Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Circulation Society  

<p><b><i>Background:</i></b> Whether drug therapy slows the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in the Japanese population remains unknown.</p><p><b><i>Methods and Results:</i></b> In a multicenter prospective open-label study, patients with AAA at the presurgical stage (mean [±SD] AAA diameter 3.27±0.58 cm) were randomly assigned to treatment with candesartan (CAN; n=67) or amlodipine (AML; n=64) considering confounding factors (statin use, smoking, age, sex, renal function), with effects of blood pressure control minimized setting a target control level. The primary endpoint was percentage change in AAA diameter over 24 months. Secondary endpoints were changes in circulating biomarkers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], malondialdehyde–low-density lipoprotein, tissue-specific inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, matrix metalloproteinase [MMP] 2, MMP9, transforming growth factor-β1, plasma renin activity [PRA], angiotensin II, aldosterone). At 24 months, percentage changes in AAA diameter were comparable between the CAN and AML groups (8.4% [95% CI 6.23–10.59%] and 6.5% [95% CI 3.65–9.43%], respectively; P=0.23]. In subanalyses, AML attenuated AAA growth in patients with comorbid chronic kidney disease (CKD; P=0.04) or systolic blood pressure (SBP) <130 mmHg (P=0.003). AML exhibited a definite trend for slowing AAA growth exclusively in never-smokers (P=0.06). Among circulating surrogate candidates for AAA growth, PRA (P=0.02) and hs-CRP (P=0.001) were lower in the AML group.</p><p><b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> AML may prevent AAA growth in patients with CKD or lower SBP, associated with a decline in PRA and circulating hs-CRP.</p>

DOI： 10.1253/circrep.CR-23-0071

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Language：English   Publisher：Cardiovascular Revascularization Medicine  

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for bicuspid aortic valve stenosis is challenging, and the absence of established methods for sizing the bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) complicates TAVR. We report a case of successful TAVR for bicuspid aortic stenosis with a severely calcified raphe. We used an undersized SAPIEN 3 valve, with three safety measures based on assessment of structural characteristics, sizing by the circle method, and deployment of the valve by the pressure-regulated method.

DOI： 10.1016/j.carrev.2022.08.025

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Language：English   Publisher：Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine  

BackgroundArterial stiffness indices are used to assess the material properties of the arterial wall and are associated with cardiovascular events. Aortic stenosis (AS) is commonly caused by degenerative calcification and can be associated with increased arterial stiffness. However, the clinical implications of arterial stiffness indices in AS patients before and after treatment are unknown.MethodsThis single-center observational study enrolled 150 consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for severe AS. The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) was measured before and after TAVI. The patients were divided into two groups according to the CAVI values before and after TAVI: high CAVI group and low CAVI group. Patient and echocardiographic data and clinical outcomes, including cardiac death and hospitalization for heart failure (HF), were compared.ResultsThe pre- and postprocedural CAVI was 7.90 (6.75-9.30) and 9.65 (8.90-10.65), respectively. In the analyses with preprocedural CAVI, preprocedural echocardiographic aortic valve peak flow velocity was significantly lower in the high CAVI group. No significant differences between the two groups were observed in the occurrence of cardiac death or hospitalization for HF. In the analyses with postprocedural CAVI, B-type natriuretic peptide levels and E/e′ ratio after TAVI were significantly higher in the high CAVI group. The composite of cardiac death and hospitalization occurrence for HF was significantly higher in the high CAVI group.ConclusionCAVI before TAVI is mainly affected by the AS severity, while CAVI after TAVI is associated with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and late cardiac events, which may reflect arterial stiffness.

DOI： 10.2459/JCM.0000000000001456

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Language：English   Publisher：European Heart Journal Open  

Aims: Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is related to the pathophysiology, mortality, and morbidity of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). A novel single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) camera with cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) detectors allows for the quantification of absolute myocardial blood flow and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) in patients with coronary artery disease. However, the potential of CZT-SPECT assessing for CMD has never been evaluated in patients with HFpEF. Methods and results: The clinical records of 127 consecutive patients who underwent dynamic CZT-SPECT were retrospectively reviewed. Rest and stress scanning were started simultaneously with 3 and 9MBq/kg of 99mTc-sestamibi administration, respectively. Dynamic CZT-SPECT imaging data were analysed using a net-retention model with commercially available software. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed in all patients. The MFR value was significantly lower in the HFpEF group (mean ± SEM = 2.00 ± 0.097) than that in the non-HFpEF group (mean ± SEM = 2.74 ± 0.14, P = 0.0004). A receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that if a cut-off value of 2.525 was applied, MFR could efficiently distinguish HFpEF from non-HFpEF. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction had a consistently low MFR, regardless of the diastolic dysfunction score. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients with MFR values lower than 2.075 had a significantly higher incidence of heart failure exacerbation. Conclusion: Myocardial flow reserve assessed by CZT-SPECT was significantly reduced in patients with HFpEF. A lower MFR was associated with a higher hospitalization rate in these patients. Myocardial flow reserve assessed by CZT-SPECT has the potential to predict future adverse events and stratify the severity of disease in patients with HFpEF.

DOI： 10.1093/ehjopen/oead028

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Language：English   Publisher：American Journal of Cardiology  

The impact of preoperative albuminuria on the prognosis after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has not been studied. A total of 228 patients who underwent TAVI for severe aortic stenosis (AS) and for whom preoperative urinary data was available were retrospectively investigated. Patients were divided into two groups according to the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR): high (ACR≥ 30 mg/g) and low (ACR<30 mg/g). The urinary total protein-to-creatinine ratio (PCR) and dipstick proteinuria were also evaluated. The primary outcome was the composite outcome of all-cause death and readmission for heart failure. In total, 117 patients had a high ACR and 111 patients had a low ACR. During the median follow-up period of 467 days, patients with a high ACR had a higher incidence of the primary outcome than those with a low ACR (p<0.001). Patients with a high PCR or positive dipstick proteinuria were also at a higher risk for the primary outcome (p<0.001 and p=0.008, respectively). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis showed a high ACR was independently associated with a primary outcome (hazard ratio, 4.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.84–13.49; p=0.002). In conclusion, preoperative albuminuria is an independent predictor of cardiac events in patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI.

DOI： 10.1016/j.amjcard.2022.09.020

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Language：English   Publisher：Japan Atherosclerosis Society  

<p> <b>Aim:</b> The relationship between handgrip strength (HGS) and clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not yet been thoroughly investigated.</p><p><b>Methods:</b> This was a single-center, observational study. A total of 469 patients who underwent PCI and whose periprocedural HGS was measured were included. Patients were divided into two groups: the low HGS group (men, ＜28 kg; women, ＜18 kg) and the high HGS group (men, ≥ 28 kg; women, ≥ 18 kg). The primary outcome was the composite endpoint of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), and heart failure readmission.</p><p><b>Results:</b> There were 151 patients in the low HGS group and 318 patients in the high HGS group. The age of patients in the low HGS group was significantly higher (median [interquartile range]: 78 [71–82] vs. 70 [61–75] years, <i>p</i>＜0.001), while the body mass index and serum albumin level were significantly lower (body mass index: 22.5 [20.2–24.3] vs. 24.3 [22.3–26.6] kg/m², <i>p</i>＜0.001; serum albumin: 3.6 [3.1–3.9] vs. 4.0 [3.7–4.3] g/dL, <i>p</i>＜0.001) than those in the high HGS group. During the median follow-up period of 778 days, the low HGS group had a higher incidence of composite endpoint than the high HGS group (<i>p</i>＜0.001). The low HGS group had a higher risk of all-cause, cardiac, and non-cardiac death (<i>p</i>＜0.001). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis showed that low handgrip strength was an independent predictor for the composite endpoint (hazard ratio 1.80, 95% confidence interval 1.04–3.12, <i>p</i>=0.04).</p><p> <b>Conclusions:</b> Low HGS was independently associated with adverse outcomes after PCI.</p>

DOI： 10.5551/jat.63854

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Language：English   Publisher：Japan Atherosclerosis Society  

<p> <b>Aim:</b> The relationship between carotid artery ultrasound findings and clinical outcomes in patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not been completely elucidated. </p><p><b>Methods:</b> This single-center retrospective study investigated 691 patients who underwent PCI and carotid ultrasound testing. Maximum carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) was defined as the greatest CIMT at the maximally thick point among the common carotid artery, carotid bulb, and internal carotid artery. A carotid plaque was defined as vessel wall thickening with a CIMT ≥ 1.5 mm. The characteristics of carotid plaque (heterogeneity, calcification, or irregular/ulcerated surface) were evaluated visually. Patients were divided into those with and without heterogeneous carotid plaque (maximum CIMT ≥ 1.5 mm and heterogeneous texture). The endpoint was the incidence of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) defined as a composite of cardiovascular (CV) death, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke. </p><p><b>Results:</b> Among 691 patients, 309 were categorized as having a heterogeneous plaque. Patients with heterogeneous plaques were at a higher risk of MACE than those without (<i>p</i>=0.002). A heterogeneous plaque was independently associated with MACE after adjusting for covariates (hazard ratio [HR], 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–2.90; <i>p</i>=0.046). Calcified or irregular/ulcerated plaques were correlated with a higher incidence of MACE, but both were not independently associated with MACE (HR, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.69–2.64, <i>p</i>=0.38 and HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.57–1.69; <i>p</i>=0.95, respectively). </p><p><b>Conclusion:</b> The presence of a heterogeneous carotid plaque in patients who underwent PCI predicted future CV events. These patients may require more aggressive medical therapy and careful follow-up.</p>

DOI： 10.5551/jat.63622

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Language：English   Publisher：Japan Atherosclerosis Society  

<p> <b>Aim:</b> Chronic inflammation is associated with atherosclerosis development. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events and is associated with chronic inflammation. We aimed to investigate the influence of C-reactive protein (CRP), an important marker of inflammation, on the clinical outcomes of patients with CKD and stable coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). </p><p><b>Methods:</b> Among patients with stable CAD and CKD who underwent PCI, 516 patients whose CRP levels were available before the PCI procedure were identified. The patients were divided into two groups according to the CRP levels: those with CRP ≥ 2.0 mg/L (high-CRP group) and those with CRP ＜2.0 mg/L (low-CRP group). The primary endpoint of this study was the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), defined as a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and unplanned revascularization. </p><p><b>Results:</b> Overall, the mean age of the patients was 72.5±9.7 years, and 20.7% were female. The median CRP level was 1.43 mg/L (0.6–4.9 mg/L). The median follow-up period was 3.6 years. The occurrence of MACE was significantly higher in the high-CRP group than in the low-CRP group (log-rank <i>p</i>＜0.001). Notably, the incidence rate of cardiac death was significantly higher in the high-CRP group (log-rank <i>p</i>＜0.001). According to the multivariable analysis, CRP level ≥ 2.0 mg/L was found to be a significant predictor of MACE (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–2.28, <i>p</i>=0.003), as well as estimated glomerular filtration rate (HR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97–0.99, <i>p</i>＜0.01). </p><p><b>Conclusion:</b> High-CRP levels adversely affect long-term cardiac events in patients with stable CAD and CKD.</p>

DOI： 10.5551/jat.64047

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Language：Japanese   Publisher：一般社団法人 日本超音波検査学会  

DOI： 10.11272/jssabst.48.0_s207

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Language：English   Publisher：Journal of Cardiology  

Background: The impact of albuminuria on worsening renal function (WRF) and clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is unknown. Methods: Overall, 142 patients who underwent TAVR for severe aortic stenosis were divided into two groups based on the preoperative urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR): high (ACR ≥30 mg/g) and low (ACR <30 mg/g). The incidence of WRF (an absolute increase in serum creatinine level of ≥0.3 mg/dL or ≥1.5-fold from baseline or dialysis initiation) at 6 months after TAVR and the incidence of all-cause death and heart failure readmission during follow-up were investigated. Results: Half of the examined patients [n=71/142 (50.0%)] had a high ACR. Patients with a high ACR more frequently had WRF at 6 months than those with a low ACR (17.6% vs. 2.9%, p=0.004). Multivariate analysis showed a high ACR was independently associated with WRF (odds ratio, 7.76; 95% confidence interval, 1.62–37.30; p=0.01), whereas baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73m² was not (odds ratio, 0.34; 95% confidence interval, 0.08–1.50; p=0.15). Patients with a high ACR had a higher risk of composite outcomes of all-cause death and heart failure readmission (p=0.002). Conclusions: Preoperative albuminuria (ACR ≥30 mg/g) was independently associated with WRF at 6 months after TAVR. Furthermore, patients with an ACR ≥30 mg/g had higher risks of all-cause death and heart failure readmission than those with an ACR <30 mg/g.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2021.11.014

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Language：English   Publisher：Cardiovascular Revascularization Medicine  

Albuminuria is a major risk factor of cardiovascular events, however, the impact of albuminuria on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has not been fully investigated. This retrospective study included 206 patients who underwent TAVR for severe aortic stenosis. Patients were divided into two groups according to the preoperative urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR): high (ACR ≥ 30 mg/g) and low (ACR < 30 mg/g). The incidence of 1-month worsening renal function (WRF), defined as a decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥10% from baseline after TAVR, was investigated. Patients with high ACR had acute kidney injury (8.5% vs. 1.0%, p = 0.01) and 1-month WRF (29.2% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.002) more frequently than those with low ACR. High ACR was independently associated with 1-month WRF (odds ratio, 3.72; 95% confidence interval, 1.72–8.08; p < 0.001). Albuminuria can be a useful predictor of deterioration of renal function at various time points after TAVR.

DOI： 10.1016/j.carrev.2022.03.014

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Language：English   Publisher：Heart and Vessels  

The spleen is an important immune organ that releases erythrocytes and monocytes and destroys aged platelets. It also reserves 20–30% of the total blood volume, and its size decreases in hypovolemic shock. However, the clinical significance of splenic size in patients with heart failure (HF) remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed the data of 206 patients with clinically stable HF gathered between January 2001 and August 2020 and recorded in a single-center registry. All patients underwent right heart catheterization and computed tomography (CT). Splenic size was measured using CT volumetry. The primary outcomes were composite cardiac events occurring for the first time during follow-up, namely, cardiac death and hospitalization for worsening HF. The median splenic volume and splenic volume index (SVI) were 118.0 mL and 68.9 mL/m2, respectively. SVI was positively correlated with cardiac output (r = 0.269, P < 0.001) and stroke volume (r = 0.228, P = 0.002), and negatively correlated with systemic vascular resistance (r = − 0.302, P < 0.001). Seventy cardiac events occurred, and the optimal receiver operating characteristic curve SVI cutoff value for predicting cardiac events was 68.9 mL/m2. The median blood adrenaline concentration was higher in the low-SVI group than the high-SVI group (0.039 ng/mL vs. 0.026 ng/mL, respectively; P = 0.004), and the low-SVI group experienced more cardiac events (log-rank test, P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression revealed that a low SVI was an independent predictor of cardiac events, even when adjusted for the validated HF risk score, blood–brain natriuretic peptide concentration, blood catecholamine concentrations, and hemodynamic parameters. Splenic size reflects hemodynamics, including systemic circulating blood volume status and sympathetic nerve activity, and is associated with HF prognosis.

DOI： 10.1007/s00380-022-02030-1

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Language：English   Publisher：Journal of Cardiac Surgery  

An interventricular membranous septal aneurysm, though rare, can coexist with aortic valve stenosis. In this report, we present an unsuitable anatomy for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) due to large interventricular membranous septal aneurysm. This case suggests that the feasibility of TAVR would depend on the location and size of the aneurysm and its relationship with the aortic root.

DOI： 10.1111/jocs.16504

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Language：English   Publisher：Journal of Artificial Organs  

DOI： 10.1007/s10047-022-01311-w

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Circulation Society  

DOI： 10.1253/circj.CJ-22-0145

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Language：English   Publisher：BMC Research Notes  

Objective: Spleen volume increases in patients with advanced heart failure (HF) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. However, the relationship between spleen volume and exercise tolerance (peak oxygen consumption [VO2]) in these patients remains unknown. In this exploratory study, we enrolled 27 patients with HF using a LVAD (median age: 46 years). Patients underwent blood testing, echocardiography, right heart catheterization, computed tomography (CT), and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Spleen size was measured using CT volumetry, and the correlations/causal relationships of factors affecting peak VO2 were identified using structural equation modeling. Results: The median spleen volume was 190.0 mL, and peak VO2 was 13.2 mL/kg/min. The factors affecting peak VO2 were peak heart rate (HR; β = 0.402, P =.015), pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP; β = − 0.698, P =.014), right ventricular stroke work index (β = 0.533, P =.001), blood hemoglobin concentration (β = 0.359, P =.007), and spleen volume (β = 0.215, P =.041). Spleen volume correlated with peak HR, PCWP, and hemoglobin concentration, reflecting sympathetic activity, cardiac preload, and oxygen-carrying capacity, respectively, and was thus related to peak VO2. These results suggest an association between spleen volume and exercise tolerance in advanced HF.

DOI： 10.1186/s13104-022-05939-y

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine  

<p><b>Objective </b>The left atrial appendage (LAA) is one of the major sources of cardiac thrombus formation. Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) made it possible to perform a detailed evaluation of the LAA morphologies. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical implications of the LAA orifice area. </p><p><b>Methods </b>A total of 149 patients who underwent TEE without significant valvular disease were studied. The LAA orifice area was measured using three-dimensional TEE. The patients were divided into two groups according to the LAA orifice area (large LAA orifice group, ≥median value, and small LAA orifice group). The clinical characteristics and echocardiographic findings were evaluated. </p><p><b>Results </b>The median LAA orifice area among all patients was 4.09 cm² (interquartile range 2.92-5.40). The large LAA orifice group were older (67.2±10.4 vs. 62.4±15.3 years, p=0.02), more often had hypertension (66.7% vs. 44.6%, p=0.007), and atrial fibrillation (70.7% vs. 39.2%, p<0.001) than the small LAA orifice group. Regarding the TEE findings, the LAA flow velocity was significantly lower (33.7±20.0 vs. 50.2±24.3, p<0.001) and spontaneous echo contrast was more often observed (21.3% vs. 8.1%, p=0.02) in the large LAA orifice group. Multivariate models demonstrated that atrial fibrillation was an independent predictor of the LAA orifice area. In the analysis of atrial fibrillation duration, the LAA orifice area tended to be larger as patients had a longer duration of atrial fibrillation. </p><p><b>Conclusion </b>Our findings indicated that a larger LAA orifice area was associated with the presence of atrial fibrillation and high thromboembolic risk based on TEE findings. A continuation of the atrial fibrillation rhythm might lead to the gradual expansion of the LAA orifice. </p>

DOI： 10.2169/internalmedicine.8301-21

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Language：Japanese   Publisher：一般社団法人 日本超音波検査学会  

DOI： 10.11272/jssabst.47.0_s134_1

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Language：Japanese   Publisher：一般社団法人 日本超音波検査学会  

DOI： 10.11272/jssabst.47.0_s134_2

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Language：Japanese   Publisher：一般社団法人 日本超音波検査学会  

DOI： 10.11272/jssabst.47.0_s179_1

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Language：Japanese   Publisher：一般社団法人 日本超音波検査学会  

DOI： 10.11272/jssabst.47.0_s137_2

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Language：English   Publisher：Heart and Vessels  

Extra-cardiovascular incidental findings (IFs) on preoperative computed tomography (CT) are frequently observed in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) candidates. However, the backgrounds of TAVI candidates and comorbidities differ based on the race and/or country, and data on IFs in a specific population are not always applicable to another. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence, type, and clinical impact of IFs in Japanese TAVI candidates. This was a retrospective, single-center, observational study. CT reports of 257 TAVI candidates were reviewed, and IFs were classified as (a) insignificant: findings that did not require further investigation, treatment, or follow-up; (b) intermediate: findings that needed to be followed up or were considered for further investigation but did not affect the planning of TAVI; and (c) significant: findings that required further investigation immediately or affected the planning of TAVI. At least one IF was found in 254 patients (98.8%). Insignificant, intermediate, and significant IFs were found in 253 (98.4%), 153 (59.5%), and 34 (13.2%) patients, respectively. Newly indicated significant IFs were found in 19 patients (7.4%). In 2 patients (0.8%), TAVI was canceled because of significant IFs. In patients who consequently underwent TAVI, the presence of significant IFs was not associated with the duration from CT performance to TAVI [28 (19–40) days vs. 27 (19–43) days, p = 0.74] and all-cause mortality during the median follow-up period of 413 (223–805) days (p = 0.44). Almost all Japanese TAVI candidates had at least one IF, and the prevalence of significant IFs was not negligible. Although the presence of significant IFs was not associated with mid-term mortality, appropriate management of IFs was considered important.

DOI： 10.1007/s00380-021-01875-2

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Language：English   Publisher：Cardiovascular Intervention and Therapeutics  

Percutaneous coronary intervention for bifurcation lesions remains challenging, with there being several debatable issues, including the requirement for kissing balloon inflation (KBI). The objective of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes following single crossover stent implantation with KBI or sequential dilation alone. Data were examined for 255 non-left main bifurcation lesions (246 patients) treated with single crossover stent implantation, followed by side branch (SB) strut dilation with KBI (n = 74 lesions) or sequential dilation (n = 181 lesions) in three hospitals. Target lesion revascularization (TLR) was the primary endpoint. There was no significant difference in the pre-procedural reference diameter of both the main vessel (MV) and SB between the KBI and sequential dilation groups. However, MV post-dilation balloon size was smaller with lower pressure and post-procedural minimal lumen diameter was significantly smaller in the KBI group. During the median follow-up period of approximately 3 years, TLR incidence was significantly higher in the KBI group than in the sequential dilation group; in particular, the TLR rate at the distal MV was higher in the former. For bifurcation lesions treated with single crossover stent implantation, the TLR rate was higher after KBI than after sequential dilation; this was mainly due to higher revascularization in the distal MV. For bifurcation lesions treated with KBI, MV post-dilation balloon diameter tended to be smaller with lower pressure, which might lead to poorer stent expansion and a higher TLR rate.

DOI： 10.1007/s12928-020-00728-5

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Language：English   Publisher：Scientific Reports  

We retrospectively analyzed data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care-III critical care database to determine whether visually-assessed right ventricular (RV) dysfunction was associated with clinical outcomes in septic shock patients. Associations between visually-assessed RV dysfunction by echocardiography and in-hospital mortality, lethal arrhythmia, and hemodynamic indicators to determine the prognostic value of RV dysfunction in patients with septic shock were analyzed. Propensity score analysis showed RV dysfunction was associated with increased risk of in-hospital death in patients with septic shock (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.15; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.99–2.32; P < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, RV dysfunction was associated with in-hospital death (OR 2.19; 95% CI 1.91–2.53; P < 0.001), lethal arrhythmia (OR 2.19; 95% CI 1.34–3.57; P < 0.001), and tendency for increased blood lactate levels (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.14–1.50; P < 0.001) independent of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. RV dysfunction was associated with lower cardiac output, pulmonary artery pressure index, and RV stroke work index. In patients with septic shock, visually-assessed RV dysfunction was associated with in-hospital mortality, lethal arrhythmia, and circulatory insufficiency independent of LV dysfunction. Visual assessment of RV dysfunction using echocardiography might help to identify the short-term prognosis of patients with septic shock by reflecting hemodynamic status.

DOI： 10.1038/s41598-021-98397-8

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Language：English   Publisher：Journal of Cardiology  

Background: A poor nutritional status of patients before transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has been reported to be associated with poor clinical outcomes. However, changes in the nutritional status following TAVI have not been fully elucidated. Methods: In this single-center retrospective observational study, 129 patients whose nutritional status at baseline and 6 months after TAVI were available were investigated. The prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) were used to assess the nutritional status of the patients at baseline and at 6 months. We further assessed changes in the nutritional status of patients in the subgroups stratified according to the baseline levels as low and high. Results: The PNI and GNRI values at 6 months were significantly better than at baseline [PNI, baseline: 44.5 (41.0–48.0), 6 months: 46.0 (41.9–48.3), p = 0.02; GNRI, baseline: 95.3 (89.0–100.3), 6 months: 97.8 (91.5–101.4), p = 0.006]. Both PNI and GNRI values at 6 months were significantly better in the patients with a low baseline nutritional status, while no significant change was observed in those with high baseline levels [PNI, low; baseline: 36.8 (36.1–39.4), 6 months: 40.8 (39.0–43.4), p = 0.002, high; baseline: 47.0 (43.0–49.5), 6 months: 46.5 (43.5–50.5), p = 0.44 and GNRI, low; baseline: 86.4 (81.7–88.7), 6 months: 88.6 (83.4–95.3), p = 0.001, high; baseline: 99.8 (95.3–102.8), 6 months: 100.7 (96.8–103.4), p = 0.34]. Conclusion: Nutritional status of patients might improve during the chronic phase after TAVI, especially in those with poor baseline levels.

DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2021.04.006

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Language：English   Publisher：ESC Heart Failure  

Aims: In recent decades, haemodynamic parameters have been estimated for risk stratification and determining treatment strategies for patients with non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). In various invasive procedures, the cardiac pumping capability is defined as cardiac power output (CPO), which is calculated by multiplying cardiac output by the mean arterial pressure. Lower CPO values in advanced heart failure predict adverse outcomes. However, few studies discuss the prognostic value of CPO in mild-to-moderate phase patients. This study aimed to determine the value of the cardiac power index (CPI) obtained from the resting CPO for predicting the prognosis of patients with New York Heart Association Functional Class II or III DCM. Methods and results: From March 2000 to January 2020, a total of 623 cardiomyopathy patients were evaluated for haemodynamic parameters. Patients with secondary cardiomyopathy, ischaemic cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, and Class IV cardiomyopathy were excluded. A total of 176 DCM patients fulfilled the criteria for inclusion. Patients were 51.7 ± 12.5 years old (mean ± standard deviation) with a mean left ventricular ejection fraction of 32.1 ± 9.2%. The patients were divided into two groups by their median CPI (CPI < 0.52, low-CPI; CPI ≥ 0.52, high-CPI). No significant differences were found in the left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular ejection fraction, or pulmonary arterial wedge pressure between the groups. The probability of cardiac event-free survival was significantly lower for low-CPI than for high-CPI groups by Kaplan–Meier analysis (P = 0.012), even with no significant difference between the high and low cardiac index groups (P = 0.069). Furthermore, Cox proportional hazards regression analysis revealed that, in addition to the CPI, the systolic and mean arterial pressure involved in CPI calculation were independent predictors of cardiac events. Indeed, among these factors, mean arterial pressure had the strongest prognostic ability. Conclusions: Although CPI is effective for stratifying DCM and predicting cardiac events in patients with Class II/III DCM, this prognostic value depends on mean arterial pressure.

DOI： 10.1002/ehf2.13446

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Language：English   Publisher：Cardio-Oncology  

Background: The emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has brought about a paradigm shift in cancer treatment as the use of these drugs has become more frequent and for a longer duration. As a result of T-cell-mediated inflammation at the programmed cell death-1, programmed death-ligand-1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 pathways, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) occur in various organs and can cause a rare but potentially induced cardiotoxicity. Although irAEs are associated with the efficacy of ICI therapy and better prognosis, there is limited information about the correlation between irAEs and cardiotoxicity and whether the benefits of irAEs apply to patients with underlying cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to investigate the association of irAEs and treatment efficacy in patients undergoing ICI therapy with and without a cardiovascular history. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of the medical records of 409 consecutive patients who received ICI therapy from September 2014 to October 2019. Results: Median patient age was 69 years (29.6% were female). The median follow-up period was 278 days. In total, 69 (16.9%) patients had a history of any cardiovascular disease and 14 (3.4%) patients experienced cardiovascular irAEs after ICI administration. The rate of cardiovascular irAEs was higher in patients with prior non-cardiovascular irAEs than without. The prognosis of patients with irAEs (+) was significantly better than that of the patients without irAEs (P < 0.001); additionally, this tendency did not depend on the presence or absence of a cardiovascular history. Furthermore, the Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that irAEs were an independent predictor of mortality. Conclusions: Although cardiovascular irAEs may be related to prior non-cardiovascular irAEs under ICI therapy, the occurrence of irAEs had a better prognostic impact and this tendency was not affected by cardiovascular history.

DOI： 10.1186/s40959-021-00112-z

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Language：English   Publisher：Heart and Vessels  

Several prior reports have investigated worsening renal function around transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures. However, in clinical practice, it seems more important to evaluate changes associated with TAVR-related procedures, including preoperative enhanced computed tomography (CT), as well as the TAVR procedure itself, as CT assessment is considered essential for safe TAVR. This study evaluated worsening renal function during the TAVR perioperative period, from the preoperative enhanced CT to 1 month after TAVR, and then compared the incidence with that in patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). This retrospective single-center study investigated 123 TAVR patients and 130 SAVR patients. We evaluated baseline renal function before enhanced CT in TAVR patients and before operation in SAVR patients, and again at 1 month post-operatively. We defined worsening renal function at 1 month according to three definitions: (1) an increase in serum creatinine ≥ 0.3 mg/dL or ≥ 1.5-fold from baseline or initiation of dialysis, (2) a decline in eGFR at 1 month ≥ 20% from baseline or initiation of dialysis, (3) a decline in eGFR at 1 month ≥ 30% from baseline or initiation of dialysis. TAVR patients were significantly older and had higher surgical risk scores than SAVR patients. In TAVR patients, serum creatinine levels were 1.00 ± 0.32 mg/dL at baseline and 1.01 ± 0.40 mg/dL at 1 month post-operatively (p = 0.58), while in SAVR patients, these levels were 0.99 ± 0.51 mg/dL and 0.98 ± 0.49 mg/dL, respectively (p = 0.59). In TAVR patients, 7 (5.7%), 14 (11.4%), and 3 (2.4%) patients experienced worsening renal function according to the three definitions, respectively, but there were no significant differences from those in SAVR patients, for any definition. Worsening renal function after TAVR was uncommon, and the incidence rate was comparable to that in SAVR patients, even though TAVR patients had worse baseline characteristics.

DOI： 10.1007/s00380-021-01778-2

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Circulation Society  

<p><b><i>Background:</i></b>The changes in electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy (ECG-LVH) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are not fully elucidated.</p><p><b><i>Methods and Results:</i></b>The study group included 64 patients who underwent TAVI for aortic stenosis. Their 12-lead ECGs before and at 2 days and 1, 6 and 12 months after TAVI were analyzed, and ECG-LVH was evaluated using various definitions. Values and prevalence of each ECG-LVH parameter significantly decreased between 1 and 6 months after TAVI. Values of ECG-LVH parameters decreased especially in patients with ECG-LVH at baseline.</p><p><b><i>Conclusions:</i></b>Regression of ECG-LVH was observed between 1 and 6 months after TAVI.</p>

DOI： 10.1253/circj.CJ-21-0354

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Language：English   Publisher：International Journal of Artificial Organs  

The spleen serves as a blood volume reservoir for systemic volume regulation in heart failure (HF) patients. Changes are seen in spleen size in advanced HF patients after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. The pulsatility index (PI) is an indicator of native heart contractility with hemodynamic changes in patients using LVAD. We hypothesized that the splenic volume was associated with the PI, reflecting the hemodynamics in advanced HF patients with LVADs. Herein, we investigated the relationship between splenic volume and PI in these patients. Forty-four patients with advanced HF underwent implantation of HeartMate II® (Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA) as a bridge to heart transplantation at the Nagoya University Hospital between October 2013 and June 2019. The data of 27 patients (21 men, median age 46 years) were analyzed retrospectively. All patients underwent blood tests, echocardiography, right heart catheterization, and computed tomography (CT). Spleen size was measured via CT volumetry; the splenic volume (median: 190 mL) correlated with right arterial pressure (r = 0.431, p = 0.025) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (r = 0.384, p = 0.048). On multivariate linear regression analysis, the heart rate (β = −0.452, p = 0.003), pump power (β = −0.325, p = 0.023), and splenic volume (β = 0.299, p = 0.038) were independent determinants of PI. The splenic volume was associated with PI, reflecting the cardiac preload in advanced HF patients with LVADs. Thus, spleen measurement using CT may help estimate the systemic volume status and understand the hemodynamic conditions in LVAD patients.

DOI： 10.1177/0391398820957019

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Language：English   Publisher：International Journal of Cardiology  

Background: Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is considered to play a critical role in vascular endothelial function. Coronary artery spasm has been postulated to be a causal factor in vascular endothelial abnormalities and atherosclerosis. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between coronary artery spasm and EAT volume, total abdominal adipose tissue (AAT) area, and abdominal visceral adipose tissue (AVAT) area. Method: Among patients undergoing coronary computed tomography (CT) to evaluate coronary artery disease, we identified 110 patients who did not have significant coronary artery stenosis and underwent a coronary spasm provocation test with cardiac catheterization. They were divided into two groups according to the results of the spasm provocation test: spasm-positive and spasm-negative. EAT volume, total AAT area, and AVAT area were evaluated using CT images. Results: Seventy-seven patients were included in the spasm-positive group and 33 patients in the spasm-negative group. There were no significant differences in baseline clinical characteristics between the two groups, except for the prevalence of current smoking (48% vs. 27%, p = 0.04). EAT volume was significantly higher in the spasm-positive group (108 ± 38 mL vs. 87 ± 34 mL, p = 0.007), while no significant difference was seen in total AAT area (280 ± 113 cm2 vs. 254 ± 128 cm2, p = 0.32) or AVAT area (112 ± 54 cm2 vs. 98 ± 55 cm2, p = 0.27). Multivariate logistic analysis indicated that EAT volume (per 10 cm3) (odds ratio, 1.198; 95% confidence interval, 1.035–1.388; p = 0.016) was a significant predictor of coronary artery spasm. Conclusion: Our results suggest that EAT has a strong association with coronary artery spasm, while AAT may not.

DOI： 10.1016/j.ijcard.2020.09.074

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Publisher：Journal of Cardiology Cases  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jccase.2020.08.013

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Language：English   Publisher：Cardiology Journal  

DOI： 10.5603/CJ.a2020.0143

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine  

<p>High-output heart failure caused by a tumor-related arteriovenous fistula in adults is a rare clinical condition. We herein report a case of high-output heart failure caused by an arteriovenous fistula associated with renal cell carcinoma and a literature review of 29 published cases to date. Renal cell carcinoma seems to be the most common underlying tumor. For the diagnosis, right heart catheterization and enhanced computed tomography (CT) are considered useful. The removal of the underlying tumor and arteriovenous fistula is the best treatment for heart failure. </p>

DOI： 10.2169/internalmedicine.6962-20

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine  

<p><b>Objective </b>The relationship between cardiovascular disease and the serum polyunsaturated fatty acid parameters has been reported. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the eicosapentaenoic acid and arachidonic acid (EPA/AA) ratio and long-term cardiovascular events in patients with coronary artery disease. </p><p><b>Methods </b>We identified a total of 831 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and whose EPA/AA ratio was available. The patients were divided into two groups according to their serum EPA/AA ratio (median, 0.29; interquartile range 0.19-0.47): those in the lower quartile of EPA/AA ratios (Low EPA/AA group; n=231) and all other subjects (High EPA/AA group; n=600). The primary endpoints included a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke. </p><p><b>Results </b>Patients in the Low EPA/AA group were significantly younger (66.0±12.6 years vs. 69.9±9.3 years, p<0.001), current smokers (33.3% vs. 22.7%, p=0.002), and had a history of myocardial infarction (20.3% vs. 12.3%, p=0.003). During the follow-up (median, 1,206 days; interquartile range, 654-1,910 days), the occurrence of the primary endpoint was significantly higher in the Low EPA/AA group than in the High EPA/AA group. Of note, the rate of cardiovascular death was significantly higher in the Low EPA/AA group, and the rates of myocardial infarction and stroke tended to be higher. </p><p><b>Conclusion </b>A low EPA/AA ratio was associated with long-term adverse cardiovascular events in Japanese patients with coronary artery disease. </p>

DOI： 10.2169/internalmedicine.7336-21

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Language：English   Publisher：JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jcin.2020.09.007

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Language：Japanese  

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Language：Japanese  

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Circulation Society  

DOI： 10.1253/circrep.CR-20-0060

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Language：English   Publisher：The Japanese Circulation Society  

<p><b><i>Background:</i></b>Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in the setting of left ventricular (LV) myocardial damage is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and the pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) is a novel hemodynamic index shown to predict RVD in advanced heart failure. However, it is unknown whether PAPi can predict the long-term prognosis of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) even in the mild to moderate phase. This study aimed to assess the ability of PAPi to stratify DCM patients without severe symptoms.</p><p><b><i>Methods and Results:</i></b>Between April 2000 and March 2018, a total of 162 DCM patients with stable symptoms were evaluated, including PAPi, and followed up for a median of 4.91 years. The mean age was 50.9±12.6 years and the mean LV ejection fraction (EF) was 30.5±8.3%. When divided into 2 groups based on median value of PAPi (low, L-PAPi [<3.06] and high, H-PAPi [≥3.06]), even though there were no differences in B-type natriuretic peptide or pulmonary vascular resistance, the probability of cardiac event survival was significantly higher in the L-PAP than in the H-PAP group by Kaplan-Meier analysis (P=0.018). Furthermore, Cox’s proportional hazard regression analysis revealed that PAPi was an independent predictor of cardiac events (hazard ratio: 0.782, P=0.010).</p><p><b><i>Conclusions:</i></b>Even in patients identified with DCM in the mild to moderate phase, PAPi may help stratify DCM and predict cardiac events.</p>

DOI： 10.1253/circj.CJ-20-0279

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Language：English   Publisher：Nagoya Journal of Medical Science  

A 46-year-old Japanese woman visited a nearby hospital because of diplopia after flu-like symptoms. One month later, she presented with blepharoptosis and external ophthalmoplegia. Laboratory tests showed a high creatine kinase concentration (3146 U/L). She underwent intravenous immunoglobulin therapy; however, her symptoms did not improve, prompting transfer to our institute. On admission, transthoracic echocardiography revealed 30% of left ventricular ejection fraction and edema of the left ventricular wall. Coronary angiography showed no significant coronary stenosis. An endomyocardial biopsy resulted in a diagnosis of acute myocarditis. On the following day, she needed a temporary pacemaker because she had complete atrioventricular block and intra-aortic balloon pump because of cardiogenic shock. Intravenous immunoglobulin therapy was again administered and her cardiac function gradually recovered. She was successfully weaned off her temporary pacemaker and intra-aortic balloon pump on Day 5 after improvement in her complete atrioventricular block. Steroid therapy administered from Day 9 was effective in reducing her creatine kinase concentrations. However, contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging revealed inflammation of the scalene, semispinalis cervicis, sternocleidomastoid, and intercostal muscles. On Day 25, her cardiac function had recovered to a left ventricular ejection fraction of 59%. Finally, she was successfully discharged on Day 45 after undergoing rehabilitation.

DOI： 10.18999/nagjms.82.3.585

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Language：English   Publisher：Heart and Vessels  

Reduced exercise capacity is known to be an important predictor of poor prognosis and disability in patients with cardiovascular diseases and chronic heart failure, and even members of the general population. However, data about exercise capacity assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is scarce. Among 594 consecutive AMI patients who underwent primary PCI, we examined 136 patients (85.3% men, 64.9 ± 11.9 years) who underwent CPX during hospitalization for AMI. CPX was usually performed 5 days after the onset of AMI. Reduced exercise capacity was defined as peak VO2 ≤ 12. Clinical outcomes including all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and hospitalization due to heart failure were followed. Among 136 patients, reduced exercise capacity (peak VO2 ≤ 12) was seen in 38 patients (28%). Patients with reduced exercise capacity were older, more likely to have hypertension, and had lower renal function. In echocardiography, patients with reduced exercise capacity had higher E/e’ and larger left atrial dimension. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that E/e’ (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.09–1.31, p < 0.001) was an independent predictor of reduced exercise capacity (peak VO2 ≤ 12). Median follow-up term was 12 months (IQR 9–22). The occurrence of composite endpoints of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and hospitalization due to heart failure was significantly higher in patients with peak VO2 ≤ 12 than those with peak VO2 > 12 (p < 0.001). Reduced exercise capacity following primary PCI in AMI patients is associated with diastolic dysfunction and may lead to poorer clinical outcomes.

DOI： 10.1007/s00380-020-01576-2

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1007/s12928-019-00615-8

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Language：English   Publisher：Artificial Organs  

The spleen has been recognized as an important organ that holds a reserve of 20% to 30% of the total blood volume. Spleen contraction and splenic volume reduction occur in patients with hypovolemic shock. However, the change in the spleen volume and the association between spleen size and hemodynamic parameters remain unclear in patients with advanced heart failure (HF) who need left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. This study was performed to investigate the change in spleen size and the relationship between spleen size and hemodynamic parameters before and after LVAD implantation in patients with advanced HF. We enrolled 20 patients with advanced HF on LVAD support. All patients underwent right heart catheterization and computed tomography before and after LVAD implantation. The spleen size was measured by computed tomography volumetry. We excluded patients with a mean right atrial pressure (RAP) of <5 mm Hg because of the possibility of hypovolemia and those with a cardiac index of >2.2 L/min/m2 before LVAD implantation. The splenic volume significantly increased from 160.6 ± 46.9 mL before LVAD implantation to 224.6 ± 73.5 mL after LVAD implantation (P <.001). Before LVAD implantation, there was a significant negative correlation between spleen volume and systemic vascular resistance (SVR). After LVAD implantation, however, there were significant correlations between spleen volume and the cardiac index, RAP, and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure despite the absence of a significant correlation between spleen volume and SVR. Furthermore, one patient developed reworsening HF because of LVAD failure due to pump thrombosis. In this case, the splenic volume was 212 mL before LVAD implantation and increased to 418 mL after LVAD implantation, although it decreased to 227 mL after LVAD failure. The spleen size may change depending on hemodynamics in patients with advanced HF with LVAD support, reflecting sympathetic nerve activity and the systemic volume status.

DOI： 10.1111/aor.13658

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Language：English   Publisher：AsiaIntervention  

DOI： 10.4244/AIJ-D-19-00022

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Language：English   Publisher：International Journal of Cardiology  

Background: An integrated backscatter (IB) intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) provides an information about tissue components and vulnerability of coronary plaques. The presence of vulnerable plaque in non-culprit lesion is associated with future clinical events. The purpose of this study was to assess the association between the characteristics of non-culprit left main coronary artery (LMCA) plaques evaluated by IB-IVUS and long-term clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: Among the patients who underwent non-LMCA PCI, we studied 366 patients with adequate LMCA IVUS images. Conventional and IB-IVUS analyses of the LMCA segment were performed. Lipid-rich large plaque was defined as the presence of both a lager plaque volume and a higher percentage of the lipid component than the obtained median values. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) included cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and unplanned revascularization. Results: The mean age of the patients was 68.5 ± 10.2 years, 79.8% were men. Median follow-up period was 6.0 years (IQR: 4.2–8.1 years). The incidence of MACE was significantly higher in patients with lipid-rich large plaques (P = .006). The incidence rates of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, and unplanned revascularization were significantly higher in patients with lipid-rich large plaques (P = .02, 0.004, and 0.02, respectively). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the presence of a lipid-rich large plaque was significantly associated with MACE (HR: 1.74; 95%CI: 1.17–2.58; P = .006). Conclusion: The presence of lipid-rich large plaques in a non-culprit LMCA can be associated with the long-term MACE in patients who have undergone PCI.

DOI： 10.1016/j.ijcard.2020.01.072

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Language：English   Publisher：Nagoya Journal of Medical Science  

We herein report the long-term changes in cardiac function and pathological findings after successful explantation of a left ventricular assist device in a 42-year-old patient with anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy with reworsening heart failure. Endomyocardial biopsy samples revealed that the cardiomyocyte diameter decreased and collagen volume fraction increased just after left ventricular assist device explantation. The collagen volume fraction decreased after 6 months, despite preserved systolic function. At 5 years after left ventricular assist device explantation, the systolic function markedly decreased and cardiomyocyte diameter increased. Pathological changes of the myocardium may enable the identification of cardiac dysfunction prior to echocardiographic changes in patients with reworsening heart failure after left ventricular assist device explantation.

DOI： 10.18999/nagjms.82.1.129

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Language：English   Publisher：Japan Atherosclerosis Society  

<p><b>Aim:</b> An inverse association between diabetes mellitus (DM) and aortic dilatation has recently been reported. However, little is known about the association between DM and the progression of aortic dilatation/calcification as atherosclerosis progresses.<b> </b></p><p><b>Methods: </b>We identified 216 patients who had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and abdominal computed tomography (CT) during the PCI and follow-up phases. The patients were classified into two groups: those with DM (DM+ group; <i>n</i>=107) and those without DM (DM− group; <i>n</i>=109). The infrarenal aortic diameter and aortic calcification index (ACI) were measured, and annual changes were calculated using measurement results obtained during the PCI and follow-up phases.<b> </b></p><p><b>Results:</b> Infrarenal aortic diameters were significantly shorter in the DM+ group than in the DM- group during the PCI phase, and no significant ACI differences were observed between the DM+ and DM− groups. The median duration between the PCI and follow-up phase CT was 3.0 years. The growth rate of the infrarenal aortic dilatation from the PCI phase in the DM+ group was similar to that in the DM− group. Annual ACI changes were significantly larger in the DM+ group than in the DM− group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the prevalence of DM was an independent predictor of rapid aortic calcification progression (odds ratio: 2.51; 95% confidence interval: 1.23-5.14; <i>p</i>=0.01).<b> </b></p><p><b>Conclusion: </b>Our findings suggest that DM negatively affects aortic dilatation during an earlier phase of atherosclerosis progression and positively affects the progression of aortic calcification in a later phase.</p>

DOI： 10.5551/jat.50930

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.4244/EIJ-D-18-01013

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Language：Japanese  

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Language：Japanese  

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2019.03.006

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1097/FJC.0000000000000702

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.amjcard.2019.05.005

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2018.10.013

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Japan Atherosclerosis Society  

<p><b>Aim:</b> Patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) who require both oral anticoagulant (OAC) and antiplatelet therapy (APT) are exposed to a serious risk of bleeding. The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship among nutritional and inflammation status and long-term bleeding in patients requiring both OACs and APT after PCI.</p><p><b>Methods:</b> We performed PCI in 3,718 consecutive patients between April 2011 and March 2017, 302 of whom were treated with both OACs and APT. Patients were followed for up to 3 years for bleeding events, defined as the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) class ≥3 bleeding. We retrospectively evaluated the ability of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) to detect bleeding events.</p><p><b>Results:</b> During a median follow-up of 1,080 days, bleeding events were observed in 53 (17.5%) patients. Bleeding events were associated with a low GNRI (≤98) (hazard ratio [HR], 3.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.84-5.45; <i>p</i>＜0.0001) and hs-CRP level ≥2.5 mg/L (HR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.61-4.78; <i>p</i>=0.0003). A low GNRI＋high hs-CRP showed a 5.12-fold increase in the incidence of BARC class ≥3 bleeding (95% CI, 2.68-9.91; <i>p</i>＜0.0001) compared with a normal GNRI＋low hs-CRP. The addition of the GNRI and hs-CRP to the PRECISE-DAPT score improved C-statistics from 0.67 to 0.71 and enhanced the net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) (NRI, 0.36, <i>p</i>＜0.0001; IDI, 0.066, <i>p</i>＜0.0001).</p><p><b>Conclusions:</b> The GNRI and hs-CRP were novel predictors of the long-term bleeding risk in patients requiring both OACs and APT after PCI.</p>

DOI： 10.5551/jat.47654

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)  

DOI： 10.7150/ijms.32629

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：一般社団法人 日本超音波検査学会  

DOI： 10.11272/jssabst.44.0_s189_1

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DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2018.02.001

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DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2017.09.002

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DOI： 10.1111/anec.12431

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DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2017.02.005

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DOI： 10.1016/j.jjcc.2016.08.012

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DOI： 10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.117.003826

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Language：English   Publishing type：Research paper (scientific journal)   Publisher：Japan Atherosclerosis Society  

<p><i><b>Aim</b></i>: Fast-progressing vascular calcification (VC) is accompanied by renal atrophy and functional deterioration along with atherosclerosis in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the relationship between VC progression and renal functional and/or morphological changes remains unclear.</p><p><i><b>Methods</b></i>: We included 70 asymptomatic patients with CKD without hemodialysis in our study. To identify temporal variations, the coronary artery calcification score (CACS), abdominal aortic calcification index (ACI), and renal parenchymal volume index (RPVI) were determined via spiral computed tomography scans taken during the study. We investigated significant factors related to annualized variations of CACS (<i>Δ</i>CACS/y) and ACI (<i>Δ</i>ACI/y).</p><p><i><b>Results</b></i>: During the follow-up period (4.6 years), median values of CACS [in Agatston units (AU)] and ACI increased from 40.2 to 113.3 AU (<i>p</i>=0.053) and from 13.2 to 21.7% (<i>p</i>=0.036), respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that CACS at baseline (<i>p</i>＜0.001) and diabetes mellitus (DM) status (<i>p</i>=0.037) for <i>Δ</i>CACS/y and ACI at baseline (<i>p</i>=0.017) and hypertension (HT) status (<i>p</i>= 0.046) for <i>Δ</i>ACI/y were significant independent predictors. Furthermore, annualized RPVI variation was significantly related to both <i>Δ</i>CACS/y and <i>Δ</i>ACI/y (R=−0.565, <i>p</i>＜0.001, and R=−0.289, <i>p</i>=0.015, respectively). On the other hand, independent contributions of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and annualized eGFR variation to VC progression were not confirmed.</p><p><i><b>Conclusion</b></i>: The degree of VC at baseline, DM, HT, and changes in renal volume, but not eGFR, had a strong impact on VC progression in patients with CKD.</p>

DOI： 10.5551/jat.39271

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