Journal of the American College of Cardiology
Editor-in-Chief’s Top Picks From 2015: Part One
Author + information
- Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD
Abstract
Each week, I record audio summaries for every article in JACC, as well as an issue summary. While this process has been time-consuming, I have become very familiar with every paper that we publish. Thus, I have personally selected the papers (both original investigations and review articles) from 13 distinct specialties for your review. In addition to my personal choices, I have included manuscripts that have been the most accessed or downloaded on our websites, as well as those selected by the JACC Editorial Board members. There are approximately 130 articles selected across this 2-part series, which represent less than 3% of the papers submitted to the Journal in 2015. In order to present the full breadth of this important research in a consumable fashion, we will present these manuscripts over the course of 2 issues in JACC.
Part One includes the sections: Congenital Heart Disease, Coronary Disease & Interventions, CVD Prevention & Health Promotion, Cardiac Failure, Cardiomyopathies, Genetics, Omics, & Tissue Regeneration, and Hypertension (1–60). Part Two includes the sections: Imaging, Metabolic Disorders & Lipids, Rhythm Disorders, Statistics, Valvular Heart Disease, and Vascular Medicine.
Congenital Heart Disease
Lifetime Risk of Pulmonary Hypertension for All Patients After Shunt Closure
A.C.M.J. van Riel, et al.
Successful repair of shunts in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) is often erroneously considered a cure, leading to a large number of patients lost to follow-up after discharge. The prevalence of pulmonary hypertension (PH) appears to be high after shunt closure and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Until now, only limited data on the risk of PH after shunt closure were available, and these data were hampered by the use of database encoded analyses, single-center studies, or small cohort studies in specific cardiac defects. We aimed to identify the time course of the development of PH after shunt closure in adults with CHD to optimize monitoring intervals of these patients and to identify PH in an early stage (1).
The Unnatural History of the Ventricular Septal Defect: Outcome Up to 40 Years After Surgical Closure
M.E. Menting, et al.
Background
Few prospective data are available regarding long-term outcomes after surgical closure of a ventricular septal defect (VSD).
Objectives
The objective of this study was to investigate clinical outcomes >30 years after surgical VSD closure.
Methods
Patients who underwent surgical VSD closure during childhood between 1968 and 1980 were reexamined every 10 years. In 2012, we invited eligible patients to undergo another examination, which included electrocardiography, Holter monitoring, echocardiography, bicycle ergometry, measurement of N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide, and subjective health assessment.
Results
Cumulative survival was 86% at 40 years. Causes of mortality were arrhythmia, heart failure, endocarditis, during valvular surgery, pulmonary hypertension, noncardiac causes, and unknown causes. Cumulative event-free survival after surgery was 72% at 40 years. Symptomatic arrhythmias occurred in 13% of patients and surgical or catheter-based reinterventions in 12%. Prevalence of impaired right ventricular systolic function increased from 1% in 2001 to 17% in 2012 (p = 0.001). Left ventricular systolic function was impaired but stable in 21% of patients. Aortic regurgitation occurred more often in the last 20 years (p = 0.039), and mean exercise capacity decreased (p = 0.003). N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (median: 11.6 pmol/l [interquartile range: 7.0 to 19.8 pmol/l]) was elevated (>14 pmol/l) in 38% of patients. A concomitant cardiac lesion, for example, patent ductus arteriosus, and aortic cross-clamp time were determinants of late events (hazard ratio: 2.84 [95% confidence interval: 1.23 to 6.53] and hazard ratio: 1.47 per 10 min [95% confidence interval: 1.22 to 1.99], respectively). Patients rated their subjective health status significantly better than a reference population.
Conclusions
Survival up to 40 years after successful surgical VSD closure is slightly lower than in the general Dutch population. Morbidity is not negligible, especially in patients with a concomitant cardiac lesion (2).
40-Year Follow-Up After the Fontan Operation: Long-Term Outcomes of 1,052 Patients
K.N. Pundi, et al.
Background
There are limited long-term, single-cohort, follow-up studies available about patients after the Fontan operation.
Objectives
This study sought to determine the long-term outcome of all patients who had a Fontan operation at the Mayo Clinic.
Methods
Records of all patients who had a modified Fontan operation between 1973 and 2012 were reviewed. A follow-up questionnaire was mailed to all patients alive at the time of the study.
Results
Overall, 10-, 20-, and 30-year survival for 1,052 patients was 74%, 61%, and 43%, respectively. Factors associated with decreased overall or late survival in multivariate analysis included pre-operative diuretic use, longer cardiopulmonary bypass time, operation prior to 1991, atrioventricular valve (AVV) replacement at the time of Fontan operation, elevated post-bypass Fontan (>20 mm Hg) or left atrial (>13 mm Hg) pressures, prolonged chest tube drainage (>21 days), post-operative ventricular arrhythmias, renal insufficiency, and development of protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). Pre-operative and intraoperative sinus rhythm were associated with improved survival. Long-term survival was similar for patients regardless of ventricular morphology. The most common reoperations were pacemaker insertion/revision in 212 patients (20%), Fontan revision/conversion in 117 patients (11%), and AVV repair/replacement in 66 patients (5%). Clinically significant late atrial or ventricular arrhythmias occurred in 468 patients (44%). Ninety-five patients (9%) developed PLE, and 5-, 10-, and 20-year survival after diagnosis of PLE was 50%, 35%, and 19%, respectively.
Conclusions
As the surgical techniques for the Fontan operation have changed over the last 40 years, survival has improved. However, development of PLE and arrhythmias and the need for reoperation during long-term follow-up pose significant management challenges (3).
Coronary Disease and Interventions
Remote Ischemic Conditioning
G. Heusch, et al.
In remote ischemic conditioning (RIC), brief, reversible episodes of ischemia with reperfusion in one vascular bed, tissue, or organ confer a global protective phenotype and render remote tissues and organs resistant to ischemia/reperfusion injury. The peripheral stimulus can be chemical, mechanical, or electrical and involves activation of peripheral sensory nerves. The signal transfer to the heart or other organs is through neuronal and humoral communications. Protection can be transferred, even across species, with plasma-derived dialysate and involves nitric oxide, stromal derived factor-1N1, microribonucleic acid-144, but also other, not yet identified factors. Intracardiac signal transduction involves: adenosine, bradykinin, cytokines, and chemokines, which activate specific receptors; intracellular kinases; and mitochondrial function. RIC by repeated brief inflation/deflation of a blood pressure cuff protects against endothelial dysfunction and myocardial injury in percutaneous coronary interventions, coronary artery bypass grafting, and reperfused acute myocardial infarction. RIC is safe and effective, noninvasive, easily feasible, and inexpensive (4).
Randomized Trial of Complete Versus Lesion-Only Revascularization in Patients Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for STEMI and Multivessel Disease: The CvLPRIT Trial
A.H. Gershlick, et al.
Background
The optimal management of patients found to have multivessel disease while undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (P-PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction is uncertain.
Objectives
CvLPRIT (Complete versus Lesion-only Primary PCI trial) is a U.K. open-label randomized study comparing complete revascularization at index admission with treatment of the infarct-related artery (IRA) only.
Methods
After they provided verbal assent and underwent coronary angiography, 296 patients in 7 U.K. centers were randomized through an interactive voice-response program to either in-hospital complete revascularization (n = 150) or IRA-only revascularization (n = 146). Complete revascularization was performed either at the time of P-PCI or before hospital discharge. Randomization was stratified by infarct location (anterior/nonanterior) and symptom onset (≤3 h or >3 h). The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death, recurrent myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure, and ischemia-driven revascularization within 12 months.
Results
Patient groups were well matched for baseline clinical characteristics. The primary endpoint occurred in 10.0% of the complete revascularization group versus 21.2% in the IRA-only revascularization group (hazard ratio: 0.45; 95% confidence interval: 0.24 to 0.84; p = 0.009). A trend toward benefit was seen early after complete revascularization (p = 0.055 at 30 days). Although there was no significant reduction in death or MI, a nonsignificant reduction in all primary endpoint components was seen. There was no reduction in ischemic burden on myocardial perfusion scintigraphy or in the safety endpoints of major bleeding, contrast-induced nephropathy, or stroke between the groups.
Conclusions
In patients presenting for P-PCI with multivessel disease, index admission complete revascularization significantly lowered the rate of the composite primary endpoint at 12 months compared with treating only the IRA. In such patients, inpatient total revascularization may be considered, but larger clinical trials are required to confirm this result and specifically address whether this strategy is associated with improved survival. (Complete Versus Lesion-only Primary PCI Pilot Study [CvLPRIT]; ISRCTN70913605) (5).
Complete Versus Lesion-Only Primary PCI: The Randomized Cardiovascular MR CvLPRIT Substudy
G.P. McCann, et al.
Background
Complete revascularization may improve outcomes compared with an infarct-related artery (IRA)-only strategy in patients being treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) who have multivessel disease presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, there is concern that non-IRA PCI may cause additional non-IRA myocardial infarction (MI).
Objectives
This study sought to determine whether in-hospital complete revascularization was associated with increased total infarct size compared with an IRA-only strategy.
Methods
This multicenter prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded endpoint clinical trial evaluated STEMI patients with multivessel disease having PPCI within 12 h of symptom onset. Patients were randomized to either IRA-only PCI or complete in-hospital revascularization. Contrast-enhanced cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) was performed following PPCI (median day 3) and stress CMR at 9 months. The pre-specified primary endpoint was infarct size on pre-discharge CMR. The study had 80% power to detect a 4% difference in infarct size with 100 patients per group.
Results
Of the 296 patients in the main trial, 205 participated in the CMR substudy, and 203 patients (98 complete revascularization and 105 IRA-only) completed the pre-discharge CMR. The groups were well-matched. Total infarct size (median, interquartile range) was similar to IRA-only revascularization: 13.5% (6.2% to 21.9%) versus complete revascularization, 12.6% (7.2% to 22.6%) of left ventricular mass, p = 0.57 (95% confidence interval for difference in geometric means 0.82 to 1.41). The complete revascularization group had an increase in non-IRA MI on the pre-discharge CMR (22 of 98 vs. 11 of 105, p = 0.02). There was no difference in total infarct size or ischemic burden between treatment groups at follow-up CMR.
Conclusions
Multivessel PCI in the setting of STEMI leads to a small increase in CMR-detected non-IRA MI, but total infarct size was not significantly different from an IRA-only revascularization strategy. (Complete Versus Lesion-Only Primary PCI Pilot Study [CvLPRIT]; ISRCTN70913605) (6).
Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Coronary Stenting: A Review of the Evidence
G. Montalescot, et al.
The duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after coronary stenting has been evaluated in randomized studies with apparently conflicting results. Although longer exposure associates with more bleeding complications, late stent thrombosis (ST) and myocardial infarction are reduced. In addition, as new drug-eluting stents carry a lower risk of ST compared with the first-generation drug-eluting stents and possibly even bare-metal stents, a shift toward better protection from ST may have an effect on the duration and intensity of DAPT. Whether the duration of DAPT should be shorter or longer than the currently recommended 6 to 12 months is analyzed in this review, drawing on lessons from the most recent studies (7).
6- Versus 24-Month Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Implantation of Drug-Eluting Stents in Patients Nonresistant to Aspirin: The Randomized, Multicenter ITALIC Trial
M. Gilard, et al.
Background
The currently recommended duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in drug-eluting stent (DES) recipients is 12 months to reduce the risk of late stent thrombosis, particularly in those with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
Objectives
This study hypothesized that antiplatelet treatment with DAPT for 6 months may be noninferior to 24-month DAPT in aspirin-sensitive patients.
Methods
A multicenter, randomized study assigned patients undergoing implantation of everolimus-eluting stents with confirmed nonresistance to aspirin to receive 6- or 24-month DAPT. The primary endpoint was a composite of death, myocardial infarction, urgent target vessel revascularization, stroke, and major bleeding at 12 months post-stenting.
Results
A total of 2,031 patients were enrolled in 70 European and Middle Eastern centers. The trial was prematurely terminated due to recruitment problems, leaving 941 patients randomized to 24-month DAPT and 953 to 6-month DAPT. The 2 treatment groups had similar baseline and procedural characteristics. There was no significant difference in the primary endpoint (24-month: 1.5% vs. 6-month: 1.6%; p = 0.85). Noninferiority was demonstrated for 6- versus 24-month DAPT, with an absolute risk difference of 0.11% (95% confidence interval: −1.04% to 1.26%; p for noninferiority = 0.0002). There were no significant differences in stent thrombosis or bleeding complications. In the 792 (44%) high-risk patients with ACS, primary and secondary endpoints did not significantly differ (hazard ratio: 1.7 [95% confidence interval: 0.519 to 6.057; p = 0.361]).
Conclusions
Rates of bleeding and thrombotic events were not significantly different according to 6- versus 24-month DAPT after PCI with new-generation DES in good aspirin responders. (Is There A LIfe for DES After Discontinuation of Clopidogrel [ITALICplus]; NCT01476020) (8).
Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
G. Giustino, et al.
Background
The optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation is unclear, and its risks and benefits may vary according to DES generation.
Objectives
The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DAPT after DES implantation.
Methods
We included randomized controlled trials that tested different durations of DAPT after DES implantation: shorter dual antiplatelet therapy (S-DAPT) was defined as the per-protocol minimum duration of DAPT after the procedure, and longer dual antiplatelet therapy (L-DAPT) was defined as the per-protocol period of more prolonged DAPT. The primary efficacy and safety outcomes were definite/probable stent thrombosis and clinically significant bleeding (CSB), respectively.
Results
Ten randomized controlled trials (N = 32,135) were included. Compared with L-DAPT, S-DAPT had an overall higher rate of stent thrombosis (odds ratio [OR]: 1.71 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.26 to 2.32]; p = 0.001). The effect of S-DAPT on stent thrombosis was attenuated with the use of second-generation DES (OR: 1.54 [95% CI: 0.96 to 2.47]) compared with the use of first-generation DES (OR: 3.94 [95% CI: 2.20 to 7.05]; p for interaction = 0.008). S-DAPT had an overall significantly lower risk of CSB (OR: 0.63 [95% CI: 0.52 to 0.75]; p < 0.001). Finally, a numerically lower all-cause mortality rate was observed with S-DAPT (OR: 0.87 [95% CI: 0.74 to 1.01]; p = 0.073).
Conclusions
S-DAPT had overall lower rates of bleeding yet higher rates of stent thrombosis compared with L-DAPT; the latter effect was significantly attenuated with the use of second-generation DES, although the analysis may have been limited by the varying DAPT durations among studies. All-cause mortality was numerically higher with L-DAPT without reaching statistical significance. Prolonging DAPT requires careful assessment of the trade-off between ischemic and bleeding complications (9).
Benefits and Risks of Extended Duration Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After PCI in Patients With and Without Acute Myocardial Infarction
R.W. Yeh, et al.
Background
The benefits and risks of prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy may be different for patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) compared with more stable presentations.
Objectives
This study sought to assess the benefits and risks of 30 versus 12 months of dual antiplatelet therapy among patients undergoing coronary stent implantation with and without MI.
Methods
The Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Study, a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, compared 30 versus 12 months of dual antiplatelet therapy after coronary stenting. The effect of continued thienopyridine on ischemic and bleeding events among patients initially presenting with versus without MI was assessed. The coprimary endpoints were definite or probable stent thrombosis and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). The primary safety endpoint was GUSTO (Global Utilization of Streptokinase and Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Occluded Arteries) moderate or severe bleeding.
Results
Of 11,648 randomized patients (9,961 treated with drug-eluting stents, 1,687 with bare-metal stents), 30.7% presented with MI. Between 12 and 30 months, continued thienopyridine reduced stent thrombosis compared with placebo in patients with and without MI at presentation (MI group, 0.5% vs. 1.9%, p < 0.001; no MI group, 0.4% vs. 1.1%, p < 0.001; interaction p = 0.69). The reduction in MACCE for continued thienopyridine was greater for patients with MI (3.9% vs. 6.8%; p < 0.001) compared with those with no MI (4.4% vs. 5.3%; p = 0.08; interaction p = 0.03). In both groups, continued thienopyridine reduced MI (2.2% vs. 5.2%, p < 0.001 for MI; 2.1% vs. 3.5%, p < 0.001 for no MI; interaction p = 0.15) but increased bleeding (1.9% vs. 0.8%, p = 0.005 for MI; 2.6% vs. 1.7%, p = 0.007 for no MI; interaction p = 0.21).
Conclusions
Compared with 12 months of therapy, 30 months of dual antiplatelet therapy reduced the risk of stent thrombosis and MI in patients with and without MI, and increased bleeding. (The Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Study [The DAPT Study]; NCT00977938) (10).
Short- Versus Long-Term Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation: An Individual Patient Data Pairwise and Network Meta-Analysis
T. Palmerini, et al.
Background
Randomized controlled trials comparing short- (≤6 months) with long-term (≥1 year) dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after drug-eluting stent(s) (DES) placement have been insufficiently powered to detect significant differences in the risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE).
Objectives
This study sought to compare clinical outcomes between short- (≤6 months) and long-term (1 year) DAPT and among 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year of DAPT post-DES placement by performing an individual patient data pairwise and network meta-analysis.
Methods
Randomized controlled trials comparing DAPT durations after DES placement were searched through the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases and in international meeting proceedings. The primary study outcome was 1-year risk of MACE (cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or definite/probable stent thrombosis).
Results
Four trials including 8,180 randomized patients were identified. At 1-year follow-up, short-term DAPT was associated with similar rates of MACE (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.86 to 1.43; p = 0.44), but significantly lower rates of bleeding (HR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.94; p = 0.03) versus prolonged DAPT. Comparable results were apparent in the landmark period between DAPT discontinuation and 1-year follow-up (for MACE: HR: 1.20; 95% CI: 0.77 to 1.89; p = 0.42) (for bleeding: HR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.91; p = 0.03). There were no significant differences in 1-year rates of MACE among 3-month versus 1-year DAPT, 6-month versus 1-year DAPT, or 3-month versus 6-month DAPT.
Conclusions
Compared with prolonged DAPT, short-term DAPT is associated with similar rates of MACE but lower rates of bleeding after DES placement (11).
Use and Outcomes of Triple Therapy Among Older Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction and Atrial Fibrillation
C.N. Hess, et al.
Background
Antithrombotic therapy for acute myocardial infarction (MI) with atrial fibrillation (AF) among higher risk older patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains unclear.
Objectives
This study sought to determine appropriate antithrombotic therapy for acute MI patients with AF treated with PCI.
Methods
We examined 4,959 patients ≥65 years of age with acute MI and AF who underwent coronary stenting (Acute Coronary Treatment and Intervention Outcomes Network Registry–Get With the Guidelines). The primary effectiveness outcome was 2-year major adverse cardiac events (MACE) comprising death, readmission for MI, or stroke; the primary safety outcome was bleeding readmission. Outcomes with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) or triple therapy (DAPT plus warfarin) were compared using Cox proportional hazard modeling with inverse probability-weighted propensity adjustment.
Results
Among 4,959 patients, 27.6% (n = 1,370) were discharged on triple therapy. Relative to DAPT, patients on triple therapy had a similar risk of MACE (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 0.99 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86 to 1.16]) but significantly greater risk of bleeding requiring hospitalization (adjusted HR: 1.61 [95% CI: 1.31 to 1.97]) and greater risk of intracranial hemorrhage (adjusted HR: 2.04 [95% CI: 1.25 to 3.34]). Of 1,591 Medicare Part D patients, 90-day post-discharge warfarin persistence among patients discharged on warfarin was 93.2% (n = 412). Results of 90-day landmark analyses comparing triple therapy versus DAPT in patients persistently on warfarin versus those not discharged on warfarin who had not filled a warfarin prescription were similar to our primary findings.
Conclusions
Approximately 1 in 4 older AF patients undergoing PCI for MI were discharged on triple therapy. Those receiving triple therapy versus DAPT had higher rates of major bleeding without a measurable difference in composite MI, death, or stroke (12).
Duration of Triple Therapy in Patients Requiring Oral Anticoagulation After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation: The ISAR-TRIPLE Trial
K.A. Fiedler, et al.
Background
Patients receiving oral anticoagulation (OAC) who undergo drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation require additional dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel. Such triple therapy confers an elevated bleeding risk, and its optimal duration is not known.
Objectives
The goal of this study was to evaluate whether shortening the duration of clopidogrel therapy from 6 months to 6 weeks after DES implantation was associated with a superior net clinical outcome in patients receiving concomitant aspirin and OAC.
Methods
In this randomized, open-label trial, we enrolled patients receiving OAC who underwent DES implantation at 3 European centers between September 2008 and December 2013. A total of 614 patients receiving concomitant aspirin and OAC were randomized to either 6-week clopidogrel therapy (n = 307) or 6-month clopidogrel therapy (n = 307). The primary endpoint was a composite of death, myocardial infarction (MI), definite stent thrombosis, stroke, or Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) major bleeding at 9 months.
Results
The primary endpoint occurred in 30 patients (9.8%) in the 6-week group compared with 27 patients (8.8%) in the 6-month group (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.14; 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.91; p = 0.63). There were no significant differences for the secondary combined ischemic endpoint of cardiac death, MI, definite stent thrombosis, and ischemic stroke (12 [4.0%] vs. 13 [4.3%]; HR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.43 to 2.05; p = 0.87) or the secondary bleeding endpoint of TIMI major bleeding (16 [5.3%] vs. 12 [4.0%]; HR: 1.35; 95% CI: 0.64 to 2.84; p = 0.44).
Conclusions
Six weeks of triple therapy was not superior to 6 months with respect to net clinical outcomes. These results suggest that physicians should weigh the trade-off between ischemic and bleeding risk when choosing the shorter or longer duration of triple therapy. (Triple Therapy in Patients on Oral Anticoagulation After Drug Eluting Stent Implantation [ISAR-TRIPLE]; NCT00776633) (13).
The Choice of Conduits in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
M. Gaudino, et al.
Coronary artery bypass grafting is the most common cardiac surgery operation performed worldwide. It is the most effective revascularization method for several categories of patients affected by coronary artery disease. Although coronary artery bypass grafting has been performed for more than 40 years, no detailed guidelines on the choice of coronary artery bypass grafting conduits have been published and the choice of the revascularization strategy remains more a matter of art than of science. Moreover, there is a clear contradiction between the proven benefits of arterial grafting and its very limited use in everyday clinical practice. In the hope of encouraging wider diffusion of arterial revascularization and to provide a guide for clinicians, we discuss current evidence for the use of different conduits in coronary artery bypass surgery and propose an evidence-based algorithm for the choice of the second conduit during coronary artery bypass operations (14).
Emergence of Nonobstructive Coronary Artery Disease: A Woman’s Problem and Need for Change in Definition on Angiography
C.J. Pepine, et al.
Recognition of ischemic heart disease (IHD) is often delayed or deferred in women. Thus, many at risk for adverse outcomes are not provided specific diagnostic, preventive, and/or treatment strategies. This lack of recognition is related to sex-specific IHD pathophysiology that differs from traditional models using data from men with flow-limiting coronary artery disease (CAD) obstructions. Symptomatic women are less likely to have obstructive CAD than men with similar symptoms, and tend to have coronary microvascular dysfunction, plaque erosion, and thrombus formation. Emerging data document that more extensive, nonobstructive CAD involvement, hypertension, and diabetes are associated with major adverse events similar to those with obstructive CAD. A central emerging paradigm is the concept of nonobstructive CAD as a cause of IHD and related adverse outcomes among women. This position paper summarizes currently available knowledge and gaps in that knowledge, and recommends management options that could be useful until additional evidence emerges (15).
Randomized Trial of Stents Versus Bypass Surgery for Left Main Coronary Artery Disease: 5-Year Outcomes of the PRECOMBAT Study
J-M. Ahn, et al.
Background
In a previous randomized trial, we found that percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was not inferior to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for the treatment of unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis at 1 year.
Objectives
This study sought to determine the 5-year outcomes of PCI compared with CABG for the treatment of unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis.
Methods
We randomly assigned 600 patients with unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis to undergo PCI with a sirolimus-eluting stent (n = 300) or CABG (n = 300). The primary endpoint was a major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular event (MACCE: a composite of death from any cause, myocardial infarction, stroke, or ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization) and compared on an intention-to-treat basis.
Results
At 5 years, MACCE occurred in 52 patients in the PCI group and 42 patients in the CABG group (cumulative event rates of 17.5% and 14.3%, respectively; hazard ratio [HR]: 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.84 to 1.90; p = 0.26). The 2 groups did not differ significantly in terms of death from any cause, myocardial infarction, or stroke as well as their composite (8.4% and 9.6%; HR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.52 to 1.52; p = 0.66). Ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization occurred more frequently in the PCI group than in the CABG group (11.4% and 5.5%, respectively; HR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.16 to 3.84; p = 0.012).
Conclusions
During 5 years of follow-up, our study did not show significant difference regarding the rate of MACCE between patients who underwent PCI with a sirolimus-eluting stent and those who underwent CABG. However, considering the limited power of our study, our results should be interpreted with caution. (Bypass Surgery Versus Angioplasty Using Sirolimus-Eluting Stent in Patients With Left Main Coronary Artery Disease [PRECOMBAT]; NCT00422968) (16).
10-Year Mortality Outcome of a Routine Invasive Strategy Versus a Selective Invasive Strategy in Non–ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome: The British Heart Foundation RITA-3 Randomized Trial
R.A. Henderson, et al.
Background
The RITA-3 (Third Randomised Intervention Treatment of Angina) trial compared outcomes of a routine early invasive strategy (coronary arteriography and myocardial revascularization, as clinically indicated) to those of a selective invasive strategy (coronary arteriography for recurrent ischemia only) in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS). At a median of 5 years' follow-up, the routine invasive strategy was associated with a 24% reduction in the odds of all-cause mortality.
Objectives
This study reports 10-year follow-up outcomes of the randomized cohort to determine the impact of a routine invasive strategy on longer-term mortality.
Methods
We randomized 1,810 patients with NSTEACS to receive routine invasive or selective invasive strategies. All randomized patients had annual follow-up visits up to 5 years, and mortality was documented thereafter using data from the Office of National Statistics.
Results
Over 10 years, there were no differences in mortality between the 2 groups (all-cause deaths in 225 [25.1%] vs. 232 patients [25.4%]: p = 0.94; and cardiovascular deaths in 135 [15.1%] vs. 147 patients [16.1%]: p = 0.65 in the routine invasive and selective invasive groups, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified several independent predictors of 10-year mortality: age, previous myocardial infarction, heart failure, smoking status, diabetes, heart rate, and ST-segment depression. A modified post-discharge Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score was used to calculate an individual risk score for each patient and to form low-risk, medium-risk, and high-risk groups. Risk of death within 10 years varied markedly from 14.4% in the low-risk group to 56.2% in the high-risk group. This mortality trend did not depend on the assigned treatment strategy.
Conclusions
The advantage of reduced mortality of routine early invasive strategy seen at 5 years was attenuated during later follow-up, with no evidence of a difference in outcome at 10 years. Further trials of contemporary intervention strategies in patients with NSTEACS are warranted. (Third Randomised Intervention Treatment of Angina trial [RITA-3]; ISRCTN07752711) (17).
Bivalirudin Versus Heparin With or Without Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors in Patients With STEMI Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Pooled Patient-Level Analysis From the HORIZONS-AMI and EUROMAX Trials
G.W. Stone, et al.
Background
In the HORIZONS-AMI (Harmonizing Outcomes with RevasculariZatiON and Stents in Acute Myocardial Infarction) trial, 3,602 patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with bivalirudin had lower bleeding and mortality rates, but higher acute stent thrombosis rates compared with heparin + a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (GPI). Subsequent changes in primary PCI, including the use of potent P2Y12 inhibitors, frequent radial intervention, and pre-hospital medication administration, were incorporated into the EUROMAX (European Ambulance Acute Coronary Syndrome Angiography) trial, which assigned 2,218 patients to bivalirudin versus heparin ± GPI before primary PCI.
Objectives
The goal of this study was to examine the outcomes of procedural anticoagulation with bivalirudin versus heparin ± GPI for primary PCI, given the evolution in primary PCI.
Methods
Databases from HORIZONS-AMI and EUROMAX were pooled for patient-level analysis. The Breslow-Day test evaluated heterogeneity between trials.
Results
A total of 5,800 patients were randomized to bivalirudin (n = 2,889) or heparin ± GPI (n = 2,911). The radial approach was used in 21.3% of patients, prasugrel/ticagrelor was used in 18.1% of patients, and GPI was used in 84.8% of the control group. Bivalirudin compared with heparin ± GPI resulted in reduced 30-day rates of major bleeding (4.2% vs. 7.8%; relative risk [RR]: 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43 to 0.66; p < 0.0001), thrombocytopenia (1.4% vs. 2.9%, RR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.33 to 0.71; p = 0.0002), and cardiac mortality (2.0% vs. 2.9%; RR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.50 to 0.97; p = 0.03), with nonsignificantly different rates of reinfarction, ischemia-driven revascularization, stroke, and all-cause mortality. Bivalirudin resulted in increased acute (<24 h) stent thrombosis rates (1.2% vs. 0.2%; RR: 6.04; 95% CI: 2.55 to 14.31; p < 0.0001), with nonsignificantly different rates of subacute stent thrombosis. Composite net adverse clinical events were lower with bivalirudin (8.8% vs. 11.9%; RR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.63 to 0.86; p < 0.0001). There was no significant heterogeneity between the 2 trials for these outcomes, and results were consistent across major subgroups.
Conclusions
Despite increased acute stent thrombosis, primary PCI with bivalirudin improved 30-day net clinical outcomes, with significant reductions in major bleeding, thrombocytopenia, and transfusions compared with heparin ± GPI, results that were consistent with evolution in PCI technique and pharmacotherapy. (Harmonizing Outcomes with RevasculariZatiON and Stents in Acute Myocardial Infarction [HORIZONS-AMI]; NCT00433966) (European Ambulance Acute Coronary Syndrome Angiography [EUROMAX]; NCT01087723) (18).
Effect of Beta-Blocker Dose on Survival After Acute Myocardial Infarction
J.J. Goldberger, et al.
Background
Beta-blocker therapy after acute myocardial infarction (MI) improves survival. Beta-blocker doses used in clinical practice are often substantially lower than those used in the randomized trials establishing their efficacy.
Objectives
This study evaluated the association of beta-blocker dose with survival after acute MI, hypothesizing that higher dose beta-blocker therapy will be associated with increased survival.
Methods
A multicenter registry enrolled 7,057 consecutive patients with acute MI. Discharge beta-blocker dose was indexed to the target beta-blocker doses used in randomized clinical trials, grouped as >0% to 12.5%, >12.5% to 25%, >25% to 50%, and >50% of target dose. Follow-up vital status was assessed, with the primary endpoint of time-to-death right-censored at 2 years. Multivariable and propensity score analyses were used to account for group differences.
Results
Of 6,682 patients with follow-up (median 2.1 years), 91.5% were discharged on a beta-blocker (mean dose 38.1% of the target dose). Lower mortality was observed with all beta-blocker doses (p < 0.0002) versus no beta-blocker therapy. After multivariable adjustment, hazard ratios for 2-year mortality compared with the >50% dose were 0.862 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.677 to 1.098), 0.799 (95% CI: 0.635 to 1.005), and 0.963 (95% CI: 0.765 to 1.213) for the >0% to 12.5%, >12.5% to 25%, and >25% to 50% of target dose groups, respectively. Multivariable analysis with an extended set of covariates and propensity score analysis also demonstrated that higher doses were not associated with better outcome.
Conclusions
These data do not demonstrate increased survival in patients treated with beta-blocker doses approximating those used in previous randomized clinical trials compared with lower doses. These findings provide the rationale to re-engage in research to establish appropriate beta-blocker dosing after MI to derive optimal benefit from this therapy. (The PACE-MI Registry Study—Outcomes of Beta-blocker Therapy After Myocardial Infarction [OBTAIN]: NCT00430612) (19).
CVD Prevention and Health Promotion
A Comprehensive Lifestyle Peer Group–Based Intervention on Cardiovascular Risk Factors: The Randomized Controlled Fifty-Fifty Program
E. Gómez-Pardo, et al.
Background
Cardiovascular diseases stem from modifiable risk factors. Peer support is a proven strategy for many chronic illnesses. Randomized trials assessing the efficacy of this strategy for global cardiovascular risk factor modification are lacking.
Objectives
This study assessed the hypothesis that a peer group strategy would help improve healthy behaviors in individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.
Methods
A total of 543 adults 25 to 50 years of age with at least 1 risk factor were recruited; risk factors included hypertension (20%), overweight (82%), smoking (31%), and physical inactivity (81%). Subjects were randomized 1:1 to a peer group–based intervention group (IG) or a self-management control group (CG) for 12 months. Peer-elected leaders moderated monthly meetings involving role-play, brainstorming, and activities to address emotions, diet, and exercise. The primary outcome was mean change in a composite score related to blood pressure, exercise, weight, alimentation, and tobacco (Fuster-BEWAT score, 0 to 15). Multilevel models with municipality as a cluster variable were applied to assess differences between groups.
Results
Participants’ mean age was 42 ± 6 years, 71% were female, and they had a mean baseline Fuster-BEWAT score of 8.42 ± 2.35. After 1 year, the mean scores were significantly higher in the IG (n = 277) than in the CG (n = 266) (IG mean score: 8.84 [95% confidence interval (CI): 8.37 to 9.32]; CG mean score: 8.17 [95% CI: 7.55 to 8.79]; p = 0.02). The increase in the overall score was significantly larger in the IG compared with the CG (difference: 0.75 [95% CI: 0.32 to 1.18]; p = 0.02). The mean improvement in the individual components was uniformly greater in the IG, with a significant difference for the tobacco component.
Conclusions
The peer group intervention had beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors, with significant improvements in the overall score and specifically on tobacco cessation. A follow-up assessment will be performed 1 year after the final assessment reported here to determine long-term sustainability of the improvements associated with peer group intervention. (Peer-Group-Based Intervention Program [Fifty-Fifty], NCT02367963) (20).
The SI! Program for Cardiovascular Health Promotion in Early Childhood: A Cluster-Randomized Trial
J.L. Peñalvo, et al.
Background
The preschool years offer a unique window of opportunity to instill healthy life-style behaviors and promote cardiovascular health.
Objectives
This study sought to evaluate the effect of a 3-year multidimensional school-based intervention to improve life-style–related behaviors.
Methods
We performed a cluster-randomized controlled intervention trial involving 24 public schools in Madrid, Spain, that were assigned to either the SI! Program intervention or the usual curriculum and followed for 3 years. The SI! Program aimed to instill and develop healthy behaviors in relation to diet, physical activity, and understanding how the human body and heart work. The primary outcome was change in the overall knowledge, attitudes, and habits (KAH) score (range 0 to 80). The intervention’s effect on adiposity markers was also evaluated.
Results
A total of 2,062 children from 3 to 5 years of age were randomized. After 3 years of follow-up, the overall KAH score was 4.9% higher in children in the intervention group compared with the control group (21.7 vs. 16.4; p < 0.001). A peak effect was observed at the second year (improvement 7.1% higher than in the control group; p < 0.001). Physical activity was the main driver of the change in KAH at all evaluation times. Children in the intervention group for 2 years and 1 year showed greater improvement than control subjects (5.9%; p < 0.001 and 2.9%; p = 0.002, respectively). After 3 years, the intervention group showed a higher probability than the control group of reducing the triceps skinfold z-score by at least 0.1 (hazard ratio: 1.40, 95% confidence interval: 1.04 to 1.89; p = 0.027).
Conclusions
The SI! Program is an effective strategy for instilling healthy habits among preschoolers, translating into a beneficial effect on adiposity, with maximal effect when started at the earliest age and maintained over 3 years. Wider adoption may have a meaningful effect on cardiovascular health promotion. (Evaluation of the Program SI! for Preschool Education: A School-Based Randomized Controlled Trial [Preschool_PSI!]; NCT01579708) (21).
Next Steps in Primary Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease: Rationale for and Design of the ECAD Trial
M.J. Domanski, et al.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events, including coronary heart disease and stroke, are the most frequent cause of death and major disability in the world. Current American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association primary prevention guidelines are mainly on the basis of randomized controlled trials of statin-based low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)–lowering therapy for primary prevention of ASCVD events. Despite the clear demonstration of statin-based LDL-C lowering, substantial 10-year and lifetime risks of incident ASCVD continue. Although the 10-year risk is low in young and middle-aged adults who would not be treated according to current guidelines, they ultimately account for most incident ASCVD. If statin-based LDL-C lowering were initiated in them at an age before complex coronary plaques are common in the population, a substantial reduction in lifetime risk of incident coronary heart disease might be achieved. We examine this hypothesis and introduce the design of a currently recruiting trial to address it. (Eliminate Coronary Artery Disease [ECAD]; NCT02245087) (22).
Sex Differences in Cardiac Risk Factors, Perceived Risk, and Health Care Provider Discussion of Risk and Risk Modification Among Young Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: The VIRGO Study
E.C. Leifheit-Limson, et al.
Background
Differences between sexes in cardiac risk factors, perceptions of cardiac risk, and health care provider discussions about risk among young patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are not well studied.
Objectives
This study compared cardiac risk factor prevalence, risk perceptions, and health care provider feedback on heart disease and risk modification between young women and men hospitalized with AMI.
Methods
We studied 3,501 AMI patients age 18 to 55 years enrolled in the VIRGO (Variation in Recovery: Role of Gender on Outcomes of Young AMI Patients) study in U.S. and Spanish hospitals between August 2008 and January 2012, comparing the prevalence of 5 cardiac risk factors by sex. Modified Poisson regression was used to assess sex differences in self-perceived heart disease risk and self-reported provider discussions of risk and modification.
Results
Nearly all patients (98%) had ≥1 risk factor, and 64% had ≥3. Only 53% of patients considered themselves at risk for heart disease, and even fewer reported being told they were at risk (46%) or that their health care provider had discussed heart disease and risk modification (49%). Women were less likely than men to be told they were at risk (relative risk: 0.89; 95% confidence interval: 0.84 to 0.96) or to have a provider discuss risk modification (relative risk: 0.84; 95% confidence interval: 0.79 to 0.89). There was no difference between women and men for self-perceived risk.
Conclusions
Despite having significant cardiac risk factors, only one-half of young AMI patients believed they were at risk for heart disease before their event. Even fewer discussed their risks or risk modification with their health care providers; this issue was more pronounced among women (23).
Dose of Jogging and Long-Term Mortality: The Copenhagen City Heart Study
P. Schnohr, et al.
Background
People who are physically active have at least a 30% lower risk of death during follow-up compared with those who are inactive. However, the ideal dose of exercise for improving longevity is uncertain.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the association between jogging and long-term, all-cause mortality by focusing specifically on the effects of pace, quantity, and frequency of jogging.
Methods
As part of the Copenhagen City Heart Study, 1,098 healthy joggers and 3,950 healthy nonjoggers have been prospectively followed up since 2001. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed with age as the underlying time scale and delayed entry.
Results
Compared with sedentary nonjoggers, 1 to 2.4 h of jogging per week was associated with the lowest mortality (multivariable hazard ratio [HR]: 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.11 to 0.80). The optimal frequency of jogging was 2 to 3 times per week (HR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.69) or ≤1 time per week (HR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.72). The optimal pace was slow (HR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.24 to 1.10) or average (HR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.22 to 0.66). The joggers were divided into light, moderate, and strenuous joggers. The lowest HR for mortality was found in light joggers (HR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.47), followed by moderate joggers (HR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.32 to 1.38) and strenuous joggers (HR: 1.97; 95% CI: 0.48 to 8.14).
Conclusions
The findings suggest a U-shaped association between all-cause mortality and dose of jogging as calibrated by pace, quantity, and frequency of jogging. Light and moderate joggers have lower mortality than sedentary nonjoggers, whereas strenuous joggers have a mortality rate not statistically different from that of the sedentary group (24).
Frequency and Practice-Level Variation in Inappropriate Aspirin Use for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: Insights From the National Cardiovascular Disease Registry's Practice Innovation and Clinical Excellence Registry
R.S. Hira, et al.
Background
Among patients without cardiovascular disease (CVD) and low 10-year CVD risk, the risks of gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhagic strokes associated with aspirin use outweigh any potential atheroprotective benefit. According to the guidelines on primary prevention of CVD, aspirin use is considered appropriate only in patients with 10-year CVD risk ≥6% and inappropriate in patients with 10-year CVD risk <6%.
Objectives
The goal of this study was to examine the frequency and practice-level variation in inappropriate aspirin use for primary prevention in a large U.S. nationwide registry.
Methods
Within the National Cardiovascular Disease Registry's Practice Innovation and Clinical Excellence registry, we assessed 68,808 unique patients receiving aspirin for primary prevention from 119 U.S. practices. The frequency of inappropriate aspirin use was determined for primary prevention (aspirin use in those with 10-year CVD risk <6%). Using hierarchical regression models, the extent of practice-level variation using the median rate ratio (MRR) was assessed.
Results
Inappropriate aspirin use frequency was 11.6% (7,972 of 68,808) in the overall cohort. There was significant practice-level variation in inappropriate use (range 0% to 71.8%; median 10.1%; interquartile range 6.4%) for practices; adjusted MRR was 1.63 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.47 to 1.77). Results remained consistent after excluding 21,052 women age ≥65 years (inappropriate aspirin use 15.2%; median practice-level inappropriate aspirin use 13.8%; interquartile range 8.2%; adjusted MRR 1.61 [95% CI: 1.46 to 1.75]) and after excluding patients with diabetes (inappropriate aspirin use 13.9%; median practice-level inappropriate aspirin use 12.4%; interquartile range 7.6%; adjusted MRR 1.55 [95% CI: 1.41 to 1.67]).
Conclusions
More than 1 in 10 patients in this national registry were receiving inappropriate aspirin therapy for primary prevention, with significant practice-level variations. Our findings suggest that there are important opportunities to improve evidence-based aspirin use for the primary prevention of CVD (25).
Healthy Lifestyle in the Primordial Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Among Young Women
A.K. Chomistek, et al.
Background
Overall mortality rates from coronary heart disease (CHD) in the United States have declined in recent decades, but the rate has plateaued among younger women. The potential for further reductions in mortality rates among young women through changes in lifestyle is unknown.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to estimate the proportion of CHD cases and clinical cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among young women that might be attributable to poor adherence to a healthy lifestyle.
Methods
A prospective analysis was conducted among 88,940 women ages 27 to 44 years at baseline in the Nurses' Health Study II who were followed from 1991 to 2011. Lifestyle factors were updated repeatedly by questionnaire. A healthy lifestyle was defined as not smoking, a normal body mass index, physical activity ≥ 2.5 h/week, television viewing ≤ 7 h/week, diet in the top 40% of the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010, and 0.1 to 14.9 g/day of alcohol. To estimate the proportion of CHD and clinical CVD risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia) that could be attributed to poor adherence to a healthy lifestyle, we calculated the population-attributable risk percent.
Results
During 20 years of follow-up, we documented 456 incident CHD cases. In multivariable-adjusted models, nonsmoking, a healthy body mass index, exercise, and a healthy diet were independently and significantly associated with lower CHD risk. Compared with women with no healthy lifestyle factors, the hazard ratio for CHD for women with 6B lifestyle factors was 0.08 (95% confidence interval: 0.03 to 0.22). Approximately 73% (95% confidence interval: 39% to 89%) of CHD cases were attributable to poor adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Similarly, 46% (95% confidence interval: 43% to 49%) of clinical CVD risk factor cases were attributable to a poor lifestyle.
Conclusions
Primordial prevention through maintenance of a healthy lifestyle among young women may substantially lower the burden of CVD (26).
Dietary Sodium and Health: More Than Just Blood Pressure
W.B. Farquhar, et al.
Sodium is essential for cellular homeostasis and physiological function. Excess dietary sodium has been linked to elevations in blood pressure (BP). Salt sensitivity of BP varies widely, but certain subgroups tend to be more salt sensitive. The mechanisms underlying sodium-induced increases in BP are not completely understood but may involve alterations in renal function, fluid volume, fluid-regulatory hormones, the vasculature, cardiac function, and the autonomic nervous system. Recent pre-clinical and clinical data support that even in the absence of an increase in BP, excess dietary sodium can adversely affect target organs, including the blood vessels, heart, kidneys, and brain. In this review, the investigators review these issues and the epidemiological research relating dietary sodium to BP and cardiovascular health outcomes, addressing recent controversies. They also provide information and strategies for reducing dietary sodium (27).
Cardiac Rehabilitation and Risk Reduction: Time to “Rebrand and Reinvigorate”
P.B. Sandesara, et al.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) continues to increase annually in the United States along with its associated enormous costs. A multidisciplinary cardiac rehabilitation (CR) and risk reduction program is an essential component of ASCVD prevention and management. Despite the strong evidence for CR in the secondary prevention of ASCVD, it remains vastly underutilized due to significant barriers. The current model of CR delivery is unsustainable and needs significant improvement to provide cost-effective, patient-centered, comprehensive secondary ASCVD prevention (28).
Endogenous Fibrinolysis: An Important Mediator of Thrombus Formation and Cardiovascular Risk
O.N. Okafor, et al.
Most acute cardiovascular events are attributable to arterial thrombosis. Plaque rupture or erosion stimulates platelet activation, aggregation, and thrombosis, whilst simultaneously activating enzymatic processes that mediate endogenous fibrinolysis to physiologically maintain vessel patency. Interplay between these pathways determines clinical outcome. If proaggregatory factors predominate, the thrombus may propagate, leading to vessel occlusion. However, if balanced by a healthy fibrinolytic system, thrombosis may not occur or cause lasting occlusion. Despite abundant evidence for the fibrinolytic system regulating thrombosis, it has been overlooked compared with platelet reactivity, partly due to a lack of techniques to measure it. We evaluate evidence for endogenous fibrinolysis in arterial thrombosis and review techniques to assess it, including biomarkers and global assays, such as thromboelastography and the Global Thrombosis Test. Global assays, simultaneously assessing proaggregatory and fibrinolytic pathways, could play a role in risk stratification and in identifying impaired fibrinolysis as a potential target for pharmacological modulation (29).
Primary Prevention With Statins: ACC/AHA Risk-Based Approach Versus Trial-Based Approaches to Guide Statin Therapy
M.B. Mortensen, et al.
Background
Guidelines recommend initiating primary prevention for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) with statins based on absolute ASCVD risk assessment. Recently, alternative trial-based and hybrid approaches were suggested for statin treatment eligibility.
Objectives
This study compared these approaches in a direct head-to-head fashion in a contemporary population.
Methods
The study used the CGPS (Copenhagen General Population Study) with 37,892 subjects aged 40 to 75 years recruited in 2003 to 2008, all free of ASCVD, diabetes, and statin use at baseline.
Results
Among the population studied, 42% were eligible for statin therapy according to the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) risk assessment and cholesterol treatment guidelines approach, versus 56% with the trial-based approach and 21% with the hybrid approach. Among these statin-eligible subjects, the ASCVD event rate per 1,000 person-years was 9.8, 6.8, and 11.2, respectively. The ACC/AHA-recommended absolute risk score was well calibrated around the 7.5% 10-year ASCVD risk treatment threshold and discriminated better than the trial-based or hybrid approaches. Compared with the ACC/AHA risk-based approach, the net reclassification index for eligibility for statin therapy among 40- to 75-year-old subjects from the CGPS was –0.21 for the trial-based approach and –0.13 for the hybrid approach.
Conclusions
The clinical performance of the ACC/AHA risk-based approach for primary prevention of ASCVD with statins was superior to the trial-based and hybrid approaches. Our results indicate that the ACC/AHA guidelines will prevent more ASCVD events than the trial-based and hybrid approaches, while treating fewer people compared with the trial-based approach (30).
Cardiac Failure
The Path to an Angiotensin Receptor Antagonist-Neprilysin Inhibitor in the Treatment of Heart Failure
E. Braunwald, et al.
The PARADIGM-HF (Prospective comparison of ARNi with ACEi to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure) trial demonstrated that a new angiotensin receptor antagonist-neprilysin inhibitor was superior to an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor in reducing mortality in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. This paper traces the research path that culminated in the development of this drug. The first phase, elucidation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, began with Tigerstedt’s discovery of renin, followed by isolation of angiotensin, isolation of angiotensin-converting enzyme, and synthesis of its inhibitors and of angiotensin receptor blockers. Phase 2 began with de Bold’s discovery of atrial natriuretic peptide, followed by isolation of the enzyme that degrades it (neprilysin) and its inhibitors. Phase 3 consists of blocking both the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide–degrading systems simultaneously. A molecular complex, LCZ696, developed by scientists at Novartis, combines an angiotensin receptor blocker with a neprilysin inhibitor, is well tolerated, and represents an important step in the management of heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (31).
Comparing LCZ696 With Enalapril According to Baseline Risk Using the MAGGIC and EMPHASIS-HF Risk Scores: An Analysis of Mortality and Morbidity in PARADIGM-HF
J. Simpson, et al.
Background
Although most patients in the PARADIGM-HF (Prospective Comparison of ARNI With ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure) trial had mild symptoms, there is a poor correlation between reported functional limitation and prognosis in heart failure.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to examine the spectrum of risk in PARADIGM-HF and the effect of LCZ696 across that spectrum.
Methods
This study analyzed rates of the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization, its components, and all-cause mortality using the MAGGIC (Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure) and EMPHASIS-HF (Eplerenone in Mild Patients Hospitalization and Survival Study in Heart Failure) risk scores to categorize patients. The authors determined whether risk, on the basis of these scores, modified the treatment effect of LCZ696.
Results
The complete MAGGIC risk score was available for 8,375 of the 8,399 patients in PARADIGM-HF. The median MAGGIC score was 20 (IQR: 16 to 24). An increase of 1 point was associated with a 6% increased risk for the primary endpoint (p < 0.001) and a 7% increased risk for cardiovascular death (p < 0.001). The benefit of LCZ696 over enalapril for the primary endpoint was similar across the spectrum of risk (p = 0.159). Treating 100 patients for 2 years with LCZ696 instead of enalapril led to 7 fewer patients in the highest quintile of risk experiencing primary outcomes, compared with 3 in the lowest quintile. Analyses using the EMPHASIS-HF risk score gave similar findings.
Conclusions
Although most PARADIGM-HF patients had mild symptoms, many were at high risk for adverse outcomes and obtained a large absolute benefit from LCZ696, compared with enalapril, over a relatively short treatment period. LCZ696’s benefit was consistent across the spectrum of risk. (PARADIGM-HF trial [Prospective Comparison of ARNI With ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure]; NCT01035255) (32).
Soluble Neprilysin Is Predictive of Cardiovascular Death and Heart Failure Hospitalization in Heart Failure Patients
A. Bayés-Genís, et al.
Background
Neprilysin is a membrane-bound enzyme that breaks down natriuretic peptides. The PARADIGM-HF (Prospective Comparison of ARNI With ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure) trial showed that patients with heart failure (HF) treated with an angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor lived longer without being hospitalized for HF than those receiving standard care with enalapril.
Objectives
This study sought to assess the presence of circulating soluble neprilysin in a real-life cohort of HF patients and correlate neprilysin levels with outcomes.
Methods
Circulating soluble neprilysin was measured with a modified sandwich immunoassay in consecutive ambulatory patients with HF who were followed up for 4.1 years. Associations between neprilysin level and a composite endpoint that included cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization were explored.
Results
Median neprilysin concentration in 1,069 patients was 0.642 ng/ml (median quartile 1 to 3: 0.385 to 1.219). Neprilysin weakly but significantly correlated with age (rho = 0.16; p < 0.001). In age-adjusted Cox regression analyses, neprilysin concentrations were significantly associated with the composite endpoint (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06 to 1.29; p = 0.001) and cardiovascular death (HR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.32; p = 0.002). In comprehensive multivariable analyses, soluble neprilysin remained significantly associated with both the composite endpoint (HR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.31; p = 0.001) and cardiovascular death (HR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.32; p = 0.006).
Conclusions
Identification of circulating neprilysin in HF patients and the positive association of neprilysin with cardiovascular mortality and morbidity further support the importance of NEP inhibition for augmenting natriuretic peptides as a therapeutic target (33).
Risk Assessment and Comparative Effectiveness of Left Ventricular Assist Device and Medical Management in Ambulatory Heart Failure Patients: Results From the ROADMAP Study
J.D. Estep, et al.
Background
Data for left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) in patients with noninotrope-dependent heart failure (HF) are limited.
Objectives
The goal of this study was to evaluate HeartMate II (HMII) LVAD support versus optimal medical management (OMM) in ambulatory New York Heart Association functional class IIIB/IV patients meeting indications for LVAD destination therapy but not dependent on intravenous inotropic support.
Methods
This was a prospective, multicenter (N = 41), observational study of 200 patients (97 LVAD, 103 OMM). Entry criteria included ≥1 hospitalization for HF in the last 12 months and 6-min walk distance (6MWD) <300 m. The primary composite endpoint was survival on original therapy with improvement in 6MWD ≥75 m at 12 months.
Results
LVAD patients were more severely ill, with more patients classified as Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support profile 4 (65% LVAD vs. 34% OMM; p < 0.001) than 5 to 7. More LVAD patients met the primary endpoint (39% LVAD vs. 21% OMM; odds ratio: 2.4 [95% confidence interval: 1.2 to 4.8]; p = 0.012). On the basis of as-treated analysis, 12-month survival was greater for LVAD versus OMM (80 ± 4% vs. 63 ± 5%; p = 0.022) patients. Adverse events were higher in LVAD patients, at 1.89 events/patient-year (EPPY), primarily driven by bleeding (1.22 EPPY), than with OMM, at 0.83 EPPY, primarily driven by worsening HF (0.68 EPPY). Most patients (80% LVAD vs. 62% OMM; p < 0.001) required hospitalizations. Health-related quality of life (HRQol) and depression improved from baseline more significantly with LVADs than with OMM (Δ visual analog scale: 29 ± 25 vs. 10 ± 22 [p < 0.001]; Δ Patient Health Questionnaire–9: –5 ± 7 vs. –1 ± 5 [p < 0.001]).
Conclusions
Survival with improved functional status was better with HMII LVAD compared with OMM. Despite experiencing more frequent adverse events, LVAD patients improved more in HRQol and depression. The results support HMII use in functionally limited, noninotrope-dependent HF patients with poor HRQoL. (Risk Assessment and Comparative Effectiveness of Left Ventricular Assist Device [LVAD] and Medical Management [ROADMAP]; NCT01452802) (34).
Importance of Angina in Patients With Coronary Disease, Heart Failure, and Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction: Insights From STICH
E.M. Jolicœur, et al.
Background
Patients with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, coronary artery disease (CAD), and angina are often thought to have a worse prognosis and a greater prognostic benefit from coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery than those without angina.
Objectives
This study investigated: 1) whether angina was associated with a worse prognosis; 2) whether angina identified patients who had a greater survival benefit from CABG; and 3) whether CABG improved angina in patients with LV systolic dysfunction and CAD.
Methods
We performed an analysis of the STICH (Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure) trial, in which 1,212 patients with an ejection fraction ≤35% and CAD were randomized to CABG or medical therapy. Multivariable Cox and logistic models were used to assess long-term clinical outcomes.
Results
At baseline, 770 patients (64%) reported angina. Among patients assigned to medical therapy, all-cause mortality was similar in patients with and without angina (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79 to 1.38). The effect of CABG was similar whether the patient had angina (HR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.71 to 1.13) or not (HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.50 to 0.94; p interaction = 0.14). Patients assigned to CABG were more likely to report improvement in angina than those assigned to medical therapy alone (odds ratio: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.55 to 0.90; p < 0.01).
Conclusions
Angina does not predict all-cause mortality in medically treated patients with LV systolic dysfunction and CAD, nor does it identify patients who have a greater survival benefit from CABG. However, CABG does improve angina to a greater extent than medical therapy alone. (Comparison of Surgical and Medical Treatment for Congestive Heart Failure and Coronary Artery Disease [STICH]; NCT00023595) (35).
Utility of the Wearable Cardioverter-Defibrillator in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Cardiomyopathy: A Decade-Long Single-Center Experience
M. Singh, et al.
Background
The wearable cardioverter-defibrillator (WCD) has emerged as a means of protecting patients with newly diagnosed nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) or ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) against sudden cardiac death while awaiting re-evaluation of cardiac function.
Objectives
This study sought to characterize the risk of appropriate WCD therapy in newly diagnosed NICM and ICM patients according to cardiomyopathy etiology in an independent study.
Methods
Medical records of all patients prescribed a WCD between June 2004 and May 2015 at our institution (n = 639) were analyzed, focusing on 254 patients with newly diagnosed NICM and 271 patients with newly diagnosed ICM. Patients with a prior implantable cardioverter-defibrillator or sustained ventricular arrhythmias were excluded (n = 114). The primary endpoint was appropriate WCD therapy.
Results
Median WCD wear time was 61 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 25 to 102 days) per patient and 22 h/day (IQR: 17 to 23 h/day). During 56.7 patient-years, 0 NICM patients received an appropriate WCD shock, whereas 3 (1.2%) received an inappropriate shock. During 46.7 patient-years, 6 (2.2%) ICM patients received an appropriate shock; 5 survived the episode, and 4 survived to hospital discharge. All 6 patients with an appropriate shock were male with QRS duration >120 ms. Two (0.7%) ICM patients received an inappropriate shock.
Conclusions
In this independent, retrospective study, the risk of appropriate WCD therapies in patients with newly diagnosed NICM was minimal. Routine use of the WCD in this population should be prospectively evaluated. The risk of appropriate therapies in newly diagnosed ICM was comparable to that observed in prior observational studies (36).
Hyponatremia in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Depletion Versus Dilution
F.H. Verbrugge, et al.
Hyponatremia frequently poses a therapeutic challenge in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). Treating physicians should differentiate between depletional versus dilutional hyponatremia. The former is caused by diuretic agents, which enhance sodium excretion, often with concomitant potassium/magnesium losses. This can be treated with isotonic saline, whereas potassium/magnesium administration may be helpful if plasma concentrations are low. In contrast, as impaired water excretion, rather than sodium deficiency, is the culprit in dilutional hyponatremia, isotonic saline administration may further depress the serum sodium concentration. Because free water excretion is achieved by continuous sodium reabsorption in distal nephron segments with low water permeability, diuretic agents that impair this mechanism (e.g., thiazide-type diuretic agents and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists) should be avoided, and proximally acting agents (e.g., acetazolamide and loop diuretic agents) are preferred. Vasopressin antagonists, which promote low water permeability in the collecting ducts and, hence, free water excretion, remain under investigation for dilutional hyponatremia in ADHF (37).
Mechanisms and Clinical Consequences of Untreated Central Sleep Apnea in Heart Failure
M.R. Costanzo, et al.
Central sleep apnea (CSA) is a highly prevalent, though often unrecognized, comorbidity in patients with heart failure (HF). Data from HF population studies suggest that it may present in 30% to 50% of HF patients. CSA is recognized as an important contributor to the progression of HF and to HF-related morbidity and mortality. Over the past 2 decades, an expanding body of research has begun to shed light on the pathophysiologic mechanisms of CSA. Armed with this growing knowledge base, the sleep, respiratory, and cardiovascular research communities have been working to identify ways to treat CSA in HF with the ultimate goal of improving patient quality of life and clinical outcomes. In this paper, we examine the current state of knowledge about the mechanisms of CSA in HF and review emerging therapies for this disorder (38).
Evolving Therapies for Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
B. Ibáñez, et al.
The damage inflicted on the myocardium during acute myocardial infarction is the result of 2 processes: ischemia and subsequent reperfusion (ischemia/reperfusion injury). During the last 3 decades, therapies to reduce ischemic injury (mainly reperfusion strategies) have been widely incorporated into clinical practice. The remarkable reduction in death rates achieved with these therapies has resulted in a shift in emphasis from efforts to reduce mortality to a focus on tackling the downstream consequence of survival: post-infarction heart failure. Infarct size is the main determinant of long-term mortality and chronic heart failure, and thus, the possibility of limiting the extent of necrosis during an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction is of great individual and socioeconomic value. After the great success of therapies to reduce ischemic injury, the time has come to focus efforts on therapies to reduce reperfusion injury, but in the recent few years, few interventions have successfully passed the proof-of-concept stage. In this review, we examine the past, present, and future therapies to reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury (39).
Ventricular Ectopy as a Predictor of Heart Failure and Death
J.W. Dukes, et al.
Background
Studies of patients presenting for catheter ablation suggest that premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are a modifiable risk factor for congestive heart failure (CHF). The relationship among PVC frequency, incident CHF, and mortality in the general population remains unknown.
Objectives
The goal of this study was to determine whether PVC frequency ascertained using a 24-h Holter monitor is a predictor of a decrease in the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), incident CHF, and death in a population-based cohort.
Methods
We studied 1,139 Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS) participants who were randomly assigned to 24-h ambulatory electrocardiography (Holter) monitoring and who had a normal LVEF and no history of CHF. PVC frequency was quantified using Holter studies, and LVEF was measured from baseline and 5-year echocardiograms. Participants were followed for incident CHF and death.
Results
Those in the upper quartile versus the lowest quartile of PVC frequency had a multivariable-adjusted, 3-fold greater odds of a 5-year decrease in LVEF (odds ratio [OR]: 3.10; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.42 to 6.77; p = 0.005), a 48% increased risk of incident CHF (HR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.08 to 2.04; p = 0.02), and a 31% increased risk of death (HR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.63; p = 0.01) during a median follow-up of >13 years. Similar statistically significant results were observed for PVCs analyzed as a continuous variable. The specificity for the 15-year risk of CHF exceeded 90% when PVCs included at least 0.7% of ventricular beats. The population-level risk for incident CHF attributed to PVCs was 8.1% (95% CI: 1.2% to 14.9%).
Conclusions
In a population-based sample, a higher frequency of PVCs was associated with a decrease in LVEF, an increase in incident CHF, and increased mortality. Because of the capacity to prevent PVCs through medical or ablation therapy, PVCs may represent a modifiable risk factor for CHF and death (40).
Left Ventricular Assist Devices: A Rapidly Evolving Alternative to Transplant
D. Mancini, et al.
Left ventricular assist devices are becoming an increasingly prevalent therapy for patients with Stage D heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Technological advances have improved the durability of these devices and have significantly lengthened survival in these patients. Quality of life is also improved, although adverse events related to device therapy remain common. Nevertheless, with the continuing organ donor shortage for cardiac transplantation, left ventricular assist devices are frequently serving as a substitute for transplant, particularly in the elderly patient (41).
Revascularization in Severe Left Ventricular Dysfunction
E.J. Velazquez, et al.
The highest-risk patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction are those with ischemic cardiomyopathy and severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction ≤35%). The cornerstone of treatment is guideline-driven medical therapy for all patients and implantable device therapy for appropriately selected patients. Surgical revascularization offers the potential for improved survival and quality of life, particularly in patients with more extensive multivessel disease and the greatest degree of left ventricular systolic dysfunction and remodeling. These are also the patients at greatest short-term risk of mortality with coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The short-term risks of surgery need to be balanced against the potential for long-term benefit. This review discusses the evolving data on the role of surgical revascularization, surgical ventricular reconstruction, and mitral valve surgery in this high-risk patient population (42).
Cardiomyopathies
Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Therapy of Transthyretin Amyloidosis
M.A. Gertz, et al.
Transthyretin amyloidosis is a fatal disorder that is characterized primarily by progressive neuropathy and cardiomyopathy. It occurs in both a mutant form (with autosomal dominant inheritance) and a wild-type form (with predominant cardiac involvement). This article guides clinicians as to when the disease should be suspected, describes the appropriate diagnostic evaluation for those with known or suspected amyloidosis, and reviews the interventions currently available for affected patients (43).
New Perspectives on the Prevalence of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
C. Semsarian, et al.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an important genetic heart muscle disease for which prevalence in the general population has not been completely resolved. For the past 20 years, most data have supported the occurrence of HCM at about 1 in 500. However, the authors have interrogated a number of relevant advances in cardiovascular medicine, including widespread fee-for-service genetic testing, population genetic studies, and contemporary diagnostic imaging, as well as a greater index of suspicion and recognition for both the clinically expressed disease and the gene-positive–phenotype-negative subset (at risk for developing the disease). Accounting for the potential impact of these initiatives on disease occurrence, the authors have revisited the prevalence of HCM in the general population. They suggest that HCM is more common than previously estimated, which may enhance its recognition in the practicing cardiovascular community, allowing more timely diagnosis and the implementation of appropriate treatment options for many patients (44).
Sudden Cardiac Death in the Older Athlete
S.S. Chugh, et al.
The overwhelming majority of sports-related sudden deaths occur among those older than 35 years of age. Because increasing numbers of older people are participating in organized endurance and competitive sporting events, the incidence of sports-related sudden death in older adults is expected to rise. Older athletes will approach clinical cardiologists for advice regarding their fitness for participation. It is important to recognize both that strenuous exercise is associated with a transient elevation in risk of sudden cardiac death and that appropriate training substantially reduces this risk. The approach to pre-participation screening for risk of sudden death in the older athlete is a complex issue and at present is largely focused on identifying inducible ischemia due to significant coronary disease. In this brief review, we summarize the current state of knowledge in this area with respect to epidemiology, mechanisms, and approaches to risk stratification, as viewed from the perspective of the consulting clinical cardiologist (45).
Genetics, Omics, and Tissue Regeneration
Human Ventricular Unloading Induces Cardiomyocyte Proliferation
D.C. Canseco, et al.
Background
The adult mammalian heart is incapable of meaningful regeneration after substantial cardiomyocyte loss, primarily due to the inability of adult cardiomyocytes to divide. Our group recently showed that mitochondria-mediated oxidative DNA damage is an important regulator of postnatal cardiomyocyte cell cycle arrest. However, it is not known whether mechanical load also plays a role in this process. We reasoned that the postnatal physiological increase in mechanical load contributes to the increase in mitochondrial content, with subsequent activation of DNA damage response (DDR) and permanent cell cycle arrest of cardiomyocytes.
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to test the effect of mechanical unloading on mitochondrial mass, DDR, and cardiomyocyte proliferation.
Methods
We examined the effect of human ventricular unloading after implantation of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) on mitochondrial content, DDR, and cardiomyocyte proliferation in 10 matched left ventricular samples collected at the time of LVAD implantation (pre-LVAD) and at the time of explantation (post-LVAD).
Results
We found that post-LVAD hearts showed up to a 60% decrease in mitochondrial content and up to a 45% decrease in cardiomyocyte size compared with pre-LVAD hearts. Moreover, we quantified cardiomyocyte nuclear foci of phosphorylated ataxia telangiectasia mutated protein, an upstream regulator of the DDR pathway, and we found a significant decrease in the number of nuclear phosphorylated ataxia telangiectasia mutated foci in the post-LVAD hearts. Finally, we examined cardiomyocyte mitosis and cytokinesis and found a statistically significant increase in both phosphorylated histone H3-positive, and Aurora B-positive cardiomyocytes in the post-LVAD hearts. Importantly, these results were driven by statistical significance in hearts exposed to longer durations of mechanical unloading.
Conclusions
Prolonged mechanical unloading induces adult human cardiomyocyte proliferation, possibly through prevention of mitochondria-mediated activation of DDR (46).
Comparison of Different Bone Marrow–Derived Stem Cell Approaches in Reperfused STEMI: A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized, Open-Labeled TECAM Trial
J.A. San Roman, et al.
Background
Stem cell–based therapy has emerged as a potential therapy in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Although various approaches have been studied, intracoronary injection of bone marrow autologous mononuclear cells (BMMC) and the ability of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) to mobilize endogenous cells have attracted the most attention.
Objectives
This study compares, for the first time, the efficacy of BMMC injection, G-CSF mobilization, and the combination of both with standard treatment.
Methods
On Day 1 after primary percutaneous coronary intervention, 120 patients were randomized to a 1) intracoronary BMMC injection; 2) mobilization with G-CSF; 3) both (BMMC injection plus G-CSF); or 4) conventional treatment (control group). G-CSF, 10 μg/kg/day subcutaneously, was started Day 1 and maintained for 5 days. BMMC injection was performed on Days 3 to 5. Our primary endpoint was absolute change in 12-month left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) relative to baseline measured by cardiac magnetic resonance.
Results
The mean change in LVEF between baseline and follow-up for all patients was 4 ± 6% (p = 0.006). Change in LVEF and LVESV over time did not differ significantly among the 4 groups. Patients actively treated with any stem cell approach showed similar changes in LVEF and LVESV versus control subjects, with a small but significant reduction in infarct area (p = 0.038).
Conclusions
In our study, 3 different bone marrow–derived stem cell approaches in AMI did not result in improvement of LVEF or volumes compared with standard AMI care (Trial of Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Acute Myocardial Infarction [TECAM]; NCT00984178) (47).
Plasma Exosomes Protect the Myocardium From Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
J.M. Vicencio, et al.
Background
Exosomes are nanometer-sized vesicles released from cells into the blood, where they can transmit signals throughout the body. Shown to act on the heart, exosomes’ composition and the signaling pathways they activate have not been explored. We hypothesized that endogenous plasma exosomes can communicate signals to the heart and provide protection against ischemia and reperfusion injury.
Objectives
This study sought to isolate and characterize exosomes from rats and healthy volunteers, evaluate their cardioprotective actions, and identify the molecular mechanisms involved.
Methods
The exosome-rich fraction was isolated from the blood of adult rats and human volunteers and was analyzed by protein marker expression, transmission electron microscopy, and nanoparticle tracking analysis. This was then used in ex vivo, in vivo, and in vitro settings of ischemia-reperfusion, with the protective signaling pathways activated on cardiomyocytes identified using Western blot analyses and chemical inhibitors.
Results
Exosomes exhibited the expected size and expressed marker proteins CD63, CD81, and heat shock protein (HSP) 70. The exosome-rich fraction was powerfully cardioprotective in all tested models of cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury. We identified a pro-survival signaling pathway activated in cardiomyocytes involving toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and various kinases, leading to activation of the cardioprotective HSP27. Cardioprotection was prevented by a neutralizing antibody against a conserved HSP70 epitope expressed on the exosome surface and by blocking TLR4 in cardiomyocytes, identifying the HSP70/TLR4 communication axis as a critical component in exosome-mediated cardioprotection.
Conclusions
Exosomes deliver endogenous protective signals to the myocardium by a pathway involving TLR4 and classic cardioprotective HSPs (48).
Effect of Aging on Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Patients
S. Golpanian, et al.
Background
The role of patient age in the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy in ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) is controversial.
Objectives
This study sought to determine whether the therapeutic effect of culture-expanded MSCs persists, even in older subjects.
Methods
Patients with ICM who received MSCs via transendocardial stem cell injection (TESI) as part of the TAC-HFT (Transendocardial Autologous Cells in Ischemic Heart Failure) (n = 19) and POSEIDON (Percutaneous Stem Cell Injection Delivery Effects on Neomyogenesis) (n = 30) clinical trials were divided into 2 age groups: younger than 60 and 60 years of age and older. Functional capacity was measured by 6-min walk distance (6MWD) and quality of life using the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) score, measured at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year post-TESI. Various cardiac imaging parameters, including absolute scar size, were compared at baseline and 1 year post-TESI.
Results
The mean 6MWD was similar at baseline and increased at 1 year post-TESI in both groups: 48.5 ± 14.6 m (p = 0.001) for the younger and 35.9 ± 18.3 m (p = 0.038) for the older participants (p = NS between groups). The older group exhibited a significant reduction in MLHFQ score (−7.04 ± 3.54; p = 0.022), whereas the younger than 60 age group had a borderline significant reduction (−11.22 ± 5.24; p = 0.058) from baseline (p = NS between groups). Although there were significant reductions in absolute scar size from baseline to 1 year post-TESI, the effect did not differ by age.
Conclusions
MSC therapy with TESI in ICM patients improves 6MWD and MLHFQ score and reduces myocardial infarction size. Importantly, older individuals did not have an impaired response to MSC therapy (49).
Cofilin-2 Phosphorylation and Sequestration in Myocardial Aggregates: Novel Pathogenetic Mechanisms for Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
K. Subramanian, et al.
Background
Recently, tangles and plaque-like aggregates have been identified in certain cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). This suggests a potential underlying cause for the one-third of cases, traditionally labeled idiopathic (iDCM), where there is no specific diagnostic test or targeted therapy.
Objectives
This study sought to identify the make-up of myocardial aggregates to understand the molecular mechanisms of these cases of DCM; this strategy has been central to understanding Alzheimer’s disease.
Methods
Aggregates were extracted from human iDCM samples with high congophilic reactivity (an indication of plaque presence), and the findings were validated in a larger cohort of samples. We tested the expression, distribution, and activity of cofilin in human tissue and generated a cardiac-specific knockout mouse model to investigate the functional impact of the human findings. We also modeled cofilin inactivity in vitro by using pharmacological and genetic gain- and loss-of-function approaches.
Results
Aggregates in human myocardium were enriched for cofilin-2, an actin-depolymerizing protein known to participate in neurodegenerative diseases and nemaline myopathy. Cofilin-2 was predominantly phosphorylated, rendering it inactive. Cardiac-specific haploinsufficiency of cofilin-2 in mice recapitulated the human disease’s morphological, functional, and structural phenotype. Pharmacological stimulation of cofilin-2 phosphorylation and genetic overexpression of the phosphomimetic protein promoted the accumulation of “stress-like” fibers and severely impaired cardiomyocyte contractility.
Conclusions
Our study provides the first biochemical characterization of prefibrillar myocardial aggregates in humans and the first report to link cofilin-2 to cardiomyopathy. The findings suggest a common pathogenetic mechanism connecting certain iDCMs and other chronic degenerative diseases, laying the groundwork for new therapeutic strategies (50).
Fibrosis, Connexin-43, and Conduction Abnormalities in the Brugada Syndrome
K. Nademanee, et al.
Background
The right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) is acknowledged to be responsible for arrhythmogenesis in Brugada syndrome (BrS), but the pathophysiology remains controversial.
Objectives
This study assessed the substrate underlying BrS at post-mortem and in vivo, and the role for open thoracotomy ablation.
Methods
Six whole hearts from male post-mortem cases of unexplained sudden death (mean age 23.2 years) with negative specialist cardiac autopsy and familial BrS were used and matched to 6 homograft control hearts by sex and age (within 3 years) by random risk set sampling. Cardiac autopsy sections from cases and control hearts were stained with picrosirius red for collagen. The RVOT was evaluated in detail, including immunofluorescent stain for connexin-43 (Cx43). Collagen and Cx43 were quantified digitally and compared. An in vivo study was undertaken on 6 consecutive BrS patients (mean age 39.8 years, all men) during epicardial RVOT ablation for arrhythmia via thoracotomy. Abnormal late and fractionated potentials indicative of slowed conduction were identified, and biopsies were taken before ablation.
Results
Collagen was increased in BrS autopsy cases compared with control hearts (odds ratio [OR]: 1.42; p = 0.026). Fibrosis was greatest in the RVOT (OR: 1.98; p = 0.003) and the epicardium (OR: 2.00; p = 0.001). The Cx43 signal was reduced in BrS RVOT (OR: 0.59; p = 0.001). Autopsy and in vivo RVOT samples identified epicardial and interstitial fibrosis. This was collocated with abnormal potentials in vivo that, when ablated, abolished the type 1 Brugada electrocardiogram without ventricular arrhythmia over 24.6 ± 9.7 months.
Conclusions
BrS is associated with epicardial surface and interstitial fibrosis and reduced gap junction expression in the RVOT. This collocates to abnormal potentials, and their ablation abolishes the BrS phenotype and life-threatening arrhythmias. BrS is also associated with increased collagen throughout the heart. Abnormal myocardial structure and conduction are therefore responsible for BrS (51).
Enhanced Cardiac Regenerative Ability of Stem Cells After Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Role of Human CD34+ Cells Deficient in MicroRNA-377
D. Joladarashi, et al.
Background
MicroRNA (miR) dysregulation in the myocardium has been implicated in cardiac remodeling after injury or stress.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to explore the role of miR in human CD34+ cell (hCD34+) dysfunction in vivo after transplantation into the myocardium under ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) conditions.
Methods
In response to inflammatory stimuli, the miR array profile of endothelial progenitor cells was analyzed using a polymerase chain reaction–based miR microarray. miR-377 expression was assessed in myocardial tissue from human patients with heart failure (HF). We investigated the effect of miR-377 inhibition on an hCD34+ cell angiogenic proteome profile in vitro and on cardiac repair and function after I-R injury in immunodeficient mice.
Results
The miR array data from endothelial progenitor cells in response to inflammatory stimuli indicated changes in numerous miR, with a robust decrease in the levels of miR-377. Human cardiac biopsies from patients with HF showed significant increases in miR-377 expression compared with nonfailing control hearts. The proteome profile of hCD34+ cells transfected with miR-377 mimics showed significant decrease in the levels of proangiogenic proteins versus nonspecific control–transfected cells. We also validated that serine/threonine kinase 35 is a target of miR-377 using a dual luciferase reporter assay. In a mouse model of myocardial I-R, intramyocardial transplantation of miR-377 silenced hCD34+ cells in immunodeficient mice, promoting neovascularization (at 28 days, post–I-R) and lower interstitial fibrosis, leading to improved left ventricular function.
Conclusions
These findings indicate that HF increased miR-377 expression in the myocardium, which is detrimental to stem cell function, and transplantation of miR-377 knockdown hCD34+ cells into ischemic myocardium promoted their angiogenic ability, attenuating left ventricular remodeling and cardiac fibrosis (52).
Early and Late Outcomes of Surgical Treatment in Carcinoid Heart Disease
H.M. Connolly, et al.
Background
Symptoms and survival of patients with carcinoid syndrome have improved, but development of carcinoid heart disease (CaHD) continues to decrease survival.
Objectives
This study aimed to analyze patient outcomes after valve surgery for CaHD during a 27-year period at 1 institution to determine early and late outcomes and opportunities for improved patient care.
Methods
We retrospectively studied the short-term and long-term outcomes of all consecutive patients with CaHD who underwent valve replacement at our institution between 1985 and 2012.
Results
The records of 195 patients with CaHD were analyzed. Pre-operative New York Heart Association class was III or IV in 125 of 178 patients (70%). All had tricuspid valve replacement (159 bioprostheses, 36 mechanical), and 157 underwent a pulmonary valve operation. Other concomitant operations included mitral valve procedure (11%), aortic valve procedure (9%), patent foramen ovale or atrial septal defect closure (23%), cardiac metastasectomies or biopsy (4%), and simultaneous coronary artery bypass (11%). There were 20 perioperative deaths (10%); after 2000, perioperative mortality was 6%. Survival rates (95% confidence intervals) at 1, 5, and 10 years were 69% (63% to 76%), 35% (28% to 43%), and 24% (18% to 32%), respectively. Overall mortality was associated with older age, cytotoxic chemotherapy, and tobacco use; 75% of survivors had symptomatic improvement at follow-up. Presymptomatic valve operation was not associated with late survival benefit.
Conclusions
Operative mortality associated with valve replacement surgery for CaHD has decreased. Symptomatic and survival benefit is noted in most patients when CaHD is managed by an experienced multidisciplinary team (53).
Genome-Wide Significant Loci: How Important Are They? Systems Genetics to Understand Heritability of Coronary Artery Disease and Other Common Complex Disorders
J.L.M. Björkegren, et al.
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been extensively used to study common complex diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD), revealing 153 suggestive CAD loci, of which at least 46 have been validated as having genome-wide significance. However, these loci collectively explain <10% of the genetic variance in CAD. Thus, we must address the key question of what factors constitute the remaining 90% of CAD heritability. We review possible limitations of GWAS, and contextually consider some candidate CAD loci identified by this method. Looking ahead, we propose systems genetics as a complementary approach to unlocking the CAD heritability and etiology. Systems genetics builds network models of relevant molecular processes by combining genetic and genomic datasets to ultimately identify key “drivers” of disease. By leveraging systems-based genetic approaches, we can help reveal the full genetic basis of common complex disorders, enabling novel diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities (54).
Reducing In-Stent Restenosis: Therapeutic Manipulation of miRNA in Vascular Remodeling and Inflammation
R.A. McDonald, et al.
Background
Drug-eluting stents reduce the incidence of in-stent restenosis, but they result in delayed arterial healing and are associated with a chronic inflammatory response and hypersensitivity reactions. Identifying novel interventions to enhance wound healing and reduce the inflammatory response may improve long-term clinical outcomes. Micro–ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) are noncoding small ribonucleic acids that play a prominent role in the initiation and resolution of inflammation after vascular injury.
Objectives
This study sought to identify miRNA regulation and function after implantation of bare-metal and drug-eluting stents.
Methods
Pig, mouse, and in vitro models were used to investigate the role of miRNA in in-stent restenosis.
Results
We documented a subset of inflammatory miRNAs activated after stenting in pigs, including the miR-21 stem loop miRNAs. Genetic ablation of the miR-21 stem loop attenuated neointimal formation in mice post-stenting. This occurred via enhanced levels of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages coupled with an impaired sensitivity of smooth muscle cells to respond to vascular activation.
Conclusions
MiR-21 plays a prominent role in promoting vascular inflammation and remodeling after stent injury. MiRNA-mediated modulation of the inflammatory response post-stenting may have therapeutic potential to accelerate wound healing and enhance the clinical efficacy of stenting (55).
Hypertension
Usual Blood Pressure and Risk of New-Onset Diabetes: Evidence From 4.1 Million Adults and a Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies
C.A. Emdin, et al.
Background
Reliable quantification of the association between blood pressure (BP) and risk of type 2 diabetes is lacking.
Objectives
This study sought to determine the association between usual BP and risk of diabetes, overall and by participant characteristics.
Methods
A cohort of 4.1 million adults, free of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, was identified using validated linked electronic health records. Analyses were complemented by a meta-analysis of prospective studies that reported relative risks of new-onset diabetes per unit of systolic blood pressure (SBP).
Results
Among the overall cohort, 20 mm Hg higher SBP and 10 mm Hg higher diastolic BP were associated with a 58% and a 52% higher risk of new-onset diabetes (hazard ratio: 1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.56 to 1.59; and hazard ratio: 1.52; 95% confidence interval: 1.51 to 1.54), respectively. There was no evidence of a nadir to a baseline BP of 110/70 mm Hg. The strength of the association per 20 mm Hg higher SBP declined with age and with increasing body mass index. Estimates were similar even after excluding individuals prescribed antihypertensive or lipid-lowering therapies. Systematic review identified 30 studies with 285,664 participants and 17,388 incident diabetes events. The pooled relative risk of diabetes for a 20 mm Hg higher usual SBP across these studies was 1.77 (1.53 to 2.05).
Conclusions
People with elevated BP are at increased risk of diabetes. The strength of the association declined with increasing body mass index and age. Further research should determine if the observed risk is modifiable (56).
Orthostatic Hypotension: Epidemiology, Prognosis, and Treatment
F. Ricci, et al.
Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common cardiovascular disorder, with or without signs of underlying neurodegenerative disease. OH is diagnosed on the basis of an orthostatic challenge and implies a persistent systolic/diastolic blood pressure decrease of at least 20/10 mm Hg upon standing. Its prevalence is age dependent, ranging from 5% in patients <50 years of age to 30% in those >70 years of age. OH may complicate treatment of hypertension, heart failure, and coronary heart disease; cause disabling symptoms, faints, and traumatic injuries; and substantially reduce quality of life. Despite being largely asymptomatic or with minimal symptoms, the presence of OH independently increases mortality and the incidence of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. In this review, we outline the etiology and prevalence of OH in the general population, summarize its relationship with morbidity and mortality, propose a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm, and delineate current challenges and future perspectives (57).
Long-Term Effect of Goal-Directed Weight Management in an Atrial Fibrillation Cohort: A Long-Term Follow-Up Study (LEGACY)
R.K. Pathak, et al.
Background
Obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF) frequently coexist. Weight loss reduces the burden of AF, but whether this is sustained, has a dose effect, or is influenced by weight fluctuation is unknown.
Objectives
This study sought to evaluate the long-term impact of weight loss and weight fluctuation on rhythm control in obese individuals with AF.
Methods
Of 1,415 consecutive patients with AF, 825 had a body mass index ≥27 kg/m2 and were offered weight management. After screening for exclusion criteria, 355 were included in this analysis. Weight loss was categorized as group 1 (≥10%), group 2 (3% to 9%), and group 3 (<3%). Weight trend and/or fluctuation was determined by yearly follow-up. We determined the impact on the AF severity scale and 7-day ambulatory monitoring.
Results
There were no differences in baseline characteristics or follow-up among the groups. AF burden and symptom severity decreased more in group 1 compared with groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.001 for all). Arrhythmia-free survival with and without rhythm control strategies was greatest in group 1 compared with groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.001 for both). In multivariate analyses, weight loss and weight fluctuation were independent predictors of outcomes (p < 0.001 for both). Weight loss ≥10% resulted in a 6-fold (95% confidence interval: 3.4 to 10.3; p < 0.001) greater probability of arrhythmia-free survival compared with the other 2 groups. Weight fluctuation >5% partially offset this benefit, with a 2-fold (95% confidence interval: 1.0 to 4.3; p = 0.02) increased risk of arrhythmia recurrence.
Conclusions
Long-term sustained weight loss is associated with significant reduction of AF burden and maintenance of sinus rhythm. (Long-Term Effect of Goal directed weight management on Atrial Fibrillation Cohort: A 5 Year follow-up study [LEGACY Study]; ACTRN12614001123639) (58).
Renal Artery Stent Outcomes: Effect of Baseline Blood Pressure, Stenosis Severity, and Translesion Pressure Gradient
T.P. Murphy, et al.
Background
Multiple randomized clinical trials comparing renal artery stent placement plus medical therapy with medical therapy alone have not shown any benefit of stent placement. However, debate continues whether patients with extreme pressure gradients, stenosis severity, or baseline blood pressure benefit from stent revascularization.
Objectives
The study sought to test the hypothesis that pressure gradients, stenosis severity, and/or baseline blood pressure affects outcomes after renal artery stent placement.
Methods
Using data from 947 patients with a history of hypertension or chronic kidney disease from the largest randomized trial of renal artery stent placement, the CORAL (Cardiovascular Outcomes in Renal Atherosclerotic Lesions) study, we performed exploratory analyses to determine if subsets of patients experienced better outcomes after stent placement than the overall cohort. We examined baseline stenosis severity, systolic blood pressure, and translesion pressure gradient (peak systolic and mean) and performed interaction tests and Cox proportional hazards analyses for the occurrence of the primary endpoint through all follow-up, to examine the effect of these variables on outcomes by treatment group.
Results
There were no statistically significant differences in outcomes based on the examined variables nor were there any consistent nonsignificant trends.
Conclusions
Based on data from the CORAL randomized trial, there is no evidence of a significant treatment effect of the renal artery stent procedure compared with medical therapy alone based on stenosis severity, level of systolic blood pressure elevation, or according to the magnitude of the trans-stenotic pressure gradient. (Benefits of Medical Therapy Plus Stenting for Renal Atherosclerotic Lesions [CORAL]; NCT00081731) (59).
Isolated Systolic Hypertension in Young and Middle-Aged Adults and 31-Year Risk for Cardiovascular Mortality: The Chicago Heart Association Detection Project in Industry Study
Y. Yano, et al.
Background
Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH), defined as systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥140 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) <90 mm Hg, in younger and middle-aged adults is increasing in prevalence.
Objective
The aim of this study was to assess the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) with ISH in younger and middle-aged adults.
Methods
CVD risks were explored in 15,868 men and 11,213 women 18 to 49 years of age (mean age 34 years) at baseline, 85% non-Hispanic white, free of coronary heart disease (CHD) and antihypertensive therapy, from the Chicago Heart Association Detection Project in Industry study. Participant classifications were as follows: 1) optimal-normal blood pressure (BP) (SBP <130 mm Hg and DBP <85 mm Hg); 2) high-normal BP (130 to 139/85 to 89 mm Hg); 3) ISH; 4) isolated diastolic hypertension (SBP <140 mm Hg and DBP ≥90 mm Hg); and 5) systolic diastolic hypertension (SBP ≥140 mm Hg and DBP ≥90 mm Hg).
Results
During a 31-year average follow-up period (842,600 person-years), there were 1,728 deaths from CVD, 1,168 from CHD, and 223 from stroke. Cox proportional hazards models were adjusted for age, race, education, body mass index, current smoking, total cholesterol, and diabetes. In men, with optimal-normal BP as the reference stratum, hazard ratios for CVD and CHD mortality risk for those with ISH were 1.23 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03 to 1.46) and 1.28 (95% CI: 1.04 to 1.58), respectively. ISH risks were similar to those with high-normal BP and less than those associated with isolated diastolic hypertension and systolic diastolic hypertension. In women with ISH, hazard ratios for CVD and CHD mortality risk were 1.55 (95% CI: 1.18 to 2.05) and 2.12 (95% CI: 1.49 to 3.01), respectively. ISH risks were higher than in those with high-normal BP or isolated diastolic hypertension and less than those associated with systolic diastolic hypertension.
Conclusions
Over long-term follow-up, younger and middle-aged adults with ISH had higher relative risk for CVD and CHD mortality than those with optimal-normal BP (60).
- American College of Cardiology Foundation
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