Sleep duration and association with cardiometabolic health in adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes: Results from the BCQR-T1D study

AIM

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) increases the risk of morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease, and insufficient sleep is prevalent. Emerging evidence suggests a link between sleep and cardiometabolic health, but this has not been examined across the lifespan in individuals with T1D. We aimed to examine associations between sleep and cardiometabolic health in adolescents and adults with T1D in a secondary analysis of data from a 4-week double-blind, random-order, placebo-controlled crossover trial of bromocriptine quick release (BCQR) therapy with a 4-week washout in between conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-two adults (19-60 years) and 42 adolescents (12-18 years) with T1D >9 months completed 1 week of home monitoring with wrist-worn actigraphy to estimate sleep duration and continuous glucose monitoring, anthropometrics, arterial stiffness, magnetic resonance imaging (adolescents only), and fasting laboratory testing at each treatment phase.

RESULTS

Sixty-two per cent of adolescents and 74% of adults obtained <7 h of sleep per night at baseline. After adjustment for age, sex and diabetes duration, baseline sleep <7 h per night was associated with a higher body mass index, a higher waist circumference, a higher systolic blood pressure, worse arterial stiffness and a lower estimated insulin sensitivity (all p < .05). When examined by age group, associations between sleep duration and cardiometabolic health outcomes remained significant, predominantly for adolescents. In adolescents only, wake time was significantly later (p = .027) and time in bed was significantly longer with BCQR versus placebo (p = .049).

CONCLUSIONS

Objectively measured sleep <7 h per night was prevalent in adolescents and adults with T1D and associated with poorer cardiometabolic health markers. Small changes in sleep were seen following BCQR treatment in adolescents only. Sleep may be an important and novel target for improving cardiometabolic health in individuals with T1D.

Characterization of pulmonary arterial stiffness using cardiac MRI

Pulmonary arterial stiffness (PAS) is a pathologic hallmark of all types of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Cardiac MRI (CMR), a gold-standard imaging modality for the evaluation of pulmonary flow, biventricular morphology and function has been historically reserved for the longitudinal clinical follow-up, PH phenotyping purposes, right ventricular evaluation, and research purposes. Over the last two decades, numerous indices combining invasive catheterization and non-invasive CMR have been utilized to phenotype the character and severity of PAS in different types of PH and to assess its clinically prognostic potential with encouraging results. Many recent studies have demonstrated a strong role of CMR derived PAS markers in predicting long-term clinical outcomes and improving currently gold standard risk assessment provided by the REVEAL calculator. With the utilization of a machine learning strategies, strong diagnostic and prognostic performance of CMR reported in multicenter studies, and ability to detect PH at early stages, the non-invasive assessment of PAS is on verge of routine clinical utilization. In this review, we focus on appraising important CMR studies interrogating PAS over the last 20 years, describing the benefits and limitations of different PAS indices, and their pathophysiologic relevance to pulmonary vascular remodeling. We also discuss the role of CMR and PAS in clinical surveillance and phenotyping of PH, and the long-term future goal to utilize PAS as a biomarker to aid with more targeted therapeutic management.

Hemi-Fontan and bidirectional Glenn operations result in flow-mediated viscous energy loss at the time of stage II palliation

Background

Superior cavopulmonary connection (SCPC) for stage II palliation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is achieved most frequently by either a bidirectional Glenn (BDG) or hemi-Fontan (HF) operation. The comparison of flow hemodynamic efficiency at the region of surgical reconstruction and in proximal pulmonary arteries has been evaluated primarily using computational modeling techniques with conflicting reports. The purpose of this descriptive study was to compare flow hemodynamics following stage II (BDG vs HF) using 4-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging (4D-Flow MRI) with particular focus on flow-mediated viscous energy loss (EL') under matched hemodynamic conditions.

Methods

Patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) who underwent either HF or BDG as part of stage II palliation underwent pre-Fontan 4D-Flow MRI. Patients were matched by the pulmonary vascular resistance index, net superior vena cava (SVC) flow, right pulmonary artery (RPA) and left pulmonary artery (LPA) size, and age. Maximum EL' throughout the cardiac cycle was calculated along the SVC-RPA and SVC-LPA tracts.

Results

Eight patients who underwent HF as part of their stage II single ventricle palliation were matched with 8 patients who underwent BDG. There were no differences between the 2 groups in median volumetric indices, including end-diastolic volume (P = .278) and end-systolic volume (P = .213). Moreover, no differences were observed in ejection fraction (P = .091) and cardiac index (P = .324). There also were no differences in peak EL' measured along the SVC-RPA tract (median, 0.05 mW for HF vs 0.04 mW for BDG; P = .365) or along the SVC-LPA tract (median, 0.05 mW vs 0.04 mW; P = .741).

Conclusions

The second stage of surgical palliation of HLHS using either HF or BDG results in similar flow-mediated viscous energy loss throughout the SCPC junction. 4D-Flow MRI and computational methods should be applied together to investigate flow hemodynamic patterns throughout the Fontan palliation and overall efficiency of the Fontan circuit.

Advanced Imaging Technologies for Assessing Tetralogy of Fallot: Insights Into Flow Dynamics

Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cyanotic congenital heart defect requiring surgical repair. Although surgical interventions have significantly reduced mortality, postrepair complications, such as pulmonary valve regurgitation and stenosis, may lead to adverse outcomes, including right ventricular dysfunction and increased risks of morbidity and mortality. This review explores the potential of advanced imaging technologies, including 4-dimensional-flow magnetic resonance imaging and high-frame-rate echocardiography, in providing valuable insights into blood flow dynamics and energy parameters. Quantitative measures, such as energy loss and vorticity, along with qualitative flow analysis, can provide additional insights into adverse haemodynamics at a potentially earlier and more reversible stage. Furthermore, personalized patient-specific information from these imaging modalities aids in guiding treatment decisions and monitoring postoperative interventions effectively. By characterizing flow patterns, these advanced imaging techniques hold great promise in improving the assessment and management of tetralogy of Fallot, providing tailored insights. However, further research and longitudinal studies are required to fully establish their clinical utility and potential impact on patient care.

Lung recovery utilizing thoracoabdominal normothermic regional perfusion during donation after circulatory death: The Colorado experience

Objective

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) procurement and transplantation after thoracoabdominal normothermic regional perfusion (TA-NRP) remains a novel technique to improve cardiac and hepatic allograft preservation but may be complicated by lung allograft pulmonary edema. We present a single-center series on early implementation of a lung-protective protocol with strategies to mitigate posttransplant pulmonary edema in DCD lung allografts after TA-NRP procurement.

Methods

Data from all lung transplantations performed using a TA-NRP procurement strategy from October 2022 to April 2023 are presented. Donor management consisted of key factors to reduce lung allograft pulmonary edema: aggressive predonation and early posttransplant diuresis, complete venous drainage at TA-NRP initiation, and early pulmonary artery venting upon initiation of systemic perfusion. Donor and recipient characteristics, procurement characteristics such as TA-NRP intervals, and 30-day postoperative outcomes were assessed.

Results

During the study period, 8 lung transplants were performed utilizing TA-NRP procurement from DCD donors. Donor ages ranged from 16 to 39 years and extubation time to declaration of death ranged from 10 to 90 minutes. Time from declaration to TA-NRP initiation was 7 to 17 minutes with TA-NRP perfusion times of 49 to 111 minutes. Median left and right allograft warm ischemia times were 55.5 minutes (interquartile range, 46.5-67.5 minutes) and 41.0 minutes (interquartile range, 39.0-53.0 minutes, respectively, with 2 recipients supported with cardiopulmonary bypass or venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation during implantation. No postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was required. There were no pulmonary-related deaths; however, 1 patient died from complications of severe necrotizing pancreatitis with a normal functioning allograft. All patients were extubated within 24 hours. Index intensive care unit length of stay ranged from 3 to 11 days with a hospital length of stay of 13 to 37 days.

Conclusions

Despite concern regarding quality of DCD lung allografts recovered using the TA-NRP technique, we report initial success using this procurement method. Implementation of strategies to mitigate pulmonary edema can result in acceptable outcomes following lung transplantation. Demonstration of short- and long-term safety and efficacy of this technique will become increasingly important as the use of TA-NRP for thoracic and abdominal allografts in DCD donors expands.

Three-Dimensional, Right Ventricular Surface Strain Computation From Three-Dimensional Echocardiographic Images From Patients With Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension

Right Ventricular (RV) dysfunction is routinely assessed with echocardiographic-derived global longitudinal strain (GLS). GLS is measured from a two-dimensional echo image and is increasingly accepted as a means for assessing RV function. However, any two-dimensional (2D) analysis cannot visualize the asymmetrical deformation of the RV nor visualize strain over the entire RV surface. We believe three-dimensional surface (3DS) strain, obtained from 3D echo will better evaluate myocardial mechanics. Components of 3DS strain (longitudinal, LS; circumferential, CS; longitudinal-circumferential shear, ɣCL; principal strains PSMax and PSMin; max shear, ɣMax; and principal angle θMax) were computed from RV surface meshes obtained with 3D echo from 50 children with associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), 43 children with idiopathic PAH, and 50 healthy children by computing strains from a discretized displacement field. All 3DS freewall (FW) normal strain (LS, CS, PSMax, and PSMin) showed significant decline at end-systole in PH groups (p < 0.0001 for all), as did FW-ɣMax (p = 0.0012). FW-θMax also changed in disease (p < 0.0001). Limits of agreement analysis suggest that 3DS LS, PSMax, and PSMin are related to GLS. 3DS strains showed significant heterogeneity over the 3D surface of the RV. Components of 3DS strain agree with existing clinical strain measures, well classify normal -versus- PAH subjects, and suggest that strains change direction on the myocardial surface due to disease. This last finding is similar to that of myocardial fiber realignment in disease, but further work is needed to establish true associations.

Obesity dominates early effects on cardiac structure and arterial stiffness in people with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity are global epidemics leading to excess cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study investigates standard and novel cardiac MRI parameters to detect subclinical cardiac and central vascular dysfunction in inactive people with and without T2D.

METHODS

Physically inactive age and BMI-similar premenopausal women and men with ( n  = 22) and without [ n  = 34, controls with overweight/obesity (CWO)] uncomplicated T2D were compared to an age-similar and sex-similar reference control cohort ( n  = 20). Left ventricular (LV) structure, function, and aortic stiffness were assessed by MRI. Global arterial pulse wave velocity (PWV) was assessed using carotid-to-femoral applanation tonometry. Regional PWV was measured via 2D phase-contrast MRI and 4D flow MRI.

RESULTS

Global arterial PWV did not differ between CWO and T2D. 2D PC-MRI PWV in the ascending aorta was higher in people with T2D compared with CWOs ( P  < 0.01). 4D flow PWV in the thoracic aorta was higher in CWO ( P  < 0.01), and T2D ( P  < 0.001) compared with RC. End-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, stroke volume, and cardiac output were lower in CWO and T2D groups compared with reference control.

CONCLUSION

Subclinical changes in arterial stiffening and cardiac remodeling in inactive CWO and T2D compared with reference control support obesity and/or physical inactivity as determinants of incipient CVD complications in uncomplicated T2D. Future studies should determine the mechanistic causes of the CVD complications in greater detail in order to create therapeutic targets.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Cardiovascular Mechanisms of Exercise Intolerance in Diabetes and the Role of Sex (NCT03419195).

4D-Flow MRI intracardiac flow analysis considering different subtypes of pulmonary hypertension

Intracardiac flow hemodynamic patterns have been considered to be an early sign of diastolic dysfunction. In this study we investigated right ventricular (RV) diastolic dysfunction between patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension with chronic lung disease (PH-CLD) via 4D-Flow cardiac MRI (CMR). Patients underwent prospective, comprehensive CMR for function and size including 4D-Flow CMR protocol for intracardiac flow visualization and analysis. RV early filling phase and peak atrial phase vorticity (E-vorticity and A-vorticity) values were calculated in all patients. Patients further underwent comprehensive Doppler and tissue Doppler evaluation for the RV diastolic dysfunction. In total 13 patients with PAH, 15 patients with PH-CLD, and 10 control subjects underwent the 4D-Flow CMR and echocardiography evaluation for RV diastolic dysfunction. Reduced E-vorticity differentiated PAH and PH-CLD from healthy controls (both p < 0.01) despite the same Doppler E values. E-vorticity was further decreased in PAH patients when compared to PH-CLD group (p < 0.05) with similar Doppler and tissue Doppler markers of diastolic dysfunction. A-vorticity was decreased in both PAH and PH-CLD groups compared to controls but with no difference between the disease groups. E-vorticity correlated with ejection fraction (R = 0.60, p < 0.001), end-systolic volume (R = 0.50, p = 0.001), stroke volume (R = 0.42, p = 0.007), and cardiac output (R = 0.30, p = 0.027). Intracardiac flow analysis using 4D-Flow CMR derived vorticity is a sensitive method to differentiate diastolic dysfunction in patients with different PH etiology and similar Doppler echocardiography profile.

Pilot Project: Heart Chargers-A Successful Model for a Home-Based Physical Activity Program Utilizing Telemedicine for Fontan Patients

Fontan patients have decreased exercise capacity which further declines throughout adolescence. A positive exercise capacity trajectory in children predicts better adult Fontan outcomes. Hospital-based physical activity programs improve exercise capacity and attenuate the age-expected decline in Fontan patients. The purpose of this project was to investigate the feasibility and safety of a partially reimbursable 12-month, home-based, individualized physical activity program (Heart Chargers) for Fontan patients utilizing telemedicine. The Heart Chargers team included a cardiologist, nurse coordinator, and exercise physiologists. Eligible participants with a Fontan completed a baseline cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and consented to participate in Heart Chargers, a 12-month home-based exercise prescription. The individualized exercise prescription focused on skeletal and respiratory muscle strength training and aerobic activities. Participants received a Garmin© device to monitor adherence. Telephone check-ins ranged from weekly to monthly as participants gained independence. Pre- and post-program CPET and informal surveys of physical activity self-efficacy were completed. Nine participants have completed the Heart Chargers program. There was no pre-post difference in maximal or submaximal oxygen consumption (VO2), peak heart rate, or oxygen saturation. There was a significant pre-post increase in systolic blood pressure (p-value 0.004) and minute ventilation (p-value 0.012) at peak exercise. Per subjective report, exercise-related self-efficacy increased after program completion. There were no adverse events. At present, 7 participants remain actively enrolled in the program. Heart Chargers, a novel, home-based, partially reimbursable, 12-month individualized exercise program using telemedicine was successfully implemented in Fontan patients with no adverse events. The lack of decline in exercise capacity for participants is encouraging.

Extraction and Digitization of ECG Signals from Standard Clinical Portable Document Format Files for the Principal Component Analysis of T-wave Morphology

INTRODUCTION

T-wave analysis from standard electrocardiogram (ECG) remains one of the most available clinical and research methods for evaluating myocardial repolarization. T-wave morphology was recently evaluated to aid with diagnosis and characterization of diastolic dysfunction. Unfortunately, PDF stored ECG datasets limit additional numerical post-processing of ECG waveforms. In this study, we apply a simple custom process pipeline to extract and re-digitize T-wave signals and subject them to principal component analysis (PCA) to define primary T-wave shape variations.

METHODS

We propose simple pre-processing and digitization algorithms programmable as a MATLAB tool using standard thresholding functions without the need for advanced signal analysis. To validate digitized datasets, we compared clinically standard measurements in 20 different ECGs with the original ECG machine interpreted values as a gold standard. Afterwards, we analyzed 212 individual ECGs for T-wave shape analysis using PCA.

RESULTS

The re-digitized signal was shown to preserve the original information as evidenced by excellent agreement between original - machine interpreted and re-digitized clinical variables including heart rate: bias ~ 1 bpm (95% CI: -1.0 to 3.5), QT interval: bias ~ 0.000 ms (95% CI: -0.012 to 0.012), PR interval: bias = -0.015 ms (95% CI: -0.015 to 0.003), and QRS duration: bias = -0.001 ms (95% CI: -0.007 to 0.006). PCA revealed that the first principal component universally modulates the T-wave height or amount of repolarization voltage regardless of the investigated ECG lead. The second and third principal components described variation in the T-wave peak onset and the T-wave peak morphology, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study presents a straightforward method for re-digitizing ECGs stored in the PDF format utilized in many academic electronic medical record systems. This process can yield re-digitized lead specific signals which can be retrospectively analyzed using advanced custom post-processing numerical analysis independent of commercially available platforms.

Central Venous Waveform Patterns in the Fontan Circulation Independently Contribute to the Prediction of Composite Survival

It is well appreciated that the Fontan circulation perturbs central venous hemodynamics, with elevated pressure being the clearest change associated with Fontan comorbidities, such as Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD) and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). Our group has better quantity of these venous perturbations through single- and multi-location analyses of flow waveforms obtained from magnetic resonance imaging of Fontan patients. Here, we determine if such analyses, which yield principal components (PC) that describe flow features, are associated with Fontan survival. Patients with a Fontan circulation (N = 140) that underwent free-breathing and mechanically ventilated cardiac MRI were included in this study. Standard volumetric and functional hemodynamics, as well as flow analysis principal components, were subjected to univariate and bivariate Cox regression analyses to determine composite clinical outcome, including plastic bronchitis, PLE, and referral and receipt of transplant. Unsurprisingly, ventricular function measures of ejection fraction (EF; HR = 0.88, p < 0.0001), indexed end-systolic volume (ESVi; HR 1.02, p < 0.0001), and indexed end-diastolic volume (EDVi; HR = 1.02, p = 0.0007) were found as specific predictors of clinical events, with specificities uniformly > 0.75. Additionally a feature of IVC flow (PC2) indicating increased flow in systole was found as a highly sensitive predictor (HR = 0.851, p = 0.027, sensitivity 0.93). In bivariate prediction, combinations of ventricular function (EF, ESVi, EDVi) with this IVC flow feature yielded best overall prediction of composite outcome. This suggests that central venous waveform analysis relays additional information about Fontan patient survival and that coupling sensitive and specific measures in bivariate analysis is a useful approach for obtaining superior prediction of survival.

Myocardial strain-curve deformation patterns after Fontan operation

Myocardial deformation analysis by cardiac MRI (CMR) yielding global circumferential and longitudinal strain (GCS and GLS) is an increasingly utilized method to accurately quantify systolic function and predict clinical events in patients with Fontan circulation. The purpose of this study was to use principal component analysis (PCA) to investigate myocardial temporal deformation patterns derived from strain-time curves to learn about latent strain features beyond peak values. We conducted the study with specific attention to dominant single left or right ventricle (SLV and SRV) morphologies. Methods and Results: Patients remote from Fontan operation who underwent follow-up CMR were analyzed for standard volumetric and function hemodynamics including myocardial deformation parameters including GCS and GLS. We applied PCA to investigate in an unbiased fashion the strain-time curve morphology and to calculate patient specific shape scores. All variables were subjected to single variable Cox regression analysis to detect composite clinical outcome including death, heart transplant, protein losing enteropathy and plastic bronchitis. A total of 122 patients, (SLV = 67, SRV = 55) with a mean age of 12.7 years underwent comprehensive CMR analysis. The PCA revealed 3 primary modes of strain-curve variation regardless of single ventricle morphology and type of strain investigated. Principle components (PCs) described changes in (1) strain-time curve amplitude, (2) time-to-peak strain, and (3) post-systolic slope of the strain-time curve. Considering only SLV patients, GCS was only CMR variable predictive of clinical events (HR 1.46, p = 0.020). In the SRV group, significant CMR predictors of clinical events were derived indexed end-diastolic (HR 1.02, p = 0.023) and end-systolic (HR 1.03, p = 0.022) volumes, GCS (HR 1.91, p = 0.003) and its related first component score (HR 1.20, p = 0.005), GLS (HR 1.32, p = 0.029) and its third component score (HR 1.58, p = 0.017). CMR derived global strain measures are sensitive markers of clinical outcomes in patients with Fontan circulation, particularly in patients with the SRV morphology. Myocardial strain-time curve morphology specific to SLV and SRV patients inspired by unbiased PCA technique can further aid with predicting clinical outcomes.

Ventricular global function index is associated with clinical outcomes in pediatric pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

Multiple right ventricular (RV) metrics have prognostic value in pulmonary hypertension (PH). A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) derived global ventricular function index (GFI) provided improved prediction of composite adverse outcome (CAO) in adults with atherosclerosis. GFI has not yet been explored in a PH population. We explored the feasibility of GFI as a predictor of CAO in a pediatric PH population.

METHODS

Two center retrospective chart review identified pediatric PH patients undergoing CMR from Jan 2005-June 2021. GFI, defined as the ratio of the stroke volume to the sum of mean ventricular cavity and myocardial volume, was calculated for each patient. CAO was defined as death, lung transplant, Potts shunt, or parenteral prostacyclin initiation after CMR. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate associations and assess model performance between CMR parameters and CAO.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised 89 patients (54% female, 84% World Health Organization (WHO) Group 1; 70% WHO-FC ≤ 2; and 27% on parenteral prostacyclin). Median age at CMR was 12 years (IQR 8.1-17). Twenty-one (24%) patients experienced CAO during median follow up of 1.5 years. CAO cohort had higher indexed RV volumes (end systolic-145 vs 99 mL/m2, p = 0.003; end diastolic-89 vs 46 mL/m2, p = 0.004) and mass (37 vs 24 gm/m2, p = 0.003), but lower ejection fraction (EF) (42 vs 51%, p < 0.001) and GFI (40 vs 52%, p < 0.001). Higher indexed RV volumes (hazard ratios [HR] 1.01, CI 1.01-1.02), lower RV EF (HR 1.09, CI 1.05-1.12) and lower RV GFI (HR 1.09, CI 1.05-1.11) were associated with increased risk of CAO. In survival analysis, patients with RV GFI < 43% demonstrated decreased event-free survival and increased hazard of CAO compared to those with RV GFI ≥ 43%. In multivariable models, inclusion of GFI provided improved prediction of CAO compared to models incorporating ventricular volumes, mass or EF.

CONCLUSIONS

RV GFI was associated with CAO in this cohort, and inclusion in multivariable models had increased predictive value compared to RVEF. GFI uses readily available CMR data without additional post-processing and may provide additional prognostic value in pediatric PH patients beyond traditional CMR markers.

Aortic shape variation after frozen elephant trunk procedure predicts aortic events: Principal component analysis study

Objective

The frozen elephant trunk procedure is a well-established technique for the repair of type A ascending aortic dissection and complex aortic arch pathology. The ultimate shape created by the repair may have consequences in long-term complications. The purpose of this study was to apply a machine learning technique to comprehensively describe 3-dimensional aortic shape variations after the frozen elephant trunk procedure and associate these variations with aortic events.

Methods

Computed tomography angiography acquired before discharge of patients (n = 93) who underwent the frozen elephant trunk procedure for type A ascending aortic dissection or ascending aortic arch aneurysm was preprocessed to yield patient-specific aortic models and centerlines. Aortic centerlines were subjected to principal component analysis to describe principal components and aortic shape modulators. Patient-specific shape scores were correlated with outcomes defined by composite aortic event, including aortic rupture, aortic root dissection or pseudoaneurysm, new type B dissection, new thoracic or thoracoabdominal pathologies, residual descending aortic dissection with residual false lumen flow, or thoracic endovascular aortic repair complications.

Results

The first 3 principal components accounted for 36.4%, 26.4%, and 11.6% of aortic shape variance, respectively, and cumulatively for 74.5% of the total shape variation in all patients. The first principal component described variation in arch height-to-length ratio, the second principal component described angle at the isthmus, and the third principal component described variation in anterior-to-posterior arch tilt. Twenty-one aortic events (22.6%) were encountered. The degree of aortic angle at the isthmus described by the second principal component was associated with aortic events in logistic regression (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.97-0.99; P = .046).

Conclusions

The second principal component, describing angulation at the region of the aortic isthmus, was associated with adverse aortic events. Observed shape variation should be evaluated in the context of aortic biomechanical properties and flow hemodynamics.

Left Ventricular Dysfunction Following the Ross-Konno Reconstruction is Independent of the Operation

The Ross-Konno (RK) operation is a well-established surgical treatment for combined left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and aortic valve pathology in children. Prior study has demonstrated that mechanical and electrical dyssynchrony exist post-RK compared to normal controls. The purpose of this study was to evaluate myocardial function pre- and post-RK as defined by echocardiography. Patients undergoing the RK operation (n = 13; median age: 1.3 years; range: 0.5-13.3 years) were evaluated by echocardiography at defined timepoints: pre-RK, post-RK, 1-year post-RK, and 2 years post-RK. Defined parameters of left ventricular performance were analyzed: systolic mechanical dyssynchrony (M-Dys), global left ventricular circumferential strain (GCS), and diastolic relaxation fraction (DRF). Patients with post-operative atrioventricular block (n = 6) were analyzed separately. No pre- versus post-RK differences existed in M-Dys, GCS, or DRF in patients both with and without post-RK atrioventricular block. Further, 1- and 2-year follow-up post-RK demonstrated significant heterogeneity in evaluated parameters of function with no pre- and post-RK differences in M-Dys, GCS, or DRF. Mechanical dyssynchrony exists post-RK reconstruction in both short- and long-term follow-up yet these echocardiographic parameters of ventricular performance are independent of the RK operation. Further study is, therefore, warranted to define causal relationships for observed short- and long-term ventricular dysfunction post-RK as the findings of the present study suggest a deleterious mechanism apart from the technical RK reconstruction.

Bromocriptine Improves Central Aortic Stiffness in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: Arterial Health Results From the BCQR-T1D Study

BACKGROUND

The presence of vascular dysfunction is a well-recognized feature in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D), accentuating their lifetime risk of cardiovascular events. Therapeutic strategies to mitigate vascular dysfunction are a high clinical priority. In the bromocriptine quick release T1D study (BCQR-T1D), we tested the hypothesis that BCQR would improve vascular health in youth with T1D.

METHODS

BCQR-T1D was a placebo-controlled, random-order, double-blinded, cross-over study investigating the cardiovascular and metabolic impact of BCQR in T1D. Adolescents in the BCQR-T1D study were randomized 1:1 to phase-1: 4 weeks of BCQR or placebo after which blood pressure and central aortic stiffness measurements by pulse wave velocity, relative area change, and distensibility from phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging were performed. Following a 4-week washout period, phase 2 was performed in identical fashion with the alternate treatment.

RESULTS

Thirty-four adolescents (mean age 15.9±2.6 years, hemoglobin A1c 8.6±1.1%, body mass index percentile 71.4±26.1, median T1D duration 5.8 years) with T1D were enrolled and had magnetic resonance imaging data available. Compared with placebo, BCQR therapy decreased systolic (∆=-5 mmHg [95% CI, -3 to -7]; P<0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (∆=-2 mmHg [95% CI, -4 to 0]; P=0.039). BCQR reduced ascending aortic pulse wave velocity (∆=-0.4 m/s; P=0.018) and increased relative area change (∆=-2.6%, P=0.083) and distensibility (∆=0.08%/mmHg; P=0.017). In the thoraco-abdominal aorta, BCQR decreased pulse wave velocity (∆=-0.2 m/s; P=0.007) and increased distensibility (∆=0.05 %/mmHg; P=0.013).

CONCLUSIONS

BCQR improved blood pressure and central and peripheral aortic stiffness and pressure hemodynamics in adolescents with T1D over 4 weeks versus placebo. BCQR may improve aortic stiffness in youth with T1D, supporting future longer-term studies.

High-density electroanatomic mapping with grid catheter in pediatrics and congenital heart disease

BACKGROUND

The Advisor™ HD Grid mapping catheter (Abbott Laboratories; Chicago, IL) allows for bipolar electrogram collection in both orthogonal and perpendicular planes, unique when compared to traditional and branch catheters. Experience in pediatric patients and congenital heart disease (CHD) is limited. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the utility and safety of the Advisor™ HD Grid mapping catheter in pediatric and CHD populations.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all pediatric patients and those with CHD (regardless of age) at Children's Hospital Colorado and University of Colorado undergoing electrophysiologic study in which the Advisor™ HD Grid mapping catheter was utilized.

RESULTS

Sixty-five procedures in 60 patients (N = 31 female (47.6%), median age 17 years (15-24.1)) were included. Patients had CHD in 30 procedures (46.1%). Eight-eight arrhythmia substrates were mapped including atrial flutter/intra-atrial reentrant tachycardia (N = 33), focal atrial tachycardia (N = 20), isolated PVCs (N = 10), accessory pathways (N = 9), atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (N = 7), right ventricular substrate mapping (N = 7), and ventricular tachycardia (N = 2). Median time per map was 11.8 (7.5-20.1) min with 3.2 (± 1.7) maps per procedure and a median of 2634 (1767-7654) points used per map. Patients with CHD required more maps (p < 0.001) and points per map (p < 0.001). Ablation was successful in 92.4% of procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

The Advisor™ HD Grid mapping catheter is safe and effective in the pediatric and congenital heart disease population. A wide variety of arrhythmia substrates can be mapped with high point density and low mapping time.

Acute appendicitis following the COVID-19 vaccine

We report the case of a previously healthy 69-year-old female who developed appendicitis after receiving the third dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine; no other triggers were identified. We speculate that an association exists which may be mediated by colonic lymphoid hyperplasia, a condition that might be indicative of an enhanced immunological mucosal response to antigenic stimulation. As widespread vaccination coverage continues, it is crucial to monitor and accurately report the adverse reactions that may otherwise remain unidentified in vaccination trials. Therefore, we suggest that adults experiencing spontaneous, severe abdominal pain following COVID-19 vaccination may benefit from seeking emergent medical care. Likewise, providers should have a low threshold to consider and evaluate patients for appendicitis. If a true causal link is identified, the risk must also be deliberated in context with the millions of patients who have been safely vaccinated and the known morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 infection.

Impact of positive resection margins (R1) on long-term survival of patients with advanced diffuse type gastric cancer

Objective

Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Diffuse type GC have a much worse prognosis compared to intestinal type GC. There is an ongoing debate whether microscopic involvement of the proximal margin (R1 resection) influences overall survival (OS) in advanced gastric cancer.

The aim of this study was to assess OS in patients with diffuse gastric cancers and positive lymph node involvement who underwent oncological gastrectomy with R0 and R1 resections.

Methods

All consecutive patients from two tertiary centers operated with curative intent for diffuse gastric cancer between January 2005 and December 2018 were analyzed. Patients with R2 resections or missing data were excluded. Extracted data included demographics, major comorbidities, ASA score, neo-adjuvant treatment, pre- and postoperative staging (TNM 8th edition), postoperative complication with grading according to Clavien classification, survival data and pattern of recurrence. Lymph node involvement was based on pathology.

Kaplan-Meier curves with log-rank test for comparison were used to evaluate survival between groups.

Results

A total of 94 patients with diffuse gastric cancer were included. Two patients were excluded because of R2 resection and missing data regarding pathology, leaving a cohort of 92 patients (48 male, 44 female, median age 62 years). Sixty-four patients were lymph node positive (pN+); 48 patients (75%) with R0 resection and 16 patients (25%) with R1 resection. No difference in terms of preoperative data and intraoperative characteristics was found between R0 and R1 groups. Median OS was better in the R0 group (27 months, 95% CI 17–37) compared to R1 group (7 months, 95% CI 3–11, p&lt;0.001). Similar results were found with disease-free survival (DSF) (25 vs. 6 months, p=0.002).

On multivariable analysis, T stage and resection margin (R status) were independent factors predicting OS (T stage: HR 4.5, p&lt;0.001, R status: HR 4.2, p&lt;0.001) and DFS (T stage: HR 2.9, p=0.004, R status: HR 3.5, p=0.001) in the cohort of patients with lymph node involvement.

Conclusion

The present series confirmed that patients with negative surgical margins have better OS compared to patients with positive margins in case of locally advanced diffuse GC. Therefore, R0 resections should be the goal of oncological gastrectomies.

Repolarization Dispersion Is Associated With Diastolic Electromechanical Discoordination in Children With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Background

Electromechanical dyssynchrony is a well described comorbidity in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). ECG‐derived measurements reflective of diastolic dysfunction and electromechanical imaging markers are yet to be investigated. In this study we investigated the ECG‐ derived marker of repolarization dispersion, interval between the peak and end of T wave (TpTe), in pediatric patients with PAH and left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction.

Methods and Results

We measured TpTe from a standard 12‐lead ECG and in 30 children with PAH and matched control subjects. All participants underwent same‐day echocardiography and myocardial strain analysis to calculate the diastolic electromechanical discoordination marker diastolic relaxation fraction. When compared with control subjects, patients with PAH had increased TpTe (93±15 versus 81±12 ms, P=0.001) and elevated diastolic relaxation fraction (0.33±0.10 versus 0.27±0.03, P=0.001). Patients with PAH with LV diastolic dysfunction had significantly increased TpTe when compared with patients with PAH without diastolic dysfunction (P=0.012) and when compared with control group (P<0.001). Similarly, patients with PAH with LV diastolic dysfunction had increased diastolic relaxation fraction when compared with PAH patients without diastolic dysfunction (P=0.007) and when compared with control group (P<0.001). A 10‐ms increase in TpTe was significantly associated with 0.023 increase in diastolic relaxation fraction (P=0.008) adjusting for body surface area, heart rate, right ventricular volumes, and function.

Conclusions

Prolonged myocardial repolarization and abnormal LV diastolic electromechanical discoordination exist in parallel in children with PAH and are associated with worse LV diastolic function and functional class.

Experts' Perceived Patient Burden and Outcomes of Knee-ankle-foot-orthoses (Kafos) Vs. Microprocessor-stance-and-swing-phase-controlled-knee-ankle-foot Orthoses (Mp-sscos)

BACKGROUND

Patients with neuromuscular knee-instability assisted with orthotic devices experience problems including pain, falls, mobility issues and limited engagement in daily activities.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyse current real-life burden, needs and orthotic device outcomes in patients in need for advanced orthotic knee-ankle-foot-orthoses (KAFOs).

METHODOLOGY

An observer-based semi-structured telephone interview with orthotic care experts in Germany was applied. Interviews were transcribed and content-analysed. Quantitative questions were analysed descriptively.

FINDINGS

Clinical experts from eight centres which delivered an average of 49.9 KAFOs per year and 13.3 microprocessor-stance-and-swing-phase-controlled-knee-ankle-foot orthoses (MP-SSCOs) since product availability participated. Reported underlying conditions comprised incomplete paraplegia (18%), peripheral nerve lesions (20%), poliomyelitis (41%), post-traumatic lesions (8%) and other disorders (13%). The leading observed patient burdens were "restriction of mobility" (n=6), followed by "emotional strain" (n=5) and "impaired gait pattern" (n=4). Corresponding results for potential patient benefits were seen in "improved quality-of-life" (n=8) as well as "improved gait pattern" (n=8) followed by "high reliability of the orthosis" (n=7). In total, experts reported falls occurring in 71.5% of patients at a combined annual frequency of 7.0 fall events per year when using KAFOs or stance control orthoses (SCOs). In contrast, falls were observed in only 7.2 % of MPSSCO users.

CONCLUSION

Advanced orthotic technology might contribute to better quality of life of patients, improved gait pattern and perceived reliability of orthosis. In terms of safety a substantial decrease in frequency of falls was observed when comparing KAFO and MP-SSCO users.

Segmentation of the Aorta and Pulmonary Arteries Based on 4D Flow MRI in the Pediatric Setting Using Fully Automated Multi-Site, Multi-Vendor, and Multi-Label Dense U-Net

BACKGROUND

Automated segmentation using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been developed using four-dimensional (4D) flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To broaden usability for congenital heart disease (CHD), training with multi-institution data is necessary. However, the performance impact of heterogeneous multi-site and multi-vendor data on CNNs is unclear.

PURPOSE

To investigate multi-site CNN segmentation of 4D flow MRI for pediatric blood flow measurement.

STUDY TYPE

Retrospective.

POPULATION

A total of 174 subjects across two sites (female: 46%; N = 38 healthy controls, N = 136 CHD patients). Participants from site 1 (N = 100), site 2 (N = 74), and both sites (N = 174) were divided into subgroups to conduct 10-fold cross validation (10% for testing, 90% for training).

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3 T/1.5 T; retrospectively gated gradient recalled echo-based 4D flow MRI.

ASSESSMENT

Accuracy of the 3D CNN segmentations trained on data from single site (single-site CNNs) and data across both sites (multi-site CNN) were evaluated by geometrical similarity (Dice score, human segmentation as ground truth) and net flow quantification at the ascending aorta (Qs), main pulmonary artery (Qp), and their balance (Qp/Qs), between human observers, single-site and multi-site CNNs.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Kruskal-Wallis test, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and Bland-Altman analysis. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

No difference existed between single-site and multi-site CNNs for geometrical similarity in the aorta by Dice score (site 1: 0.916 vs. 0.915, P = 0.55; site 2: 0.906 vs. 0.904, P = 0.69) and for the pulmonary arteries (site 1: 0.894 vs. 0.895, P = 0.64; site 2: 0.870 vs. 0.869, P = 0.96). Qs site-1 medians were 51.0-51.3 mL/cycle (P = 0.81) and site-2 medians were 66.7-69.4 mL/cycle (P = 0.84). Qp site-1 medians were 46.8-48.0 mL/cycle (P = 0.97) and site-2 medians were 76.0-77.4 mL/cycle (P = 0.98). Qp/Qs site-1 medians were 0.87-0.88 (P = 0.97) and site-2 medians were 1.01-1.03 (P = 0.43). Bland-Altman analysis for flow quantification found equivalent performance.

DATA CONCLUSION

Multi-site CNN-based segmentation and blood flow measurement are feasible for pediatric 4D flow MRI and maintain performance of single-site CNNs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

Monitoring and evaluation of the surgical Potts shunt physiology using 4-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging

OBJECTIVE

The reversed Potts shunt is an increasingly applied mode of surgical palliation of severe pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, the long-term flow hemodynamic effect of the Potts shunt physiology and desirable long-term hemodynamic end points are not defined. The purpose of this descriptive study was to analyze a series of pediatric patients who underwent surgical Potts shunt as a part of end-stage PH palliation using 4-dimensional (4D)-flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to (1) quantitate the flow through the anastomosis, (2) correlate the shunting pattern with phases of cardiac cycle and PH comorbidities, and (3) describe chronologic changes in shunting pattern.

METHODS

This was a 2-center study evaluating 4 patients seen in the Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic at Children's Hospital Colorado who were evaluated and selected to undergo surgical reverse Potts shunt at Washington University School of Medicine and were serially followed using comprehensive imaging including cardiac MRI and 4D-flow MRI.

RESULTS

After the procedure, each child underwent 2 4D-flow MRI evaluations. Pulmonary pressure offload was evident in all patients, as demonstrated by positive systolic right-to-left flow across the Potts shunt. All patients experienced some degree of the flow reversal, which occurs primarily in diastole. Interventricular dyssynchrony further contributed to flow reversal across the Potts shunt. Lastly, systemic and pulmonary blood mixing in the descending aorta results in secondary helical flow persisting throughout the diastole.

CONCLUSIONS

4D-flow MRI demonstrates that children who have undergone a Potts shunt for severe PH can experience shunt flow reversal. Cumulatively, this left-to-right pulmonary shunt adds to right ventricular volume overload. We speculate that a valved conduit may decrease the left to right shunting and improve overall cardiac output.

Spigelian hernia: current approaches to surgical treatment-a review

BACKGROUND

Spigelian hernias (SpH) belong to the group of eponymous abdominal wall hernias. Major reasons for diagnostic difficulties are its low incidence reaching maximum 2% of abdominal wall hernias, a specific anatomical localization with intact external oblique aponeurosis covering the hernia sac and non-constant clinical presentation.

METHODS

A literature review was completed to summarize current knowledge on surgical treatment options and results.

RESULTS

SpH presents a high incarceration risk and therefore should be operated upon even if the patient is asymptomatic. Both laparoscopic and open repair approaches are validated by current guidelines with lesser postoperative complications and shorter hospital stay in favour of minimally invasive surgery, regardless of the technique used. Overall recurrence rate is very low.

CONCLUSION

All diagnosed SpH should be planned for elective operation to prevent strangulated hernia and, therefore emergency surgery. Both open and laparoscopic SpH treatment can be safely performed, depending on surgeon's experience. In most cases, a mesh repair is generally advised.

Abnormal aortic flow conduction is associated with increased viscous energy loss in patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot

OBJECTIVES

Aortopathy in tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is characterized by increased aortic stiffness, dilation and reduced left ventricular (LV) function. Repair in infancy normalizes aortic dimensions in early childhood. Our prior work demonstrated that early TOF repair does not normalize aortic compliance and that abnormal ascending aortic flow patterns are prevalent. The objectives of this study were to: (i) determine whether proximal aortic flow-mediated viscous energy loss (EL') is elevated in patients with early TOF repair compared with healthy controls, and (ii) determine whether the degree of EL' is associated with LV function.

METHODS

Forty-one patients post TOF repair with normalized aortic size and 15 healthy controls underwent 4-dimenisonal-flow magnetic resonance imaging flow analysis and EL' assessment. Correlations between EL', aortic size, and LV function were assessed.

RESULTS

The TOF group had increased peak systolic thoracic aorta EL' (3.8 vs 1.5 mW, P = 0.004) and increased averaged EL' throughout the cardiac cycle (1.2 vs 0.5 mW, P = 0.003). Peak and mean systolic EL' in the ascending aorta was increased 2-fold in the TOF group compared with control (peak: 2.0 vs 0.9 mW, P = 0.007). Peak EL' measured along the entire thoracic aortic length correlated with LV ejection fraction (R = -0.45, P = 0.009), indexed LV end-systolic volume (R = -0.40, P = 0.010), and right ventricular end-systolic volume (R = -0.37, P = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with repaired TOF exhibit abnormal aortic flow associated with increased EL' in the thoracic aorta. The magnitude of EL' is associated with LV function and volumes. Increased aortic EL' in TOF is likely due to inherently abnormal LV outflow geometry and or right ventricular interaction. Reduced aortic flow efficiency in TOF increases cardiac work and may be an important factor in long-term cardiac performance.

Metalloproteinases and their inhibitors are associated with pulmonary arterial stiffness and ventricular function in pediatric pulmonary hypertension

Disturbed balance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their respective tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) is a well-recognized pathophysiological component of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Both classes of proteinases have been associated with clinical outcomes as well as with specific pathological features of ventricular dysfunction and pulmonary arterial remodeling. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the circulating levels of MMPs and TIMPs in children with PAH undergoing the same-day cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and right heart catheterization. Children with PAH (n = 21) underwent a same-day catheterization, comprehensive cardiac MRI evaluation, and blood sample collection for proteomic analysis. Correlative analysis was performed between protein levels and 1) standard PAH indices from catheterization, 2) cardiac MRI hemodynamics, and 3) pulmonary arterial stiffness. MMP-8 was significantly associated with the right ventricular end-diastolic volume (R = 0.45, P = 0.04). MMP-9 levels were significantly associated with stroke volume (R = -0.49, P = 0.03) and pulmonary vascular resistance (R = 0.49, P = 0.03). MMP-9 was further associated with main pulmonary arterial stiffness evaluated by relative area change (R = -0.79, P < 0.01).TIMP-2 and TIMP-4 levels were further associated with the right pulmonary artery pulse wave velocity (R = 0.51, P = 0.03) and backward compression wave (R = 0.52, P = 0.02), respectively. MMPs and TIMPs warrant further clinically prognostic evaluation in conjunction with the conventional cardiac MRI hemodynamic indices.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Metalloproteinases have been associated with clinical outcomes in pulmonary hypertension and with specific pathological features of ventricular dysfunction and pulmonary arterial remodeling. In this study, we demonstrated that plasma circulating levels of metalloproteinases and their inhibitors are associated with standard cardiac MRI hemodynamic indices and with the markers of proximal pulmonary arterial stiffness. Particularly, MMP-9 and TIMP-2 were associated with several different markers of pulmonary arterial stiffness. These findings suggest the interplay between the extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and overall hemodynamic status in children with PAH might be assessed using the peripheral circulating MMP and TIMP levels.

Multimodal management of gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma: Which type of neoadjuvant treatment?

Objective

The current treatment for locally advanced gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma consists of neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) followed by surgery. Preoperative chemotherapy (CT) and radio-chemotherapy (RCT) are both valid options, but comparative data for their efficacy remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of RCT and CT to achieve a complete pathologic response (CPR) for locally advanced GEJ adenocarcinoma. Secondary endpoints were R0 resection rates, postoperative complications, long-term survival and recurrence.

Methods

All consecutive patients with locally advanced GEJ adenocarcinoma treated with CT or RCT and oncologic resection from 2009 to 2018 were included. A CPR was defined with the Mandard tumor regression score. Standard statistical tests were used as appropriate. Overall and disease-free survival were compared with the Kaplan Meier method and log-rank test. Multivariate analysis was performed to define independent predictors of CPR, and long-term survival.

Results

Among the 94 patients (84%male, median age 62 years [IQR 9.7]), 67 (71.3%) received preoperative RCT and 27 (28.7%) CT. Patient’s characteristics and pretreatment tumor stages were comparable. Surgical approach was thoracoabdominal Lewis resection in 95.5% RCT and 81.5% CT patients (P = 0.085). CPR was more frequent in the RCT than the CT group (13.4% vs 7.4%, P = 0.009), but R0 resection rates were similar (72.1% vs 66.7%, P = 0.628). There was a trend to higher ypN0 stage in the RCT group (55.2% vs 33.3%; P = 0.057). Postoperatively, RCT patients presented more cardiovascular complications (35.8% vs 11.1%; P = 0.017), although overall morbidity was similar (68.6% vs 62.9%, P = 0.988). 5-year overall survival was comparable (61.1% RCT vs 75.7% CT, P = 0.259), as was 5-year disease-free survival (33.5% RCT vs 22.8% CT, P = 0.763). Isolated loco-regional recurrence occurred in 2.9% RCT vs 3.7% CT patients (P = 0.976). NAT type was not an independent predictor for complete pathologic response nor long-term survival in the multivariate analysis. Median follow-up was 30 months [95%CI 21.3-38.8] for all patients.

Conclusion

Patients with locally advanced GEJ adenocarcinoma demonstrated higher rates of CPR after RCT than CT, and a trend to a better lymph node sterilization, although this did not translate in a significant survival benefit or decreased recurrence rate.

Preoperative hiatal hernia in oesophageal adenocarcinoma: An impact on patient outcomes?

Objective

Uncontrolled gastroesophageal reflux and the often-associated hiatal hernia (HH) are frequently encountered in oesophageal adenocarcinoma patients. Previous data suggest unfavourable long-term oncologic outcomes in the presence of a HH, but the evidence remains scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the potential impact of preoperative HH on histologic response after neoadjuvant treatment (NAT), as well as on overall and disease-free survival.

Methods

All patients operated for an adenocarcinoma of the oesophagus or gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) between 2012-2018 were assessed. Baseline endoscopy and CT-scan images were retrospectively reviewed to identify the presence of a clinically significant HH (≥3cm). Response to neoadjuvant treatment (Mandard TRG grade), postoperative outcomes and survival were compared between HH and non-HH patients. Categorical variables were compared with the x2 or Fisher’s test, whereas continuous ones with the Mann-Whitney-U test. Survival analyses were performed with the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test.

Results

Overall, 101 patients were included (84.1% male, median age 63 years); among them, 33 (32.7%) had a HH ≥ 3cm at diagnosis of oesophageal cancer. There were no significant baseline differences in demographics and tumour stages between the two groups. NAT was used in 80.9% of non-HH versus 81.8% HH patients (P = 0.910), most often chemoradiation (57.3% in non-HH versus 63.6% in HH patients, P = 0.423). Surgical approach and postoperative complication rates were similar in all patients. Good response to NAT (TRG 1-2) was observed in 32.3% of non-HH, versus 33.3% of HH patients (P = 0.297), whereas R0 resection was achieved in 94.1% vs 90.9% of patients respectively (P = 0.551). Overall survival was comparable between HH (median 28 mo, 95%CI 22-NA) and non-HH patients (median 41mo, 95% CI 29-NA) (P = 0.605). Disease-free survival was also similar (median 18 mo, 95%CI 12-NA for HH, vs 34mo, 95%CI 14-NA for non-HH patients, P = 0.283), although HH patients experienced higher rates of distant (51.6% vs 29.2% for non-HH, P = 0.033), but not locoregional recurrence.

Conclusion

A clinically significant HH is encountered in almost a third of patients with oesophageal adenocarcinoma. However, in our study, it was not associated with a worse response to NAT, nor did it lead to a worse overall and disease-free survival.

External validation of three nomograms predicting survival using an international cohort of patients with resected pancreatic head ductal adenocarcinoma

Objective

Lymph node ratio (LNR, positive lymph nodes/collected lymph nodes during surgery) was identified as an important prognostic factor of survival in resected pancreatic cancer. Several nomograms based on LNR were recently proposed to predict survival after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). The present study aimed to externally validate 3 published nomograms using an international cohort.

Methods

Consecutive patients with ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head who underwent PD without neoadjuvant treatment from 6 tertiary centers in Europe and the USA were retrospectively collected from 2000 to 2017. Patients with metastases at diagnosis, R2 resection, missing data regarding LNR, and who died within 90 postoperative days were excluded. The 3 selected nomograms were the updated Amsterdam nomogram (including LNR, adjuvant therapy, margin status, and tumor grade), the nomogram by Pu et al. (including LNR, age, tumor grade, and T stage) and the nomogram by Li et al. (including LNR, age, tumor location, grade, size, and TNM stage). Overall survivals (OS) were calculated using Kaplan-Meier method. For the validation, calibration (Hosmer-Lemeshow test), discrimination capacity (ROC curves for 3-year OS), and clinical utility (sensitivity and specificity at the value of Youden index) were assessed.

Results

After exclusion of 95 patients with metastases, R2 resection, and who died within 90 postoperative days, 1167 patients were included. Median OS of the entire cohort was 23 months (95% confidence interval: 21-24).

For the 3 nomograms, Kaplan-Meier curves showed significant diminution of OS with increasing scores (p &lt; 0.01 for the 3 nomograms). All nomograms showed good calibration (non significant Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit tests). For the updated Amsterdam nomogram, the area under the ROC curve (AUROC) for 3-year OS was 0.66. Sensitivity and specificity were 73% and 50%. Regarding the nomogram by Pu et al., the AUROC was 0.67. Sensitivity and specificity were 65% and 60%. For the nomogram by Li et al., the AUROC was 0.67, while sensitivity and specificity were 56% and 71%.

Conclusion

The 3 selected nomograms were validated using an external international cohort and displayed interesting and comparable predictive values. Those nomograms may be used in clinical practice to estimate survival after PD for ductal adenocarcinoma.

Serum copeptin and NT-proBNP is associated with central aortic stiffness and flow hemodynamics in adolescents with type 1 diabetes: A pilot study

AIMS

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of mortality in type 1 diabetes (T1D). Biomarkers, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and copeptin have been linked with measures of CVD, but their relationship in adolescents with T1D remains incompletely understood. Accordingly, we examined the associations between NT-proBNP and copeptin and hemodynamic markers of central aortic stiffness in adolescents with T1D.

METHODS

In this pilot study, forty-nine pubertal adolescents with T1D (mean age 17 ± 2 years, median [Q1-Q3] Tanner Stage 5 [5, 5] and HbA1c 8.5 ± 1.5%), from the EMERALD study, were assessed for copeptin and NT-proBNP, and indices of central aortic stiffness non-invasively assessed by MRI. Pearson correlations and generalized linear regression models, adjusting for confounders, were applied to examine the relationships between biomarkers and vascular measures.

RESULTS

Copeptin correlated independently with both ascending aortic (AA) (β ± SE: -4.28 ± 1.87, p = 0.03) and descending aortic (DA) relative area change (RAC) (-3.41 ± 1.55, p = 0.04). NT-proBNP was independently associated with DA time-averaged wall shear stress (WSS_TA) (0.87 ± 0.25, p = 0.001) and DA maximum wall shear stress (WSS_max) (2.45 ± 1.00, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum copeptin and NT-proBNP may be associated with central aortic stiffness and elevated WSS in youth with T1D, potentially offering a non-invasive way to identify and monitor the development of early CVD in an at-risk population.

Short-Term Effects of Inhaled Nitric Oxide on Right Ventricular Flow Hemodynamics by 4-Dimensional-Flow Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Children With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) manifests with progressive right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, which eventually impairs the left ventricular function. We hypothesized that 4‐dimensional–flow magnetic resonance imaging can detect flow hemodynamic changes associated with efficient intracardiac flow during noninvasive inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) challenge in children with PAH.

Methods and Results

Children with PAH (n=10) underwent 2 same‐day separate iNO challenge tests using: (1) 4‐dimensional–flow magnetic resonance imaging and (2) standard catheterization hemodynamics. Intracardiac flow was evaluated using the particle tracking 4‐flow component analysis technique evaluating the direct flow, retained inflow, delayed ejection flow, and residual volume. Respective flow hemodynamic changes were compared with the corresponding catheterization iNO challenge results. The RV analysis revealed decreased direct flow in patients with PAH when compared with controls (P<0.001) and increase in residual volume (P<0.001). Similarly, the left ventricular analysis revealed decreased direct flow in patients with PAH when compared with controls (P=0.004) and increased proportion of the residual volume (P=0.014). There was an increase in the RV direct flow during iNO delivery (P=0.009), with parallel decrease in the residual volume (P=0.008).

Conclusions

Children with PAH have abnormal biventricular flow associated with impaired diastolic filling. The flow efficiency is significantly improved in the RV on iNO administration with no change in the left ventricle. The changes in the RV flow have occurred despite the minimal change in catheterization hemodynamics, suggesting that flow hemodynamic evaluation might provide more quantitative insights into vasoreactivity testing in PAH.

Impact of Obesity on Measures of Cardiovascular and Kidney Health in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes as Compared With Youth With Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance and obesity are independently associated with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and are known risk factors for cardiovascular and kidney diseases, the leading causes of death in T1D. We evaluated the effect of BMI on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in youth with T1D versus control youth with normal weight or obesity and youth with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Pubertal youth (n = 284) aged 12-21 years underwent assessments of resting heart rate (RHR), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), leptin, hs-CRP, adiponectin, ratio of urine albumin to creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Participants with T1D underwent bicycle ergometry for VO₂peak, monitoring for peripheral brachial artery distensibility (BAD), endothelial function testing for reactive hyperemic index, and aortic MRI for central arterial stiffness or shear.

RESULTS

In adolescents with T1D, RHR, SBP, DBP, mean arterial pressure, leptin, hs-CRP, and hypertension prevalence were significantly higher, and BAD, descending aorta pulse wave velocity, and VO₂peak lower with an obese versus normal BMI. Although hypertension prevalence and RHR were highest in obese adolescents with T1D and adiponectin lowest in youth with T2D, other measures were similar between obese adolescents with T1D and those with T2D.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity, now increasingly prevalent in people with T1D, correlates with a less favorable cardiovascular and kidney risk profile, nearly approximating the phenotype of youth with T2D. Focused lifestyle management in youth-onset T1D is critically needed to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Development of phantom materials with independently adjustable CT- and MR-contrast at 0.35, 1.5 and 3 T

Quality assurance in magnetic resonance (MR)-guided radiotherapy lacks anthropomorphic phantoms that represent tissue-equivalent imaging contrast in both computed tomography (CT) and MR imaging. In this study, we developed phantom materials with individually adjustable CT value as well as [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-relaxation times in MR imaging at three different magnetic field strengths. Additionally, their experimental stopping power ratio (SPR) for carbon ions was compared with predictions based on single- and dual-energy CT. Ni-DTPA doped agarose gels were used for individual adjustment of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] at [Formula: see text] and 3.0 T. The CT value was varied by adding potassium chloride (KCl). By multiple linear regression, equations for the determination of agarose, Ni-DTPA and KCl concentrations for given [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] and CT values were derived and employed to produce nine specific soft tissue samples. Experimental [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] and CT values of these soft tissue samples were compared with predictions and additionally, carbon ion SPR obtained by range measurements were compared with predictions based on single- and dual-energy CT. The measured CT value, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] of the produced soft tissue samples agreed very well with predictions based on the derived equations with mean deviations of less than [Formula: see text] While single-energy CT overestimates the measured SPR of the soft tissue samples, the dual-energy CT-based predictions showed a mean SPR deviation of only [Formula: see text] To conclude, anthropomorphic phantom materials with independently adjustable CT values as well as [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] relaxation times at three different magnetic field strengths were developed. The derived equations describe the material specific relaxation times and the CT value in dependence on agarose, Ni-DTPA and KCl concentrations as well as the chemical composition of the materials based on given [Formula: see text] and CT value. Dual-energy CT allows accurate prediction of the carbon ion range in these materials.

Longitudinal assessment of right atrial conduit fraction provides additional insight to predict adverse events in pediatric pulmonary hypertension

BACKGROUND

Recent studies show adverse right atrial (RA) emptying pattern is prognostic for clinical worsening events in pediatric pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). No study has reported changes in RA emptying over time or evaluated whether serial measurements offer further prognostic information.

METHODS

Prospective study of 32 children with idiopathic or heritable PAH undergoing echocardiogram at baseline and 1-year. RA conduit fraction percent (RA cF%) was measured as percentage of total diastolic RA area change prior to the electrical p wave. Clinical worsening was analyzed with a predefined composite adverse event outcome.

RESULTS

Longitudinal subjects (median age 13.3 yr) had RA cF% 61% (IQR 32-68%) at baseline and 60% (IQR 35-73%) at 1-year (NS). 11 subjects had a qualifying event during median 21-month follow-up. Subjects with an event had 1-year RA cF% = 33% (IQR 20-40%) compared to 72% (IQR 63-75%) for those with no event (p < 0.001). Event rates were lowest for subjects with both echocardiograms showing RA cF% > 60% (0%), highest for subjects with neither (80%), and intermediate for those with one (38%, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in RA cF% inform risk of adverse events in pediatric PAH. This finding supports the role of RA cF% as both a prognostic biomarker and potential treatment target.

Increased Aortic Stiffness and Left Ventricular Dysfunction Exist After Truncus Arteriosus Repair

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine whether aortic biomechanical properties are abnormal in children with repaired truncus arteriosus (TA) and to concurrently evaluate left ventricular (LV) function post-repair utilizing a novel platform for regional ventricular function.

METHODS

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) studies from 26 children (mean age: 15.6 ± 7.2 years) post-TA repair were compared with 20 normal controls (mean age: 14.7 ± 2.6 years). Parameters of aortic stiffness (pulse wave velocity and relative area change) were measured. Flow hemodynamic metrics (aortic regurgitant fraction, peak systolic flow, and peak systolic velocity) and LV function (volumetric data, ejection fraction, regional wall strain) were also compared.

RESULTS

Ascending aortic pulse wave velocity was elevated and relative area change was decreased in TA patients compared with controls. Patients post-TA repair demonstrated elevated end diastolic and end systolic volumes in addition to decreased regional wall strain and increased mechanical dyssynchrony. LV functional changes were independent of aortic biomechanical properties.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with repaired TA have increased ascending aortic stiffness and altered LV function as measured by CMR imaging. Longitudinal studies and advanced CMR assessments are warranted to better determine the long-term potential for late aortic complications and to optimize both the medical and surgical management of these patients after TA repair.

Cardiovascular disease in young People with Type 1 Diabetes: Search for Cardiovascular Biomarkers

Premature onset of cardiovascular disease is common in people with type 1 diabetes and is relatively understudied in youth. Several reports in adolescents and young adults with diabetes demonstrate evidence of arterial stiffness and cardiac dysfunction, yet critical gaps exist in our current understanding of the temporal progression of cardiac and vascular dysfunction in these youth, and mechanistic investigations with robust pathophysiologic assessment are lacking. This review attempts to summarize relevant cardiovascular studies concerning children, adolescents, and young adults with type 1 diabetes. We focus on imaging-based biomarkers routinely applied to youth and adults that are well-established in their ability to predict adjudicated cardiovascular outcomes, and their relevant physiologic interpretation. Particularly, we focus the attention to 1) cardiac ventricular strain imaging techniques which are known to be predictive of clinical outcomes in patients with heterogenous causes of heart failure, and 2) stiffness in large arteries, a well-established prognostic marker of cardiovascular events. We conclude that there remains an urgent need for sensitive and quantitative biomarkers to define the natural history of cardiac and vascular disease origination and progression in type 1 diabetes, and set the stage for interpreting interventional studies focused on preventing, reversing or slowing disease progression.

Experimentelle Forschung an der Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie

Seit Antritt von Prof. Dr. med. Steffen Emmert als Ordinarius der Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie im Jahr 2015 konnte das dermatologische Forschungslabor sukzessive aufgebaut und erweitert werden. Im Einklang mit dem onkologischen Schwerpunkt der Universitätsmedizin Rostock sowie dem von der Landesregierung forcierten „Gesundheitsland Mecklenburg-Vorpommern“ wird grundlagenorientierten und translationalen Projekten nachgegangen. Das vorwiegend drittmittelfinanzierte und stetig wachsende Forschungsteam bearbeitet diverse Fragestellungen in den Bereichen der Dermato-Onkologie, Plasmamedizin und seltenen Hauterkrankungen. Inzwischen auf einem soliden Fundament stehend, befindet sich der Forschungsbereich weiterhin in einem dynamischen Entwicklungsprozess. Nicht nur personell, sondern auch thematisch und methodisch wird er derzeit durch die Integration weiterer Arbeitsgruppen unter der Leitung von Ärzten aus der Klinik ergänzt und ausgebaut. Diverse Kollaborationen an der Universitätsmedizin Rostock und im Land zeugen von einem freundlichen, unterstützenden und kollegialen Umfeld, das die Integration am Standort befördert hat.

Patients with Fontan circulation have abnormal aortic wave propagation patterns: A wave intensity analysis study

BACKGROUND

Elevated systemic afterload in patients with Fontan circulation may lead to impaired single ventricular function. Wave intensity analysis (WIA) enables evaluation of compression and expansion waves traveling through vasculature. We aimed to investigate the unfavorable wave propagation causing excessive afterload may be an important contributor to the overall single ventricle function and to the limited functional capacity in this patient population.

METHODS

Patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) (n = 25), single left ventricle (SLV) (n = 24), and normal controls (n = 10) underwent phase-contrast MRI based WIA analysis evaluated in the ascending aorta. Forward compression wave (FCW) representing dP/dt, backward compression wave (BCW) reflecting vascular stiffness, and forward decompression wave (FDW) representing LV relaxation were recorded and indexed to each other.

RESULTS

FCW was lowest in HLHS patients (1098 mm⁵/s), and higher in the SLV group (1457 mm5/s), and controls (6457 mm5/s) (P < 0.001). BCW/FCW was increased in HLHS (0.22) and SLV (0.14) groups compared to controls (0.08) (P = 0.003). Peak VO2 correlated with FCW (R = 0.50, P = 0.015), stroke volume (R = 0.72, P < 0.001), and cardiac output (R = 0.44, P = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HLHS and SLV have unfavorable aortic WIA patterns with increased BCW/FCW ratio indicating increased systemic afterload due to retrograde compression waves. Reduced FCW and systolic MRI indices correlated with peak VO2 suggesting that abnormal systolic wave propagation may play a role in exercise intolerance for Fontan patients.

Frequency of Reduced Left Ventricular Contractile Efficiency and Discoordinated Myocardial Relaxation in Patients Aged 16 to 21 Years With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (from the Emerald Study)

Early-onset cardiomyopathy is a major concern for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). Studies examining myocardial deformation indices early in the disease process in people with have provided conflicting results. Accordingly, the objective was to examine left ventricular (LV) function in adolescents with type 1 DM using novel measures of cardiomyopathy, termed ventricular discoordination indices, including systolic stretch fraction (SSF), and our newly developed diastolic relaxation fraction (DRF). Adolescents with DM (n = 16) and healthy controls (n = 20) underwent cardiac MRI (CMR) tissue tracking analysis for standard volumetric and functional analysis. Segment-specific circumferential strain and strain rate indices were evaluated to calculate standard mechanical dyssynchrony and discoordination. SSF and DRF were calculated from strain rate data. There were no global or regional group differences between participants with DM and controls in standard LV strain mechanics. However, youth with DM had lower diastolic strain rate around the inferior septal and free wall region (all p <0.05) as well as higher SSF (p = 0.03) and DRF (p <0.001) compared with controls. None of the CMR indices correlated with HbA1c or diabetes duration. In conclusion, our results suggest that adolescents with DM have LV systolic and diastolic discoordination, providing early evidence of cardiomyopathy despite their young age. The presence of discoordination in the setting of normal LV size and function suggests that the proposed novel discoordination indices could serve as a more sensitive marker of cardiomyopathy than previously employed mechanical deformation indices.