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Kourek C, Raidou V, Antonopoulos M, Dimopoulou M, Koliopoulou A, Karatzanos E, Pitsolis T, Ieromonachos K, Nanas S, Adamopoulos S, Chamogeorgakis T, Dimopoulos S. Safety and Feasibility of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Patients with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3723. [PMID: 38999287 PMCID: PMC11242632 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and safety of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and thoroughly assess any potential adverse events. Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study assessing safety and feasibility, including 16 ICU patients on ECMO support who were admitted to the cardiac surgery ICU from January 2022 to December 2023. The majority of patients were females (63%) on veno-arterial (VA)-ECMO (81%), while the main cause was cardiogenic shock (81%) compared to respiratory failure. Patients underwent a 45 min NMES session while on ECMO support that included a warm-up phase of 5 min, a main phase of 35 min, and a recovery phase of 5 min. NMES was implemented on vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, gastrocnemius, and peroneus longus muscles of both lower extremities. Two stimulators delivered biphasic, symmetric impulses of 75 Hz, with a 400 μsec pulse duration, 5 sec on (1.6 sec ramp up and 0.8 sec ramp down) and 21 sec off. The intensity levels aimed to cause visible contractions and be well tolerated. Primary outcomes of this study were feasibility and safety, evaluated by whether NMES sessions were successfully achieved, and by any adverse events and complications. Secondary outcomes included indices of rhabdomyolysis from biochemical blood tests 24 h after the application of NMES. Results: All patients successfully completed their NMES session, with no adverse events or complications. The majority of patients achieved type 4 and 5 qualities of muscle contraction. Conclusions: NMES is a safe and feasible exercise methodology for patients supported with ECMO.
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Kourek C, Zachariou A, Karatzanos E, Antonopoulos M, Soulele T, Karabinis A, Nanas S, Dimopoulos S. Effects of combined aerobic, resistance and inspiratory training in patients with pulmonary hypertension: A systematic review. World J Crit Care Med 2024; 13:92585. [PMID: 38855278 PMCID: PMC11155510 DOI: 10.5492/wjccm.v13.i2.92585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious progressive disorder of the modern world, characterized by endothelial dysfunction and impaired vasoreactivity. Patients with PH usually present exercise intolerance from the very early stages and reduced exercise capacity. Exercise training has been shown to have beneficial effects in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities. However, data regarding the effects of combined exercise training programs in patients with PH still remains limited. AIM To investigate the effects of combined exercise training programs on exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with PH. METHODS Our search included all available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding combined aerobic, resistance and inspiratory training programs in patients with PH in 4 databases (Pubmed, PEDro, Embase, CINAHL) from 2012 to 2022. Five RCTs were included in the final analysis. Functional capacity, assessed by peak VO2 or 6-min walking test (6MWT), as well as quality of life, assessed by the SF-36 questionnaire, were set as the primary outcomes in our study. RESULTS Peak VO2 was measured in 4 out of the 5 RCTs while 6MWT was measured in all RCTs. Both indices of functional capacity were significantly increased in patients with PH who underwent combined exercise training compared to the controls in all of the included RCTs (P < 0.05). Quality of life was measured in 4 out of 5 RCTs. Although patients improved their quality of life in each group, however, only 2 RCTs demonstrated further improvement in patients performing combined training compared to controls. CONCLUSION By this systematic review, we have demonstrated that combined aerobic, resistance and inspiratory exercise training is safe and has beneficial effects on aerobic capacity and quality of life in patients with PH. Such exercise training regimen may be part of the therapeutic strategy of the syndrome.
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Athanasiou A, Papazachou O, Rovina N, Nanas S, Dimopoulos S, Kourek C. The Effects of Exercise Training on Functional Capacity and Quality of Life in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2024; 11:161. [PMID: 38921661 PMCID: PMC11203630 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd11060161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise training on functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) in patients with RA. We performed a search in four databases, selecting clinical trials that included community or outpatient exercise training programs in patients with RA. The primary outcome was functional capacity assessed by peak VO2 or the 6 min walking test, and the secondary outcome was QoL assessed by questionnaires. Seven studies were finally included, identifying a total number of 448 patients. The results of the present systematic review show a statistically significant increase in peak VO2 after exercise training in four out of seven studies. In fact, the improvement was significantly higher in two out of these four studies compared to the controls. Six out of seven studies provided data on the patients' QoL, with five of them managing to show statistically significant improvement after exercise training, especially in pain, fatigue, vitality, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. This systematic review demonstrates the beneficial effects of exercise training on functional capacity and QoL in patients with RA.
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Dimopoulos S, Nanas S. The emerging importance of assessing recovery period gas exchange variables during cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Hellenic J Cardiol 2024:S1109-9666(24)00076-9. [PMID: 38583770 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
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Zogka PG, Patsaki I, Dimopoulos S, Karatzanos E, Sidiras G, Routsi C, Nanas S. Interprofessional survey of perceived barriers regarding cardiac rehabilitation in Greece. Hellenic J Cardiol 2024; 76:110-112. [PMID: 37678469 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
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Kourek C, Briasoulis A, Karatzanos E, Zouganeli V, Psarra K, Pratikaki M, Alevra-Prokopiou A, Skoularigis J, Xanthopoulos A, Nanas S, Dimopoulos S. The Effects of a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program on Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Inflammatory Profile in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure of Different Severity. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6592. [PMID: 37892730 PMCID: PMC10607596 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction and inflammation are common pathophysiological characteristics of chronic heart failure (CHF). Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are recognized as useful markers of vascular damage and endothelial repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a cardiac rehabilitation program on EPCs and inflammatory profile in CHF patients of different severity. Forty-four patients with stable CHF underwent a 36-session cardiac rehabilitation program. They were separated into two different subgroups each time, according to the median peak VO2, predicted peak VO2, VE/VCO2 slope, and ejection fraction. EPCs, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were measured. Flow cytometry was used for the quantification of EPCs. Mobilization of EPCs increased and the inflammatory profile improved within each severity group (p < 0.05) after the cardiac rehabilitation program, but there were no statistically significant differences between groups (p > 0.05). A 36-session cardiac rehabilitation program has similar beneficial effects on the mobilization of EPCs and on the inflammatory profile in patients with CHF of different severity.
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Adamopoulos S, Miliopoulos D, Piotrowicz E, Snoek JA, Panagopoulou N, Nanas S, Niederseer D, Mazaheri R, Ma J, Chen Y, Popovic D, Seferovic P, Girola D, Corrà U, Coats AJS, Metra M, Rosano GMC, Volterrani M, Apostolo A, Campodonico J, Salvioni E, Agostoni P, Piepoli M. International validation of the Metabolic Exercise test data combined with Cardiac and Kidney Indexes (MECKI) score in heart failure. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2023; 30:1371-1379. [PMID: 37288595 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwad191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Current European heart failure (HF) guidelines suggest the use of risk score: among them, the Metabolic Exercise test data combined with Cardiac and Kidney Indexes (MECKI) score has demonstrated to be one of the most accurate. However, the risk scores are still poorly implemented in clinical practice, also due to the lack of strong evidence regarding their external validation in different populations. Thus, the current study was designed as an external validation test of the MECKI score in an international multicentre setting. METHODS AND RESULTS The study cohort consisted of patients diagnosed with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) across international centres (not Italian), retrospectively recruited. Collected data included demographics, HF aetiology, laboratory testing, electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiographic findings, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) results as described in the original MECKI score publication. A total of 1042 patients across 8 international centres (7 European and 1 Asian) were included and followed up from 1998 till 2019. Patients were divided according to the calculated MECKI scores into three subgroups: (i) MECKI score <10%, (ii) 10-20%, and (iii) ≥ 20%. Survival analysis comparison among the three MECKI score subgroups showed a worse prognosis in patients with higher MECKI score value: median event-free survival times were 4396 days for MECKI score <10%, 3457 days for 10-20%, and 1022 days for ≥20% (P < 0.0001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the ROC curves (AUC) were like those reported in the original internal validation studies. CONCLUSION In patients diagnosed with HFrEF, the power of the MECKI score was confirmed in terms of prognosis and risk stratification, supporting its implementation as advised by the HF guidelines.
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Dimopoulos S, Nanas S. Letter by Dimopoulos and Nanas Regarding Article, "Challenging the Hemodynamic Hypothesis in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: Is Exercise Capacity Limited by Elevated Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure?". Circulation 2023; 148:617-618. [PMID: 37579007 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.063855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
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Dimopoulos S, Zagkotsis G, Kinti C, Rouvali N, Georgopoulou M, Mavraki M, Tasouli A, Lyberopoulou E, Roussakis A, Vasileiadis I, Nanas S, Karabinis A. Incidence and peri-operative risk factors for development of acute kidney injury in patients after cardiac surgery: A prospective observational study. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:3791-3801. [PMID: 37383133 PMCID: PMC10294155 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i16.3791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) after cardiac surgery develop acute kidney injury (AKI) immediately post-operation. We hypothesized that AKI occurs mainly due to perioperative risk factors and may affect outcome.
AIM To assess peri-operative risk factors for AKI post cardiac surgery and its relationship with clinical outcome.
METHODS This was an observational single center, tertiary care setting study, which enrolled 206 consecutive patients, admitted to ICU after cardiac surgery. Patients were followed-up until ICU discharge or death, in order to determine the incidence of AKI, perioperative risk factors for AKI and its association with outcome. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to assess predictor variables for AKI development.
RESULTS After ICU admission, 55 patients (26.7%) developed AKI within 48 h. From the logistic regression analysis performed, high EuroScore II (OR: 1.18; 95%CI: 1.06-1.31, P = 0.003), white blood cells (WBC) pre-operatively (OR: 1.0; 95%CI: 1.0-1.0, P = 0.002) and history of chronic kidney disease (OR: 2.82; 95%CI: 1.195-6.65, P = 0.018) emerged as independent predictors of AKI among univariate predictors. AKI that developed AKI had longer duration of mechanical ventilation [1113 (777–2195) vs 714 (511–1020) min, P = 0.0001] and ICU length of stay [70 (28–129) vs 26 (21–51) h, P = 0.0001], higher rate of ICU-acquired weakness (16.4% vs 5.3%, P = 0.015), reintubation (10.9% vs 1.3%, P = 0.005), dialysis (7% vs 0%, P = 0.005), delirium (36.4% vs 23.8%, P = 0.001) and mortality (3.6% vs 0.7%, P = 0.046).
CONCLUSION Patients present frequently with AKI after cardiac surgery. EuroScore II, WBC count and chronic kidney disease are independent predictors of AKI development. The occurrence of AKI is associated with poor outcome.
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Kourek C, Karatzanos E, Raidou V, Papazachou O, Philippou A, Nanas S, Dimopoulos S. Effectiveness of high intensity interval training on cardiorespiratory fitness and endothelial function in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review. World J Cardiol 2023; 15:184-199. [PMID: 37124974 PMCID: PMC10130888 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v15.i4.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic syndrome characterized by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia that may lead to endothelial dysfunction, reduced functional capacity and exercise intolerance. Regular aerobic exercise has been promoted as the most beneficial non-pharmacological treatment of cardiovascular diseases. High intensity interval training (HIIT) seems to be superior than moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) in cardiovascular diseases by improving brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) and cardiorespiratory fitness to a greater extent. However, the beneficial effects of HIIT in patients with T2DM still remain under investigation and number of studies is limited.
AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of high intensity interval training on cardiorespiratory fitness and endothelial function in patients with T2DM.
METHODS We performed a search on PubMed, PEDro and CINAHL databases, selecting papers published between December 2012 and December 2022 and identified published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the English language that included community or outpatient exercise training programs in patients with T2DM. RCTs were assessed for methodological rigor and risk of bias via the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). The primary outcome was peak VO2 and the secondary outcome was endothelial function assessed either by FMD or other indices of microcirculation.
RESULTS Twelve studies were included in our systematic review. The 12 RCTs resulted in 661 participants in total. HIIT was performed in 310 patients (46.8%), MICT to 271 and the rest 80 belonged to the control group. Peak VO2 increased in 10 out of 12 studies after HIIT. Ten studies compared HIIT with other exercise regimens (MICT or strength endurance) and 4 of them demonstrated additional beneficial effects of HIIT over MICT or other exercise regimens. Moreover, 4 studies explored the effects of HIIT on endothelial function and FMD in T2DM patients. In 2 of them, HIIT further improved endothelial function compared to MICT and/or the control group while in the rest 2 studies no differences between HIIT and MICT were observed.
CONCLUSION Regular aerobic exercise training has beneficial effects on cardiorespiratory fitness and endothelial function in T2DM patients. HIIT may be superior by improving these parameters to a greater extent than MICT.
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Patsaki I, Bachou G, Sidiras G, Nanas S, Routsi C, Karatzanos E. Post Hospital Discharge Functional Recovery of Critical Illness Survivors. Systematic Review. J Crit Care Med (Targu Mures) 2023; 9:87-96. [PMID: 37593254 PMCID: PMC10429620 DOI: 10.2478/jccm-2023-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Millions of people face critical illnesses and need to be hospitalized in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) annually worldwide. Despite the fact that survival rates of these patients have increased, they develop various cognitive, psychological and functional impairments. This study aims to investigate the significance of the recovery interventions following intensive care unit discharge, the effectiveness of the rehabilitative protocols and their possible deficits. Methods MEDLINE (PubMed) and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) were searched for studies analyzing the recovery potentials post-ICU among adults, who spent at least 48 hours at the ICU. Methodological quality of the studies was assessed via PEDro Scale. Results Nine randomized controlled trials were included. These took place mainly at specialized rehabilitation gyms as well as patients home environments. Studies analyses showed that treatment group showed improvement in functional ability in relation to control group. Nevertheless, differences between two groups were not statistically significant (P<0.05). The majority of studies assessed cardiorespiratory endurance and muscular strength. Conclusions The included rehabilitation programs were determined to be effective. Although they didn't prove any statistically significant difference between groups, quality of life enhancements and stress reduction were reported. Hence, new randomized controlled trials are required in order to provide more accurate data on the potential benefits of rehabilitation strategies among post-ICU patients.
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Tryfonos A, Tzanis G, Karatzanos Ε, Koutsilieris M, Nanas S, Philippou A. Inflammation- and Tissue Remodeling-Related Gene Responses in Skeletal Muscle of Heart Failure Patients Following High-Intensity Interval Training. Rev Cardiovasc Med 2023; 24:46. [PMID: 39077398 PMCID: PMC11273113 DOI: 10.31083/j.rcm2402046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Peripheral myopathy consists a hallmark of heart failure (HF) and has been associated with poor prognosis. Inflammation has been suggested to dominate this pathology, while exercise training is typically associated with the induction of anti-inflammatory mechanisms. However, the current knowledge regarding the involvement of inflammation-related genes in the exercise training-induced muscle adaptations in HF patients is very limited. Given that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) alone or combined with strength training (COM) has gained ground in HF cardiac rehabilitation, this study aimed to investigate the local muscle expression of inflammatory and tissue remodeling factors in HF patients, who underwent 3 months of these training schemes. In addition, we examined whether these exercise training-induced gene expression responses are associated with changes in exercise capacity in those patients. Methods Thirteen male patients with chronic HF (age: 51 ± 13 y; body mass index (BMI): 27 ± 4 kg/ m 2 ) were randomly assigned to a 3-month exercise program consisted of either HIIT (N = 6) or COM training (N = 7). Muscle tissue biopsies were obtained from vastus lateralis pre- and post-training and transcriptional changes in interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor-1 alpha (TNF-1 α ), urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR), and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF- β 1) were quantified by RT-PCR. Results An overall increase in the expression levels of selected inflammatory (IL-8, TNF-1 α ) and remodeling factors (uPAR) was found post-training (p < 0.05), while IL-6, uPA and TGF- β 1 gene expression remained unchanged (p > 0.05). The observed alterations did not differ between training groups. Additionally, IL-8 changes were found to be correlated with the improvement in exercise capacity post-training (p < 0.05). Conclusions This is the first study demonstrating an increase in intramuscular inflammatory and remodeling key factors induced by HIIT or COM training in HF patients. Combining these observations with our previous findings of improved muscle hypertrophy and capillarization post-training in these patients, the findings of the present study may suggest that inflammatory responses are part of an ongoing remodeling process in the exercising skeletal muscle. Clinical Trial Registration NCT02387411.
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Alshamari M, Kourek C, Sanoudou D, Delis D, Dimopoulos S, Rovina N, Nanas S, Karatzanos E, Philippou A. Does the Addition of Strength Training to a High-Intensity Interval Training Program Benefit More the Patients with Chronic Heart Failure. Rev Cardiovasc Med 2023; 24:29. [PMID: 39076879 PMCID: PMC11270399 DOI: 10.31083/j.rcm2401029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Aerobic exercise, either continuous or high intensity interval training (HIIT), induces important benefits in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients. Resistance training has been also shown to be beneficial in CHF. However, data regarding combined aerobic exercise and muscle strength training is still limited. The aim of this study was to investigate whether adding strength training to a HIIT protocol within a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program has a cumulative beneficial effect on the functional capacity (FC) and quality of life (QoL) in patients with CHF. Methods Forty-four consecutive patients [35 males, ejection fraction (EF) < 50%] with CHF under medication enrolled in a 36-session CR program and were randomized in two exercise groups; HIIT (HIIT group) or HIIT combined with strength training (high intensity interval training combined with strength training (COM) group). All patients underwent baseline and endpoint outcome measures of a symptom-limited maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), 1 repetition maximum (1RM) test, muscular endurance test, echocardiography, and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLWHFQ). Results Most of the CPET indices, EF, 1RM test, muscular endurance and QoL were improved after the CR program in each exercise training group (p < 0.05). However, COM group demonstrated a further improvement in chest muscle testing and workload at anaerobic threshold (AT) compared to HIIT group. Conclusions An exercise-based CR program, consisted of either HIIT or HIIT combined with strength training, improves FC and QoL of patients with CHF. However, the addition of strength training to HIIT seems to have further beneficial effects on chest muscle strength and endurance, as well as workload at AT. Clinical Trial Registration The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with number NCT02387411.
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Kalatzi P, Dinas PC, Chryssanthopoulos C, Karatzanos E, Nanas S, Philippou A. Impact of supervised aerobic exercise on clinical physiological and mental parameters of people living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials. HIV Res Clin Pract 2022; 23:107-119. [PMID: 35352630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background: The benefits derived from supervised aerobic exercise in people living with human immunofeficiency virus- HIV (PLWH) have not yet been clearly identified.Objective: To evaluate the impact of supervised aerobic exercise on immunological, cardiorespiratory, pulmonary, hemodynamic and mental parameters of PLWH.Methods: A systematic review was carried out in accordance to PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were screened up to August 2021, for the identification of English written randomized trials, with participants aged 18 years and older, at any stage of the disease, with or without co-morbidities. The risk of bias assessment was conducted according to the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for assessing risk of bias. Meta- analyses were conducted using continuous, inverse variance, random-effects model.Results: Ten studies were suitable for meta-analysis based on inclusion criteria. Supervised aerobic exercise appeared to have beneficial effects on depressive symptoms [mean difference (MD)= -4.18 (confidence interval (CI)= (-6.55)-(-1.81), Z = 3.46, p = 0.0005, I2=0%, n = 2], forced expiratory volume in 1 sec [MD = 0.70, CI = 0.39-1.00, Z = 4.41, p < 0.0001, I2=0%, n = 2], and on the maximum oxygen uptake [MD = 1.38, CI = -0.02-2.78, Z = 1.94, p = 0.05, I2=94%, n = 4] of PLWH. No exercise effect was found for CD4 T-cell count (p = 0.16, n = 5), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.91, n = 2) and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.72, n = 2).Conclusions: Supervised continuous aerobic exercise may improve lung function, depressive symptomatology and aerobic capacity of PLWH, however, the small number of available studies and the high heterogeneity concerning VO2max demonstrate the need for more research in this area.
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Kourek C, Dimopoulos S, Alshamari M, Zouganeli V, Psarra K, Mitsiou G, Ntalianis A, Pittaras T, Nanas S, Karatzanos E. A Cardiac Rehabilitation Program Increases the Acute Response of Endothelial Progenitor Cells to Maximal Exercise in Heart Failure Patients. ACTA CARDIOLOGICA SINICA 2022; 38:516-520. [PMID: 35873120 PMCID: PMC9295033 DOI: 10.6515/acs.202207_38(4).20220221b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a cardiac rehabilitation program on the acute response on endothelial progenitor cells and circulating endothelial cells after maximal exercise in patients with chronic heart failure of different severity. METHODS Forty-four chronic heart failure patients were enrolled in a 36-session cardiac rehabilitation program. All patients underwent an initial maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test before and a final maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test after the cardiac rehabilitation program. The patients were divided in two groups of severity according to the median value of peak VO2. Blood was collected at 4 time points; 2 time points at rest, and 2 time points after each cardiopulmonary exercise test. Five endothelial cellular populations were quantified by flow cytometry. RESULTS Although there was a higher increase in the mobilization of subgroups of endothelial progenitor cells and circulating endothelial cells after the final cardiopulmonary exercise test compared to the initial test within each severity group (p < 0.05), no significant differences between severity groups were observed (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS A 36-session cardiac rehabilitation program had similar beneficial effects on the acute response of endothelial progenitor cells and circulating endothelial cells after maximal exercise in patients with chronic heart failure of different severity.
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Dinas PC, Daveronas A, Chryssanthopoulos C, Nanas S, Philippou A. Effect of Exercise on Respiratory Drive in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH AND HYPOTHESIS IN MEDICINE 2022; 000:000-000. [DOI: 10.14218/erhm.2021.00077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Kourek C, Nanas S, Kotanidou A, Raidou V, Dimopoulou M, Adamopoulos S, Karabinis A, Dimopoulos S. Modalities of Exercise Training in Patients with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2022; 9:jcdd9020034. [PMID: 35200688 PMCID: PMC8875180 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd9020034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this qualitative systematic review is to summarize and analyze the different modalities of exercise training and its potential effects in patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. ECMO is an outbreaking, life-saving technology of the last decades which is being used as a gold standard treatment in patients with severe cardiac, respiratory or combined cardiorespiratory failure. Critically ill patients on ECMO very often present intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICU-AW); thus, leading to decreased exercise capacity and increased mortality rates. Early mobilization and physical therapy have been proven to be safe and feasible in critically ill patients on ECMO, either as a bridge to lung/heart transplantation or as a bridge to recovery. Rehabilitation has beneficial effects from the early stages in the ICU, resulting in the prevention of ICU-AW, and a decrease in episodes of delirium, the duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital length of stay, and mortality rates. It also improves functional ability, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Rehabilitation requires a very careful, multi-disciplinary approach from a highly specialized team from different specialties. Initial risk assessment and screening, with appropriate physical therapy planning and exercise monitoring in patients receiving ECMO therapy are crucial factors for achieving treatment goals. However, more randomized controlled trials are required in order to establish more appropriate individualized exercise training protocols.
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Kourek C, Karatzanos E, Nanas S, Karabinis A, Dimopoulos S. Exercise training in heart transplantation. World J Transplant 2021; 11:466-479. [PMID: 34868897 PMCID: PMC8603635 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v11.i11.466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart transplantation remains the gold standard in the treatment of end-stage heart failure (HF). Heart transplantation patients present lower exercise capacity due to cardiovascular and musculoskeletal alterations leading thus to poor quality of life and reduction in the ability of daily self-service. Impaired vascular function and diastolic dysfunction cause lower cardiac output while decreased skeletal muscle oxidative fibers, enzymes and capillarity cause arteriovenous oxygen difference, leading thus to decreased peak oxygen uptake in heart transplant recipients. Exercise training improves exercise capacity, cardiac and vascular endothelial function in heart transplant recipients. Pre-rehabilitation regular aerobic or combined exercise is beneficial for patients with end-stage HF awaiting heart transplantation in order to maintain a higher fitness level and reduce complications afterwards like intensive care unit acquired weakness or cardiac cachexia. All hospitalized patients after heart transplantation should be referred to early mobilization of skeletal muscles through kinesiotherapy of the upper and lower limbs and respiratory physiotherapy in order to prevent infections of the respiratory system prior to hospital discharge. Moreover, all heart transplant recipients after hospital discharge who have not already participated in an early cardiac rehabilitation program should be referred to a rehabilitation center by their health care provider. Although high intensity interval training seems to have more benefits than moderate intensity continuous training, especially in stable transplant patients, individualized training based on the abilities and needs of each patient still remains the most appropriate approach. Cardiac rehabilitation appears to be safe in heart transplant patients. However, long-term follow-up data is incomplete and, therefore, further high quality and adequately-powered studies are needed to demonstrate the long-term benefits of exercise training in this population.
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Tokmakidis SP, Mitsiou G, Smilios I, Nanas S. Letter to the Editor on: "Effects of Exercise Training on the Paracrine Function of Circulating Angiogenic Cells.". Int J Sports Med 2021; 42:1137-1138. [PMID: 34731895 DOI: 10.1055/a-1527-5012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Papaioannou F, Karatzanos E, Chatziandreou I, Philippou A, Nanas S, Dimopoulos S. Epigenetic effects following acute and chronic exercise in cardiovascular disease: A systematic review. Int J Cardiol 2021; 341:88-95. [PMID: 34339767 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute exercise and exercise training may confer epigenetic modifications in healthy subjects. Epigenetic effects after exercise have been showed in patients with cardiovascular disease. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize the evidence from available clinical trials that study epigenetic adaptations after exercise in patients with cardiovascular disease. METHODS The search strategy was performed in PubMed and CENTRAL databases on articles published until September 2020. Studies with titles and abstracts relevant to exercise epigenetic modification applied to cardiovascular patients were fully examined. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were utilized for studies screening. Quality assessment with PEDro scale and evaluation by two independent reviewers was performed. RESULTS Of the 1714 articles retrieved, 88 articles were assessed for eligibility criteria and 8 articles matched our search criteria and finally included in the systematic analysis. The acute exercise epigenetic (miRNAs) effects were assessed in three studies and the chronic exercise training effects (miRNAs and DNA methylation) in six studies. The results have shown that there is possibly an acute significant exercise effect on epigenetic targets which is more evident after chronic exercise training. CONCLUSIONS By the present systematic review, we provide preliminary evidence of beneficial epigenetic adaptations following acute and chronic exercise in patients with cardiovascular disease. More controlled studies are needed to confirm such evidence.
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Chaveles I, Papazachou O, Shamari MA, Delis D, Ntalianis A, Panagopoulou N, Nanas S, Karatzanos E. Effects of exercise training on diastolic and systolic dysfunction in patients with chronic heart failure. World J Cardiol 2021; 13:514-525. [PMID: 34621496 PMCID: PMC8462045 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v13.i9.514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a complex syndrome characterized by a progressive reduction of the left ventricular (LV) contractility, low exercise tolerance, and increased mortality and morbidity. Diastolic dysfunction (DD) of the LV, is a keystone in the pathophysiology of CHF and plays a major role in the progression of most cardiac diseases. Also, it is well estimated that exercise training induces several beneficial effects on patients with CHF.
AIM To evaluate the impact of a cardiac rehabilitation program on the DD and LV ejection fraction (EF) in patients with CHF.
METHODS Thirty-two stable patients with CHF (age: 56 ± 10 years, EF: 32% ± 8%, 88% men) participated in an exercise rehabilitation program. They were randomly assigned to aerobic exercise (AER) or combined aerobic and strength training (COM), based on age and peak oxygen uptake, as stratified randomization criteria. Before and after the program, they underwent a symptom-limited maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and serial echocardiography evaluation to evaluate peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), peak workload (Wpeak), DD grade, right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), and EF.
RESULTS The whole cohort improved VO2peak, and Wpeak, as well as DD grade (P < 0.05). Overall, 9 patients (28.1%) improved DD grade, while 23 (71.9%) remained at the same DD grade; this was a significant difference, considering DD grade at baseline (P < 0.05). In addition, the whole cohort improved RVSP and EF (P < 0.05). Not any between-group differences were observed in the variables assessed (P > 0.05).
CONCLUSION Exercise rehabilitation improves indices of diastolic and systolic dysfunction. Exercise protocol was not observed to affect outcomes. These results need to be further investigated in larger samples.
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Tryfonos A, Tzanis G, Pitsolis T, Karatzanos E, Koutsilieris M, Nanas S, Philippou A. Exercise Training Enhances Angiogenesis-Related Gene Responses in Skeletal Muscle of Patients with Chronic Heart Failure. Cells 2021; 10:1915. [PMID: 34440684 PMCID: PMC8392138 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral myopathy consists of a hallmark of heart failure (HF). Exercise enhanced skeletal muscle angiogenesis, and thus, it can be further beneficial towards the HF-induced myopathy. However, there is limited evidence regarding the exercise type that elicits optimum angiogenic responses of skeletal muscle in HF patients. This study aimed to (a) compare the effects of a high-intensity-interval-training (HIIT) or combined HIIT with strength training (COM) exercise protocol on the expression of angiogenesis-related factors in skeletal muscle of HF patients, and (b) examine the potential associations between the expression of those genes and capillarization in the trained muscles. Thirteen male patients with chronic HF (age: 51 ± 13 y; BMI: 27 ± 4 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to a 3-month exercise program that consisted of either HIIT (N = 6) or COM training (N = 7). Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were performed pre- and post-training. RT-PCR was used to quantify the fold changes in mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α), angiopoietin 1 (Ang-1), angiopoietin 2 (Ang-2), angiopoietin receptor (Tie2), and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9), and immunohistochemistry to assess capillarization in skeletal muscle post-training. There was an overall increase in the expression levels of VEGF, VEGFR-2, HIF-1α, Ang2, and MMP9 post-training, while these changes were not different among groups. Changes in capillary-to-fibre ratio were found to be strongly associated with Tie2 and HIF-1α expression. This was the first study demonstrating that both HIIT and combined HIIT with strength training enhanced similarly the expression profile of angiogenic factors in skeletal muscle of HF patients, possibly driving the angiogenic program in the trained muscles, although those gene expression increases were found to be only partially related with muscle capillarization.
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Chaveles I, Karatzanos L, Nanas S. Effects on the left ventricular diastolic dysfunction of a cardiac rehabilitation program in chronic heart failure patients. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab061.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.
PURPOSE
The aim of the present study is to evaluate the impact of a cardiac rehabilitation program on the diastolic dysfunction, the ejection fraction (EF) of left ventricular and the volume index of the left atrium comparing 2 groups: those with restricted EF (<40%) and those with intermediate and preserved EF (≥ 40%).
METHODS
In the present study 41 stable CHF patients (N = 41; 56 ±10 years [mean ± SD], 34 males and 7 females) with diastolic dysfunction, participated in an exercise rehabilitation program (3 sessions a week). Only 38 of them completed the rehabilitation program in the form of circuit-interval aerobic training, adjusted according to 70–80% of heart rate reserve, for a period of 3 months. A detailed echocardiogram was performed before and immediately after the rehabilitation program, focusing on the diastolic dysfunction assessment of the left ventricular.
RESULTS
At the end of the three months rehabilitation program, the diastolic dysfunction stage was significantly decreased (from 1.45+/- 0.72 to 1.08 +/-0.67, p = .000). The LV ejection fraction was significantly increased (from 34.97+/-10.66 to 36.68 +/-10.52, p = .002). In addition, there was a significant decrease in E/E" and RVSP (from 9.37+/-3.54 to 8.47+/-3.34 and from 28.44+/-6.86mmHg to 27.38+/-5.87 mmHg, p =.033 and p =.030, respectively). Finally, the left atrial volume and the average e" had no significant decrease.
CONCLUSIONS
Circuit training improved both diastolic and systolic dysfunction but had no significant repercussion on the left atrium volume. From this study it was concluded that a rehabilitation cardiac program can have an impact in the improvement in the diastolic dysfunction, especially in the restricted EF group, a mechanism that is essential in the pathophysiology of the CHF.
Table 1 PairedDifferences t df Sig. (2-tailed) Mean Std. Deviation Std. ErrorMean 95% Confidence Interval of the Difference Lower Upper Diast.stage b-a 0.368 .589 .096 .175 .562 3.855 37 .000 A b - A a ( m/sec) -.03816 .21084 .03420 -.10746 .03114 -1.116 37 .272 Ε/Α b - Ε/Α a .11039 .44705 .07252 -.03655 .25734 1.522 37 .136 mean e" b - a(cm/sec) .19395 2.56304 .41578 -.64850 1.03640 .466 37 .644 Ε/e "b - Ε/e "a .90026 2.50613 .40655 .07652 1.72401 2.214 37 .033 DTeb -DTe a (msec) 8.500 44.324 7.190 -6.069 23.069 1.182 37 .245 T-Test for the measured diastolic parameters (diastolic stage, E, A, E/A, mean e", E/E", DTe) for all groups (b = before, a = after).
Abstract Figure. Linear scatter plot for EF
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Miliaraki M, Briassoulis P, Ilia S, Polonifi A, Mantzourani M, Briassouli E, Vardas K, Nanas S, Pistiki A, Theodorakopoulou M, Tavladaki T, Spanaki AM, Kondili E, Dimitriou H, Tsiodras S, Georgopoulos D, Armaganidis A, Daikos G, Briassoulis G. Survivin and caspases serum protein levels and survivin variants mRNA expression in sepsis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1049. [PMID: 33441606 PMCID: PMC7806640 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78208-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sepsis is a dysregulated host response to infection related to devastating outcomes. Recently, interest has been shifted towards apoptotic and antiapoptotic pathobiology. Apoptosis is executed through the activation of caspases regulated by a number of antiapoptotic proteins, such as survivin. The survivin and caspases’ responses to sepsis have not yet been elucidated. This is a multicenter prospective observational study concerning patients with sepsis (n = 107) compared to patients with traumatic systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) (n = 75) and to healthy controls (n = 89). The expression of survivin was quantified through real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction for the different survivin splice variants (wild type-WT, ΔEx3, 2B, 3B) in peripheral blood leukocytes. The apoptotic or antiapoptotic tendency was specified by measuring survivin-WT, caspase-3, and -9 serum protein concentrations through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The survivin-WT, -2B, -ΔΕx3 mRNA, survivin protein, and caspases showed an escalated increase in SIRS and sepsis, whereas survivin-3B was repressed in sepsis (p < 0.05). Survivin correlated with IL-8 and caspase-9 (p < 0.01). For discriminating sepsis, caspase-9 achieved the best receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.95. In predicting mortality, caspase-9 and survivin protein achieved an AUROC of 0.70. In conclusion, specific apoptotic and antiapoptotic pathways might represent attractive targets for future research in sepsis.
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Kourek C, Karatzanos E, Psarra K, Ntalianis A, Mitsiou G, Delis D, Linardatou V, Pittaras T, Vasileiadis I, Dimopoulos S, Nanas S. Endothelial progenitor cells mobilization after maximal exercise in patients with chronic heart failure. Hellenic J Cardiol 2021; 62:70-72. [PMID: 32304815 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2020.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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