Inflammation and C-reactive protein in atrial fibrillation: cause or effect?

Targeting Nrf2/HO-1 and NF-κB/TNF-α signaling pathways with empagliflozin protects against atrial fibrillation-induced acute kidney injury in rats

A bidirectional relationship exists between atrial fibrillation (AF) and kidney function. Uncontrolled AF may lead to kidney injury, whereas renal dysfunction may contribute to AF initiation and maintenance. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of the sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor empagliflozin (EMPA) on acute kidney injury (AKI) associated with AF induced by acetylcholine and calcium chloride (ACh/CaCl2) in rats and elucidate the potential underlying mechanism. Rats were randomly divided as follows: control (CTRL) group: administered vehicles only; AF group: intravenously injected 1 ml/kg of an ACh/CaCl2 mixture for seven days to induce AF; EMPA group: orally administered EMPA (30 mg/kg) for seven days; AF+EMPA10 and AF+EMPA30 groups: co-administered the induction mixture and EMPA (10 and 30 mg/kg, respectively) for seven days. Our results showed that EMPA (10 and 30 mg/kg) effectively maintained kidney function and demonstrated a significant antioxidant potential. EMPA also suppressed AF-induced renal tubulointerstitial injury and fibrotic changes concurrently with reducing renal levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6, as well as the pro-fibrotic marker transforming growth factor beta-1 and collagen type I. Mechanistically, EMPA boosted nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) renal tissue expression while repressing nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. In addition, these beneficial effects of EMPA on kidneys were concurrent with its ability to effectively inhibit AF-related electrocardiographic changes, reduce incidence and duration of AF episodes, and markedly suppress serum B-type natriuretic peptide and C-reactive protein levels. In conclusion, EMPA protected against AKI associated with AF induced by ACh/CaCl2 in rats through simultaneous modulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 and the NF-κB/TNF-α signaling pathways, exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects.

Direct oral anticoagulants versus vitamin K antagonists in patients with atrial fibrillation on chronic hemodialysis: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and end-stage renal disease on chronic hemodialysis are at risk for thromboembolic and bleeding events. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) compared with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in this population.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing DOACs with VKAs in patients with AF on chronic hemodialysis from inception to February 2023 in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Outcomes were reported using risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical analyses were performed using R version 4.2.2.

RESULTS

We selected three RCTs including 341 patients, of whom 176 (51.6%) were randomized to DOACs. Follow-up ranged from 174 days to 3.38 years. There was no significant difference between groups in terms of cardiovascular mortality (RR 1.34; 95% CI 0.69-2.60; p = 0.39), all-cause mortality (RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.72-1.27; p = 0.77), ischemic/uncertain type of stroke or transient ischemic attack (RR 0.50; 95% CI 0.19-1.35; p = 0.17), or major or life-threatening bleeding (RR 0.70; 95% CI 0.39-1.25; p = 0.22).

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis of three RCTs, no significant difference was observed between DOACs and VKAs in cardiovascular mortality, all-cause mortality, ischemic/uncertain type of stroke or transient ischemic attack, or major or life-threatening bleeding in patients with AF on chronic hemodialysis.

Vitamin D and cardiovascular diseases

Vitamin D has an established role in calcium homeostasis but its deficiency is emerging also as a new risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In particular, several epidemiological and clinical studies have reported a close association between low vitamin D levels and several cardiovascular risk factors and major CVDs, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmias. In all these clinical settings, vitamin D deficiency seems to predispose to increased morbidity, mortality, and recurrent cardiovascular events. Despite this growing evidence, interventional trials with supplementation of vitamin D in patients at risk of or with established CVD are still controversial. In this chapter, we summarize the currently available evidence on the links between vitamin D deficiency and major cardiovascular risk factors and CVD, in terms of both clinical relevance and potential therapeutic implications.

Detection and modification of biomarkers of inflammation determining successful rhythm control in patients with atrial fibrillation

INTRODUCTION

Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Growing evidence suggests that both local and systemic inflammation plays a key role even in early stages and its progression towards persisting and permanent AF. Rhythm control therapy via pulmonary vein isolation or cardioversion is the cornerstone of AF therapy for most symptomatic patients, yet arrhythmia recurrence after treatment is still common, especially in patients with persistent AF.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge of biomarkers of inflammation with prognostic value in patients with atrial fibrillation as well as anti-inflammatory medication with potential benefits after rhythm control therapy.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Both onset of AF, progression and arrhythmia recurrence after rhythm control therapy can be caused by local and systemic inflammation. Various inflammatory biomarkers have been established to predict treatment success. Furthermore, additional anti-inflammatory therapy may significantly improve success rates.

Vitamin D and Cardiovascular Diseases: An Update

Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that plays a significant part in several physiological processes within the human body, including calcium metabolism, bone health, immune function, and cell growth and differentiation. It is obtained mainly through exposure to sunlight but can be acquired from certain foods and supplements as well. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) could be the risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as heart disease and stroke. In blood vitamin D low levels have been linked with an enhanced risk of developing CVDs. However, it is unclear whether vitamin D levels are the leading cause or consequence of these conditions. While some studies highlight that taking vitamin D supplements could decrease the risk of CVD; however, more research is required to better understand the association between vitamin D and cardiovascular health. In this review, we aimed to summarize the currently available evidence supporting the association between vitamin D and CVDs and anesthesia considerations.

DNA Methylation and Telomeres-Their Impact on the Occurrence of Atrial Fibrillation during Cardiac Aging

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in humans. AF is characterized by irregular and increased atrial muscle activation. This high-frequency activation obliterates the synchronous work of the atria and ventricles, reducing myocardial performance, which can lead to severe heart failure or stroke. The risk of developing atrial fibrillation depends largely on the patient's history. Cardiovascular diseases are considered aging-related pathologies; therefore, deciphering the role of telomeres and DNA methylation (mDNA), two hallmarks of aging, is likely to contribute to a better understanding and prophylaxis of AF. In honor of Prof. Elizabeth Blackburn's 75th birthday, we dedicate this review to the discovery of telomeres and her contribution to research on aging.

Colchicine in atrial fibrillation: are old trees in bloom?

Colchicine is a widely used drug that was originally used to treat gout and rheumatic diseases. In recent years, colchicine has shown high potential in the cardiovascular field. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a cardiovascular disease with a high incidence. One of the most frequent complications following cardiovascular surgery is postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF), which affects patient health and disease burden. This article reviews the research status of colchicine in AF and summarizes the relevant progress.

Proteome-Wide Mendelian Randomization Analysis Identified Potential Drug Targets for Atrial Fibrillation

Background Finding effective and safe therapeutic drugs for atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important concern for clinicians. Proteome-wide Mendelian randomization analysis provides new ideas for finding potential drug targets. Methods and Results Using a proteome-wide Mendelian randomization approach, we assessed the genetic predictive causality between thousands of proteins and AF risk and found that genetically predicted plasma levels of phosphomevalonate kinase, tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 12, sulfhydryl oxidase 2, interleukin-6 receptor subunit alpha, and low-affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor II-b might decrease AF risk, while genetically predicted plasma levels of beta-mannosidase, collagen alpha-1(XV) chain, ANXA4 (annexin A4), COF2 (cofilin-2), and RAB1A (Ras-related protein Rab-1A) might increase AF risk (P<3.4×10-5). By using different Mendelian randomization methods and instrumental variable selection thresholds, we performed sensitivity analyses in 30 scenarios to test the robustness of positive findings. Replication analyses were also performed in independent samples to further avoid false-positive findings. Drugs targeting tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 12, interleukin-6 receptor subunit alpha, low-affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor II-b, and annexin A4 are approved or in development. The results of the phenome-wide Mendelian randomization analysis showed that changing the plasma levels of phosphomevalonate kinase, cofilin-2, annexin A4, Ras-related protein Rab-1A, sulfhydryl oxidase 2, and collagen alpha-1(XV) chain did not increase the risk of other diseases while decreasing the risk of AF. Conclusions We found a significant causal association between genetically predicted levels of 10 plasma proteins and AF risk. Four of these proteins have drugs targeting them that are approved or in development, and our results suggest the potential for these drugs to treat AF or cause AF. Sulfhydryl oxidase 2, low-affinity immunoglobulin gamma Fc region receptor II-b, and beta-mannosidase have not been suggested by previous laboratory or epidemiological studies to be associated with AF and may reveal new pathophysiological pathways as well as therapeutic targets for AF.

The Relationship between Hyperuricemia and Echocardiographic Parameters in Patients with Chronic Atrial Fibrillation

Purpose Uric acid serves as a marker for cardiovascular risk and is often linked to inflammation and oxidative stress. There is evidence suggesting an association between uric acid and atrial fibrillation (AF), including its severity and occurrence of crises, as well as its involvement in cardiovascular mechanisms. The objective of this study was to assess the correlation between hyperuricemia and echocardiographic features in patients with chronic AF lasting for more than 5 years. Methods This case-control study involved 107 patients diagnosed with chronic non-valvular AF. Uric acid levels were measured in all patients, and they were divided into two groups: the first group consisted of 66 patients with hyperuricemia (>7.2 mg/dL), while the second group included 41 patients with normal uric acid levels. Echocardiography (TTE) was performed to evaluate each patient. Various clinical and echocardiographic parameters, such as left ventricle telediastolic (LVTDD) and telesystolic (LVTSD) diameters, left atrial diameter (LAD), aortic diameter (AoD), ejection fraction (EF), and pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), were analyzed. Results Binary logistic regression analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between uric acid levels (>7.2 mg/dL) and LAD. For each unit increase in LAD, the probability of having hyperuricemia increased by 9% [odds ratio (OD): 0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84-0.99]. A significant relationship was found between uric acid levels (>8 mg/dL) and LVESD (p = 0.045) as well as PAP (p = 0.006). For every unit increase in LVESD, the likelihood of having uric acid levels greater than 8 mg/dL increased by 22% [OD: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.67-0.99, b = -0.2]. Likewise, for each unit increase in PAP, the probability of having uric acid levels greater than 8 mg/dL was 9.4% [OD: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.86-0.97, b = -0.09]. Conclusions This study demonstrates that hyperuricemia has a significant relationship with the development of atrial remodeling, with an important association observed between hyperuricemia and an increase in left atrial diameter. Hyperuricemia is also correlated with an enlargement of the left ventricle end-systolic diameter and pulmonary artery pressure, showing a possible influence that hyperuricemia might have also left ventricle morphology and right ventricle function.

The Possible Influence of Vitamin D Levels on the Development of Atrial Fibrillation-An Update

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a severe and most common supraventricular arrhythmia in humans, which, if left untreated or treated ineffectively, can lead to ischemic stroke or heart failure. It has been suggested that serum vitamin D (VitD) deficiency may be one of the critical factors influencing the onset of AF, especially in the period after cardiac surgery, such as coronary artery bypass grafting. Several papers have indicated that VitD supplementation reduces the risk of AF, significantly reducing the proportion of patients between the control and study groups in both the pre- and postoperative periods. Factors that increase the risk of AF from VitD deficiency are also further indicated, and these are age, gender, weight, season or comorbidities. In addition, the cardiodepressive mechanism of VitD is not fully understood; however, it is suggested that it acts through at least two pathways. The first indicates a direct effect of VitD on atrial muscle degradation, while the second is related to the modulation of cardiovascular depression factors. Despite many reports showing correlations between no VitD concentrations on the development of AF, this topic is still widely debated and the results from these papers are still subject to doubt. Therefore, this review aims at describing in detail the problem of correlation between VitD deficiency and the development of AF associated mainly with the postoperative period, i.e., after cardiac surgery, especially pathogenesis, and results of this correlation, taking into account recent studies, limitations and future perspectives. Due to the fact that this is still a topical problem, we believe that the collection of the latest reports and a detailed description of the problem is most appropriate in this case.

Increased risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with psoriasis: A meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Several epidemiological studies have shown that psoriasis increases the risk of developing atrial fibrillation but evidence of this is still scarce.

AIMS

Our objective was to systematically review, synthesise and critique the epidemiological studies that provided information about the relationship between psoriasis and atrial fibrillation risk.

METHODS

We searched through PubMed, EMBASE and the bibliographies for articles published between 1 January 2000, and 1 November 2017, that reported on the association between psoriasis and atrial fibrillation. All abstracts, full-text articles and sources were reviewed with duplicate data excluded. Summary relative risks (RRs) with 95% CI were pooled using a random effects model.

RESULTS

We identified 252 articles, of these eight unique abstracts underwent full-text review. We finally selected six out of these eight studies comprising 11,187 atrial fibrillation patients. The overall pooled relative risk (RR) of atrial fibrillation was 1.39 (95% CI: 1.257-1.523, P < 0.0001) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 80.316, Q = 45.723, τ2 = 0.017, P < 0.0001) for the random effects model. In subgroup analysis, the greater risk was found in studies from North America, RR 1.482 (95% CI: 1.119-1.964, P < 0.05), whereas a moderate risk was observed in studies from Europe RR 1.43 (95% CI: 1.269-1.628, P < 0.0001).

LIMITATIONS

We were only able to include six studies with 11,178 atrial fibrillation patients, because only a few such studies have been published.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that psoriasis is significantly associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Therefore, physicians should monitor patient's physical condition on a timely basis.

The Prevalence of Iron Deficiency in Atrial Fibrillation: Low Hanging Fruit?

Background and Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia worldwide. The relationship between AF and iron deficiency is poorly understood. Materials and Methods: We conducted an observational study investigating the prevalence of iron deficiency in those with AF. Iron deficiency was defined by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) criteria for iron deficiency in heart failure. Results: Of 134 eligible subjects, 81 (60.4%) met the ACC definition of iron deficiency in heart failure. Those who were iron deficient were more likely to be female (OR 1.876, p = 0.005), have a history of diabetes mellitus (OR 3.085, p = 0.001) a history of stroke (OR 3.147, p = 0.016), and have higher CHA₂DS₂-VASc (p ≤ 0.0001) and Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (CCI) (p = 0.007). Conclusions: The prevalence of iron deficiency in those with AF appears high and warrants evaluation in a prospective study.

Incidence and risk factors of atrial fibrillation and atrial arrhythmias in people living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases in people living with HIV (PLWH) are becoming increasingly relevant as HIV/AIDS has become more treatable with the advent of highly efficacious antiretroviral therapy. Previous studies suggested that HIV infection is an independent risk factor for atrial arrhythmia. This study aims to collectively analyze these studies to elucidate the incidence and risk factors of atrial arrhythmia in PLWH.

METHODS

Full-text assessments and data extraction were performed from available literature. Atrial arrhythmia was defined as atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. Incidence rate, risk, and potential risk factors of atrial arrhythmia in PLWH were catalogued, after which random-effects models were used to estimate pooled summary statistics. PRISMA standardized meta-analysis guidelines were followed.

RESULTS

Analysis of 94,928 PLWH had an averaged incidence rate of 6.4 cases of atrial arrhythmia per 1000 person-years. Risk of atrial arrhythmia was significantly higher in PLWH than in the general population (RR 1.35; 95% CI 1.19-1.53). Sex had no association with the risk of incidental atrial arrhythmia in PLWH (RR 1.47; 95% CI 0.95-2.28). Black race (RR 0.68; 95% CI 0.47-0.97) was associated with decreased risk, whereas lower CD4 counts (RR 1.80; 95% CI 1.18-2.77) and increased viral load (RR 1.57; 95% CI 1.19-2.09) suggested increased risk of atrial arrhythmia in PLWH.

CONCLUSIONS

HIV infection is a risk factor of atrial arrhythmia. Providers should be aware of the increased burden of atrial arrhythmia in PLWH and continue to encourage treatment of HIV infection while managing cardiovascular risk factors and screening for arrhythmias in symptomatic patients.

Homocysteine and atrial fibrillation: novel evidences and insights

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most prevalent rhythm disorders worldwide, with around 37.574 million cases around the globe (0.51 % global population).  Different studies showed a high informative value of different biomarkers, including such related to the systemic inflammation, biomechanical stress and fibrosis. In this review article we aimed to study only the relation of homocysteine to the AF development. Homocysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid, that is produced in the process of methionine metabolism. Which is a non-canonical amino acid, that is derived from the food proteins. From the scientific point of view there is a relation between hyperhomocysteinemia and myocardial fibrosis, but these mechanisms are complicated and not sufficiently studied. Homocysteine regulates activity of the ion channels through their redox state. Elevated homocysteine level can condition electrical remodeling of the cardiomyocytes through the increase of sodium current and change in the function of rapid sodium channels, increase of inwards potassium current and decrease in amount of rapid potassium channels. High homocysteine concentration also leads to the shortening of the action potential, loss of the rate adaptation of the action potential and persistent circulation of the re-entry waves. In a series of experimental studies on mice there was an association found between the homocysteine level and activity of vascular inflammation. Elevation of homocysteine level is an independent factor of the thromboembolic events and AF relapses. Population studies showed, that homocysteine is an independent risk factor for AF. So, homocysteine is an interesting target for up-stream therapy.

Risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with pneumonia

BACKGROUND

Cardiac arrhythmias have a strong association with pneumonia due to the cardiovascular response to infection. Electrocardiographic (ECG) changes in patients with pneumonia are associated with greater disease severity. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia.

OBJECTIVE

This population-based cohort study investigated the incidence of AF among Taiwanese adults with pneumonia using data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan.

METHODS

A total of 34,883 patients with pneumonia and an equal number of individuals without pneumonia were eligible after excluding those with a previous diagnosis of AF and matching 1:1 by age, sex, and comorbidities. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate hazard ratios for AF in both groups.

RESULTS

Patients were more likely to develop AF throughout the 1-year follow-up period after the diagnosis of pneumonia. The incidence of AF was 1.2 (414/334,746) per 1000 person-months. Patients with pneumonia had a 4.08-fold (95% confidence interval 3.37-4.95) increased risk for AF compared to patients without pneumonia.

CONCLUSION

Patients with pneumonia exhibited an increased risk for AF, especially in the early period after diagnosis of pneumonia.

Evaluation of the effect of crocin on prevention of atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting or heart valve replacement: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of crocin on the prevention of atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and heart valve replacement.

Materials and Methods

100 patients who were scheduled for CABG or heart valve replacement surgeries were randomly assigned into two groups of treatment and placebo. In the treatment group, patients received crocin tablets from three days prior to surgery and on the first three postoperative days (for a total of six days). During the first three days after surgery, postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) was assessed by electrocardiogram monitoring. Prooxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) and c-reactive protein (CRP) levels were also assessed.

Results

POAF developed in 7 patients in the treatment group versus 18 patients in the control (p=0.02). PAB levels were significantly lower in the crocin group (p<0.001), while differences in CRP levels were insignificant (p=0.39).

Conclusion

It seems that prophylactic use of crocin is effective in reducing the incidence of POAF in patients undergoing heart surgeries.

Vitamin D and Cardiovascular Disease: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

Vitamin D deficiency is a prevalent condition, occurring in about 30–50% of the population, observed across all ethnicities and among all age groups. Besides the established role of vitamin D in calcium homeostasis, its deficiency is emerging as a new risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In particular, several epidemiological and clinical studies have reported a close association between low vitamin D levels and major CVDs, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Moreover, in all these clinical settings, vitamin deficiency seems to predispose to increased morbidity, mortality, and recurrent cardiovascular events. Despite this growing evidence, interventional trials with supplementation of vitamin D in patients at risk of or with established CVD are still controversial. In this review, we aimed to summarize the currently available evidence supporting the link between vitamin D deficiency and major CVDs in terms of its prevalence, clinical relevance, prognostic impact, and potential therapeutic implications.

Atrial Cardiomyopathy: Pathophysiology and Clinical Consequences

Around the world there are 33.5 million patients suffering from atrial fibrillation (AF) with an annual increase of 5 million cases. Most AF patients have an established form of an atrial cardiomyopathy. The concept of atrial cardiomyopathy was introduced in 2016. Thus, therapy of underlying diseases and atrial tissue changes appear as a cornerstone of AF therapy. Furthermore, therapy or prevention of atrial endocardial changes has the potential to reduce atrial thrombogenesis and thereby cerebral stroke. The present manuscript will summarize the underlying pathophysiology and remodeling processes observed in the development of an atrial cardiomyopathy, thrombogenesis, and atrial fibrillation. In particular, the impact of oxidative stress, inflammation, diabetes, and obesity will be addressed.

NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of obesity-induced atrial arrhythmias

AIMS

Obesity, an established risk factor of atrial fibrillation (AF), is frequently associated with enhanced inflammatory response. However, whether inflammatory signaling is causally linked to AF pathogenesis in obesity remains elusive. We recently demonstrated that the constitutive activation of the 'NACHT, LRR, and PYD Domains-containing Protein 3' (NLRP3) inflammasome promotes AF susceptibility. In this study, we hypothesized that the NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of obesity-induced AF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Western blotting was performed to determine the level of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in atrial tissues of obese patients, sheep, and diet-induced obese (DIO) mice. The increased body weight in patients, sheep, and mice was associated with enhanced NLRP3-inflammasome activation. To determine whether NLRP3 contributes to the obesity-induced atrial arrhythmogenesis, wild-type (WT) and NLRP3 homozygous knockout (NLRP3-/-) mice were subjected to high-fat-diet (HFD) or normal chow (NC) for 10 weeks. Relative to NC-fed WT mice, HFD-fed WT mice were more susceptible to pacing-induced AF with longer AF duration. In contrast, HFD-fed NLRP3-/- mice were resistant to pacing-induced AF. Optical mapping in DIO mice revealed an arrhythmogenic substrate characterized by abbreviated refractoriness and action potential duration (APD), two key determinants of reentry-promoting electrical remodeling. Upregulation of ultra-rapid delayed-rectifier K+-channel (Kv1.5) contributed to the shortening of atrial refractoriness. Increased profibrotic signaling and fibrosis along with abnormal Ca2+ release from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) accompanied atrial arrhythmogenesis in DIO mice. Conversely, genetic ablation of Nlrp3 (NLRP3-/-) in HFD-fed mice prevented the increases in Kv1.5 and the evolution of electrical remodeling, the upregulation of profibrotic genes, and abnormal SR Ca2+ release in DIO mice.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that the atrial NLRP3 inflammasome is a key driver of obesity-induced atrial arrhythmogenesis and establishes a mechanistic link between obesity-induced AF and NLRP3-inflammasome activation.

Periodontal Disease, Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke

BACKGROUND

We recently described the association between periodontal disease (PD) and stroke risk.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to test the association between PD, dental care utilization and incident atrial fibrillation (AF), as well as AF as a mediator to PD- stroke association.

METHODS

In dental cohort of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study (ARIC), participants without prior AF underwent full-mouth periodontal measurements. PD was defined on an ordinal scale as healthy (referent), mild, moderate and severe. In ARIC main cohort, participants were classified as regular or episodic dental care users. These patients were followed for AF, over 17 years. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for AF risk factors were used to study relationships between PD severity, dental care utilization and AF. Mediation analysis was used to test if AF mediated the PD- stroke association.

RESULTS

In dental ARIC cohort, 5,958 were assessed without prior AF, 754 were found to have AF. Severe PD was associated with AF on both univariable (crude HR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.26-1.87) and multivariable (adjusted HR, 1.31, 95% CI, 1.06-1.62) analyses. Mediation analysis suggested AF mediates the association between PD and stroke. In the main ARIC cohort, 9,666 participants without prior AF were assessed for dental care use, 1558 were found to have AF. Compared with episodic users, regular users had a lower risk for AF on univariable (crude HR, 0.82, 95% CI, 0.74-0.90) and multivariable (adjusted HR, 0.88, 95% CI, 0.78-0.99) analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

PD is associated with AF. The association may explain the PD-stroke risk. Regular users had a lower risk of incident AF compared with episodic users.

Atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia associated with acute dental infection: A systematic literature review and case report

OBJECTIVES

This paper outlines how oral diseases such as periodontitis and periapical periodontitis may be linked to cardiovascular disease, atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia. We undertake a systematic review of the literature focused on acute dental infection and types of cardiac arrhythmia and also describe an illustrative case where an acute dental infection diagnosed as periapical periodontitis was associated with the occurrence of atrial fibrillation.

METHODS

An electronic search was undertaken using MEDLINE and SCOPUS from 01 Jan 1970 to 30 June 2020. We also undertook manual searches using forward and backward citation chasing. Inclusion criteria were any primary research studies investigating any acute dental infection, with outcomes of cardiac arrhythmia or atrial fibrillation.

RESULTS

Over the last fifty years, only two low-quality studies have been investigated in this area. Our illustrative case involved a 58 year-old who was diagnosed with an acute dental infection from an upper canine tooth who then developed atrial fibrillation.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the biological plausibility of a link between acute dental infection and types of cardiac arrhythmia such as atrial fibrillation, together with the case report presented, it is evident that further study in this area is needed. If there are possible cardiovascular consequences for patients suffering from acute dental infection, then this will have implications for healthcare staff since they can integrate professional advice relating to oral health with cardiovascular disease and atrial fibrillation. Screening programmes situated in dental settings can facilitate early intervention and prevention producing benefits for patients and savings to the health system.

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance-determined left ventricular myocardium impairment is associated with C-reactive protein and ST2 in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Myocardial strain assessed with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) feature tracking can detect early left ventricular (LV) myocardial deformation quantitatively in patients with a variety of cardiovascular diseases, but this method has not yet been applied to quantify myocardial strain in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and no coexistent cardiovascular disease, i.e., the early stage of AF. This study sought to compare LV myocardial strain and T1 mapping indices in AF patients and healthy subjects, and to investigate the associations of a portfolio of inflammation, cardiac remodeling and fibrosis biomarkers with LV myocardial strain and T1 mapping indices in AF patients with no coexistent cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

The study consisted of 80 patients with paroxysmal AF patients and no coexistent cardiovascular disease and 20 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Left atrial volume (LAV), LV myocardial strain and native T1 were assessed with CMR, and compared between the AF patients and healthy subjects. Biomarkers of C-reactive protein (CRP), transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1), collagen III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP), and soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) were obtained with blood tests, and compared between the AF patients and healthy controls. Associations of these biomarkers with those CMR-measured parameters were analyzed for the AF patients.

RESULTS

For the CMR-measured parameters, the AF patients showed significantly larger LAV and LV end-systolic volume, and higher native T1 than the healthy controls (max P = 0.027). The absolute values of the LV peak systolic circumferential strain and its rate as well as the LV diastolic circumferential strain rate were all significantly reduced in the AF patients (all P < 0.001). For the biomarkers, the AF patients showed significantly larger CRP (an inflammation biomarker) and sST2 (a myocardium stiffness biomarker) than the controls (max P = 0.007). In the AF patients, the five CMR-measured parameters of LAV, three LV strain indices and native T1 were all significantly associated with these two biomarkers of CRP and sST2 (max P = 0.020).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with paroxysmal AF and no coexistent cardiovascular disease, LAV enlargement and LV myocardium abnormalities were detected by CMR, and these abnormalities were associated with biomarkers that reflect inflammation and myocardial stiffness.

Relationships between paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, total oxidant status, and DNA damage

INTRODUCTION

Structural and electrophysiological changes play a critical role in the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Although the pathophysiology of paroxysmal AF (PAF) has not been fully elucidated, oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage appear to be important triggers. Thus far, no studies have investigated the relationships among total oxidant status (TOS), DNA damage, and PAF. The goal of this study was to assess TOS and DNA damage in patients with PAF.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 56 patients with PAF and 31 healthy controls. OS was assessed based on TOS, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and oxidative stress index (OSI). The level of DNA damage was assessed using 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG).

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of baseline characteristics. However, patients with PAF had significantly higher high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (p=0.018), TOS (p=0.001), OSI (p=0.001), and 8-OHdG (p=0.019) levels, compared with the control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that serum TOS level (odds ratio: 1.608; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.188-2.176, p=0.002) was the only independent predictor of PAF. TOS ≥12.2 predicted PAF with a sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 76% (AUC: 0.785, 95% CI: 0.687-0.883, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

We found that TOS and DNA damage were significantly greater in patients with PAF than in the control group. Therefore, we propose that TOS and DNA damage can be used to detect patients at higher risk of AF.

Outcomes of new-onset atrial fibrillation in patients with sepsis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 225,841 patients

BACKGROUND

The outcomes of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) during sepsis are inconsistent and inconclusive. This meta-analysis aims to provide a comprehensive description of the impact of new-onset AF on the prognosis of sepsis.

METHODS

Three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library) were searched for relevant studies. Meta-analysis was performed using odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) as effect measures.

RESULTS

A total of 225,841 patients from 13 individual studies were incorporated to the meta-analysis. The summary results revealed that new-onset AF during sepsis was associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality (pooled OR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.53-2.86; p < 001), post-discharge mortality (pooled OR: 2.44; 95% CI: 1.81-3.29; p < .001), and stroke (pooled OR:1.88; 95% CI: 1.13-3.14; p < .05). Results also indicated that the incidence of new-onset AF varied from 1.9% for mild sepsis to 46.0% for septic shock. Furthermore, compared to those without AF, people with new-onset AF had longer ICU and hospital stays, as well as a higher recurrence of AF.

CONCLUSIONS

New-onset AF is frequently associated with adverse outcomes in patients with sepsis. This is a clinical issue that warrants more attention and should be managed appropriately to prevent poor prognosis.

Beneficial Effect of Systemic Allogeneic Adipose Derived Mesenchymal Cells on the Clinical, Inflammatory and Immunologic Status of a Patient With Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa: A Case Report

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB) is an incurable inherited mucocutaneous fragility disorder characterized by recurrent blisters, erosions, and wounds. Continuous blistering triggers overlapping cycles of never-ending healing and scarring commonly evolving to chronic systemic inflammation and fibrosis. The systemic treatment with allogeneic mesenchymal cells (MSC) from bone marrow has previously shown benefits in RDEB. MSC from adipose tissue (ADMSC) are easier to isolate. This is the first report on the use of systemic allogeneic ADMSC, correlating the clinical, inflammatory, and immunologic outcomes in RDEB indicating long-lasting benefits. We present the case of an RDEB patient harboring heterozygous biallelic COL7A1 gene mutations and with a diminished expression of C7. The patient presented with long-lasting refractory and painful oral ulcers distressing her quality of life. Histamine receptor antagonists, opioid analgesics, proton-pump inhibitors, and low-dose tricyclic antidepressants barely improved gastric symptoms, pain, and pruritus. Concomitantly, allogeneic ADMSC were provided as three separate intravenous injections of 106 cells/kg every 21 days. ADMSC treatment was well-tolerated. Improvements in wound healing, itch, pain and quality of life were observed, maximally at 6-9 months post-treatment, with the relief of symptoms still noticeable for up to 2 years. Remarkably, significant modifications in PBL participating in both the innate and adaptive responses, alongside regulation of levels of profibrotic factors, MCP-1/CCL2 and TGF-β, correlated with the health improvement. This treatment might represent an alternative for non-responding patients to conventional management. It seems critical to elucidate the paracrine modulation of the immune system by MSC for their rational use in regenerative/immunoregulatory therapies.

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein is a Predictor of Subsequent Atrial High-Rate Episodes in Patients with Pacemakers and Preserved Ejection Fraction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with morbidity and mortality. Modern pacemakers can detect atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) as a surrogate for AF. It remains controversial whether inflammation is a cause or a consequence of AF. This study investigated whether the inflammatory biomarker high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) can predict subsequent AHREs. This study gathered prospective data from patients with pacemakers and a left ventricle EF ≥ 50% between 2015 and 2019. The hs-CRP and other cardiac biomarkers at baseline and device-detected AHREs, defined as atrial rate ≥ 180 bpm and duration ≥ 6 min, were determined. Cox regression analysis was used to estimate the independent predictors for AHREs. A total of 171 consecutive patients were included. During the median follow-up of 614 days, 66 patients (39%) developed subsequent AHREs. In the univariate Cox regression analysis, sick sinus syndrome (p = 0.005), prior AF (p < 0.001), mitral A velocity (p = 0.008), and hs-CRP (p = 0.013) showed significant association with the increased risk of AHREs. In the multivariate Cox regression model, hs-CRP (HR = 1.121, 95% confidence interval = 1.015-1.238, p = 0.024) retained its significance. Our results suggest that elevated hs-CRP could predict subsequent AHREs and that inflammation could play a role in AF pathogenesis in patients with preserved EF.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and atrial fibrillation: possible pathophysiological links and therapeutic interventions

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) share common risk factors and appear to have an association. Independently, the incidence and prevalence of both diseases are on the rise. Epidemiological evidence, experimental studies and various randomized clinical trials suggest a link between the 2 entities, delineating cumulative risks and clinical strategies to improve outcomes. Dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, inflammatory milieu, and activation of the renin-angiotensin system are likely common pathophysiological mechanisms linking AF and NAFLD. In this article we review the known pathways and pathophysiology that link the 2 conditions. This review also discusses therapies that target both NAFLD and AF, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, statins, metformin, and vitamin E. We further discuss other potential medications that have shown effects in NAFLD or AF through anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, lipid-lowering, or renin-angiotensin system inhibiting effects. Future epidemiological studies are needed to establish a direct causal relationship between NAFLD and AF.

Canine atrial fibrillation: Pathophysiology, epidemiology and classification

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common non-physiological arrhythmia in dogs and humans. Its high prevalence in both species and the impact it has on survival time and quality of life of affected patients, makes it a very relevant topic of medical research. Significant developments in understanding the mechanisms underlying this arrhythmia in humans has occurred over the last decades and some of this knowledge is being applied to veterinary medicine, despite the many differences between species. This article reviews the current understanding of the pathophysiology of AF. The epidemiology and classification of AF in dogs will also be discussed.

Evidence for Inflammation as a Driver of Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common types of arrhythmias and increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Current therapeutic approaches to AF that focus on rhythm control have high recurrence rates and no life prolongation value. While possible explanations include toxicity of current therapies, another likely explanation may be that current therapies do not address fundamental mechanisms of AF initiation and maintenance. Inflammation has been shown to affect signaling pathways that lead to the development of AF. This paper reviews the roles of inflammation in the occurrence, development, and mechanisms of AF and reviews the therapeutic implications of the correlation of inflammation and AF.

Atrial fibrillation and cardiac fibrosis: A review on the potential of extracellular matrix proteins as biomarkers

The involvement of fibrosis as an underlying pathology in heart diseases is becoming increasingly clear. In recent years, fibrosis has been granted a causative role in heart diseases and is now emerging as a major contributor to Atrial Fibrillation (AF) pathogenesis. AF is the most common arrhythmia encountered in the clinic, but the substrate for AF is still being debated. Consensus in the field is a combination of cardiac tissue remodeling, inflammation and genetic predisposition. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is subject of growing investigation, since measuring circulatory biomarkers of ECM formation and degradation provides both diagnostic and prognostic information. However, fibrosis is not just fibrosis. Each specific collagen biomarker holds information on regulatory mechanisms, as well as information about which section of the ECM is being remodeled, providing a detailed description of cardiac tissue homeostasis. This review entails an overview of the implication of fibrosis in AF, the different collagens and their significance, and the potential of using biomarkers of ECM remodeling as tools for understanding AF pathogenesis and identifying patients at risk for further disease progression.

Applications of Graphene Quantum Dots in Biomedical Sensors

Due to the proliferative cancer rates, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, autoimmune diseases and a plethora of infections across the globe, it is essential to introduce strategies that can rapidly and specifically detect the ultralow concentrations of relevant biomarkers, pathogens, toxins and pharmaceuticals in biological matrices. Considering these pathophysiologies, various research works have become necessary to fabricate biosensors for their early diagnosis and treatment, using nanomaterials like quantum dots (QDs). These nanomaterials effectively ameliorate the sensor performance with respect to their reproducibility, selectivity as well as sensitivity. In particular, graphene quantum dots (GQDs), which are ideally graphene fragments of nanometer size, constitute discrete features such as acting as attractive fluorophores and excellent electro-catalysts owing to their photo-stability, water-solubility, biocompatibility, non-toxicity and lucrativeness that make them favorable candidates for a wide range of novel biomedical applications. Herein, we reviewed about 300 biomedical studies reported over the last five years which entail the state of art as well as some pioneering ideas with respect to the prominent role of GQDs, especially in the development of optical, electrochemical and photoelectrochemical biosensors. Additionally, we outline the ideal properties of GQDs, their eclectic methods of synthesis, and the general principle behind several biosensing techniques.

Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation Following Cardiac Surgery: From Pathogenesis to Potential Therapies

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a major complication after cardiac surgery which can lead to high rates of morbidity and mortality, an enhanced length of hospital stay, and an increased cost of care. POAF is postulated to be a multifactorial phenomenon; however, some major pathogeneses have been proposed, including inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, and autonomic dysfunction. Genetic studies also showed that inflammatory pathways, beta-1 adrenoreceptor variants, G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 gene variants, and non-coding single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the 4q25 chromosomal locus are involved in this phenomenon. Moreover, several predisposing factors lead to the development of POAF, consisting of pre-, intra-, and postoperative contributors. The main predisposing factors comprise age, prior history of major cardiovascular risk factors, and ischemia-reperfusion injury during surgery. The management of POAF is based on the usual therapies used for non-surgical AF, including medications for either rate control or rhythm control in hemodynamically unstable patients. The perioperative administration of β-blockers and some antiarrhythmic agents has been recommended in major international guidelines. In addition, upstream therapies consisting of colchicine, magnesium, statins, and antioxidants have attenuated the incidence of POAF; however, some uncomfortable side effects developed in large randomized trials. The use of anticoagulation has also resulted in less mortality in patients with POAF at higher risk of thromboembolic events. Despite these recommendations, the actual regimen for the prevention of POAF remains controversial. In this review, we highlight the pathogenesis, predisposing factors, and potential therapeutic options for the management of patients at risk for or with POAF following cardiac surgery.

Graphene Quantum Dot-Based Electrochemical Immunosensors for Biomedical Applications

In the area of biomedicine, research for designing electrochemical sensors has evolved over the past decade, since it is crucial to selectively quantify biomarkers or pathogens in clinical samples for the efficacious diagnosis and/or treatment of various diseases. To fulfil the demand of rapid, specific, economic, and easy detection of such biomolecules in ultralow amounts, numerous nanomaterials have been explored to effectively enhance the sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility of immunosensors. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have garnered tremendous attention in immunosensor development, owing to their special attributes such as large surface area, excellent biocompatibility, quantum confinement, edge effects, and abundant sites for chemical modification. Besides these distinct features, GQDs acquire peroxidase (POD)-mimicking electro-catalytic activity, and hence, they can replace horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-based systems to conduct facile, quick, and inexpensive label-free immunoassays. The chief motive of this review article is to summarize and focus on the recent advances in GQD-based electrochemical immunosensors for the early and rapid detection of cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and pathogenic diseases. Moreover, the underlying principles of electrochemical immunosensing techniques are also highlighted. These GQD immunosensors are ubiquitous in biomedical diagnosis and conducive for miniaturization, encouraging low-cost disease diagnostics in developing nations using point-of-care testing (POCT) and similar allusive techniques.

Associations of Asthma and Asthma Control With Atrial Fibrillation Risk: Results From the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT)

Importance

Asthma, a chronic inflammatory airway disease, and atrial fibrillation (AF) share several common pathophysiological mechanisms. Research on the association between asthma and atrial fibrillation is lacking, and to our knowledge, no previous studies have assessed the dose-response association between levels of asthma control and AF.

Objective

To assess the association between asthma, levels of asthma control, and AF.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective population cohort analyzed data on adults from a second and third iteration of the survey-based Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT) in Norway. All included participants were free from AF at baseline. Atrial fibrillation was ascertained by linking HUNT data with hospital records from the 2 hospitals in Nord-Trøndelag County. Data analysis was completed from May 2017 to November 2017.

Exposures

Self-reported asthma was categorized into 3 groups: those who had ever had asthma, those who self-report being diagnosed with asthma, and those who had active asthma. Asthma control was defined according to Global Initiative for Asthma guidelines and was categorized into controlled, partly controlled, and uncontrolled cases.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Atrial fibrillation.

Results

A total of 54 567 adults were included (of whom 28 821 [52.8%] were women). Of these, 5961 participants (10.9%) reported ever having asthma, 3934 participants (7.2%) reported being diagnosed with asthma, and 2485 participants (4.6%) reported having active asthma. During a mean (SD) follow-up of 15.4 (5.8) years, 2071 participants (3.8%) developed AF. Participants with physician-diagnosed asthma had an estimated 38% higher risk of developing AF (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.18-1.61]) compared with participants without asthma. There was a dose-response association between levels of asthma control and risk of AF with the highest risk for AF in participants with uncontrolled asthma (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.74 [95% CI, 1.26-2.42]; P for trend < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Asthma and lack of asthma control were associated with moderately increased risks of AF in a dose-response manner. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and clarify causal pathways between asthma and AF.

Cognitive Function and Atrial Fibrillation: From the Strength of Relationship to the Dark Side of Prevention. Is There a Contribution from Sinus Rhythm Restoration and Maintenance?

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common chronic cardiac arrhythmia with an increasing prevalence over time mainly because of population aging. It is well established that the presence of AF increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, sudden death, and cardiovascular morbidity. In the last two decades several reports have shown an association between AF and cognitive function, ranging from impairment to dementia. Ischemic stroke linked to AF is a well-known risk factor and predictor of cognitive decline. In this clinical scenario, the risk of stroke might be reduced by oral anticoagulation. However, recent data suggest that AF may be a predictor of cognitive impairment and dementia also in the absence of stroke. Cerebral hypoperfusion, reduced brain volume, microbleeds, white matter hyperintensity, neuroinflammation, and genetic factors have been considered as potential mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of AF-related cognitive dysfunction. However, a cause-effect relationship remains still controversial. Consequently, no therapeutic strategies are available to prevent AF-related cognitive decline in stroke-free patients. This review will analyze the potential mechanisms leading to cognitive dysfunction in AF patients and examine the available data on the impact of a sinus rhythm restoration and maintenance strategy in reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

C-reactive protein promotes inflammation through TLR4/NF-κB/TGF-β pathway in HL-1 cells

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of heart arrhythmia. Currently, the pathogenesis of AF is not fully understood yet. A growing body of evidence highlighted the strong association between inflammation and the pathogenesis of AF. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an inflammation marker with increased expression in AF. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine if CRP promotes inflammation, which may sequentially mediate the onset of AF and the concurrent atrial fibrosis, through TLR4/NF-κB/TGF-β pathway. HL-1 cells were treated with either 25 or 50 μg/ml recombinant human CRP. TGF-β1 and NF-κB inhibitors were given either solely or together to the 50 μg/ml CRP-treated cells. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, the expression of apoptotic factors and TLR4, IL-6, TGF-β1, Smad2, and the phosphorylation of Smad2 were determined. Data showed that CRP induced dose-dependent inhibition on cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis, which was induced through both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Such effects were reversed by inhibiting TGF-β1 and/or NF-κB. Inhibition of TGF-β1 and/or NF-κB also reduced the expression of TLR4 and IL-6. Inhibition of NF-κB alone weakened the expression of TGF-β1 and phosphorylation of Smad2. Our study demonstrated that CRP is not only a marker, but also an important mediator in the induction of inflammation and likely the pathogenesis of AF. We for the first time reported CRP-induced activation and cross-talk between TLR4 and NF-κB/TGF-β1 signaling pathway in a cardiomyocyte model. Reducing CRP and targeting TLR4/NF-κB/TGF-β1 pathway may provide new insights in the therapeutic interventions to inflammation-induced AF.

Significantly Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels after Epicardial Clipping of the Left Atrial Appendage

Objective

Besides mechanical and anatomical changes of the left atrium, epicardial closure of the left atrial appendage has also possible homeostatic effects. The aim of this study was to assess whether epicardial clipping of the left atrial appendage has different biochemical effects compared with complete removal of the left atrial appendage.

Methods

Eighty-two patients were included and underwent a totally thoracoscopic AF ablation procedure. As part of the procedure, the left atrial appendage was excluded with an epicardial clip (n = 57) or the left atrial appendage was fully amputated with an endoscopic vascular stapler (n = 25). From all patients’ preprocedural and postprocedural blood pressure, electrolytes and inflammatory parameters were collected.

Results

The mean age and left atrial volume index were comparable between the epicardial clip and stapler group (64 ± 8 years vs. 60 ± 9 years, P = non-significant; 44 ±15 mL/m2 vs. 40 ± 13 mL/m2, P = nonsignificant). Patients receiving left atrial appendage clipping had significantly elevated C-reactive protein levels compared with patients who had left atrial appendage stapling at the second, third, and fourth postoperative day (225 ± 84 mg/L vs. 149 ± 76 mg/L, P = 0.002, 244 ± 78 vs. 167 ± 76, P = 0.004, 190 ± 74vs. 105 ± 48, P < 0.001, respectively). Patients had a significant decrease in sodium levels, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure at 24 and 72 hours after left atrial appendage closure. However, this was comparable for both the left atrial appendage clipping and stapling group.

Conclusions

Increased activation of the inflammatory response was observed after left atrial appendage clipping compared with left atrial appendage stapling. Furthermore, a significant decrease in blood pressure was observed after surgical removal of the left atrial appendage. Whether the inflammatory response affects the outcome of arrhythmia surgery needs to be further evaluated.

Atrial Fibrillation: A Novel Risk Factor for No-Reflow Following Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

There is a lack of evidence regarding the association of atrial fibrillation (AF) and no-reflow (NR) phenomenon in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). A total of 2452 patients with STEMI who underwent pPCI were retrospectively investigated. After exclusions, 370 (14.6%) patients were in the AF group and 2095 (85.4%) were in the No-AF group. Patients with a thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow rate <3 were defined as having NR. Patients in the AF group were older and had higher 3-vessel disease rates (24.1% vs 18.9%; P = .021) and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (45.4 [11.7] vs 48.7 [10.5%]; P < .001). No-reflow rates were higher in the AF group than in the No-AF group (29.1% vs 11.8%; P < .001). According to multivariable analysis, AF (odds ratio: 1.81, 95% confidence interval: 1.63-2.04, P < .001), age, Killip class, anterior myocardial infarction, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, stent length, and smoking were independent predictors of NR following pPCI. Atrial fibrillation is a quite common arrhythmia in patients with STEMI. Atrial fibrillation was found to be an independent predictor of NR in the current study. This effect of AF on coronary flow rate might be considered as an important risk factor in STEMI.

Risk factors analysis of nosocomial pneumonia in elderly patients with acute cerebral infraction

To investigate the risk factors of nosocomial pneumonia (NP) in elderly patients with acute cerebral infarction (ACI).In this study, 324 aged 70 years and over patients with ACI who were admitted to the inpatient department of TianJin First Hospital (China) from January 2012 to February 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into NP group (80 patients) and non-NP group (244 patients) according to whether NP was occurred 48 hours after hospitalization. Baseline profiles and biochemical analyses were compared between 2 groups. Information regarding risk factors for NP in elderly patients with ACI was collected from all patients. Associations with NP and outcome were evaluated.Among the total patients, NP occurred in 80 (24.69%) patients. There were no statistically significant differences between risk of NP and sex, current drinking, diabetes mellitus, stroke history, and levels of serum UA, TG, HDL-C, LDL-C, Glucose, chloride, potassium. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the independent risk factors for NP were living alone (OR 4.723; CI 1.743∼12.802; P = .002), initial NIHSS score (OR 1.441; CI 1.191∼1.743; P = .000), NRS2002 score (OR 0.139; CI 0.087∼0.223; P = .000), BMI (OR 1.586; CI 1.353∼1.858; P = .000), a past pneumonia history (OR 0.073; CI 0.017∼0.321; P = .001), atrial fibrillation (AF) (OR 0.129; CI 0.033∼0.499; P = .003), CRP (OR 1.050; CI 1.017∼1.085; P = .003), BUN (OR 0.603; CI 0.448∼0.812; P = .001) and Cr (OR 1.036; CI 1.015∼1.057; P = .001). Level of albumin was an independent protective factor of NP in elderly patients with ACI (OR 0.865; CI 0.750∼0.999; P = .048). Furthermore, elderly patients with ACI who had NP had worse clinical outcomes both during hospitalization and after discharge (P < .05).We identified significant risk factors for NP in elderly patients with ACI, including living alone, initial NIHSS score, malnutrition, a past pneumonia history, AF, CRP, and Renal function were associated with NP in elderly patients with ACI. The clinical course was worse and the duration of hospital stay was longer in NP patients than in non-NP patients.

Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Septic Shock: A One-Year Observational Pilot Study

Objective

The negative effect of sepsis on the myocardium affects its electric functionality. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with septic shock, and the mortality rate of patients with AF versus patients that maintained sinus rhythm (SR).

Methods

This is a one-year observational prospective pilot study. It was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care of Pisa University. Patients with septic shock were enrolled in this study. They were divided in two groups based on the occurrence of AF while in the ICU. Data were collected at admission and after 72 hours, and the data consisted of anamnesis, vital parameters, blood results and severity score.

Results

Out of 27 patients, 9 developed AF during the first 72 hours. At admission and at 72 hours, SOFA was statistically higher in the patients with AF (p=0.012 and p=0.002, respectively). In the AF group, the overall mortality was 66.7%, whereas, it was 11.1% (p=0.006) in the patients with SR. Age, rhythm and noradrenaline dosage were univariate predictors of total mortality.

Conclusion

In patients with septic shock, AF has a high incidence, and it correlated with a worse outcome. Patients with higher SOFA score are at a greater risk of developing arrhythmia.

Vaccination and risk of lone atrial fibrillation in the active component United States military

PURPOSE

To evaluate the hypothesis that receipt of anthrax vaccine adsorbed (AVA) increases the risk of atrial fibrillation in the absence of identifiable underlying risk factors or structural heart disease (lone atrial fibrillation).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective population-based cohort study among U.S. military personnel who were on active duty during the period from January 1, 1998 through December 31, 2006. International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes were used to identify individuals diagnosed with atrial fibrillation in the Defense Medical Surveillance System, and electronic records were screened to include only individuals without evidence of predisposing medical conditions. We used multivariable Poisson regression to estimate the risk of lone atrial fibrillation after exposure to AVA. We also evaluated possible associations with influenza and smallpox vaccines.

RESULTS

Our study population consisted of 2,957,091individuals followed for 11,329,746 person-years of service. Of these, 2,435 met our case definition for lone atrial fibrillation, contributing approximately 8,383 person-years of service. 1,062,176 (36%) individuals received at least one dose of AVA; the median person time observed post-exposure was 3.6 years. We found no elevated risk of diagnosed lone atrial fibrillation associated with AVA (adjusted risk ratio = 0.99; 95% confidence interval = 0.90, 1.09; p = 0.84). No elevated risk was observed for lone atrial fibrillation associated with influenza or smallpox vaccines given during military service.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find an increased risk of lone atrial fibrillation after AVA, influenza or smallpox vaccine. These findings may be helpful in planning future vaccine safety research.

Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disorders

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world and represents an enormous global health burden. Significant advances have been made in the conservative, medical and surgical management across the range of cardiovascular diseases however the inflammatory components of these diseases have traditionally been neglected. Inflammation is certainly a key component of atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory condition, but it is at least correlative and predictive of risk in many other aspects of cardiovascular medicine ranging from heart failure to outcomes following reperfusion strategies. Inflammation therefore represents significant potential for future risk stratification of patients as well as offering new therapeutic targets across cardiovascular medicine. This review explores the role of inflammation in several of the major aspects of cardiovascular medicine focusing on current and possible future examples of the targeting of inflammation in prognosis and therapy. It concludes that future directions of cardiovascular research and clinical practice should seek to identify cohorts of patients with a significant inflammatory component to their cardiovascular condition or reaction to cardiovascular intervention. These patients might benefit from therapeutic strategies mounted against the inflammatory components implicated in their condition.

Risks of Pneumonia in COPD Patients with New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation

The association between Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and pneumonia remains unclear. This study aims to assess the impact of AF on high pneumonia risk group—chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—In order to find the association between AF and the risk of pneumonia. The COPD cohort was extracted from National Health Research Institute of Taiwan. The AF cohort comprised all COPD patients with new-onset AF (International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 code 427.31) after COPD diagnosis. We further sampled non-AF cohort and performed 1:1 propensity score matched analysis to improve the balance of baseline characteristics between AF and non-AF cohort. The outcomes were pneumonia and pneumonia requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). From 2000–2011, a total of 6228 patients with COPD and AF, and matched 84,106 control subjects were enrolled. After propensity score matching, we identified 6219 patients, each with AF, and matched controls without AF. After propensity score matching, the AF cohorts had higher risk of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 1.24; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.15–1.34), pneumonia (aHR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.07–1.27), and pneumonia requiring MV (aHR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.18–1.50) in comparison with the matched non-AF cohort. After adjusting for mortality from causes other than outcomes of interest as a competing risk, AF remains significantly associated with pneumonia and pneumonia requiring MV. The risks of pneumonia were higher in this population with AF than in those without AF, and the risk was still significant after the adjustment for the competing risk of all-cause mortality.

Potential Impact of Oral Inflammations on Cardiac Functions and Atrial Fibrillation

Inflammation may be a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). Oral infections frequently lead to chronic inflammation, such as gingivitis, periodontitis, and endodontic lesions. In this narrative review, we consider five basic pathogenic mechanisms that involve oral infections and inflammations in the pathogenesis of AF: (1) low level bacteremia by which oral bacteria enter the blood stream at inflamed sites of the oral cavity and invade the heart; (2) Systemic inflammation induced by inflammatory mediators, which are released from the sites of oral inflammation into the blood stream, affecting cardiac remodeling; (3) autoimmunity against molecular structures expressed in the heart caused by the host immune response to specific components of oral pathogens; (4) potentially arrhythmic effects mediated by activation of the autonomous nervous system triggered by oral inflammations; and (5) arrhythmic effects resulting from specific bacterial toxins that are produced by oral pathogenic bacteria. A number of studies support the involvement of all five mechanisms, suggesting a potentially complex contribution of oral inflammations to the pathogenesis of AF.

Association of plasma neopterin with risk of an inpatient hospital diagnosis of atrial fibrillation: results from two prospective cohort studies

BACKGROUND

Link between inflammation and atrial fibrillation (AF) has been increasingly recognized. Neopterin, a biomarker of cellular immune activation, may be associated with incident AF.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between plasma neopterin levels and risk of an inpatient hospital diagnosis of AF, and to evaluate a joint association of neopterin and a nonspecific inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP) in two prospective cohorts.

METHODS

We performed a prospective analysis from a community-based cohort (the Hordaland Health Study (HUSK), n = 6891), and validated the findings in a cohort of patients with suspected stable angina pectoris (the Western Norway Coronary Angiography Cohort (WECAC), n = 2022).

RESULTS

In both cohorts, higher plasma levels of neopterin were associated with an increased risk of incident AF after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, current smoking, diabetes, hypertension and renal function. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) per one SD increment of log-transformed neopterin was 1.20 (1.10-1.32) in HUSK and 1.26 (1.09-1.44) in WECAC. Additional adjustment for CRP did not materially affect the risk association for neopterin. The highest risk of AF was found among individuals with both neopterin and CRP levels above the median (HR: 1.54; 95% CI: 1.16-2.05 in HUSK and HR: 1.67; 95% CI: 1.11-2.52 in WECAC).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate an association of plasma neopterin with risk of an inpatient hospital diagnosis of AF, which remains after adjustment for traditional risk factors as well as for CRP. This study highlights a role of cellular immune activation, in addition to inflammation, in AF pathogenesis.

Higher High-Sensitivity C Reactive Protein is Associated with Future Premature Ventricular Contraction: a Community Based Prospective Cohort Study

We aimed to determine whether hs-CRP is a predictor of future premature ventricular contraction (PVC) events in a community based population. A total of 101,510 participants were recruited at baseline (2006–2007). The follow-up visits were conducted every two years. Participants who were free from PVC at baseline and achieved the fourth visit, or diagnosed of PVC during the subsequent visits were included for analyses. Diagnosis of PVC was based on standard supine resting, 10-s 12-lead ECG. Cox regression was applied to evaluate the association between quartiles of hs-CRP and the incidence of PVCs. 60710 participants (male: 79.9%, mean age 49.4 years) were included for analyses. During a mean follow-up of 74.9 ± 7.4 months, 908 (1.5%) participants were diagnosed with PVC. Participants of the highest quartile of hs-CRP had significantly increased risk of PVC events as compared with the lowest quartile (HR 1.36; 95% CI 1.12–1.66); and stratified analyses showed similar result in males (HR 1.45; 95% CI 1.16–1.80), but not in females (HR 1.12; 95% CI 0.71–1.79). Moreover, elevated serum hs-CRP was associated with future PVC in participants without history of myocardial infarction or stroke (HR 1.34; 95% CI 1.09–1.65). Elevated hs-CRP was an independent predictor of PVC in Chinese population, especially in men.