[Intravesical oxybutynin treatment for neurogenic detrusor overactivity : Efficacy and safety data from clinical practice with the first intravesical oxybutynin treatment authorized in Germany]

Existing therapies for neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO), i.e. oral anticholinergics and botulinum toxin injections, can be associated with serious adverse effects or are not always sufficiently effective. Therefore, there is a need for alternative safe and effective treatment options for NDO. Intravesical oxybutynin has been successfully used for several years as a prescription drug in adults and children with spinal cord injury and spina bifida. In 2019, VESOXX® (FARCO-PHARMA, Cologne, Germany) became the first registered intravesical oxybutynin product in Germany, which is indicated for the suppression of neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) in children from 6 years of age and adults, who are managing bladder emptying by clean intermittent catheterisation (CIC), if they cannot be adequately managed by oral anticholinergic treatment due to lack of efficacy and/or intolerable side effects. Overall, there are limited data regarding therapy with intravesical oxybutynin, with the majority of publications being retrospective case series. To date, there are limited data on the efficacy and safety of the newly approved intravesical oxybutynin therapy (VESOXX®) in NDO patients. This noninterventional case series from daily routine treatment which evaluated the physician reports of 38 patients suggests that intravesical oxybutynin effectively improves maximum detrusor pressure (Pdet max) by decreasing it by 59% from 51.94 cm H2O ± 26.12 standard deviation (SD) to 21.07 cm H2O ± 17.32 SD (P < 0.001, n = 34). Maximum bladder pressure (MBC) increased by 34% from 260.45 ml ± 200.26 SD to 348.45 ml ± 175.90 SD. Positive or similar effects compared to previous therapies were seen in bladder morphology, number of incontinence episodes, urinary tract infections and adverse drug effects. This case series demonstrates that intravesical oxybutynin is an important addition to current therapies for the treatment of NDO and it is also efficacious in the rare setting of other underlying diseases beyond spinal cord injury or spina bifida. The approved intravesical oxybutynin preparation VESOXX® may be a useful alternative for patients who do not respond to other therapies or suffered side effects.

Mitral Annular Disjunction in Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation Patients: Just a Bystander or a Potential Cause?

AIMS

Previously, we demonstrated that inferolateral mitral annular disjunction (MAD) is more prevalent in patients with idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) than in healthy controls. In the present study, we advanced the insights into the prevalence and ventricular arrhythmogenicity by inferolateral MAD in an even larger IVF cohort.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This retrospective multicentre study included 185 IVF patients (median age 39 [27, 52] years, 40% female). Cardiac magnetic resonance images were analysed for mitral valve and annular abnormalities and late gadolinium enhancement. Clinical characteristics were compared between patients with and without MAD. MAD in any of the 4 locations was present in 112 (61%) IVF patients and inferolateral MAD was identified in 24 (13%) IVF patients. Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) was found in 13 (7%) IVF patients. MVP was more prevalent in patients with inferolateral MAD compared with patients without inferolateral MAD(42% vs. 2%, p < 0.001). Proarrhythmic characteristics in terms of a high burden of premature ventricular complexes (PVC) and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT) were more prevalent in patients with inferolateral MAD compared to patients without inferolateral MAD (67% vs. 23%, p < 0.001 and 63% vs 41%, p = 0.046, respectively). Appropriate implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy during follow-up was comparable for IVF patients with or without inferolateral MAD (13% vs. 18%, p = 0.579).

CONCLUSION

A high prevalence of inferolateral MAD and MVP is a consistent finding in this large IVF cohort. The presence of inferolateral MAD is associated with a higher PVC burden and non-sustained VTs. Further research is needed to explain this potential interplay.

Cardiac [99mTc]Tc-hydroxydiphosphonate uptake on bone scintigraphy in patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis: an early follow-up marker?

PURPOSE

There is a need for early quantitative markers of potential treatment response in patients with hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv) amyloidosis to guide therapy. This study aims to evaluate changes in cardiac tracer uptake on bone scintigraphy in ATTRv amyloidosis patients on different treatments.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, outcomes of 20 patients treated with the transthyretin (TTR) gene silencer patisiran were compared to 12 patients treated with a TTR-stabilizer. Changes in NYHA class, cardiac biomarkers in serum, wall thickness, and diastolic parameters on echocardiography and NYHA class during treatment were evaluated.

RESULTS

Median heart/whole-body (H/WB) ratio on bone scintigraphy decreased from 4.84 [4.00 to 5.31] to 4.16 [3.66 to 4.81] (p < .001) in patients treated with patisiran for 29 [15-34] months. No changes in the other follow-up parameters were observed. In patients treated with a TTR-stabilizer for 24 [20 to 30] months, H/WB ratio increased from 4.46 [3.24 to 5.13] to 4.96 [ 3.39 to 5.80] (p = .010), and troponin T increased from 19.5 [9.3 to 34.0] ng/L to 20.0 [11.8 to 47.8] ng/L (p = .025). All other parameters did not change during treatment with a TTR-stabilizer.

CONCLUSION

A change in cardiac tracer uptake on bone scintigraphy may be an early marker of treatment-specific response or disease progression in ATTRv amyloidosis patients.

A Toolkit for Monitoring Immunoglobulin G Levels from Dried Blood Spots of Patients with Primary Immunodeficiencies

PURPOSE

This study assessed whether measuring immunoglobulin G (IgG) from dried blood spots (DBSs) using nephelometry is a suitable remote monitoring method for patients with primary immunodeficiencies (PID).

METHODS

Patients receiving immunoglobulin replacement therapy for PID were included in this non-interventional single-arm study (DRKS-ID: DRKS00020522) conducted in Germany from December 4, 2019, to December 22, 2020. Three blood samples, two capillary DBSs (one mail-transferred and the other direct-transferred to the laboratory), and one intravenous were collected from each patient. IgG levels were determined using nephelometry. IgG levels were summarized descriptively, and significant differences were assessed using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank tests. Correlation and agreement between IgG levels were assessed using Spearman correlation and Bland-Altman analyses, respectively.

RESULTS

Among 135 included patients, IgG levels measured from DBS samples were lower than those measured in serum (p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between IgG levels in direct- and mail-transferred DBS samples. There was a high degree of correlation between IgG levels in serum samples and DBS samples (r = 0.94-0.95). Although there was a bias for higher levels of IgG in serum than in DBS samples, most samples were within the 95% interval of agreement. There was a high degree of correlation between IgG levels measured in direct- and mail-transferred DBS samples (r = 0.96) with no bias based on the shipment process and most samples within the 95% interval of agreement.

CONCLUSION

Monitoring IgG levels from DBS samples is a suitable alternative to the standard method, and results are not substantially affected by mailing DBS cards.

Addition of FFRct in the diagnostic pathway of patients with stable chest pain to reduce unnecessary invasive coronary angiography (FUSION) : Rationale and design for the multicentre, randomised, controlled FUSION trial

BACKGROUND

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is widely used in the diagnostic work-up of patients with stable chest pain. CCTA has an excellent negative predictive value, but a moderate positive predictive value for detecting coronary stenosis. Computed tomography-derived fractional flow reserve (FFRct) is a non-invasive, well-validated technique that provides functional assessment of coronary stenosis, improving the positive predictive value of CCTA. However, to determine the value of FFRct in routine clinical practice, a pragmatic randomised, controlled trial (RCT) is required. We will conduct an RCT to investigate the impact of adding FFRct analysis in the diagnostic pathway of patients with a coronary stenosis on CCTA on the rate of unnecessary invasive coronary angiography, cost-effectiveness, quality of life and clinical outcome.

METHODS

The FUSION trial is a prospective, multicentre RCT that will randomise 528 patients with stable chest pain and anatomical stenosis of ≥ 50% but < 90% in at least one coronary artery of ≥ 2 mm on CCTA, to FFRct-guided care or usual care in a 1:1 ratio. Follow-up will be 1 year. The primary endpoint is the rate of unnecessary invasive coronary angiography within 90 days.

CONCLUSION

The FUSION trial will evaluate the use of FFRct in stable chest pain patients from the Dutch perspective. The trial is funded by the Dutch National Health Care Institute as part of the research programme 'Potentially Promising Care' and the results will be used to assess if FFRct reimbursement should be included in the standard health care package.

Fetal MRI of the heart and brain in congenital heart disease

Antenatal assessment of congenital heart disease and associated anomalies by ultrasound has improved perinatal care. Fetal cardiovascular MRI and fetal brain MRI are rapidly evolving for fetal diagnostic testing of congenital heart disease. We give an overview on the use of fetal cardiovascular MRI and fetal brain MRI in congenital heart disease, focusing on the current applications and diagnostic yield of structural and functional imaging during pregnancy. Fetal cardiovascular MRI in congenital heart disease is a promising supplementary imaging method to echocardiography for the diagnosis of antenatal congenital heart disease in weeks 30-40 of pregnancy. Concomitant fetal brain MRI is superior to brain ultrasound to show the complex relationship between fetal haemodynamics in congenital heart disease and brain development.

Long term outcomes of congenital aortic stenosis in adults: preliminary results of a multicentre study

Background

Congenital aortic stenosis (ConAoS) accounts for 4–8% of all congenital cardiac diagnosis and is associated with important morbidity and mortality. However, little is known about the natural history of ConAoS in adult patients. We aim to evaluate disease progression of ConAoS in young adults, describing both ventricular and valvular characteristics.

Methods

For this retrospective multicentre cohort study, data of one centre is collected up till now. We included ConAoS patients with a valvular stenosis (Vmax ≥2.5 m/s) aged 18–55 years from the Dutch CONCOR national registry from 2001 until 2019, excluding patients with prior aortic valve replacement (AVR) or severe aortic regurgitation. Echocardiographic data was used to determine presence of left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (LV mass index &gt;115 g/m2 in males and &gt;95 g/m2 in females) and measure aortic jet velocity.

Results

A total of 92 patients (64% male, median age 24 years) were included with a median follow-up duration of 6.3 years (IQR 2.9–13.3). The median aortic jet velocity was 3.3 m/s (IQR 2.7–3.9) at baseline and significantly increased over time to 3.6 m/s (IQR 2.8–4.3) (p&lt;0.001). LV hypertrophy was present in 33% of the patients and 17% of the patients showed signs of concentric remodelling at baseline. AVR was performed in 32 patients (35%, mean age 36±11 years) and one patient died during follow-up. Figure 1 shows significant differences in intervention-free survival for different AS severity groups (p&lt;0.001) and presence of LV hypertrophy (p=0.02).

Conclusion

Although the progression rate of ConAoS seems to be slow, it is often necessary to perform AVR at a relatively young age. After data collection is completed, this study will enable us to identify risk factors for rapid disease progression and further improve current treatment protocols.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Dutch Heart Foundation, Hartekind

Phenotypic variability of FLNC-related cardiomyopathy: insights from a novel Dutch founder variant

Background

Truncating variants in filamin C (encoded by the FLNC gene) are an important cause of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Recently, a new pathogenic FLNC variant c.6864_6867dup, p.(Val2290Argfs*23) was identified in a number of families with DCM in the south of the Netherlands.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to: (i) investigate whether this FLNC variant is a founder variant; and (ii) to evaluate the clinical phenotype of the affected individuals.

Material and methods

Genetic and clinical data from these FLNC carriers were retrospectively collected. To determine a possible founder effect, haplotypes were reconstructed. The geographical distribution and age of the variant were determined. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were retrieved from electronic medical records. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) studies were reviewed.

Results

In total 33 individuals from 9 families carrying this FLNC variant were identified. A shared haplotype spanning 2.1 Mb was present in all subjects that were haplotyped. The variant appears to have originated in the south of the Netherlands between 275 and 650 years ago.

Median age was 53 years (range 20–79). Nine (27%) individuals were male. The clinical presentation is heterogeneous, ranging from the presence of DCM with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in 11 (33%) subjects (median age 57, range 36–79 years), to presentation with sudden cardiac death (SCD) in 1 subject at 28 years of age with LV dilation and fibrosis on pathology, without prior symptoms. Seven subjects (21%) had left ventricular (LV) dilation with normal LV function, and one had midrange LV function without dilation. Nine (27%) subjects had no cardiac abnormalities, with a median age of 56 (range 26–70).

CMR was available in 18 subjects and showed late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), indicating fibrosis, in 11 subjects (61%), including 2 with preserved LV function. The LGE was extensively present in epicardial and infrequently in the subepicardial LV segments, with ring-like distributions being observed in 4 (22%) of the assessed patients.

During follow-up 1 subject experienced SCD and 3 developed end-stage heart failure and underwent heart transplantation. Six (18%) subjects had asymptomatic non-sustained ventricular arrhythmias detected by Holter monitoring, and 4 (12%) subjects received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator for primary prevention and 1 for secondary prevention.

Conclusion

The c.6864_6867dup, p.(Val2290Argfs*23) pathogenic FLNC variant is a founder variant originating from the south of the Netherlands. The phenotype is characterized by extensive myocardial fibrosis, even in subjects with preserved LV function, making subjects prone to both arrhythmias and heart failure.

Funding Acknowledgement

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

Right atrial and ventricular strain detects subclinical changes in right ventricular function in precapillary pulmonary hypertension

Right ventricular (RV) ejection fraction (EF) by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) correlates to outcome in precapillary pulmonary hypertension (pPH) patients, but is insensitive to early changes. Strain might provide incremental information. In this study, we compare right atrial (RA) and RV strain in pPH patients to healthy controls, and evaluate the prognostic value of strain in pPH. In this cross-sectional study, 45 pPH patients and 20 healthy controls underwent CMR, and feature-tracking derived RA and RV strain were evaluated. pPH patients had impaired RA reservoir and conduit strain, and RV longitudinal strain (LS), compared to healthy controls. In pPH patients with preserved RVEF (≥ 50%, n = 18), RA reservoir (35% ± 9 vs. 41% ± 6, p = 0.02) and conduit strain (16% ± 8 vs. 23% ± 5, p = 0.004), and RV-LS (-25% ± 4 vs. -31% ± 4, p < 0.001) remained impaired, compared to healthy controls. The association of strain with the primary endpoint (combination of all-cause death, lung transplantation, and heart failure hospitalization) was evaluated using a multivariable Cox regression model. RV-LS (HR 1.18, 95%-CI 1.04-1.34, p = 0.01) and RA strain (reservoir: HR 0.87, 95%-CI 0.80-0.94, p = 0.001; conduit: HR 0.85, 95%-CI 0.75-0.97, p = 0.02, booster: HR 0.81, 95%-CI 0.71-0.92, p = 0.001) were independent predictors of outcome, beyond clinical and imaging features. In conclusion, pPH patients have impaired RA strain and RV-LS, even when RVEF is preserved. In addition, RA strain and RV-LS were independent predictors of adverse prognosis. These results emphasize the incremental value of RA and RV strain analyses, to detect alterations in RV function, even before RVEF declines.

Early start of enzyme replacement therapy in pediatric male patients with classical Fabry disease is associated with attenuated disease progression

BACKGROUND

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) slows disease progression of Fabry disease (FD), especially when initiated before the onset of irreversible organ damage. However, with the clinically asymptomatic progression of renal, cardiac and cerebral disease manifestations spanning decades, optimal timing of ERT initiation remains unclear.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional retrospective study, seven male FD patients with a classical disease phenotype (cFD) who started treatment with agalsidase-beta in childhood were evaluated after 10 years of treatment (median age at evaluation 24 years, range 14-26). Cardiac imaging (echocardiography and MRI), electrophysiological and biochemical data of these patients were compared to those of untreated male cFD patients (n = 23, median age 22 years, range 13-27).

RESULTS

Albuminuria was less common and less severe in treated patients (albumin to creatinine ratio, ACR 0-8.8 mg/mmol, median 0.4) compared to untreated patients (ACR 0-248 mg/mmol, median 3.7, p = 0.02). The treated group had a lower left ventricular mass, measured using echocardiography (median 80 g/m² versus 94 g/m², p = 0.02) and MRI (median 53 g/m² versus 68 g/m², p = 0.02). Myocardial fibrosis was absent in all included patients. eGFR was normal in all treated patients whereas 7/23 (30%) of untreated patients had abnormal eGFR. Cerebral manifestations did not differ.

CONCLUSIONS

Start of treatment with ERT before age 16, in male cFD patients is associated with reduced occurrence of renal and cardiac manifestations of FD, as assessed by intermediate endpoints. Confirmation that this approach delays or even prevents renal failure and cardiac events requires another decade of follow-up.

Erratum: Azimuthal Anisotropy of K_{S}^{0} and Λ+Λ[over ¯] Production at Midrapidity from Au+Au Collisions at sqrt[s]_{NN}=130 GeV [Phys. Rev. Lett. 89, 132301 (2002)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.89.132301.

Erratum: Azimuthal Anisotropy at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider: The First and Fourth Harmonics [Phys. Rev. Lett. 92, 062301 (2004)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.92.062301.

Myocardial strain overrules left ventricular ejection fraction and late gadolinium enhancement extent in predicting MACE in CMR-proven acute myocarditis

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) plays a major role in both the diagnostic process and prognostic stratification in acute myocarditis. Presence of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) are known predictors of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). However, in daily clinical practice it remains challenging to distinguish ‘the good from the bad’. The prognostic value of CMR feature tracking (FT) derived strain, with respect to LGE and LVEF, remains unclear.

Purpose

To evaluate the incremental prognostic value of left atrial (LA) phasic function, LV and right ventricular (RV) strain using CMR-FT in patients with CMR-proven acute myocarditis.

Methods

In this multicenter observational study, patients with CMR-proven acute myocarditis were included and followed with regard to MACE including all-cause mortality (ACM), heart-failure hospitalizations (HFH), and life-threatening arrhythmias (LTA). Using FT-derived strain, LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), circumferential strain (GCS), and radial strain (GRS), RV GLS and LA phasic function were measured. Uni- and multivariable analysis including clinical and CMR parameters were performed to assess the association with MACE.

Results

A total of 162 patients were included (75% male, 41 ±17 years). MACE occurred in 29 patients (18%, ACM n = 18, HFH n = 7, LTA n = 11) during a median follow-up of 5.5 (2.2-8.3) years. Forty-six percent had a STEMI-like presentation (combination of chest pain, elevated troponin, and ST-elevation, n = 74). LGE was present in 90% of patients and mean LVEF was 51 ± 12%. Patients with LVEF &lt;50% had a significantly worse prognosis compared to patients with LVEF ≥50% (p &lt; 0.0001, Figure A). When we categorized the study population into subgroups of quartile values of LV GLS, patients with LV GLS worse than 18% had a significant worse outcome compared to the other subgroups (p &lt; 0.05, Figure B). Subgroups of LGE extent did not show significantly different associations with outcome (p = 0.458, Figure C). Cox regression analysis showed that LV strain and LA phasic function were univariably associated with MACE, whereas RV GLS and LGE extent were not. All univariable associated strain parameters were separately included in a multivariable model, including age, sex, STEMI-like presentation, and LVEF. LV GLS (HR 1.08, p = 0.01), LV GCS (HR 1.15, p = 0.02), and LV GRS (HR 0.98, p = 0.02) were independent predictors of MACE.

Conclusions

LV strain parameters are independent and incremental predictors of prognosis in patients with acute myocarditis, while RV strain and LA phasic function are not. Therefore, LV strain is a promising novel parameter for risk stratification in acute myocarditis.

Wall shear stress angle determines aortic growth in patients with bicuspid aortic valves

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): The Dutch Heart Foundation

Background

Patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) have altered flow velocity patterns with different wall shear stress (WSS) distributions in the ascending aorta compared to patients with tricuspid aortic valves. These WSS distributions are associated with aortic dilatation in cross sectional studies, however, longitudinal data demonstrating a potential causative role is missing.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the differences in WSS distributions between BAV patients and healthy subjects and to determine the predictive value of WSS for aortic growth in patients with a BAV.

Methods

Forty patients with a BAV and 32 healthy matched subjects were prospectively studied by 4D-flow cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). Peak velocity, pulse wave velocity, aortic distensibility, peak systolic WSS (magnitude), the different WSS components (axial and circumferential), and WSS angle were assessed in the proximal ascending aorta. WSS angle was defined as the angle between the WSSmagnitude and WSSaxial component. In the BAV patients, aortic volumetric growth over three years was determined in the proximal ascending aorta (first 5cm) based on CT angiography. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of aortic volumetric growth.

Results

Of the BAV patients, 21 (53%) had a left-right fusion pattern and eight patients had Turner syndrome. WSSaxial was significantly lower in BAV patients compared to healthy subjects (p = 0.008) and WSScircumferential and WSS angle were significantly higher (both p &lt; 0.001, see Figure). WSSmagnitude, pulse wave velocity, and aorta distensibility were not statistically significant different. WSSmagnitude (0.69 N/m² [0.51-0.81] vs 1.08 N/m² [0.89-1.24], p = 0.005), WSSaxial (0.50 N/m² [0.39-0.61] vs 0.72 N/m²  [0.54-0.94], p = 0.015) and WSScircumferential (0.34 N/m² [0.32-0.46] vs 0.64 N/m² [0.47-0.81], p = 0.008) were significantly lower in BAV Turner patients compared to BAV non-Turner patients, while WSS angle (40° [34-41] vs 40° [32-48], p = 0.607) was not statistically significant different. During a follow-up of three years, there was a significant growth of the proximal ascending aorta in the BAV patients (1.2 cm3 [-0.2-2.5], p = 0.001). In multivariate analysis corrected for baseline aortic volume and diastolic blood pressure, WSS angle was the only independent predictor for proximal aortic volume growth (β=0.108, p = 0.030).

Conclusions

Increased WSScircumferential and especially WSS angle are present in patients with BAV. WSS angle was the only independent predictor of aortic growth. These findings highlight the potential role of  WSS measurements in patients with BAV to stratify patients at risk for aortic dilation.

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance for early detection of late cardiotoxicity in asymptomatic survivors of hodgkin and non-hodgkin lymphoma

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Long-term survivors of Hodgkin (HL) and non-Hodgkin (NHL) lymphomas experience late adverse effects of mediastinal radiotherapy and/or anthracycline containing chemotherapy, which lead to premature cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is unknown whether early stages of myocardial dysfunction and heart failure in these survivors can be detected by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR).

Purpose

To identify early sensitive markers for the detection of subclinical late cardiotoxicity using CMR in asymptomatic survivors of HL and (primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma) NHL.

Methods

For this prospective observational study, we included 80 HL or selected NHL survivors, who have been free of disease for ≥5 years and were treated with mediastinal radiotherapy (RT) with/without chemotherapy. Patients with known cardiac disease were excluded. Included patients were compared to 40 age- and sex matched healthy controls. CMR included 1) cine imaging for assessment of left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) dimensions, systolic function and strain; 2) 2-dimensional late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) imaging; 3) T2 mapping and 4) pre- and post-contrast T1 mapping (MOLLI) for assessment of native T1 values and extracellular volume (ECV).

Results

Of the 80 patients, 78 (98%) had a history of HL and 2 (2%) of NHL with a mean age of 47 ± 11 years (46% male). All patients were treated with mediastinal RT which was combined with anthracycline containing chemotherapy in 68 (85%) patients. The median interval between diagnosis and CMR was 20 [14 – 26] years. Differences in CMR characteristics between patients and healthy controls are shown in the table. LV end-systolic volume was statistically significantly higher, but LV ejection fraction and mass were significantly lower in patients compared to healthy controls. RV volumes were significantly lower in patients, but RV ejection fraction was preserved. Strain parameters of the LV, i.e. global longitudinal strain, global circumferential strain and global radial strain, were slightly but significantly reduced in patients. No significant differences were found in myocardial T2 times and ECV; however, native myocardial T1 time was significantly higher in patients compared to healthy controls. LGE was detected in 25% of the patients and in the majority of patients with LGE this was classified as hinge point fibrosis.

Conclusion

Asymptomatic survivors of HL and NHL are not exempt of late cardiotoxicity, which can be detected by subtle changes in LV myocardial function, strain and native T1 value with CMR. Furthermore, late gadolinium enhancement was present in 25% of the patients. Further longitudinal studies are needed to assess the implication of these changes in relation to clinical outcome.

Incremental value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in family screening for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Genetic testing in relatives of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients can lead to early identification of carriers of pathogenic DNA variants (G+), before onset of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Repeated evaluation by electrocardiography (ECG) and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is recommended to detect HCM during follow-up. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging has become valuable in the work-up of HCM, although its role in G+ subjects has not been extensively evaluated. In this study, we investigated the value of CMR in the G+/LVH- population.

We included 55 G+ subjects who underwent CMR in addition to ECG and TTE, with a maximal wall thickness (MWT) &lt;15mm on TTE. The CMR imaging protocol consisted at least of steady state free procession imaging and 2-dimensional late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) images. ECGs were considered abnormal in case of pathologic Q waves, T wave inversion or signs of LVH (by voltage criteria including Sokolow-Lyon and a Romhilt-Estes score ≥4). TTEs were abnormal in case of LVH (defined as MWT≥10mm). For both modalities, the diagnosis of HCM was based on a MWT≥13mm. The yield of CMR relative to ECG/TTE was assessed by comparing the proportion of HCM diagnoses and the presence of other phenotypic features. Forward step logistic regression was used to assess whether the presence of TTE/ECG abnormalities could predict reclassifications or abnormalities (crypts and LGE) on CMR.

An overview of ECG/TTE and CMR findings is shown in the Figure. Two of 16 (13%) subjects diagnosed with HCM on TTE were reclassified as having no HCM on CMR, and 8 of 39 (21%) subjects without HCM on TTE were reclassified as HCM on CMR. These 8 subjects had a mean MWT of 15.4 ± 2.6 mm on CMR and a mean MWT difference of 4.5 ± 2.9 mm (range 1.7-9.4) compared to TTE, which in 3 cases was explained by a hook-shaped thickening of the basal anterior wall in the 2 chamber view, not visible on TTE. Compared to subjects without HCM on both modalities, the reclassified group had a significantly higher QRS duration (104 ± 14 vs 93 ± 11 ms, p = 0.03) and anterior mitral valve leaflet length (30 ± 4 vs 26 ± 3 mm, p = 0.01). Of the 13 subjects with normal ECG/TTE results, none were reclassified as HCM using CMR.

The proportion of additional CMR abnormalities was large in subjects with and without abnormal ECG/TTE results (57% vs 38%, p = 0.24). Subjects with poor TTE image quality were equally likely to be reclassified compared to those with sufficient image quality (10% vs 24%, p = 0.19). Logistic regression demonstrated that the presence of TTE/ECG abnormalities (odds ratio [OR] 8.7 [1.3-59.0], p = 0.03) and age (OR 1.1 [1.0-1.2], p &lt; 0.01) independently predicted reclassifications or presence of abnormalities using CMR.

Additional CMR imaging reclassifies 18% of subjects. Subjects with normal ECG and TTE results are not diagnosed as HCM on CMR, but the prevalence of HCM-related abnormalities on CMR was high in subjects with and without ECG/TTE abnormalities.

Abstract Figure. Diagnostic approach and CMR findings

Differences in left ventricular mass and morphology and right ventricular function differentiate phenotype-negative sarcomere gene mutation carriers from healthy volunteers

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Carriers of pathogenic DNA variants (G+) causing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) can be identified by genetic testing, before manifestation of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). These G+/LVH- subjects are routinely monitored for phenotypic expression, which, alongside LVH, can include other HCM-related abnormalities, including crypts and myocardial fibrosis. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging has emerged as a valuable technique in diagnosing and follow-up of HCM. In this study, we identified clinical features of subclinical HCM in a G+/LVH- population compared to healthy subjects.

We studied 33 G+ subjects with CMR and a maximal wall thickness (MWT) &lt;13mm, and compared them to an age- and gender-matched group of 35 healthy controls  (44 ± 14 vs 48 ± 10 y, p = 0.17; 11 (33%) vs 12 (34%) men, p = 0.93). The CMR imaging protocol consisted of 1) steady state free procession cine imaging, 2) 2-dimensional late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) images in the G+ patients and 3) pre-contrast T1 mapping using a modified look-locker inverse recovery sequence. We assessed CMR examinations for features of HCM. Forward logistic regression analysis was performed to determine which of the CMR characteristics were predictive of G+ status.

G+ subjects had a higher MWT (10.9 ± 1.6 vs 10.2 ± 1.3 mm, p = 0.04), a similar interventricular septal wall (IVS) thickness (8.8 ± 1.6 vs 8.7 ± 1.6 mm, p = 0.85), a smaller posterior wall (PW) and a higher IVS/PW ratio (6.6 ± 1.2 vs 7.7 ± 1.3mm, p &lt; 0.001; 1.4 ± 0.3 vs 1.1 ± 0.2, p = 0.001). Indexed left ventricular (LV) mass was significantly lower in the G+ group (Table). LV function was similar (63 ± 6 vs. 61 ± 5%, p = 0.12), but right ventricular (RV) function was higher in the G+ group. They often had a characteristic hook-shaped thickening of the basal anterior wall (7 (21%) vs 0, p &lt; 0.004; Figure) and  more frequently exhibited myocardial crypts. Midwall LGE was present in 3 (9%) G+ subjects. Native septal T1 values were elevated in G+ patients compared to controls, although mostly within the normal range (986 ± 31 vs 963 ± 28 ms, p &lt; 0.01). Crypts, indexed LV mass and RV ejection fraction were significant predictors of G+ status in logistic regression analysis (Table).

CMR demonstrates significant morphological differences between the G+/LVH- population and healthy controls. Further studies are needed to assess the prognostic significance of these morphological features.

Predictors of genotype-positive status Variables G+ subjects (n = 33) Controls (n = 35) P value OR for G+ status P value Left ventricular mass/BSA (g/m&sup2;) 45 ± 7.4 53 ± 7.9 &lt;0.001 0.86 [0.78-0.95] 0.003 Right ventricular ejection fraction (%) 58 ± 6 53 ± 4 &lt;0.001 1.15 [1.00-1.32] 0.047 Crypts 17 (55%) 4 (11%) &lt;0.001 9.62 [1.93-48.00] 0.006 G+: genotype-positive, OR: odds ratio Abstract Figure. CMR findings

Serial MRI-based right ventricular mechanical wall stress measurements and their association with right ventricle function in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Stichting Hartekind en Thorax Foundation

Background

Optimal timing of pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) in Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) patients remains challenging. Wall stress is considered to be a possible early marker of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. With patient-specific computational models, wall stress can be determined regionally and with high accuracy, especially in complex shaped ventricles such as in TOF patients. We aimed to 1) develop patient-specific computational models to assess RV diastolic wall stresses and 2) investigate the association of wall stresses and their change over time with functional parameters in TOF patients.

Methods

Repaired TOF patients with at least moderate pulmonary regurgitation (PR) and prior to PVR were included. MRI-based patient-specific computational ventricular models were created (figure). The ventricular geometry was created by stacking endo- and epicardial contours traced on short axis SSFP cine images. Pressure in the right ventricle was estimated from echocardiography. Mid-diastolic wall stress in the RV free wall was analysed globally and regionally (basal, mid, apical, anterior, lateral and posterior) at two time points. RV ejection fraction (RVEF), NT-proBNP and exercise tests (% maximum predicted workload) were used as outcomes for RV function. Associations between wall stresses and outcomes were investigated using linear mixed models adjusted for follow-up duration.

Results

Five males and five females were included with an age at baseline of 24 (IQR 16-28) years and RV end-diastolic volume of 140 (IQR 127-144) ml/m2. The period between the two time points was 7.0 (IQR 5.8-7.3) years. Global wall stress of the RV free wall combining both time points was 5.8 kPa (IQR 5.2-7.2). There was no statistical difference between baseline and follow-up global wall stress. The mean wall stresses in the mid region was 1.69 kPa (p &lt; 0.01) higher than in the basal region and was 1.05 kPa (p = 0.03) higher than in the apical region cross-sectionally. The wall stress also increased more in the mid region compared to basal and apical region, corrected for duration of follow-up. Patients with more severe PR at baseline demonstrated a higher increase of global wall stress over time (p = 0.02), especially in lateral free wall. Higher global free wall stresses were cross-sectionally independently associated with lower RVEF, adjusted for LVEF and RVEDV (β=-1.29 % RVEF per kPa increase in wall stress, p = 0.01). This association was most prominent in the anterior, basal and mid part. No statistically significant association was found between wall stress, NT-proBNP, and exercise capacity.

Conclusions

This study generated a novel MRI-based method to calculate wall stress in geometrically complex ventricles. Wall stress associated negatively with RVEF in patients with TOF and PR. This promising tool for RV wall stress analysis can be used in future larger studies to validate these preliminary findings and to assess the predictive value of wall stress in TOF.

Abstract Figure.

Self-assembled hybrid organic-MoS3-nanoparticle catalyst for light energy conversion

We present photocatalytically active, stable polymer-amorphous-MoS3-nanoparticle hybrid structures in aqueous solution. Below 10 nm MoS3 particles in the polymer exhibit an up to 7.5-fold increased photocatalytic activity compared to the neat nanoparticles without any additional photosensitizer. Supramolecular interactions are key in directing the structure formation of the hybrid assembly. The hybrid structures bear potential as novel affordable photocatalysts for solar energy conversion.

Cardiac sarcoidosis: frequency, diagnostic approach and follow-up in a tertiary center

Background

Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is associated with poor prognosis, making early diagnosis and treatment important. The aim of this study is to evaluate our diagnostic results and follow-up for the diagnosis of CS in a tertiary center.

Methods

We studied 188 patients with proven extra-cardiac sarcoidosis referred to our outpatient clinic for evaluation of cardiac involvement. Eight patients were excluded because electrocardiogram (ECG) and/or transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was missing. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and/or positron emission tomography (PET) was performed in 66% and 37% of the patients, respectively. Median follow-up duration was 2.9 [1.2–5.3] years. The diagnosis of CS was based on the Heart Rhythm Society criteria.

Results

Cardiac symptoms defined as palpitations, angina, dyspnea and (near)-syncope were present in 156 of 180 (87%) patients. Any abnormality on ECG (bundle branch blocks, atrioventricular blocks, sinus tachycardia or atrial fibrillation) and/or TTE (left ventricular ejection fraction &lt;55%, presence of regional wall abnormalities or myocardial hypertrophy) was found in 92/180 (51%) patients. CS was diagnosed in 42 of 180 (23%) patients, of whom 31 (74%) had any ECG and/or TTE abnormalities. However, ECG and/or TTE abnormalities were also present in 44% of the patients without cardiac involvement. Patients with CS showed a second type II or third degree AV-blocks in 3/42 (7%), a left ventricular ejection fraction &lt;35% on TTE in 9/42 (21%), late gadolinium enhancement by CMR consistent with CS in 28/34 (82%), and myocardial FDG uptake by PET in 19/31 (61%). In 84 of the 138 patients without cardiac involvement, CMR was performed. In 15 patients an alternative diagnosis was found (i.e. myocardial infarction or other non-ischemic cardiomyopathy). The estimated 8-year cumulative event rate composite endpoint of sustained ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, aborted sudden cardiac death, heart transplantation and all-cause mortality was 41% in the CS patients and 12% in the patients without CS (Figure 1, p&lt;0.001).

Conclusions

In our study, 23% of the patients with proven extra-cardiac sarcoidosis was diagnosed with CS. Cardiac symptoms, ECG and TTE were of limited diagnostic value for screening for CS. CMR provided a good diagnostic yield and identified other cardiac diseases in a substantial number of patients.

Figure 1. KMCurve_CompositeEndpoint

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease in early surgical treatment of acute infective endocarditis of the aortic valve

Background

The need to routinely screen for coronary artery disease (CAD) in asymptomatic patients undergoing surgery for acute aortic valve infective endocarditis (IE) is debated. There is concern about the risk of embolization during invasive coronary angiography (ICA), especially in patients with vegetations. Coronary computed tomography angiography (cCTA) is a non-invasive alternative.

Purpose

To evaluate the prevalence of CAD in patients with acute aortic valve IE, the safety and feasibility of ICA and cCTA for diagnosis of CAD, and CAD related postoperative outcomes.

Methods

In this single center retrospective cohort study, all patients with acute infective aortic valve endocarditis between 2009–2019 undergoing surgery were selected. Outcomes were embolization after preoperative ICA, in-hospital mortality, perioperative myocardial infarction or unplanned revascularization.

Results

159 patients (mean age 58±15, 81% male) underwent surgery. No CAD screening was done in 46/145, a cCTA was performed in 54/145 patients and an ICA in 52/145 patients. In 1 of the 52 patients undergoing preoperative ICA a cerebral embolism occurred. cCTA was not assessable on a patient level in 2 patients and 7 patients underwent both cCTA and ICA. Significant CAD was found in about 20% of patients both after cCTA and ICA. Even though just a minority of patients with CAD was treated with concomitant CABG, only 1 patient with known but untreated CAD needed unplanned revascularization postoperatively. The rate of perioperative myocardial infarction or unplanned revascularization in patients not screened for CAD was 5% (3 patients).

Conclusion

In patients with acute aortic valve IE the prevalence of CAD is low (14%). The risk of embolism after preoperative ICA is not negligible and should be carefully weighed against the estimated risk of CAD-related perioperative complications. cCTA might serve as a gatekeeper for ICA in many patients with acute aortic IE.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Coronary computed tomography angiography and [15O]H2O positron emission tomography perfusion imaging for the assessment of coronary artery disease

Determining the anatomic severity and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) by means of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and its effect on perfusion using myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) form the pillars of the non-invasive imaging assessment of CAD. This review will 1) focus on CCTA and [¹⁵O]H₂O positron emission tomography MPI as stand-alone imaging modalities and their combined use for detecting CAD, 2) highlight some of the lessons learned from the PACIFIC trial (Comparison of Coronary CT Angiography, SPECT, PET, and Hybrid Imaging for Diagnosis of Ischemic Heart Disease Determined by Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) (NCT01521468)), and 3) discuss the use of [¹⁵O]H₂O PET MPI in the clinical work-up of patients with a chronic coronary total occlusion (CTO).

Heart teams in the Netherlands: From teamwork to data‑driven decision-making

For all patients with cardiovascular disease requiring an intervention, this is a major life event. The heart team concept is one of the most exciting and effective team modalities to ensure cost-effective application of invasive cardiovascular care. It optimises patient selection in a complex decision-making process and identifies risk/benefit ratios of different interventions. Informed consent and patient safety should be at the centre of these decisions. To deal with increased load of medical data in the future, artificial intelligence could enable objective and effective interpretation of medical imaging and decision support. This technical support is indispensable to meet current patient and societal demands for informed consent, shared decision-making, outcome improvement and safety. The heart team should be restructured with clear leadership, accountability, and process and outcome measurement of interventions. In this way, the heart team concept in the Netherlands will be ready for the future.

Ultralong Spin Lifetime in Light Alkali Atom Doped Graphene

Today's great challenges of energy and informational technologies are addressed with a singular compound, Li- and Na-doped few-layer graphene. All that is impossible for graphite (homogeneous and high-level Na doping) and unstable for single-layer graphene works very well for this structure. The transformation of the Raman G line to a Fano line shape and the emergence of strong, metallic-like electron spin resonance (ESR) modes attest the high level of graphene doping in liquid ammonia for both kinds of alkali atoms. The spin-relaxation time in our materials, deduced from the ESR line width, is 6-8 ns, which is comparable to the longest values found in spin-transport experiments on ultrahigh-mobility graphene flakes. This could qualify our material as a promising candidate in spintronics devices. On the other hand, the successful sodium doping, this being a highly abundant metal, could be an encouraging alternative to lithium batteries.

P1825 Myocardial bridging and coronary artery disease in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a matched case control study

Funding Acknowledgements

None.

Introduction

The etiology of chest pain in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is diverse and includes coronary artery disease (CAD) as well as HCM-specific causes. Myocardial bridging (MB) has been associated with HCM, chest pain, and accelerated atherosclerosis. To investigate differences in the presence of MB and CAD, we compared HCM patients with age-, gender- and CAD pre-test probability (PTP)-matched outpatients presenting with chest pain.

Methods

We studied 84 HCM patients who underwent cardiac computed tomography and compared these with 168 matched controls (age 54 ± 11 years, 70% men, PTP 12% [5%–32%]). MB, calcium score, plaque morphology and presence and extent of CAD were assessed for each patient. Linear mixed models were used to assess differences between cases and controls.

Results

Differences between HCM patients and controls are described in the table. In summary, MB was more often seen in HCM patients (50% vs. 25%, p &lt; 0.001), who were also more likely to have &gt;1 segment affected (14% vs. 2%, p &lt; 0.05). In the HCM group, MB was associated with pathogenic mutation status. Calcium score and the presence of obstructive CAD were similar in both groups (9 [0-225] vs. 4 [0-82] and 18% vs. 19%; p &gt; 0.05 for both).

Conclusion

MB was twice as prevalent in the HCM group. However, in a matched analysis, the prevalence and extent of CAD was equal among patients with and without HCM. These finding illustrate that despite a higher prevalence of MB, the prevalence of CAD is similar between groups, also demonstrating satisfactory performance of pre-test risk prediction in HCM patients.

Assessment of CAD by CT HCM group(n = 84) Control group (n = 168) p-value Agatston score 9 [0-225] 4 [0-82] 0.22 No. of pts with score* 0.07 0-399 31 (89%) 149 (91%) &gt;400 8 (11%) 15 (9%) Obstructive CAD 15 (18%) 32 (19%) 0.82 No. of pts with MB 42 (50%) 42 (25%) &lt;0.001 No. of vessels with MB &lt;0.001 1 34 (40%) 39 (23%) 2 8 (10%) 3 (2%) No. of pts with &gt;1 segment with MB 12 (14%) 4 (2%) &lt;0.001 Abbreviations CAD = Coronary artery disease, MB = Myocardial bridging, pts = patients *Only measured in 73/84 HCM patients and in 164/168 control patients

P802 Delayed time to peak left ventricular outflow tract velocity is associated with symptomatic status in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy

Funding Acknowledgements

None.

The presence and magnitude of left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) patients is weakly associated with presence of symptoms. The factors underlying this are not well understood. We hypothesize that time to peak velocity (TPV) of LVOT flow is associated with symptomatic status.

We included 136 HOCM patients (58% men, mean age 55 ± 14 years) with peak gradients ≥30 mmHg at rest or during Valsalva without aortic valve stenosis. At rest and during Valsalva, continuous wave Doppler tracings from 3 consecutive beats were used to assess peak velocity (PV), left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and TPV, which was defined as the time interval between the onset of flow over the LVOT and the moment of PV. Differences were compared between asymptomatic and symptomatic patients (defined as New York Heart Association class I vs. II-IV). The relation between symptom status and TPV was investigated using logistic regression models. A random sample of 20 patients was examined by 2 observers and reproducibility was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Symptomatic patients were more often female (table) and had significantly higher mean TPV values (figure). In multivariable logistic regression models, TPV was an independent predictor of symptomatic status after correction for PV, LVOT diameter, heart rate and age (odds ratio 1.02 per 1 ms, p &lt; 0.001). The ICC was 0.99 with a mean difference of 0.28 ± 8.5 ms.

Delayed TPV is associated with symptomatic status in HOCM patients, after adjustment for heart rate, peak velocity, LVOT diameter and age, and is an easily measured echocardiographic variable with excellent inter-reader reproducibility. The clinical implications of delayed TPV, particularly in the context risk prediction and clinical decision making, remain to be determined.

Characteristics per group Asymptomatic HOCM patients n = 47 Symptomatic HOCM patients n = 89 p value Age, y 55 ± 14 55 ± 14 0.99 Male gender 34 (72%) 45 (51%) 0.01 Body mass index, kg/m&sup2; 27 ± 5 28 ± 5 0.08 Left atrial diameter, mm 46 ± 7 47 ± 7 0.64 Septal wall thickness, mm 18 ± 4 19 ± 5 0.58 LV outflow tract diameter, mm 22 ± 3 21 ± 3 0.001 Peak velocity, cm/s 403 ± 86 434 ± 79 0.03 LV ejection time, ms 316 ± 44 340 ± 42 0.002 Time to peak velocity, ms 157 ± 32 178 ± 32 &lt;0.001 HOCM = hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, LV = left ventricular.

Abstract P802 Figure. Time to peak velocity per NYHA class

Effect of body surface area and gender on wall thickness thresholds in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Family screening for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is based on genetic testing and clinical evaluation (maximal left ventricular wall thickness (MWT) ≥15 mm, or ≥13 mm in first-degree relatives of HCM patients). The aim of this study was to assess the effect of gender and body size on diagnosis of HCM and prediction of clinical outcome.

METHODS

This study includes 199 genotype-positive subjects (age 44 ± 15 years, 50% men) referred for cardiac screening. Gender-specific reference values for MWT indexed by body surface area (BSA), height and weight were derived from 147 healthy controls. Predictive accuracy of each method for HCM-related events was assessed by comparing areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC).

RESULTS

Men had a higher absolute, but similar BSA- and weight-indexed MWT compared with women (14.0 ± 3.9 mm vs 11.5 ± 3.8 mm, p < 0.05; 6.8 ± 2.1 mm/m² vs 6.6 ± 2.4 mm/m²; 0.17 ± 0.06 mm/kg vs 0.17 ± 0.06 mm/kg, both p > 0.05). Applying BSA- and weight-indexed cut-off values decreased HCM diagnoses in the study group (48% vs 42%; 48% vs 39%, both p < 0.05), reclassified subjects in the largest, lightest and heaviest tertiles (≥2.03 m²: 58% vs 45%; ≤70 kg: 37% vs 46%; ≥85 kg: 53% vs 25%, all p < 0.05) and improved predictive accuracy (AUC 0.76 [95% CI 0.69-0.82] vs 0.78 [0.72-0.85]; and vs 0.80 [0.74-0.87]; both p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In genotype-positive subjects referred for family screening, differences in MWT across gender are mitigated after indexation by BSA or weight. Indexation decreases the prevalence of HCM, particularly in larger men, and improves the predictive accuracy for HCM-related events.

P5280The impact of background phase offset errors in cardiovascular magnetic resonance phase contrast imaging: a multi-scanner study

Background

Phase contrast (PC) CMR flow measurements (FM) are widely used for blood flow assessment, but they suffer from phase offset errors (POE). Stationary phantom correction limits these inaccuracies, however, this adds scan time. Stationary tissue (ST) correction is an alternative method that does not require additional scanning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of POE, to assess interscanner variation, and to evaluate the ST correction usage.

Methods

We included 166 patients in which both aorta and main pulmonary artery FM were acquired including static gelatin phantom data. Subjects were scanned on three types of 1.5T scanners from the one vendor. Uncorrected and ST corrected FM were compared with phantom corrected FM, our reference value, and corrected for BSA. A difference of >10% in net flow was defined as clinically relevant. Regurgitation fraction was calculated and POE influences were assessed. Regurgitation severity was graded and POE influence on severity grading was assessed.

Results

Of the 166 cases included, the median age was 27 (5–74) years. Overall, the median difference between no corrected and phantom corrected FM was ≤6%, however, with a wide range of over- and underestimation (−155%–78% change) (figure). ST correction resulted in larger differences compared to no correction (p<0.01). Clinically significant differences were seen in 19% of all FM with no correction and in 30% of with ST correction (p<0.01). Furthermore, there were significant differences between scanners (no correction 10%, p<0.01; ST correction, p<0.01). Regurgitation severity indexing changed in 38 (11%) cases with no correction and in 48 (48%) with ST correction.

Magnitude of flow change with and without offset corrections (n=332) Flow (ml/m2) Δ no correction and phantom correction (%) Δ ST correction and phantom correction (%) Clinically significant difference (>10%) Mean ± SD Median IQR Range Median IQR Range No correction, N (%) ST correction , N (%) MRI 1 (n=126) 50±12 3 0 to 6 −8 to 30 5 −3 to 9 −26 to 28 13 (10%) 34 (27%) MRI 2 (n=102) 48±13 −2 −15 to 6 −155 to 78 5 −3 to 11 −74 to 52 50 (49%) 50 (49%) MRI 3 (n=104) 48±12 −1 −1 to 0 −7 to 14 2 −2 to 5 −39 to 29 1 (1%) 16 (15%) Total (n=332) 49±12 0 −2 to 4 −155 to 78 3 −2 to 8 −74 to 52 64 (19%) 100 (30%)

Conclusion

Background POE have a significant impact on flow quantification and regurgitation severity. Unexpectedly, background correction using ST correction worsens accuracy compared to no correction. POE vary greatly between scanners. Therefore, careful assessment of FM at each scanner is essential to determine if routine phantom scanning is necessary.

P1244Survival after septal myectomy in male and female patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy

In recent years, studies have debated the impact of gender on the presentation and clinical course of HCM, with research showing that at time of myectomy, women are older, have worse diastolic function and more advanced cardiac remodeling. The clinical impact of these differences is unknown.

We included 221 HCM patients (57% men) who underwent septal myectomy and are followed in our center. Time to treatment was calculated in relation to symptom onset. Pre- and post-operative clinical and echocardiographic data were collected. Gender differences were assessed at baseline and in survival analyses for the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, cardiac transplantation, re-intervention and aborted sudden cardiac death.

Women were older at time of myectomy, but time until treatment was similar (table). Pre-operative echocardiographic indices were comparable among groups, but were significantly higher in women when correcting for body surface area. At three months, no differences were found in clinical and echocardiographic results. After 6.1 [2.9–10.1] years, 24% of women and 23% of men had reached the composite endpoint (p=0.30, figure).

Gender comparison pre- and post-myectomy Men (n=125) Women (n=96) p value Age 49±14 54±17 0.02 Maximal wall thickness, mm 19.9±4.7 19.8±5.8 0.97 Indexed maximal wall thickness, mm/m2 9.8±2.5 11.5±4.5 0.001 Left atrial diameter, mm 48.1±7.3 45.9±7.3 0.06 Indexed left atrial diameter, mm/m2 23.5±3.5 26.5±7.5 0.002 LV end-diastolic diameter, mm 45.4±7.6 42.8±5.6 0.04 Indexed LV end-diastolic diameter, mm/m2 22.1±3.7 23.6±3.0 0.02 Gradient reduction, %* 75.1±25.0 72.9±28.6 0.63 Improvement in symptoms*† 97 (95%) 64 (89%) 0.34 MWT = maximal wall thickness; LV = left ventricle. *At three months follow-up; †Defined as a reduction of ≥1 NYHA class, measured in 102 men and 72 women.

Survival after myectomy

Although women present later in life and seem to have more advanced disease at time of myectomy, time to treatment is similar and survival after myectomy is excellent for both men and women.

Surface chemistry of 2,3-dibromosubstituted norbornadiene/quadricyclane as molecular solar thermal energy storage system on Ni(111)

Dwindling fossil fuels force humanity to search for new energy production routes. Besides energy generation, its storage is a crucial aspect. One promising approach is to store energy from the sun chemically in strained organic molecules, so-called molecular solar thermal (MOST) systems, which can release the stored energy catalytically. A prototypical MOST system is norbornadiene/quadricyclane (NBD/QC) whose energy release and surface chemistry need to be understood. Besides important key parameters such as molecular weight, endergonic reaction profiles, and sufficient quantum yields, the position of the absorption onset of NBD is crucial to cover preferably a large range of sunlight's spectrum. For this purpose, one typically derivatizes NBD with electron-donating and/or electron-accepting substituents. To keep the model system simple enough to be investigated with photoemission techniques, we introduced bromine atoms at the 2,3-position of both compounds. We study the adsorption behavior, energy release, and surface chemistry on Ni(111) using high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HR-XPS), UV photoelectron spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. Both Br₂-NBD and Br₂-QC partially dissociate on the surface at ∼120 K, with Br₂-QC being more stable. Several stable adsorption geometries for intact and dissociated species were calculated, and the most stable structures are determined for both molecules. By temperature-programmed HR-XPS, we were able to observe the conversion of Br₂-QC to Br₂-NBD in situ at 170 K. The decomposition of Br₂-NBD starts at 190 K when C-Br bond cleavage occurs and benzene and methylidene are formed. For Br₂-QC, the cleavage already occurs at 130 K when cycloreversion to Br₂-NBD sets in.

Surface chemistry of 2,3-dibromosubstituted norbornadiene/quadricyclane as molecular solar thermal energy storage system on Ni(111)

Dwindling fossil fuels force humanity to search for new energy production routes. Besides energy generation, its storage is a crucial aspect. One promising approach is to store energy from the sun chemically in strained organic molecules, so-called molecular solar thermal (MOST) systems, which can release the stored energy catalytically. A prototypical MOST system is norbornadiene/quadricyclane (NBD/QC) whose energy release and surface chemistry need to be understood. Besides important key parameters such as molecular weight, endergonic reaction profiles, and sufficient quantum yields, the position of the absorption onset of NBD is crucial to cover preferably a large range of sunlight's spectrum. For this purpose, one typically derivatizes NBD with electron-donating and/or electron-accepting substituents. To keep the model system simple enough to be investigated with photoemission techniques, we introduced bromine atoms at the 2,3-position of both compounds. We study the adsorption behavior, energy release, and surface chemistry on Ni(111) using high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HR-XPS), UV photoelectron spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. Both Br₂-NBD and Br₂-QC partially dissociate on the surface at ∼120 K, with Br₂-QC being more stable. Several stable adsorption geometries for intact and dissociated species were calculated, and the most stable structures are determined for both molecules. By temperature-programmed HR-XPS, we were able to observe the conversion of Br₂-QC to Br₂-NBD in situ at 170 K. The decomposition of Br₂-NBD starts at 190 K when C-Br bond cleavage occurs and benzene and methylidene are formed. For Br₂-QC, the cleavage already occurs at 130 K when cycloreversion to Br₂-NBD sets in.

Azimuthal Harmonics in Small and Large Collision Systems at RHIC Top Energies

The first (v_{1}^{fluc}), second (v_{2}), and third (v_{3}) harmonic coefficients of the azimuthal particle distribution at midrapidity are extracted for charged hadrons and studied as a function of transverse momentum (p_{T}) and mean charged particle multiplicity density ⟨N_{ch}⟩ in U+U (sqrt[s_{NN}]=193  GeV), Au+Au, Cu+Au, Cu+Cu, d+Au, and p+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200  GeV with the STAR detector. For the same ⟨N_{ch}⟩, the v_{1}^{fluc} and v_{3} coefficients are observed to be independent of the collision system, while v_{2} exhibits such a scaling only when normalized by the initial-state eccentricity (ϵ_{2}). The data also show that ln(v_{2}/ϵ_{2}) scales linearly with ⟨N_{ch}⟩^{-1/3}. These measurements provide insight into initial-geometry fluctuations and the role of viscous hydrodynamic attenuation on v_{n} from small to large collision systems.

Determining the minimal clinically important difference for the PEmbQoL questionnaire, a measure of pulmonary embolism-specific quality of life

Essentials The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for PEmbQoL has not yet been determined. We estimated the MCID for PEmbQoL and its subscales via anchor- and distribution-based approaches. Our results indicate that MCID for PEmbQoL appears to be 15 points. Our work enables interpretation of changes or differences in PEmbQoL. SUMMARY: Background Pulmonary embolism (PE) reduces quality of life (QOL). The PEmbQoL questionnaire, a PE-related QOL measure, was recently developed and validated and has been used to quantify disease-specific QOL in clinical studies of patients with PE. However, to date, interpretation of PEmbQoL scores has been limited by a lack of information on the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of this measure. Objective To determine the MCID for PEmbQoL and its subscales using anchor-based and distribution-based approaches. Methods We analyzed data from the ELOPE Study, a prospective, multicenter cohort study of long-term outcomes after a first episode of acute PE. At baseline and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after PE, we measured generic QOL (SF-36), PE-specific QOL (PEmbQoL) and dyspnea severity (UCSD Shortness of Breath Questionnaire). We used time-varying repeated-measures mixed-effect models to estimate anchor-based MCID and effect sizes to estimate distribution-based MCID. Results Eighty-two patients participated in this sub-study. Their mean age was 49.4 years, 60% were male and 84% had PE diagnosed in an outpatient setting. Using both anchor- and distribution-based approaches, the MCID for PEmbQoL appears to be 15 points. Based on this MCID, 42%, 59%, 66% and 75% of patients experienced at least one MCID unit of improvement in PEmbQoL from baseline to 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Conclusion Our results provide new information on the MCID of PEmbQoL, a PE-specific QOL questionnaire that can be used by researchers and clinicians to measure and interpret changes in PE-specific QOL over time, or as an outcome in clinical trials.

Erratum: Observation of D^{0} Meson Nuclear Modifications in Au+Au Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200 GeV [Phys. Rev. Lett. 113, 142301 (2014)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.113.142301.

Low-p_{T} e^{+}e^{-} Pair Production in Au+Au Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200 GeV and U+U Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=193 GeV at STAR

We report first measurements of e^{+}e^{-} pair production in the mass region 0.4<M_{ee}<2.6  GeV/c^{2} at low transverse momentum (p_{T}<0.15  GeV/c) in noncentral Au+Au collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=200  GeV and U+U collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=193  GeV. Significant enhancement factors, expressed as ratios of data over known hadronic contributions, are observed in the 40%-80% centrality of these collisions. The excess yields peak distinctly at low p_{T} with a width (sqrt[⟨p_{T}^{2}⟩]) between 40 and 60  MeV/c. The absolute cross section of the excess depends weakly on centrality, while those from a theoretical model calculation incorporating an in-medium broadened ρ spectral function and radiation from a quark gluon plasma or hadronic cocktail contributions increase dramatically with an increasing number of participant nucleons. Model calculations of photon-photon interactions generated by the initial projectile and target nuclei describe the observed excess yields but fail to reproduce the p_{T}^{2} distributions.

Beam Energy Dependence of Jet-Quenching Effects in Au+Au Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=7.7, 11.5, 14.5, 19.6, 27, 39, and 62.4 GeV

We report measurements of the nuclear modification factor R_{CP} for charged hadrons as well as identified π^{+(-)}, K^{+(-)}, and p(p[over ¯]) for Au+Au collision energies of sqrt[s_{NN}]=7.7, 11.5, 14.5, 19.6, 27, 39, and 62.4 GeV. We observe a clear high-p_{T} net suppression in central collisions at 62.4 GeV for charged hadrons which evolves smoothly to a large net enhancement at lower energies. This trend is driven by the evolution of the pion spectra but is also very similar for the kaon spectra. While the magnitude of the proton R_{CP} at high p_{T} does depend on the collision energy, neither the proton nor the antiproton R_{CP} at high p_{T} exhibit net suppression at any energy. A study of how the binary collision-scaled high-p_{T} yield evolves with centrality reveals a nonmonotonic shape that is consistent with the idea that jet quenching is increasing faster than the combined phenomena that lead to enhancement.

High-pressure structural and vibrational properties of monazite-type BiPO4, LaPO4, CePO4, and PrPO4

Monazite-type BiPO₄, LaPO₄, CePO₄, and PrPO₄ have been studied under high pressure by ab initio simulations and Raman spectroscopy measurements in the pressure range of stability of the monazite structure. A good agreement between experimental and theoretical Raman-active mode frequencies and pressure coefficients has been found which has allowed us to discuss the nature of the Raman-active modes. Besides, calculations have provided us with information on how the crystal structure is modified by pressure. This information has allowed us to determine the equation of state and the isothermal compressibility tensor of the four studied compounds. In addition, the information obtained on the polyhedral compressibility has been used to explain the anisotropic axial compressibility and the bulk compressibility of monazite phosphates. Finally, we have carried out a systematic discussion on the high-pressure behavior of the four studied phosphates in comparison to results of previous studies.