Blood and liver telomere length, mitochondrial DNA copy number, and hepatic gene expression of mitochondrial dynamics in mid-lactation cows supplemented with l-carnitine under systemic inflammation

The current study was conducted to examine the effect of l-carnitine (LC) supplementation on telomere length and mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) per cell in mid-lactation cows challenged by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in blood and liver. The mRNA abundance of 31 genes related to inflammation, oxidative stress, and the corresponding stress response mechanisms, the mitochondrial quality control and the protein import system, as well as the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway, were assessed using microfluidics integrated fluidic circuit chips (96.96 dynamic arrays). In addition to comparing the responses in cows with or without LC, our objectives were to characterize the oxidative and inflammatory status by assessing the circulating concentration of lactoferrin (Lf), haptoglobin (Hp), fibrinogen, derivates of reactive oxygen metabolites (dROM), and arylesterase activity (AEA), and to extend the measurement of Lf and Hp to milk. Pluriparous Holstein cows were assigned to either a control group (CON, n = 26) or an LC-supplemented group (CAR; 25 g LC/cow per day; d 42 ante partum to d 126 postpartum (PP), n = 27). On d 111 PP, each cow was injected intravenously with LPS (Escherichia coli O111:B4, 0.5 µg/kg). The mRNA abundance was examined in liver biopsies of d -11 and +1 relative to LPS administration. Plasma and milk samples were frequently collected before and after the challenge. After LPS administration, circulating plasma fibrinogen and serum dROM concentrations increased, whereas AEA decreased. Moreover, serum P4 initially increased by 3 h after LPS administration and declined thereafter irrespective of grouping. The Lf concentrations increased in both groups after LPS administration, with the CAR group showing greater concentrations in serum and milk than the CON group. After LPS administration, telomere length in blood increased, whereas mtDNAcn per cell decreased; however, both remained unaffected in liver. For mitochondrial protein import genes, the hepatic mRNA abundance of the translocase of the mitochondrial inner membrane (TIM)-17B was increased in CAR cows. Moreover, TIM23 increased in both groups after LPS administration. Regarding the mRNA abundance of genes related to stress response mechanisms, 7 out of 14 genes showed group × time interactions, indicating a (local) protective effect due to the dietary LC supplementation against oxidative stress in mid-lactating dairy cows. For mtDNAcn and telomere length, the effects of the LPS-induced inflammation were more pronounced than the dietary supplementation of LC. Dietary LC supplementation affected the response to LPS primarily by altering mitochondrial dynamics. Regarding mRNA abundance of genes related to the mitochondrial protein import system, the inner mitochondrial membrane translocase (TIM complex) seemed to be more sensitive to dietary LC than the outer mitochondrial membrane translocase (TOM complex).

Rationale and design of a randomized study comparing the Watchman FLX device to DOACs in patients with atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure (LAAC) was developed as a nonpharmacologic alternative to oral anticoagulants (OACs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who are at an increased risk for stroke or systemic embolism. The Watchman device permanently seals off the LAA to prevent thrombi from escaping into the circulation. Previous randomized trials have established the safety and efficacy of LAAC compared to warfarin. However, direct OACs (DOACs) have become the preferred pharmacologic strategy for stroke prevention in patients with AF, and there is limited data comparing Watchman FLX to DOACs in a broad AF patient population. CHAMPION-AF is designed to prospectively determine whether LAAC with Watchman FLX is a reasonable first-line alternative to DOACs in patients with AF who are indicated for OAC therapy.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 3,000 patients with a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2 (men) or ≥3 (women) were randomized to Watchman FLX or DOAC in a 1:1 allocation at 142 global clinical sites. Patients in the device arm were to be treated with DOAC and aspirin, DOAC alone, or DAPT for at least 3 months postimplant followed by aspirin or P2Y12 inhibitor for 1-year. Control patients were required to take an approved DOAC for the duration of the trial. Clinical follow-up visits are scheduled at 3- and 12-months, and then annually through 5 years; LAA imaging is required at 4 months in the device group. Two primary end points will be evaluated at 3 years: (1) composite of stroke (ischemic/hemorrhagic), cardiovascular death, and systemic embolism compared for noninferiority, and (2) nonprocedural bleeding (International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis [ISTH] major and clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding) tested for superiority in the device arm against DOACs. The third primary noninferiority end point is the composite of ischemic stroke and systemic embolism at 5 years. Secondary end points include 3- and 5-year rates of (1) ISTH-defined major bleeding and (2) the composite of cardiovascular death, all stroke, systemic embolism, and nonprocedural ISTH bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will prospectively evaluate whether LAAC with the Watchman FLX device is a reasonable alternative to DOACs in patients with AF.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT04394546.

Comparison of a modified 2-step insulin response test performed with porcine zinc insulin and an oral glucose test to detect hyperinsulinemic Icelandic horses

Both, oral and intravenous (IV) testing protocols, are recommended and still used to detect insulin dysregulation (ID) in equids. However, IV tests mainly focus on peripheral insulin resistance (IR), while oral tests assess hyperinsulinemia (HI), which are different aspects of ID. The objective of this study was to describe if horses with HI also demonstrate IR and consequently can be detected by a modified 2-step insulin response test (2-step IRT) performed with a veterinary approved porcine zinc insulin (PZI). Twelve Icelandic horses were subjected to an OGT and 2-step IRT in a crossover study. Serum insulin concentrations during the OGT revealed that six horses were hyperinsulinemic (HI) while six were not (NON-HI). To describe the glucose response to IV injected PZI, the decline of plasma glucose concentration within the first 30 min was analyzed. Glucose reduction was similar in horses with and without HI during the 2-step IRT over time. Additionally, none of the horses reached a glucose reduction of ≥ 50% at 30 min. The results of the present study indicated that a comparable insulin mediated glucose uptake may be observed in horses with and without HI during a modified 2-step IRT. While six out of twelve horses were identified as HI by the OGT, all twelve horses were identified as IR by the modified 2-step IRT performed with PZI underlining the importance, but difficulty in choosing the right diagnostic tool in clinical settings to assess ID.

Cohort profile: the ESC EURObservational Research Programme Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infraction (NSTEMI) Registry

AIMS

The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) EURObservational Research Programme (EORP) Non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) Registry aims to identify international patterns in NSTEMI management in clinical practice and outcomes against the 2015 ESC Guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndromes in patients presenting without ST-segment-elevation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Consecutively hospitalised adult NSTEMI patients (n = 3620) were enrolled between 11 March 2019 and 6 March 2021, and individual patient data prospectively collected at 287 centres in 59 participating countries during a two-week enrolment period per centre. The registry collected data relating to baseline characteristics, major outcomes (in-hospital death, acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, bleeding, stroke/transient ischaemic attack, and 30-day mortality) and guideline-recommended NSTEMI care interventions: electrocardiogram pre- or in-hospital, pre-hospitalization receipt of aspirin, echocardiography, coronary angiography, referral to cardiac rehabilitation, smoking cessation advice, dietary advice, and prescription on discharge of aspirin, P2Y12 inhibition, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi)/angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), beta-blocker, and statin.

CONCLUSION

The EORP NSTEMI Registry is an international, prospective registry of care and outcomes of patients treated for NSTEMI, which will provide unique insights into the contemporary management of hospitalised NSTEMI patients, compliance with ESC 2015 NSTEMI Guidelines, and identify potential barriers to optimal management of this common clinical presentation associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Neutrophile-lymphocyte ratio and outcome in takotsubo syndrome

Introduction

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an important form of acute heart failure with significant risk of acute complications and death. In this analysis we sought to identify predictors for in-hospital clinical outcome in TTS patients by concentrating on routine laboratory parameters at admission.

Methods

In this analysis from the Austrian national TTS registry, univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify significant predictors for severe in-hospital complications requiring immediate invasive treatment or leading to irreversible damage, such as cardiogenic shock, intubation, stroke, arrhythmias and death. Furthermore, the influence of identified predictors with long-term survival was evaluated.

Results

A total of 338 patients (median age 72 years, 86.9% female) from 6 centres were included. Severe in-hospital complications occurred in 14.5% of patients, including cardiogenic shock (9.8%), death (3.3%) and intubation (1.2%), respectively. Patients with complications during the hospital stay had more prevalent chronic kidney disease (CKD), were less often previous smokers and TTS was less often preceded by an emotional trigger. C-reactive protein and neutrophile lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was higher in patients with complications, and midventricular ballooning and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were more prevalent. In multivariable analysis, high NLR (OR 1.04 [95% CI 1.02–1.07], p=0.009) and low LVEF (OR 0.92 [0.90–0.95] per %, p<0.001) remained significant predictors for severe in-hospital complications. Both the highest NLR tercile and the lowest LVEF tercile were associated with significantly reduced 5-year survival.

Discussion

Low LVEF and high NLR at admission were independently associated with increased in-hospital complications and reduced long-term survival in TTS patients. NLR is a new easy-to-measure tool to predict worse short and long-term outcome after TTS.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Effect of aspirin discontinuation according to individualised patient bleeding and ischemic risks after PCI: a TWILIGHT trial sub-analysis

Background

The TWILIGHT trial demonstrated a reduction in BARC 2, 3 or 5 (BARC-235) bleeding without an increase in ischemic events at 1-year in high-risk PCI patients randomized to placebo or aspirin (ASA) on a background of ticagrelor 3-months after PCI. However, the effect of ASA discontinuation according to baseline risk of bleeding and ischemic events remain unclear.

Purpose

To a) develop separate models to predict the risk of bleeding and ischemic events, and b) to assess treatment effect of ASA discontinuation across the risk strata.

Methods

Using the TWILIGHT patient database (N=7,119), two multivariable models, one for BARC-235 bleeding and one for CV death, nonfatal MI or nonfatal ischemic stroke (ischemic endpoint) were developed, and their predictive capacity was assessed. The effect of randomized treatment on bleeding and ischemic events across different patient risk-group categories as determined by the risk scores was investigated.

Results

At 1-year, 350 (5.4%) patients experienced a BARC-235 bleeding event and 258 (3.6%) experienced an ischemic event. Independent predictors of BARC-235 included haemoglobin levels at index PCI, proton-pump inhibitor non-use at discharge, age, liver disease and active smoking (c-statistic 0.64). Independent predictors of the ischemic outcome included a positive troponin ACS, prior CABG, diabetes, age, peripheral artery disease, prior PCI, a history of congestive heart failure, active smoking, the level of index PCI complexity, and prior MI (c-statistic 0.71). The risk of a BARC-235 almost doubled between patients in lower versus higher bleeding risk categories (4.3% versus 7.9%) and ischemic risk more than tripled between patients in lower versus higher ischemic risk categories (2.0% versus 7.0%) (see Figure 1). There was no evidence of a differential treatment effect for dual antiplatelet therapy versus ticagrelor monotherapy across the different risk categories of bleeding (interaction P=0.54) and ischemic risk (interaction P=0.95) (Table 1).

Conclusion

Individual patient bleeding and ischemic risks after PCI can both be readily characterised with good discrimination. The effect of ASA discontinuation in preventing bleeding in ticagrelor-treated patients was consistent regardless of baseline bleeding risk. There was no evidence for increased ischemic events with ASA discontinuation according to baseline ischemic risk.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): AstraZenecaIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Disparities in Radiotherapy: Practice Patterns Analysis of DIBH use in Non-English Speakers

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To examine current practice patterns in non-English speaking patients with breast cancer undergoing Deep Inspiratory Breath Hold (DIBH).

MATERIALS/METHODS

An anonymous, voluntary REDCap survey was distributed to 60 residency program coordinators of U.S. radiation oncology departments to survey their faculty and recent graduates. Eligibility was limited to board-certified radiation oncologists who have treated breast cancer within the prior 6 months.

RESULTS

There were 69 respondents, 53 of whom were eligible. 42% (n=22) of eligible respondents were from the main site at an academic center, with 28% (n=15) representing a satellite site, and 30% (n=16) from private practice. 53% reported at least 10% of their patients were non-English speaking. 90% offered DIBH at their institution and of those, 74% used DIBH for at least 1/4^th of their patients with breast cancer. 98% of those who use DIBH performed coaching at simulation, with 32% answering they would be "less likely" to utilize DIBH for non-English speakers. When utilized, 94% take into consideration potential language barriers for proper execution of DIBH. However, 51% had an interpreter present 76-100% of the time at CT simulation, which decreased to 31% at first fraction, and 11% at subsequent treatments. For non-English speaking patients undergoing DIBH coaching without a certified interpreter, 55% of respondents indicated that they provided verbal coaching in English, 32% indicated "not applicable" because they always use a certified interpreter, 11% used visual aids, and 32% indicated "other." Of those who answered other, the most commonly cited response was utilizing therapists or staff who spoke the patient's native language.

CONCLUSIONS

Disparities in the application of DIBH exist despite its established utility in reducing cardiac dose. This study provides evidence that language barriers may impact physician treatment practices from initial consideration of DIBH to subsequent delivery. This data suggests that breast cancer treatment considerations and subsequent execution are negatively affected in non-English speaking patients.

Prognostic value of sST2 in heart failure patients with diabetes

Background

Soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 (sST2) is released in response to inflammation and vascular injury, and holds prognostic value in heart failure (HF). Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by a pro-inflammatory status and is highly prevalent among HF patients, with adverse impact on outcomes. The clinical value of sST2 in HF patients with T2D has never been characterized.

Purpose

We aimed to assess sST2 clinical correlates and prognostic value in HF patients with T2D.

Methods

Individual data of 3476 patients with stable chronic HF from 5 cohorts from the BIOS (Biomarkers In Heart Failure Outpatient Study) dataset were analysed, with available N-terminal fraction of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), high-sensitivity troponin T (hs-TnT), and sST2 levels.

Results

Mean age was 65±12 years (75% males). T2D was present in 1386 patients (40%), who had higher body mass index (BMI, 27 [24–30] vs. 26 [23–29] kg/m2, p<0.001), lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, 56±22 vs. 60±19 mL/min/1,73 m2, p<0.001), higher sST2 (33 [24–47] vs. 27 [20–40] ng/mL, p<0.001), NT-proBNP (1735 [742–3963] vs. 1450 [514–3299] ng/L, p<0.001), hs-TnT (28 [16.2–51.5] vs. 17 [9–31] ng/L, p<0.001) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP, 6 [2–11] vs. 4. [2–9] mg/L, p=0.003) (Figure). Differences between sST2 levels in patients with or without T2D were influenced by hs-CRP (p for interaction=0.010) and hs-TnT (p=0.031), but not by NT-proBNP and eGFR. At multivariate linear regression analysis, NT-proBNP, hs-TnT and hs-CRP were independently associated with sST2 levels in both T2D and non-T2D patients. Compared with patients without T2D, those with T2D showed higher 1-year all-cause mortality (12% vs. 10%, p=0.034), cardiovascular mortality (9% vs. 7%, p=0.011), and HF hospitalization rate (22% vs. 12%, p<0.001). In a prognostic model including age, sex, eGFR, ischemic vs- non-ischemic aetiology, left ventricular ejection fraction class, New York Heart Association class, NT-proBNP, hs-TnT, and hs-CRP, sST2 retained independent prognostic value in both patients with or without T2D for 1-year all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, and 1-year HF hospitalization, with higher optimal cut-offs for mortality prediction in T2D vs. non-T2D (39 and 45 vs. 29 and 29 ng/mL respectively for 1-year all-cause and cardiovascular mortality).

Conclusions

sST2 is higher in HF patients with T2D and likely linked to a pro-inflammatory status. sST2 maintains its prognostic value both in diabetic and non-diabetic HF patients, independently of NT-proBNP, hs-TnT and hs-CRP.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1

ADP-receptor antagonists in patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock: a pooled IABP-SHOCK II and CULPRIT-SHOCK trial sub-analysis

Purpose

The purpose of this pooled analysis is to compare the clinical outcome of patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock treated with either clopidogrel or the newer, more potent ADP-receptor antagonists prasugrel or ticagrelor. Patients from the Intraaortic Balloon Pump in Cardiogenic Shock II (IABP-SHOCK II) and Culprit Lesion Only PCI versus Multivessel PCI in Cardiogenic Shock (CULPRIT-SHOCK) trial were included.

Methods and results

For the current analysis, the primary endpoint was 1-year mortality and the secondary safety endpoint was moderate or severe bleedings until hospital discharge with respect to three different ADP-receptor antagonists. Eight hundred fifty-six patients were eligible for analysis. Of these, five hundred seven patients (59.2%) received clopidogrel, one hundred seventy-eight patients (20.8%) prasugrel and one hundred seventy-one patients (20.0%) ticagrelor as acute antiplatelet therapy. The adjusted rate of mortality after 1-year did not differ between prasugrel and clopidogrel (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–1.09, padj=0.17) or between ticagrelor and clopidogrel treated patients (HR: 0.86, 95% CI 0.65–1.15, padj=0.31). In-hospital bleeding events were significantly less frequent in patients treated with ticagrelor vs. clopidogrel (HR: 0.37, 95% CI 0.20–0.69, padj=0.002) and not different in patients treated with prasugrel vs. clopidogrel (HR: 0.73, 95% CI 0.43–1.24, padj=0.24), see Table 1.

Conclusion

This pooled sub-analysis is the largest analysis on safety and efficacy of three oral ADP-receptor antagonists and shows that an acute therapy with either clopidogrel, prasugrel or ticagrelor is no predictor of 1-year mortality. Treatment with ticagrelor seems to be associated with less in-hospital moderate and severe bleeding events in comparison to clopidogrel.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): German Heart FoundationEuropean Union 7th Framework Program

Impact of center-volume on outcomes in myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock – a CULPRIT-SHOCK sub-study

Background

Little is known about the impact of center-volume on outcomes in acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS). The aim of this study was to investigate the association between center-volume, treatment strategies and subsequent outcome in patients with AMI-CS.

Methods

In this subanalysis of the randomized CULPRIT-SHOCK trial, study sites were categorized based on the annual volume of AMI-CS into low/intermediate/high volume centers (<50; 50–100;>100 cases/year). Subjects from the study/compulsory registry with available volume data were included. Baseline/procedural characteristics, overall treatment and 1-year all-cause mortality were compared across categories.

Results

N=1032 patients were included in this study (537 treated at low-volume, 240 at intermediate-volume and 255 at high volume centers). Baseline risk profile of patients across the volume categories was similar, although high volume centers included more older patients. Low/intermediate-volume centers had more resuscitated patients (57.5%/58.8% vs. 42.2%; p<0.01), and more patients on mechanical ventilation in comparison to high volume centers. Mechanical circulatory support differed with more use in low/intermediate-volume centers and overall lower use in high-volume centers (30.7%/36.7% vs. 19.2%; p<0.001). There were no differences in reperfusion success despite considerable differences in adjunctive pharmacological/device therapies (figure 1). There was no difference in 1-year all-cause mortality across volume categories (51.1% vs. 56.5% vs. 54.4%; p=0.34).

Conclusion

In this study of patients with AMI-CS, considerable differences in adjunctive medical and mechanical support therapies was observed. However, we could not detect an impact of center volume on reperfusion success or mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): The CULPRIT-SHOCK trial was funded by European Union, Seventh Framework Programme (FP7/2007-2013) Grant agreement n°602202, German Heart Research Foundation Treatment according to center volumeLong-term survival

Investigation of a potential electrogenic transport-system for myo-inositol in the small intestine of laying hens

1. Myo-inositol (MI) is an essential metabolite for cell function in animals and humans. The aim of this study was to characterise the transport mechanism of MI in the small intestine of laying hens as there is a lack of knowledge about the MI uptake mechanisms. The hypothesised secondary active, cation coupled transport of MI was assessed by electrophysiological measurements with Ussing chambers, and was compared to the electrophysiology of glucose transport.2. Twenty-six laying hens were used. The potential ion-dependent transport was tested in tissue of the small intestine. Barrier function of the tissue was shown by determining the transepithelial resistance. During the experiments, mucosal and serosal buffers were sampled to measure time-dependent changes in MI concentrations. Samples from eight hens were further used for Western blot analyses of the jejunal apical membranes.3. Active MI transport, indicated by changes in the short circuit current after MI addition, could not be demonstrated in the Ussing chambers experiments. MI was further not detectable in the serosal buffer, nor in the lysates of mucosal tissue cytoplasm nor lipids. Thus, there was no evidence for a MI transport or absorption. However, Western blot analyses of the jejunal apical membrane revealed signals indicated the expression of the MI transport proteins SMIT-1 and SMIT-2.4. In conclusion, the MI transport process in the chicken intestine is more complex than it was presumed and is probably influenced by still unknown regulations or metabolic processes.

Effects of dietary l-carnitine supplementation on the response to an inflammatory challenge in mid-lactating dairy cows: Hepatic mRNA abundance of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism

This study aimed at characterizing the effects of dietary l-carnitine supplementation on hepatic fatty acid (FA) metabolism during inflammation in mid-lactating cows. Fifty-three pluriparous Holstein dairy cows were randomly assigned to either a control (CON, n = 26) or an l-carnitine supplemented (CAR; n = 27) group. The CAR cows received 125 g of a rumen-protected l-carnitine product per cow per day (corresponding to 25 g of l-carnitine/cow per day) from d 42 antepartum (AP) until the end of the trial on d 126 postpartum (PP). Aside from the supplementation, the same basal diets were fed in the dry period and during lactation to all cows. In mid lactation, each cow was immune-challenged by a single intravenous injection of 0.5 μg of LPS/kg of BW at d 111 PP. Blood samples were collected before and after LPS administration. The mRNA abundance of in total 39 genes related to FA metabolism was assessed in liver biopsies taken at d -11, 1, and 14 relative to LPS (d 111 PP) and also on d 42 AP as an individual covariate using microfluidics integrated fluidic circuit chips (96.96 dynamic arrays). In addition to the concentrations of 3 selected proteins related to FA metabolism, acetyl-CoA carboxylase α (ACACA), 5' AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and solute carrier family 25 member 20 (SLC25A20) were assessed by a capillary Western blot method in liver biopsies from d -11 and 1 relative to LPS from 11 cows each of CAR and CON. On d -11 relative to LPS, differences between the mRNA abundance in CON and CAR were limited to acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (ACAD) very-long-chain (ACADVL) with greater mRNA abundance in the CAR than in the CON group. The liver fat content decreased from d -11 to d 1 relative to the LPS injection and remained at the lower level until d 14 in both groups. One day after the LPS challenge, lower mRNA abundance of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1), CPT2, ACADVL, ACAD short-chain (ACADS), and solute carrier family 22 member 5 (SLC22A5) were observed in the CAR group as compared with the CON group. However, the mRNA abundance of protein kinase AMP-activated noncatalytic subunit gamma 1 (PRKAG1), ACAD medium-chain (ACADM), ACACA, and FA binding protein 1 (FABP1) were greater in the CAR group than in the CON group on d 1 relative to LPS. Two weeks after the LPS challenge, differences between the groups were no longer detectable. The altered mRNA abundance before and 1 d after LPS pointed to increased transport of FA into hepatic mitochondria during systemic inflammation in both groups. The protein abundance of AMPK was lower in CAR than in CON before the LPS administration. The protein abundance of SLC25A20 was neither changing with time nor treatment and the ACACA protein abundance was only affected by time. In conclusion, l-carnitine supplementation temporally altered the hepatic mRNA abundance of some genes related to mitochondrial biogenesis and very-low-density lipoprotein export in response to an inflammatory challenge, but with largely lacking effects before and 2 wk after LPS.

Is diversity harmful? - Mixed-brand cardiac implantable electronic devices undergoing magnetic resonance imaging

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Many patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) need to undergo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, a significant proportion has a CIED system in place that has not been classified "MRI-conditional" because of generators and leads from different brands ("mixed-brand" group), although the individual components per se are MRI-conditional. There is only limited data available concerning the outcome of these patients with "mixed-brand" CIED systems undergoing MRI.

Purpose

To analyse complications or adverse effects in "mixed-brand" CIED patients undergoing MRI, compared to patients with a fully "MRI-conditional" CIED system.

Methods

A retrospective single-centre study was performed, including patients undergoing MRI between January 2013 until May 2020. Short- and long-term outcomes were compared between both groups. We defined the primary endpoint as death or any adverse event necessitating hospitalization or CIED revision in association with the MRI examination. Secondary endpoints were the occurrence of any surrogate for beginning device or lead failure or patient discomfort during MRI.

Results

A total of 227 MRI examinations, including 10 thoracic MRIs, were carried out in 158 patients, with a range of 1-9 MRIs per patient. Mean age was 73 years and 52 (32.9%) patients were female. We identified 38 patients undergoing 54 procedures in the "mixed-brand" group and 89 patients undergoing 134 MRI procedures in the "MRI-conditional" group. In 31 patients undergoing 39 MRI examinations the MRI-conditionality could not be determined. "Mixed-brand" patients were older than MRI-conditional patients (mean 77 vs. 72 years, p = 0.003). The primary endpoint occurred in 0% in the "mixed-brand" group and in 2.2% in the "MRI conditional" group (p = 1.000). Complications were as follows: Two patients had first diagnosed atrial fibrillation directly associated with the procedure, of whom one additionally had a transient CIED dysfunction. No patient in the "mixed-brand" group and three patients (3.4%) in the "MRI conditional" group met the secondary endpoints (p = 0.554). In patients with undeterminable MRI conditionality the complication rate was similar (0% for both the primary and secondary endpoints).

Conclusion

The complication rate of CIED patients undergoing MRI was low. There was no signal for increased risk of adverse events in patients with a CIED without MRI certification due to mixed brands systems compared to patients with "MRI-conditional" CIED systems.

Lower pacemaker implantation rates for atrioventricular block during COVID-19

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

The first wave of the COVID-19 crisis was associated with a reduction of patients presenting with acute cardiovascular disease. However, there is only limited data showing the trend of pacemaker implantations and their indications.

Purpose

To evaluate pacemaker implantations before, during and after the first COVID-19 wave, stratified by indication.

Methods

We analysed the weekly rates of pacemaker implantation at our centre during the first national lockdown for COVID-19 at the between 16 March 2020 and 29 April 2020 (weeks 12-17 / 2020), compared to the implantation rates 6 weeks before (weeks 6-11 / 2020), 6 weeks afterwards (weeks 18-23 / 2020), and the same time frame in 2017-2019. To reduce bias due to postponed planned procedures, we stratified pacemaker implantations into the following groups: total implantations (including box changes), new pacemaker implantations, implantation due to AV block, implantation due to supraventricular conduction disturbances, and other implantations.

Results

The total number of total weekly implantations was reduced from 10.7 (weeks 6-11 / 2020) to 4.2 (weeks 12-17 / 2020; -60.1%, p = 0.02). We found no significant reduction in the same time frame in 2017-2019 (6.5 vs. 6.1 per week, p = 0.29). We found a similar effect in "new" pacemaker implantations (8.5 vs. 3.2 per week, -62.7%, p = 0.02) and AV block (5.0 vs. 1.5 per week, -70%, p = 0.03). There was no reduction in pacemaker implantation due to sick sinus syndrome (2.5 vs. 0.8 per week, -66.7%, p = 0.12) and other indications (1.0 vs. 0.8 per week, -16.7%, p = 0.86).

In the six following weeks (18-23 / 2020), the total numbers (6.0 per week) and indications other than AV block rose to baseline (p > 0.05), but patients with AV block were still less prevalent (1.7 per week, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

The reduction of total and new pacemaker implantations during the COVID-19 lockdown was mainly based on a reduced pacemaker implantation rate for AV block. This effect persisted even after the national lockdown. This analysis implies that a significant number of patients with AV block may have avoided medical contact during and after the lockdown and therefore have experienced increased mortality.

Circulating levels of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) are associated with monocyte subsets in patients with stable coronary artery disease

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): FWF

Background and aims

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type-9 (PCSK9) is an enzyme promoting the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDL-R) in hepatocytes. Inhibition of PCSK9 has emerged as a novel target for lipid-lowering therapy. Monocytes are crucially involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and can be divided into three subsets. The aim of this study was to examine whether circulating levels of PCSK9 are associated with monocyte subsets.

Methods

We included 69 patients with stable coronary artery disease. PCSK9 levels were measured and monocyte subsets were assessed by flow cytometry and divided into classical monocytes (CD14++CD16-; CM), intermediate monocytes (CD14++CD16+; IM) and non-classical monocytes (CD14 + CD16++; NCM).

Results

Mean age was 64 years and 80% of patients were male. Patients on statin treatment (n = 55) showed higher PCSK9-levels (245.4 (206.0-305.5) ng/mL) as opposed to those without statin treatment (186.1 (162.3-275.4) ng/mL; p = 0.05). In patients on statin treatment, CM correlated with circulating PCSK9 levels (R = 0.29; p = 0.04), while NCM showed an inverse correlation with PCSK9 levels (R=-0.33; p = 0.02). Patients with PCSK9 levels above the median showed a significantly higher proportion of CM as compared to patients with PCSK-9 below the median (83.5 IQR 79.2-86.7 vs. 80.4, IQR 76.5-85.2%; p = 0.05). Conversely, PCSK9 levels >median were associated with a significantly lower proportion of NCM as compared to those with PCSK9 <median (10.2, IQR 7.3-14.6 vs. 14.3, IQR 10.9-18.7%; p = 0.02). In contrast, IM showed no association with PCSK-9 levels.

Conclusions

We hereby provide a novel link between PCSK9 regulation, innate immunity and atherosclerotic disease in statin-treated patients.

Prognostic value of NT-proBNP and best cut-offs for risk prediction in obese patients with chronic systolic heart failure

Background

N-terminal fraction of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a strong predictor of outcome in chronic systolic heart failure (CHF). Although plasma NT-proBNP has been reported to display an inverse correlation with body-mass-index (BMI), its prognostic value in obese patients has been poorly investigated so far.

Objectives

To evaluate the prognostic value and the best cut-offs for risk prediction of NT-proBNP in obese individuals from a multinational cohort of patients with systolic CHF.

Methods

We analyzed data from the BIOS (Biomarkers In Heart Failure Outpatient Study) Consortium. Patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤50% were selected and classified as nonobese (BMI <30 kg/m2), mildly obese (BMI 30–35 kg/m2), moderately obese (BMI 35–40 kg/m2), or severely obese (BMI ≥40 kg/m2), according to standard nomenclature. Clinical and bio-humoral data, including NT-proBNP testing, were retrieved, and 5-year cardiac and all-cause mortality status were considered as primary and secondary outcome, respectively. The independent prognostic role of NT-proBNP was evaluated through Cox regression analysis, adjusting the model for age, gender, New York Heart Association class, ischaemic aetiology, LVEF, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Results

The study population included 11,574 patients (age 65±12 years, LVEF 30±9%, males 78%). Most of patients were nonobese (n=8,937, 77%), while mildly, moderately, and severely obese patients were 1,887 (16%), 499 (4%), and 251 (3%), respectively. Median values of plasma NT-proBNP were progressively lower from nonobese to mildly, moderately, and severely obese patients (1455 ng/L, 903 ng/L, 767 ng/L, 660 ng/L, respectively) and BMI was predictive of NT-proBNP independently from age, LVEF, and eGFR (r=−0.152, p<0.001). The best NT-proBNP cut-offs to predict 5-year cardiac mortality were significantly lower in mildly [1044 ng/L; AUC 0.663 (Sen 66%; Spe 59%), p<0.001] moderately [736 ng/L; AUC 0.670 (Sen 76%; Spe 52%), p<0.001]), and severely [1060 ng/L; AUC 0.635 (Sen 57%; Spe 69%), p=0.021] obese patients compared to nonobese individuals [2034 ng/L; AUC 0.714 (Sens. 65%; Spec. 66%), p<0.001]. Further, NT-proBNP independently predicted 5-year cardiac death in nonobese, mildly and moderately obese patients (all p<0.001), but not in severely obese patients (p=0.457). Similar findings were observed for the secondary endpoint of 5-year all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

Compared to nonobese CHF patients, obese patients have lower circulating NT-proBNP levels, which retain independent prognostic significance for cardiac and all-cause mortality across most categories of obesity. BMI-adjusted NT-proBNP cut-offs might be considered for prognostic stratification in obese patients with CHF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Sex-based differences of copeptin for early rule-out of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Objective

There is paucity of data on the role of sex in the dual biomarker strategy using copeptin and conventional troponin for the early rule-out of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). We aimed to evaluate sex-based differences on copeptin levels, combined negative predictive value (NPV) and predictors of copeptin elevation at admission.

Methods

Biomarkers were measured in 852 adult patients presenting to the emergency department with chest pain and suspected NSTEMI. Logistic regression analyses on predictors of copeptin elevation were evaluated by sex.

Results

Overall, 362 women (42.5%) and 490 men (57.5%) were included. Copeptin levels were higher in men (median 7.36 pmol/L vs. 4.8 pmol/L; P<0.001). Men had a similar NPV (100%) as women (99.6%, CI: 98.8–100) using the dual biomarker rule-out strategy and when compared to troponin alone (men, NPV=98.7%, CI: 97.5–99.8; and women, NPV=98.7%, CI: 97.5–100). Multivariate logistic regression showed positive association of male sex with copeptin elevation (OR=2.37; CI: 1.61–3.49; P<0.001). In men, diastolic blood pressure was a negative predictor of copeptin elevation (OR=0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–0.99), while positive predictors were current MI (OR=2.16, 95% CI: 1.19–3.91), chronic renal insufficiency (OR=3.58, 95% CI: 1.33–9.62), and atrial fibrillation (OR=2.56, 95% CI: 1.23–5.32), respectively (all P<0.05). In women, current MI (OR=2.98, CI: 1.23–7.24), atrial fibrillation (OR=2.90, CI: 1.26–6.70) and syncope (OR=7.56, CI: 2.26–25.30) were significant predictors of copeptin elevation.

Conclusions

Men with suspected NSTEMI have higher copeptin levels. The dual biomarker rule-out strategy has a similar performance in both male and female patients. Certain predictors of copeptin elevation are sex-specific.

Copeptin levels at presentation

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Ludwig Boltzmann Cluster for Cardiovascular Research, Vienna, Austria

Monocyte subsets predict mortality after cardiac arrest

Background

After successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), many patients show signs of an overactive immune activation. Monocytes are a heterogenous cell population that can be distinguished into three subsets.

Purpose

The aim of this prospective, observational study was to analyze whether monocyte subset distribution is associated with mortality at 6 months in patients after cardiac arrest.

Methods

We included 53 patients admitted to our medical ICU after cardiac arrest. Blood was taken on admission and monocyte subset distribution was analyzed by flow cytometry and distinguished into classical monocytes (CM; CD14++CD16-), intermediate monocytes (IM; CD14++CD16+CCR2+) and non-classical monocytes (NCM; CD14+CD16++CCR2-).

Results

Median age was 64.5 (IQR 49.8–74.3) years and 75.5% of patients were male. Mortality at 6 months was 50.9% and survival with good neurological outcome was 37.7%. Of interest, monocyte subset distribution upon admission to the ICU did not differ according to survival. However, patients that died within 6 months showed a strong increase in the pro-inflammatory subset of intermediate monocytes (8.3% (3.8–14.6)% vs. 4.1% (1.5–8.2)%; p=0.025), and a decrease of classical monocytes (87.5% (79.9–89.0)% vs. 90.8% (85.9–92.7)%; p=0.036) 72 hours after admission. In addition, intermediate monocytes were predictive of outcome independent of initial rhythm and time to ROSC and correlated with the CPC-score at 6 months (R=0.32; p=0.043).

Discussion

Monocyte subset distribution is associated with outcome in patients surviving a cardiac arrest. This suggests that activation of the innate immune system may play a significant role in patient outcome after cardiac arrest.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): FWF - Fonds zur Förderung der wissenschaftlichen Forschung

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in heart failure: influence on circulating biomarkers and outcome

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is common in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).

Purpose

We aimed to explore the impact of COPD on HF biomarkers (N-terminal fraction of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide [NT-proBNP], high-sensitivity troponin T [hs-TnT], and soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 [sST2]) and outcome.

Methods

Individual data from 14 cohorts of patients with stable chronic HF and NT-proBNP and hs-TnT values were analysed. Patients with known COPD status were evaluated.

Results

Patients (n=13,178) were aged 67 years (58–75), 75% males, and 76%, 11%, 13% with HF with reduced, mid-range, or preserved ejection fraction (HFrEF/HFmrEF/HFpEF), respectively. Patients with COPD were older than those without COPD (age 71 years [64–77] vs. 66 [57–75]; p<0.001), more frequently males (79% vs. 74%; p<0.001), had more often ischaemic HF (54% vs. 52%; p<0.001), and HFpEF (14% vs. 12%; p=0.011), but not HFpEF (12% vs. 11%; p=0.097). COPD patients had also more severe dyspnoea (44% in NYHA class III-IV vs. 31%; p<0.001), and slightly worse renal function (median estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 58 mL/min/1.73 m2 [44–74] vs. 60 [46–67]; p<0.001). Patients with COPD had higher NT-proBNP (1501 ng/L [642–3333] vs. 1225 ng/L [476–2902]; p<0.001), hs-TnT (22 ng/L [13–38] vs. 17 ng/L [9–30]; p<0.001), and sST2 (30 ng/mL [22–45] vs. 29 [21–43]; p<0.001).

Over a median follow-up of 2.1 years (1.5–3.7, range 0–18 years), 3,865/12,489 patients (31%) died; among them, 2,443/12,450 (20%) died for cardiovascular causes; 3,373/12,469 patients (27%) were hospitalized for HF over 35 months (15–63, range 0–216 months). Patients with COPD had a significantly higher all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and worse survival free from HF hospitalization (all p<0.001; Figure). In a model including age, gender, ischaemic vs. non-ischaemic aetiology, eGFR, HFrEF/HFmrEF/HFpEF, and NYHA class III-IV, COPD retained independent prognostic significance from NT-proBNP for 1-year all-cause (p=0.009) and cardiovascular mortality (p=0.022), 5-year all-cause (p<0.001) and cardiovascular mortality (p=0.011) as well as 3- (p=0.033), 6- (p=0.019) and 12-month HF hospitalization (p=0.033). COPD lost its independent prognostic significance when hs-TnT and sST2 were included in the model.

Conclusions

COPD in HF is characterized by higher NT-proBNP, hs-TnT and sST2 levels. COPD adds prognostic significance over NT-proBNP alone, but not over the combination of NT-proBNP, hs-TnT, and sST2.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Outcomes associated with respiratory failure for patients with cardiogenic shock and acute myocardial infarction: a substudy of the culprit-shock trial

Background

Respiratory insufficiency with the need for mechanical ventilation (MV) is one of the most common indications for admission to intensive care units. However, little is known about the clinical outcomes of patients with acute myocardial infraction (AMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS) who require mechanical ventilation (MV). The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics, risk factors, and outcomes associated with the provision of MV in this specific high-risk population.

Methods

Patients with CS complicating AMI and multivessel coronary artery disease from the CULPRIT-SHOCK trial were included. We explored clinical outcome within 30 days in patients not requiring MV, those with MV on admission, and those in whom MV was initiated within the first day after admission.

Results

Among 683 randomized patients included in the analysis, 17.4% received no MV, 59.7% were ventilated at admission and 22.8% received MV within or after the first day after admission. Patients requiring MV were younger, more frequently non-smokers, had higher body mass indices, presented more often with clinical signs of impaired organ perfusion including worse renal function, higher burden of coronary artery disease, were more likely to have experienced resuscitation within 24h before admission, had worse left ventricular function, and presented more often with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. The primary endpoint of all-cause death or need for renal replacement therapy occurred in 21.8% of patients without MV, in 53.3% of patients with MV at admission (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 6.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.17–11.47, p=0.002, compared to patients without) and 65.4% of patients with MV initiated within the first day after admission (aOR 8.09 95% CI 4.32–15.16, p<0.001, compared to patients without). Factors independently associated with the provision of MV on admission included higher body weight, resuscitation within 24h before admission, elevated heart rate and evidence of triple vessel disease.

Conclusions

Requiring MV in patients with CS complicating AMI is common and independently associated with mortality after adjusting for covariates. Patients with delayed MV initiation appear to be at higher risk of adverse outcomes. Further research is necessary to identify the optimal timing of MV in this high-risk population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): Swiss National Foundation

Prognostic impact of active mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction: results from the CULPRIT-SHOCK trial

Background

Active mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices are increasingly used in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, data derived from randomized controlled trials on the efficacy and safety of these devices are still limited.

Purpose

To analyze the prognostic impact of active MCS devices in a large prospective contemporary cohort of patients with CS complicating AMI.

Methods

This is a predefined subanalysis of the Culprit Lesion Only PCI versus Multivessel PCI in Cardiogenic Shock (CULPRIT-SHOCK) randomized trial and prospective registry. Patients with CS, AMI and multivessel coronary artery disease were categorized in two groups; (1) use of at least one active MCS device, vs. (2) no active MCS or use of intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) only. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death or need of renal replacement therapy at 30 days.

Results

Two hundred of 1055 (19%) patients received at least one active MCS device (n=112 Impella®; n=95 extracorporeal membrane oxygenation [ECMO]; n=6 other devices). The primary endpoint occurred significantly more often in patients treated with active MCS devices compared to those without active MCS devices (142 of 197, 72% vs. 374 of 827, 45%; p<0.001). All-cause mortality at 30 days and 1 year as well as bleeding rates were significantly higher in the active MCS group (all p<0.001). After multivariable adjustment the use of active MCS was significantly associated with the primary endpoint (odds ratio [OR] 4.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.7–5.9; p<0.001).

Conclusion

In the CULPRIT-SHOCK randomized trial and prospective registry approximately one fifth of patients was treated with active MCS devices. Compared to patients without active MCS, patients treated with active MCS devices showed worse outcome at 30 days and 1 year.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): Supported by a grant (FP7/2007-2013) from the European Union 7th Framework Program and by the German Heart Research Foundation and the German Cardiac Society.

Prasugrel compared to ticagrelor in primary PCI

Background

Prasugrel and ticagrelor have similar recommendations in the setting of primary PCI by current guidelines. Data comparing both in daily clinical practice of primary PCI for ST-elevation myocardial infarction is limited.

Purpose

To compare the effect of prasugrel and ticagrelor on in-hospital outcomes after primary PCI.

Methods and results

We prospectively enrolled 5365 patients treated with prasugrel (n=2785, 51.9%) or ticagrelor (n=2580; 48.1%) in the setting of primary PCI from January 2011 to December 2018 in a nationwide registry. In-hospital outcomes were compared and multiple logistic regression analysis was performed. Prasugrel treated patients were younger, less often in cardiogenic shock, with lower rates of previous stroke and had shorter ischemic time. Both groups showed similar rates of previous MI, diabetes and current resuscitation. In the univariate analysis mortality was lower in patients with prasugrel (2.5% vs. 4.4% p<0.01). Similarly, MACE (3.3% vs. 5.3%, p<0.01) and NACE (4.0% vs. 5.7% p<0.01) were lower in prasugrel treated patients, whereas major bleeding events did not differ (0.4% vs. 0.6% p=0.24).

After adjustment in multivariable analysis mortality (0.99 95% CI 0.57 to 1.72), MACE (OR 0.99 95% CI 0.65 to 1.52) as well as NACE (0.86 95% CI 0.61 to 1.22) did not differ in patients treated with prasugrel compared to ticagrelor.

Conclusion

Patients treated with prasugrel showed improved outcomes compared to ticagrelor in a large cohort of primary PCI. However, after adjustment for confounders the Advantage of prasugrel in primary PCI did not persist.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): Austrian Society of Cardiology

Ticagrelor monotherapy beyond 1 month versus standard dual antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting coronary stenting: a pre-specified per-protocol analysis of the GLOBAL LEADERS trial

Background

In the GLOBAL LEADERS trial, the intention-to-treat (ITT) effect of ticagrelor monotherapy after 1 month of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) was not superior to that of 12-month DAPT followed by aspirin alone in the prevention of 2-year all-cause mortality or new Q-wave myocardial infarction (MI) after coronary stenting. Intention-to-treat analyses can be affected by incomplete protocol adherence. We present a pre-specified per-protocol analysis.

Purpose

To determine whether 1 month of ticagrelor plus aspirin followed by 23 months of ticagrelor monotherapy is superior to 12 months of DAPT followed by aspirin alone in the per-protocol population of the GLOBAL LEADERS (NCT01813435).

Methods

The GLOBAL LEADERS compared two antiplatelet strategies after drug-eluting stenting for stable coronary artery disease or acute coronary syndromes. Per-protocol population consisted of randomized patients fulfilling enrollment criteria and receiving protocol-mandated treatment. Adherence to the allocated antiplatelet therapy was evaluated at discharge, 30 days, and 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, with non-adherence reasons categorized following a hierarchical approach. A protocol-deviation was defined in the case of high perceived bleeding/thrombotic risk, a medical decision without evident clinical reason, patients unwilling to take study drugs, prescription error, logistical issues, unclear reasons. Baseline characteristics, including (but not limited to) age, sex, diabetes, prior PCI, were used to construct time-varying inverse probabilities for not deviation from the protocol to reconstruct a study population with no protocol-deviations. Protocol deviators were artificially censored at the time at which they deviated. The primary endpoint was the composite of 2-year all-cause mortality or non-fatal new Q-wave MI. We used a weighted pooled logistic regression to estimate the per-protocol rate ratio (RR) of experimental vs. control treatment for the primary endpoint.

Results

Of the 15,968 randomized patients, 805 out of 7,980 (10.1%) in experimental group and 537 out of 7,988 (6.7%) in control group were classified as protocol deviators and artificially censored by month 12, not contributing events in the second year. The events for the adherence-adjusted analysis were 279 in experimental group and 325 in control group (25 and 24 less than in ITT analysis, respectively). The estimated adherence-adjusted RR was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.74–1.02; p=0.09), comparable to the ITT RR (0.87; 95% CI: 0.75–1.01; p=0.07).

Conclusion

At per-protocol analysis, ticagrelor monotherapy after 1 month of DAPT was not superior to conventional treatment, in line with the previously reported ITT effect. Similar per-protocol and ITT effects can be accounted for similar per-protocol and ITT populations, as a substantial proportion of patients were non-adherent due to clinically grounded reasons (anticipated in the protocol) and, accordingly, not considered as protocol deviators.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): GLOBAL LEADERS was sponsored by the European Clinical Research Institute, which received funding from Biosensors International, AstraZeneca, and the Medicines Company.

Genetic Consequences of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in the Americas

According to historical records of transatlantic slavery, traders forcibly deported an estimated 12.5 million people from ports along the Atlantic coastline of Africa between the 16th and 19th centuries, with global impacts reaching to the present day, more than a century and a half after slavery's abolition. Such records have fueled a broad understanding of the forced migration from Africa to the Americas yet remain underexplored in concert with genetic data. Here, we analyzed genotype array data from 50,281 research participants, which-combined with historical shipping documents-illustrate that the current genetic landscape of the Americas is largely concordant with expectations derived from documentation of slave voyages. For instance, genetic connections between people in slave trading regions of Africa and disembarkation regions of the Americas generally mirror the proportion of individuals forcibly moved between those regions. While some discordances can be explained by additional records of deportations within the Americas, other discordances yield insights into variable survival rates and timing of arrival of enslaved people from specific regions of Africa. Furthermore, the greater contribution of African women to the gene pool compared to African men varies across the Americas, consistent with literature documenting regional differences in slavery practices. This investigation of the transatlantic slave trade, which is broad in scope in terms of both datasets and analyses, establishes genetic links between individuals in the Americas and populations across Atlantic Africa, yielding a more comprehensive understanding of the African roots of peoples of the Americas.