF, but with conflicting results. The ketogenic diet (KD) has come to the forefront of interest due to evidence indicating its effectiveness in addressing the metabolic shift that occurs in HF. However, there is a lack of randomised controlled trials (RCT) centred around the KD. In any dietary intervention, factors such as adherence and compliance affect the validity of the results. Malnutrition, sarcopenia and/or cardiac cachexia can be present in the more advanced stages of heart failure. Nutritional screening, assessment and support/intervention are important aspects of treatment in the advanced stages of heart failure. Furthermore, HF management through dietary intervention is further complicated by the presence of comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and coronary artery disease (CAD). Long-term studies on the use of dietary modifications in people with HF are warranted to ascertain their efficacy, safety and side effects.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030021

Authors: Michele D’Alonzo Mariantonietta Piscitelli Francesco Cilia

The occurrence of pericardial rupture as a complication of blunt thoracic trauma has the potential to result in cardiac dislocation unless promptly identified and subjected to suitable surgical intervention. This phenomenon is exceptionally uncommon and is associated with a significant mortality rate between 30 and 67%. The diagnosis remains complex due to the scarcity of symptoms. However, the routine application of computed tomography (CT) scans in the management of trauma patients could facilitate the early identification of cardiac dislocation. In this case report, we described the diagnostic–therapeutic pathway of a pericardial rupture due to high-intensity trauma.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030020

Authors: Peyton Lahr Chloe Carling Joseph Nauer Ryan McGrath James W. Grier

Background: There are many types of arrhythmias which may threaten health that are well-known or opaque. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine how different cardiac health risk factors rank together in association with arrhythmias in young, middle-aged, and older adults. Methods: The analytic sample included 101 adults aged 50.6 ± 22.6 years. Several prominent heart-health-related risk factors were self-reported. Mean arterial pressure and body mass index were collected using standard procedures. Hydraulic handgrip dynamometry measured strength capacity. A 6 min single-lead electrocardiogram evaluated arrhythmias. Respiratory sinus arrhythmias (RSAs) and ectopic heart beats were observed and specified for analyses. Classification and Regression Tree analyses were employed. Results: A mean arterial pressure ≥ 104 mmHg was the first level predictor for ectopic beats, while age ≥ 41 years was the first level predictor for RSAs. Age, heart rate, stress and anxiety, and physical activity emerged as important variables for ectopic beats (p < 0.05), whereas age, sodium, heart rate, and gender were important for RSAs (p < 0.05). Conclusions: RSAs and ectopic arrhythmias may have unique modifiable and non-modifiable factors that may help in understanding their etiology for prevention and treatment as appropriate across the lifespan.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030019

Authors: Paolo Emilio Puddu Anthony Kafatos Hanna Tolonen Johanna M. Geleijnse Alessandro Menotti

Aim and Background: To determine whether occupational physical activity (OPA) and physical fitness (Fitscore) predict cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and its components. Methods: Among middle-aged men (N = 5482) of seven cohorts of the Seven Countries Study (SCS), several baseline risk factors were measured, and there was a follow-up for 60 years until virtual extinction. OPA was estimated from the type of work while Fitscore was derived from linear combinations of levels of arm circumference, heart rate and vital capacity computed as a factor score by principal component analysis. The predictive adjusted power of these characteristics was obtained by Cox models for coronary heart disease (CHD), heart diseases of uncertain etiology (HDUE), stroke and CVD outcomes. Results: Single levels of the three indicators of fitness were highly related to the three levels of OPA and Fitscore. High levels of both OPA and Fitscore forced into the same models were associated with lower CVD, CHD, HDUE and stroke mortality. When assessed concomitantly in the same models, hazard ratios (high versus low) for 60-year CVD mortality were 0.88 (OPA: 95% CI: 0.78–0.99) and 0.68 (Fitscore 95% CI: 0.61–0.75), and the predictive power of Fitscore outperformed that of OPA for CHD, HDUE and stroke outcomes. Similar results were obtained in individual outcome models in the presence of risk factors. Segregating the first 30 from the second 30 years of follow-up indicated that people dying earlier had lower arm circumference and vital capacity, whereas heart rate was higher for CVD and most of its major components (all p < 0.0001). Conclusions: OPA was well related to the indicators of fitness involving muscular mass, cardio-circulatory and respiratory functions, thus adding predictive power for CVD events. The Fitscore derived from the above indicators represents another powerful long-term predictor of CHD, HDUE and stroke mortality.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5030018

Authors: Maximilian A. Selbst Colin R. Ward Megan L. Svetgoff Hector I. Michelena Anna Sabate-Rotes Julie De Backer Laura Muiño Mosquera Anji T. Yetman Malenka M. Bissell Maria Grazia Andreassi Ilenia Foffa Dawn S. Hui Anthony Caffarelli Yuli Y. Kim Dongchuan Guo Rodolfo Citro Margot De Marco Justin T. Tretter Shaine A. Morris Kim L. McBride Simon C. Body Siddharth K. Prakash

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart malformation in adults, but it can also cause childhood-onset complications. The presentation and clinical course of young adults who present due to BAV complications are relatively uncharacterized. In a multicenter study, we found that young people who experience significant complications related to BAV disease before age 30 are distinguished from the majority of BAV cases that manifest after age 50 by a relatively severe clinical course, with higher rates of surgical interventions, more frequent second interventions, and a greater burden of congenital heart malformations. These observations highlight the need for prompt recognition, regular lifelong surveillance, and targeted interventions to address the significant health burdens of patients with early-onset BAV complications.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5020017

Authors: Supriya Peshin Shivani Modi Lalith Namburu Malay Rathod

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of mortality in the United States. The increasing number of cancer patients experiencing cardiovascular side effects from chemotherapeutic drugs is a cause for concern. Trastuzumab is a highly effective targeted therapy for HER2-positive cancers but its use is limited globally due to its cardiotoxic effects. The most severe adverse effect is cardiomyopathy, which is characterized by contractile dysfunction and reduced left ventricular systolic function. The electrophysiological side effects of trastuzumab are still not fully understood. Due to these life-threatening side effects, trastuzumab is routinely discontinued. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of trastuzumab-induced cardiomyopathy, including the mechanisms by which trastuzumab exerts its cardiotoxic effects, the clinical manifestations, diagnostic strategies, and potential interventions to protect the heart. By shedding light on the various aspects of this condition, we hope to emphasize the importance of early detection and effective management, as well as the urgent need for further research to optimize the balance between successful cancer treatment and cardiovascular well-being. Cardiologists, oncologists, and researchers are at the forefront of this critical intersection between oncology and cardiology, working collaboratively to enhance patient outcomes in the era of trastuzumab therapy.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5020016

Authors: Abdulmajeed Alharbi Clarissa Pena Mohammed Mhanna Caleb Spencer Masharib Bashar Michelle Cherian Ahmad Abdulrahman Halah Alfatlawi Eun Seo Kwak Mohammad Siddique Ragheb Assaly

Introduction: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic disorder that is widely observed on a global scale and known for its substantial negative impact on health and mortality. The purpose of this research was to explore how SCD influences the outcomes of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). Methods: A retrospective observational analysis was conducted using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) data for the year 2020. Adult patients with concurrent ACS and SCD diagnoses were included in the study. Demographic information, clinical characteristics, in-hospital outcomes, and PCI complications were examined and compared between ACS patients with and without SCD. Results: Among a total of 779,895 ACS patients, 1495 had coexisting SCD. SCD patiets exhibited distinct demographic features, such as younger age (mean age: 59 vs. 66 years), predominantly female (53% vs. 35%), and primarily African American (91% vs. 11%). Comorbid conditions such as hypertension and chronic lung disease were more prevalent in SCD patients. While inpatient mortality odds did not significantly differ, SCD patients demonstrated slightly shorter lengths of stay in cases of STEMI and NSTEMI/UA. Notably, SCD patients faced a statistically significant increased risk of coronary dissection, highlighting a unique complication in this population. Although an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation and acute heart failure was observed in SCD patients, statistical significance was not achieved. Conclusions: This study provides valuable insight into the intricate interplay between SCD and ACS outcomes. SCD patients presented with distinctive demographic and clinical profiles that influenced their experience with ACS. The elevated risk of coronary dissection emphasizes the necessity for tailored interventions and careful management in SCD patients. These findings underscore the need for further research to elucidate underlying mechanisms and optimize treatment strategies for individuals with both SCD and ACS.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5020015

Authors: Paolo Giovanardi Cecilia Vernia Sara Roversi Enrico Tincani Giuseppe Spadafora Federico Silipo Claudio Giberti

Background: The study aimed to compare the prognostic importance of the heart rate (HR) and QT—corrected (QTc) according to Fridericia, Framingham, and Bazett with respect to all-cause mortality in a large non-selected population. Methods: The analysis of digital electrocardiograms archived from 2008 to 2022 in the metropolitan area of Modena, Italy, was carried out. The population under study was divided into three groups based on age, and survival analysis was performed. Results: 131,627 patients were enrolled and, during the follow-up (mean 1641.4 days), all-cause mortality was 8.9%. Both HR and QTc were associated with mortality. All-cause mortality significantly increased with HR values greater than 81 BPM and QTc values greater than 440 msec in young subjects and 455 msec in old subjects (values of the 75th percentiles/optimal operating point). A Cox analysis confirmed the better prognostic value of Bazett’s QTc and HR in the whole population and in the three age-groups. Conclusion: Bazett’s method performed better than the others, but, unexpectedly, the HR had the same or an even better correlation with all-cause mortality. Since the HR is simple and readily available, its evaluation should be improved. However, QTC and HR values are difficult to define, causing many confounding factors, and further population studies are required.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5020014

Authors: Yuji Mizuno Toshifumi Ishida Kenichi Tsujita Michihiro Yoshimura

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a major health concern. There is a growing recognition of the causal interplay between arterial stiffness and HFpEF. We recently reported that phosphate retention is a trigger for arterial stiffness. This study focuses on whether arterial stiffness due to phosphate retention could be a predictor for HFpEF. Methods: The subjects of this study were 158 patients (68 males and 90 females, mean age 74.8 ± 11.2). HFpEF was defined according to the guidelines of the ESC 2019. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and central systolic blood pressure (CSBP) were used as markers for arterial stiffness and afterload, respectively. We measured serum levels of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) as a marker of phosphate retention. Results: The serum levels of FGF23 had a significant relationship with PWV. PWV had significant relationships with LV mass index, plasma BNP levels, and relative wall thickness, e′, and E/e′ (p < 0.001, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that higher PWV values and hypertension were significant predictors for the dependent factor (HFpEF). Arterial stiffness amplified afterload, leading to LV concentric hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction. This study presents that arterial stiffness is a key predictor of HFpEF, and that phosphate retention is involved in the pathology of HFpEF.

Hearts doi: 10.3390/hearts5020013

Authors: Alessandro Menotti Paolo Emilio Puddu

Objectives: To report the relationships of major dietary fatty acids with major cardiovascular disease mortality groups in a cohort of middle-aged men followed up with until extinction. Material and Methods: In the early 1960s, a cohort of men aged 40 to 59 years was enrolled and examined within the Italian Rural Areas section of the Seven Countries Study including dietary history that allowed for the estimation of major fatty acid (FA) intake (saturated FAs: SAFAs; mono-unsaturated FAs: MUFAs; and poly-unsaturated FAs: PUFAs), their ratios, and the production of a dietary score derived from 18 food groups, the high levels of which corresponded to a Mediterranean diet profile. Results: During a follow-up of 61 years, the intake of SAFAs was directly while that of MUFAs was inversely and significantly associated with coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality (the hazard ratio for one standard deviation was 1.28 and 0.84, respectively) but not with other cases of Heart Disease of Uncertain Etiology (HDUE) and stroke mortality. The hazard ratio for SAFAs remained significant after factoring into the multivariate models the dietary score and other classical cardiovascular risk factors (age, smoking habits, cholesterol levels, and systolic blood pressure). The role of the dietary score was inverse and significant (hazard ratio of 0.73). Again, this was true for CHD but not for HDUE and stroke mortality. Conclusions: Both SAFAs and MUFAs predict long-term CHD mortality, together with a dietary score, but not HDUE and stroke, which represent different diseases also in relation to dietary habits.