Feasibility of self-measurement telemonitoring using a handheld heart sound recorder in patients with heart failure - SELPH multicenter pilot study

BACKGROUND

Multi-parametric assessment, including heart sounds in addition to conventional parameters, may enhance the efficacy of noninvasive telemonitoring for heart failure (HF). We sought to assess the feasibility of self-telemonitoring with multiple devices including a handheld heart sound recorder and its association with clinical events in patients with HF.

METHODS

Ambulatory HF patients recorded their own heart sounds, mono‑lead electrocardiograms, oxygen saturation, body weight, and vital signs using multiple devices every morning for six months.

RESULTS

In the 77 patients enrolled (63 ± 13 years old, 84 % male), daily measurements were feasible with a self-measurement rate of >70 % of days in 75 % of patients. Younger age and higher Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire scores were independently associated with lower adherence (p = 0.002 and 0.027, respectively). A usability questionnaire showed that 87 % of patients felt self-telemonitoring was helpful, and 96 % could use the devices without routine cohabitant support. Six patients experienced ten HF events of re-hospitalization and/or unplanned hospital visits due to HF. In patients who experienced HF events, a significant increase in heart rate and diastolic blood pressure and a decrease in the time interval from Q wave onset to the second heart sound were observed 7 days before the events compared with those without HF events.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-telemonitoring with multiple devices including a handheld heart sound recorder was feasible even in elderly patients with HF. This intervention may confer a sense of relief to patients and enable monitoring of physiological parameters that could be valuable in detecting the deterioration of HF.

Impact of sleep-disordered breathing on overnight changes in arterial stiffness in patients with acute heart failure

Overnight increases in arterial stiffness associated with sleep-disordered breathing may adversely affect patients with acute heart failure. Thus, we investigated overnight changes in arterial stiffness and their association with sleep-disordered breathing in patients hospitalized for acute heart failure. Consecutive patients with acute heart failure were enrolled. All participants underwent overnight full polysomnography following the initial improvement of acute signs and symptoms of acute heart failure. The arterial stiffness parameter, cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), was assessed before and after polysomnography. Overall, 60 patients (86.7% men) were analyzed. CAVI significantly increased overnight (from 8.4 ± 1.6 at night to 9.1 ± 1.7 in the morning, P < 0.001) in addition to systolic and diastolic blood pressure (from 114.1 mmHg to 121.6 mmHg, P < 0.001; and from 70.1 mmHg to 78.2 mmHg, P < 0.001, respectively). Overnight increase in CAVI (ΔCAVI ≥ 0) was observed in 42 patients (70%). The ΔCAVI ≥ 0 group was likely to have moderate-to-severe sleep-disordered breathing (i.e., apnea-hypopnea index ≥15, 55.6% vs 80.9%, P = 0.047) and greater obstructive respiratory events (29.4% vs 58.5%, P = 0.041). In multivariable analysis, moderate-to-severe sleep-disordered breathing and greater obstructive respiratory events were independently correlated with an overnight increase in CAVI (P = 0.033 and P = 0.042, respectively). In patients hospitalized for acute heart failure, arterial stiffness, as assessed by CAVI, significantly increased overnight. Moderate-to-severe sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive respiratory events may play an important role in the overnight increase in cardio-ankle vascular index.

A Case Report of Mixed-type Dyspnoea Diagnosed via Non-invasive and Invasive Cardiopulmonary Exercise Tests

A gas exchange analysis with the cardiopulmonary exercise test is effective in discriminating non-cardiogenic components of limited exercise tolerance and is important for use in combination with the diastolic stress test. An 80-year-old woman with progressive exertional dyspnoea, hypertension, and untreated bronchial asthma was diagnosed with heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction by invasive testing. Diuretics were initiated, which resulted in partial symptom improvement. A subsequent non-invasive test revealed a reduced breathing reserve, suggesting exertional dyspnoea complications linked to lung disease. Bronchodilators were administered, which further improved the symptoms.

Diurnal Variations in Serum Uric Acid, Xanthine, and Xanthine Oxidoreductase Activity in Male Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Hyperuricemia is influenced by diet and can cause gout. Whether it is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains controversial, and the mechanism is unclear. Similar to CVDs, gout attacks occur more frequently in the morning and at night. A possible reason for this is the diurnal variation in uric acid (UA), However, scientific data regarding this variation in patients with CVD are not available. Thus, we aimed to investigate diurnal variations in serum levels of UA and plasma levels of xanthine, hypoxanthine, and xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) activity, which were measured at 18:00, 6:00, and 12:00 in male patients with coronary artery disease. Thirty eligible patients participated in the study. UA and xanthine levels significantly increased from 18:00 to 6:00 but significantly decreased from 6:00 to 12:00. By contrast, XOR activity significantly increased both from 18:00 to 6:00 and 6:00 to 12:00. Furthermore, the rates of increase in UA and xanthine levels from night to morning were significantly and positively correlated. In conclusion, UA and xanthine showed similar diurnal variations, whereas XOR activity showed different diurnal variations. The morning UA surge could be due to UA production. The mechanism involved XOR activity, but other factors were also considered.

Overnight changes in uric acid, xanthine oxidoreductase and oxidative stress levels and their relationships with sleep-disordered breathing in patients with coronary artery disease

Serum uric acid (UA) level is associated with the high cumulative incidence or prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD), and hyperuricemia is considered as an independent risk marker for CAD. Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is also associated with an increased risk of CAD. Several studies have shown that SDB is associated with hyperuricemia, but the mechanisms are unclear. We measured serum levels of UA and xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) activity and urinary levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), all of which were assessed at 6 p.m. and the following 6 a.m. in males with CAD. In addition, nocturnal pulse oximetry was performed for the night. Overall 32 eligible patients with CAD were enrolled. Serum UA levels significantly increased overnight. (5.32 ± 0.98 mg/dl to 5.46 ± 1.02 mg/dl, p < 0.001) Moreover, XOR activity and urinary 8-OHdG levels significantly increased from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Furthermore, 3% Oxygen desaturation index (ODI) was correlated with the overnight changes in XOR activity (r = 0.36, P = 0.047) and urinary 8-OHdG levels (r = 0.41, P = 0.02). In addition, 3%ODI was independently correlated with the changes in XOR activity (correlation coefficient, 0.36; P = 0.047) and 8-OHdG (partial correlation coefficient, 0.63; P = 0.004) in multivariable analyses. SDB severity was associated with the overnight changes in XOR activity and urinary 8-OHdG, suggesting that SDB may be associated with oxidative stress via UA production. This trial is registered at University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN), number: UMIN000021624.

A case of adult patent ductus arteriosus-associated infective endarteritis who was successfully treated with only antibiotics

Patent ductus arteriosus-associated infective endarteritis (PDA-IE) is an extremely rare complication of PDA in recent years. In this report, we describe a case of PDA-IE complicated by septic pulmonary embolism who was successfully treated with only antibiotics.

Severe Aortic Regurgitation by Nonbacterial Thrombotic Endocarditis Treated with Anticoagulation Therapy

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NBTE often appears as vegetations attached to valves.

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Differentiating NBTE from IE is imperative as it requires different treatment.

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Valvular heart disease caused by NBTE may resolve with appropriate anticoagulation.

Docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid strongly inhibit prostanoid TP receptor-dependent contractions of guinea pig gastric fundus smooth muscle

The inhibitory effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and linoleic acid (LA) on the contractions induced by five prostanoids and U46619 (a TP receptor agonist) were examined in guinea pig gastric fundus smooth muscle (GFSM). Tension changes were isometrically measured, and the mRNA expression of prostanoid receptors was measured by RT‐qPCR. DHA and EPA significantly inhibited contractions induced by the prostanoids and U46619, whereas LA inhibited those induced by prostaglandin D₂ and U46619. The mRNA expression levels of the prostanoid receptors were TP ≈ EP₃ >> FP > EP₁. The inhibition by DHA, EPA, and LA was positively correlated with that by SQ 29,548 (a TP receptor antagonist) but not with that by L‐798,106 (an EP₃ receptor antagonist). DHA and EPA suppressed high KCl‐induced contractions by 35% and 25%, respectively, and the contractions induced by the prostanoids and U46619 were suppressed by verapamil, a voltage‐dependent Ca²⁺ channel (VDCC) inhibitor, by 40%–85%. Although LA did not suppress high KCl‐induced contractions, it suppressed U46619‐induced contractions in the presence of verapamil. However, LA did not show significant inhibitory effects on U46619‐induced Ca²⁺ increases in TP receptor‐expressing cells. In contrast, LA inhibited U46619‐induced contractions in the presence of verapamil, which was also suppressed by SKF‐96365 (a store‐operated Ca²⁺ channel [SOCC] inhibitor). These findings suggest that the TP receptor and VDCC are targets of DHA and EPA to inhibit prostanoid‐induced contractions of guinea pig GFSM, and SOCCs play a significant role in LA‐induced inhibition of U46619‐induced contractions.

Atypical Shone's Complex Diagnosed at 70 Years Old: Presenting with Double-orifice Mitral Valve, Bicuspid Aortic Valve, and Aortic Coarctation

Atypical Shone's complex is a rare congenital anomaly involving a left-sided obstructive lesion of two or three cardiovascular levels. A 70-year-old man with dyspnea on exertion was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis (AS) with a bicuspid valve, complicated by severe aortic coarctation (CoA) and a double-orifice mitral valve. He underwent surgery for AS and CoA in one session. It is important to search for complicated malformations, even in cases of bicuspid aortic valve found in old age.

Docosahexaenoic Acid Selectively Suppresses U46619- and PGF2α-Induced Contractions in Guinea Pig Tracheal Smooth Muscles

We investigated the potential inhibitory effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on the contractions of guinea pig tracheal smooth muscles in response to U46619 (a thromboxane A₂ (TXA₂) mimetic) and prostaglandin F_2α (PGF_2α) to examine whether this n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid suppresses prostanoid-induced tracheal contractions. DHA (3 × 10^-5 M) significantly suppressed tracheal contractions elicited by lower concentrations of U46619 (10^-8 M) and PGF_2α (5 × 10^-7 M) (vs. control), although it did not suppress the contractions induced by higher concentrations (U46619: 10^-7 M; PGF_2α: 10^-5 M). Supporting these findings, DHA (4 × 10^-5 M/6 × 10^-5 M) shifted the concentration-response curves for U46619 (10^-9-10^-6 M) and PGF_2α (10^-8-10^-5 M) to the right. However, the slope of the regression line in the Schild plot of DHA vs. U46619/PGF_2α was larger than unity. The tracheal contractions induced by U46619 (10^-8 M) and PGF_2α (5 × 10^-7 M) were significantly suppressed by the prostanoid TP receptor antagonist SQ 29,548 (10^-6 M) (vs. ethanol-treated). In contrast, DHA (4 × 10^-5 M) did not show significant inhibitory effects on the contractions induced by acetylcholine (10^-8-10^-4 M), histamine (10^-8-10^-4 M), and leukotriene D₄ (10^-11-10^-7 M) (vs. ethanol-treated). These findings indicate that DHA selectively suppresses tracheal contractions induced by U46619 and PGF_2α. Therefore, DHA may be a useful therapeutic agent against asthma associated with tracheal/bronchial hyper-constriction caused by prostanoids including TXA₂ and PGF_2α.

Prognostic effect of sleep-disordered breathing on hospitalized patients following acute heart failure

BACKGROUND

Identifying patients at risk for poor clinical outcomes following acute heart failure (AHF) is essential. However, data regarding the prognostic effect of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and treatment with positive airway pressure (PAP) on clinical outcomes of hospitalized patients following AHF is lacking.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the prognostic effect of SDB, PAP treatment, and compliance with PAP treatment on patient clinical outcomes. Polysomnography was performed in hospitalized patients whose left ventricular ejection fraction was < 50%. Patients were divided into groups based on whether SDB was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index ≥ 15 and if they had received PAP treatment. Furthermore, patients with SDB and PAP were subdivided into more and less compliant groups. We assessed the incidences of deaths and rehospitalizations due to heart failure.

RESULTS

Overall, 241 patients were enrolled; 73% had SDB and 29% were initiated on PAP treatment. At a median follow-up of 1.7 years, 74 clinical events (32 deaths, 42 rehospitalizations) occurred. In the multivariable analysis, compared with the non-SDB group, SDB without PAP treatment was associated with an increased risk of clinical outcomes (hazard ratio [HR] 1.79, P = 0.049), whereas SDB with PAP treatment was not (HR 0.78, P = 0.582). Among patients with PAP treatment, a more compliant group was also inversely associated with clinical events (HR 0.11, P = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

In hospitalized patients with AHF, untreated SDB was associated with worse clinical outcomes that might be reversible by PAP treatment. However, this potential may be suppressed in less compliant patients.

Utility of cyclic variation of heart rate score as a screening tool for sleep-disordered breathing in patients with heart failure

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Patients with sleep-disordered breathing have cyclic variation of heart rate (CVHR) in response to respiratory events. However, limited data are available regarding the utility of CVHR as a screening tool for sleep-disordered breathing in patients with mixed heart failure (HF) and those without HF.

METHODS

We enrolled consecutive patients with and without HF who underwent full polysomnographies with simultaneous Holter electrocardiogram monitoring. We determined the temporal position of the individual dips comprising the CVHR score using time-domain methods.

RESULTS

The data of 101 patients, including 70 with and 31 without HF, were analyzed. The CVHR score was significantly correlated with the apnea-hypopnea index (r = .667, P < .001) and limits of agreement between the apnea-hypopnea index and CVHR score were -21.8 to 35.2. The receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that the CVHR score (best cut-off of 23.5 events/h) identified severe sleep-disordered breathing with a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 79.5%, and the area under the curve of 0.856. In addition, there was no interaction between the presence or absence of HF and the apnea-hypopnea index-CVHR score relationship (P = .323).

CONCLUSIONS

The CVHR score, determined by Holter electrocardiogram monitoring, is a useful tool for evaluating sleep-disordered breathing even in patients with mixed HF and patients without HF.

CITATION

Yatsu S, Kasai T, Naito R, et al. Utility of cyclic variation of heart rate score as a screening tool for sleep-disordered breathing in patients with heart failure. J Clin Sleep Med. 2021;17(11):2187-2196.

Effectiveness of real-time tele-ultrasound for echocardiography in resource-limited medical teams

BACKGROUND

Echocardiography is a first-line tool for the screening of patients with cardiac dysfunction. However, the mastery of echocardiography requires significant training, and not all medical teams involve an echocardiography specialist. Telemedicine approaches can potentially improve the quality of echocardiography in resource-limited situations.

METHODS

We used a novel tablet-based hand-held ultrasound device that enables tele-ultrasound- a real-time video telecommunication with remote control for ultrasound images. A trainee scanned patients with various cardiovascular diseases and interpreted the images. Subsequently, the same trainee re-scanned the same patients and re-interpreted the same images using tele-ultrasound with an echocardiography specialist. An examination on the same patients by a blinded specialist was considered the gold standard.

RESULTS

We included 31 patients (median 77 [interquartile range 68-84] years old, 42% women). Mean absolute errors in left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters, visual LV ejection fraction, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion decreased significantly after tele-ultrasound advice (5.9 mm, 5.8 mm, 8.6%, and 4.5 to 1.6 mm, 2.8 mm, 0.7%, and 1.8 mm, respectively, all p < 0.001), and intra-class correlation coefficients improved (0.76, 0.84, 0.68, and 0.44 to 0.96, 0.93, 0.99, and 0.90, respectively). Notably, with tele-advice, the trainee's examination showed perfect agreement with that of the specialist in classifying LV ejection fraction (> 50%, 50-35%, or > 35%) and identifying significant valvular heart diseases.

CONCLUSION

Real-time tele-ultrasound improved a trainee's echocardiography results to those of a specialist-level examination. This approach might be helpful in resource-limited medical teams where echocardiographic specialists are not readily available.

Temporal changes of cardiac acoustic biomarkers and cardiac function in acute decompensated heart failure

AIMS

Relationships between cardiac acoustic biomarkers (CABs) measured by acoustic cardiography and clinical outcomes have been reported in heart failure (HF) patients. However, no studies have investigated the temporal change of CABs and the corresponding changes in HF status. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the temporal changes of CABs in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) reflect changes in cardiac function and status.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Sixty ADHF patients were enrolled prospectively. CABs and echocardiography data were collected at admission, before discharge, and at the first clinic visit. CABs included electromechanical activation time (EMAT); the time interval from Q wave onset on electrocardiography to the first heart sound (S1), QoS2; the time interval from Q wave onset on electrocardiography to the second heart sound (S2); and third heart sound (S3) and fourth heart sound (S4) intensities, defined as the peak-to-peak amplitudes of S3 and S4. EMATc (EMAT/RR) (P = 0.001), S3 intensity (P < 0.001), and S4 intensity (P < 0.001) were significantly decreased, and QoS2 (P = 0.005) was significantly increased from admission to discharge. The change in S3 intensity was significantly correlated with that of E/A (ρ = 0.571, P < 0.001), and the extended QoS2 was also significantly correlated with the increase in the stroke volume index (ρ = 0.383, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Some CABs in ADHF patients changed significantly in the normal direction throughout the treatment course and could be useful biomarkers in ADHF management.

Prognostic effects of arterial carbon dioxide levels in patients hospitalized into the cardiac intensive care unit for acute heart failure

AIMS

Although both hypercapnia and hypocapnia are common in acute heart failure (AHF) patients, routine assessment of arterial blood gas is not recommended. Additionally, no association between hypercapnia and increased mortality has been found, and the prognostic value of hypocapnia in AHF patients remains to be elucidated. In this observational study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2), especially low PaCO2, and long-term mortality in AHF patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Acute heart failure patients hospitalized in the cardiac intensive care unit of our institution between 2007 and 2011 were screened. All eligible patients were divided into two groups based on the inflection point (i.e. 31.0 mmHg) of the 3-knot cubic spline curve of the hazard ratio (HR), with a PaCO2 of 40 mmHg as a reference. The association between PaCO2 levels and all-cause mortality was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression models. Among 435 patients with a median follow-up of 1.8 years, 115 (26.4%) died. Adjusted analysis with relevant variables as confounders indicated that PaCO2 <31 mmHg was significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality [HR 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05-2.79; P = 0.032]. When PaCO2 was considered as a continuous variable, the lower was the log-transformed PaCO2, the greater was the increased risk of mortality (HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.52-0.96; P = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

In AHF patients, lower PaCO2 at admission was associated with increased long-term mortality risk.

Changes in self-reported physical activity and health-related quality of life following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation in patients with heart failure: results from a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Astaxanthin has a strong antioxidant effect. We recently demonstrated that following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation, cardiac contractility and exercise tolerance improved, possibly through the suppression of oxidative stress in a small pilot study involving patients with heart failure with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. This is a sub-study of our pilot study to investigate whether improvements of selfreported physical activity and health-related quality of life were observed following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation.

METHODS

We investigated the changes in physical activity by the Specific Activity Scale score and healthrelated quality of life by physical and mental component summary scores in Short Form-8 at baseline and after 3-month astaxanthin supplementation.

RESULTS

Data from 17 patients with heart failure were assessed. Following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation, the Specific Activity Scale score increased from the median of 4.5 (interquartile range, 2.0) to 6.5 (interquartile range, 1.1) metabolic equivalent (P=0.001), and the physical and mental component summary scores increased from 46.1±9.2 to 50.8±6.8 (P=0.015) and from 48.9±9.1 to 53.8±4.8 (P=0.022), respectively. There was a linear relationship of the baseline heart rate, or mental component summary score with the percent change in the Specific Activity Scale score (r=0.523, P=0.031 and r=-0.505, P=0.039, respectively). In addition, there was a direct relationship of ischemic etiology with the percent change in the physical component summary score (r=0.483, P=0.049, respectively). Finally, there was a linear relationship between the percent change in the Specific Activity Scale score and that in the mental component summary score (r=0.595, P=0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation, improvements of the self-reported physical activity level and health-related quality of life in both mental and physical components were observed. In patients with heart failure, those with higher baseline heart rate, ischemic etiology, and poorer baseline health-related quality of life have potentials to have greater improvement of physical activity and/or health-related quality of life.

Prognostic Effect of a Novel Simply Calculated Nutritional Index in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

The TCB index (triglycerides × total cholesterol × body weight), a novel simply calculated nutritional index based on serum triglycerides (TGs), serum total cholesterol (TC), and body weight (BW), was recently reported to be a useful prognostic indicator in patients with coronary artery disease. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between TCBI and long-term mortality in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients. Patients with a diagnosis of ADHF who were consecutively admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit in our institution from 2007 to 2011 were targeted. TCBI was calculated using the formula TG (mg/dL) × TC (mg/dL) × BW (kg)/1000. Patients were divided into two groups according to the median TCBI value. An association between admission TCBI and mortality was assessed using univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard analyses. Overall, 417 eligible patients were enrolled, and 94 (22.5%) patients died during a median follow-up period of 2.2 years. The cumulative survival rate with respect to all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer-related mortalities was worse in patients with low TCBI than in those with high TCBI. In the multivariable analysis, although TCBI was not associated with cardiovascular and cancer mortalities, the association between TCBI and reduced all-cause mortality (hazard ratio: 0.64, 95% confidence interval: 0.44-0.94, p = 0.024) was observed. We computed net reclassification improvement (NRI) when TCBI or Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) was added on established predictors such as hemoglobin, serum sodium level, and both. TCBI improved discrimination for all-cause mortality (NRI: 0.42, p < 0.001; when added on hemoglobin and serum sodium level). GNRI can improve discrimination for cancer mortality (NRI: 0.96, p = 0.002; when added on hemoglobin and serum sodium level). TCBI, a novel and simply calculated nutritional index, can be useful to stratify patients with ADHF who were at risk for worse long-term overall mortality.

Effects of 3-Month Astaxanthin Supplementation on Cardiac Function in Heart Failure Patients with Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction-A Pilot Study

Astaxanthin has strong antioxidant properties. We conducted a prospective pilot study on heart failure (HF) patients with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction to investigate improvements in cardiac function and exercise tolerance in relation to suppression of oxidative stress by 3-month astaxanthin supplementation. Oxidative stress markers—serum Diacron reactive oxygen metabolite (dROM), biological antioxidant potential (BAP), and urinary 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) concentrations, LV ejection fraction (LVEF), and 6-min walk distance (6MWD) were assessed before and after 3-month astaxanthin supplementation. Finally, the data of 16 HF patients were analyzed. Following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation, dROM level decreased from 385.6 ± 82.6 U.CARR to 346.5 ± 56.9 U.CARR (p = 0.041) despite no changes in BAP and urinary 8-OHdG levels. LVEF increased from 34.1 ± 8.6% to 38.0 ± 10.0% (p = 0.031) and 6MWD increased from 393.4 ± 95.9 m to 432.8 ± 93.3 m (p = 0.023). Significant relationships were observed between percent changes in dROM level and those in LVEF. In this study, following 3-month astaxanthin supplementation, suppressed oxidative stress and improved cardiac contractility and exercise tolerance were observed in HF patients with LV systolic dysfunction. Correlation between suppression of oxidative stress and improvement of cardiac contractility suggests that suppression of oxidative stress by astaxanthin supplementation had therapeutic potential to improve cardiac functioning.

P269 Mid-term clinical outcomes of biodegradable polymer everolimus-eluting stents compared with durable polymer everolimus-eluting stents: a propensity-matched study

Background

Introduction: Several studies have reported that durable polymer drug-eluting stents could cause delayed healing and late catch-up. Although biodegradable polymer everolimus-eluting stents (BP-EES) might solve these problems, there is few data about mid-term clinical outcomes of BP-EES compared with durable polymer everolimus-eluting stents (DP-EES).

Purpose

This study aimed to compare mid-term clinical outcomes between BP-EES and DP-EES.

Methods

Between January to December 2016, 206 consecutive patients were treated with BP-EES and 177 consecutive patients were treated with DP-EES in our Heart Center. The primary endpoint was 3-year cumulative incidence of target lesion failure (TLF) defined as cardiac death, target vessel-related myocardial infarction and clinical-driven target lesion revascularization. Moreover, clinical-driven target vessel revascularization (TVR) and definite stent thrombosis (ST) were also evaluated. 

Results

After propensity score matching, 160 patients were selected in each group. At 3 years, the cumulative incidences of TLF were 4.1% in BP-EES group vs. 7.9% in DP-EES (p = 0.12). Similarly, those of clinical-driven TVR were not different between the 2 groups (10.9% vs. 8.0%, p = 0.39). The incidence of definite ST in BP-EES tended to be higher than in that of DP-EES (BP-EES vs. DP-EES; 0% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.06).

Conclusions

There were no significant differences of TLF between BP-EES and DP-EES within 3 years. In this study, BP-EES seems to prevent definite ST and be safer than DP-EES in mid-term.

Abstract P269 Figure.

Sex differences in factors associated with poor subjective sleep quality in athletes

BACKGROUND

Sleep is an important recovery period for athletes. In general, women are not satisfied with their sleep quality, which is also true for female soccer players, although the reasons remain to be elucidated. This study aimed to confirm sex difference in sleep quality among athletes from various fields of sport, and to investigate factors related to poor subjective sleep quality in male and female athletes.

METHODS

We collected data concerning subjective sleep quality, measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), from athletes who were 16 to 40 years of age and played various types of sports. Data concerning their sports, lifestyle, and sleep issues and sleep environments, and also menstrual issues for females, were collected.

RESULTS

Data from 207 male athletes and 215 female athletes were assessed. Among them, 31.4% of men and 48.8% of women had poor subjective sleep quality (i.e., PSQI≥6). In male athletes, witnessed apnea, episodes of disorientation or confusion during the time of sleep, long time gap between dinner and bedtime, and turning on the heating in the winter, were identified as factors associated with poor sleep quality by multivariate analysis, whereas in female athletes, bathing close to bedtime, habitual drinking, and being annoyed by noises at bedtime were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

In both populations, females had poorer subjective sleep quality than males. Sex differences exist in factors associated with poor subjective sleep quality. Thus, different approaches should be considered to improve their sleep quality.

P974Efficacy of plaque debulking for bifurcated or ostial lesion by directional coronary atherectomy before 2nd generation drug eluting stent (PERFECT2)

Objectives

We sought to evaluate the efficacy of plaque debulking by directional coronary atherectomy (DCA) before 2nd generation drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation for bifurcated coronary lesions.

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for bifurcated lesions still remains complex and challenging in terms of restenosis or stent thrombosis regardless of whether simple or complex stenting used.

Methods

Patients with bifurcated lesions were enrolled in this prospective multicenter registry. Pre-2nd generation DES plaque debulking with a novel DCA was conducted. All patients were scheduled to perform a follow up (9–12 months) angiography (coronary angiography or coronary computed tomography). The primary end point was the target vessel failure (TVF) at follow-up. Secondary end points were procedure-related events and major adverse cardiac events at 1 year.

Results

A total of 77 patients with bifurcated lesions were enrolled. PCI with DCA was performed successfully in all without any major procedure-related event and only 1 case needed complex stenting. TVF rate at 9–12 months follow up was 3.9% (3 of 77) and those were all associated with revascularization of the target vessel. Restenosis was only observed at ostial of main-branch in 3cases. No death, no coronary artery bypass grafting, and no myocardial infarction were reported in the patients within the first year.

Figure1

Conclusion

DCA before 2nd generation DES implantation can possibly avoid complex stenting and provide a good mid-term outcome in patients with bifurcated lesions.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

P2796Biodegradable polymer everolimus-eluting stents versus durable polymer everolimus-eluting stents in diabetic patients: a 3-year propensity-matched study

Background and introduction

Diabetic patients are at high risk of adverse cardiovascular events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) even with durable polymer drug-eluting stents. A biodegradable polymer everolimus-eluting stents (BP-EES) might improve clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the mid-term clinical outcomes between BP-EES and durable polymer everolimus-eluting stents (DP-EES) in diabetic patients.

Methods

We investigated consecutive 383 patients treated with BP-EES or DP-EES at our Heart Center between January and December 2016. Among these patients, 155 (40.5%) patients had diabetes mellitus. The primary endpoint was 3-year cumulative incidence of target lesion failure (TLF) defined as target vessel-related myocardial infarction (MI) and clinical-driven target lesion revascularization (TLR). Moreover, the incidence of definite stent thrombosis (ST) was also evaluated.

Results

After propensity score matching, 148 patients were divided into 2 groups (BP-EES; N=74, DP-EES; N=74). The 3-year cumulative incidences of TLF were significantly lower in BP-EES group than in DP-EES group (BP-EES vs. DP-EES; 1.4% vs. 11.4%, p=0.01). The incidence of cardiac death, target vessel-related MI, and definite ST were none in the both group.

Figure 1

Conclusions

In diabetic patients, the incidence of TLR within 3 years was significantly lower in BP-EES than in DP-EES. In PCI for diabetic patients, BP-EES might improve clinical outcomes compared to DP-EES.

Relationship between Hypoalbuminemia on Admission and Long-term Mortality in Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Objective Although several studies have reported the relationship between hypoalbuminemia and the clinical outcome, it remains disputable in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). We therefore investigated the relationship between hypoalbuminemia on admission and long-term mortality in hospitalized patients following ADHF. Methods We examined a cohort of 751 consecutive patients who were admitted to the cardiac intensive-care unit between 2007 and 2011 with a diagnosis of ADHF. These patients were divided into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of hypoalbuminemia on admission, which was defined as a serum albumin ≤3.4 g/dL. A propensity score (PS) was calculated to evaluate the effects of variables related to the presence or absence of hypoalbuminemia. The association between hypoalbuminemia and mortality was assessed using two Cox regression models-namely, conventional adjustment and matching patients with and without hypoalbuminemia using the PS. Results Among the pre-match patients (n=551), 311 (56%) were classified as exhibiting hypoalbuminemia on admission. There were 152 deaths (27.5%), and the median follow-up was 1.9 years. The presence of hypoalbuminemia on admission tended to be associated with increased mortality in the unadjusted model [hazard ratio (HR) 1.32, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.95-1.84; p=0.098] but not in the conventional adjusted model (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.64-1.52; p=0.938). Even in post-match patients, no association between hypoalbuminemia and mortality was observed (HR 1.09, 95% CI 0.68-1.76; p=0.722). Conclusion Hypoalbuminemia on admission was not associated with long-term mortality in patients with ADHF, even if PS matching was used.

Association between C-reactive protein levels at hospital admission and long-term mortality in patients with acute decompensated heart failure

The C-reactive protein (CRP) levels obtained at hospital admission are associated with the prognosis of several cardiovascular diseases, including acute coronary syndrome. Although the admission CRP level is associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), there are limited data on the association between the admission CRP level and long-term mortality in patients with ADHF. This study included consecutive ADHF patients admitted to our institution from 2007 to 2011. Eligible patients were divided into four groups based on quartiles of admission CRP levels. The association between the admission CRP level and long-term mortality was assessed by multivariable Cox proportional analysis, including other independent variables with p values < 0.1 in the univariable analyses. Overall, 527 eligible patients were examined. There were 142 deaths (27%) during a median follow-up period of 2.0 years. In the multivariable analysis, the hazard ratio (HR) significantly increased with admission CRP levels in a dose-dependent manner for mortality (p for trend = 0.034). Multivariable analysis also showed a significant association between the admission CRP level, when treated as a natural logarithm-transformed continuous variable, and increased mortality (HR 1.16, p = 0.030). In patients with ADHF, the admission CRP level was associated with an increased risk of long-term mortality.

Prevalence and Significance of Restless Legs Syndrome in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), characterized by leg restlessness and dysesthesia predominantly at night and at rest, disrupts sleep and quality of life. The reported prevalence of RLS is 2% to 5%. Although a relation between RLS and coronary artery disease has been suggested, the prevalence and clinical significance of RLS in coronary artery disease patients remain unknown. We enrolled coronary artery disease patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients with RLS were identified according to international criteria. Subjective sleepiness, sleep quality, and health-related quality of life were assessed using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Short Form-8, respectively. Among 326 patients with coronary artery disease, 26 (8.0%) had RLS. There were no significant differences in characteristics between patients with and without RLS. Sleep quality and quality of life were more disrupted in patients with RLS (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score, 7.4 ± 2.4 vs 5.6 ± 2.5, p <0.001; physical component summary and mental component summary scores of Short Form-8, 39.6 ± 1.8 vs 43.5 ± 0.5, p = 0.042 and 45.2 ± 8.4 vs 48.4 ± 7.4, p = 0.037, respectively), despite no significant difference in Epworth Sleepiness Scale score (8.2 ± 5.1 vs 7.1 ± 4.8, p = 0.293). In multiple linear regression analyses, RLS was independently associated with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (β = 0.174, p <0.001), physical component summary (β = -0.127, p = 0.029), and mental component summary (β = -0.113, p = 0.042) scores. In conclusion, in patients with coronary artery disease, the prevalence of RLS was relatively high compared to that reported in the general population. The presence of RLS was associated with disrupted sleep quality and health-related quality of life in coronary artery disease patients.

Treatment of central sleep apnea in patients with heart failure: Now and future

Heart failure (HF) is known to be associated with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). In addition to disturbing patients’ sleep, SDB is also associated with a deterioration in the cardiac function and an increased mortality and morbidity. Central sleep apnea (CSA), typically characterized by Cheyne-Stokes breathing (CSB), is increasingly found in patients with HF compared to the general population. An important pathogenetic factor of CSA seen in HF patients is an instability in the control of the respiratory system, characterized by both hypocapnia and increased chemosensitivity. Sympathetic overactivation, pulmonary congestion and increased chemosensitivity associated with HF stimulate the pulmonary vagal irritant receptor, resulting in chronic hyperventilation and hypocapnia. Additionally, the repetitive apnea and arousal cycles induce cyclic sympathetic activation, which may worsen the cardiac prognosis. Correcting CSB may improve both patient’s quality of life and HF syndrome itself. However, a treatment for HF in patients also experiencing CSA is yet to be found. In fact, conflicting results from numerous clinical studies investigating sleep apnea with HF guide to a troubling question, that is whether (or not) sleep apnea should be treated in patients with HF? This editorial attempts to both collect the current evidence about randomized control trials investigating CSA in patients with HF and highlight the effect of specific CSA treatments on cardiovascular endpoints.

Relationship Between Serum Sodium Level Within the Low-Normal Range on Admission and Long-Term Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Although hyponatremia during hospitalization for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is reportedly related with poor prognosis, the available data regarding the impact of serum sodium level within the low-normal range at admission on clinical events in patients with ADHF is limited.We studied eligible patients admitted to our institution in 2007-2011. All the patients were categorized into 3 groups according to the admission serum sodium levels of < 135 mmol/L (hyponatremia), ≥ 135 and < 140 mmol/L (low-normal range), or ≥ 140 mmol/L (normal range). The association between admission serum sodium levels and long-term clinical events, a composite of all-cause deaths and re-hospitalizations for ADHF, was assessed by multivariable Cox proportional analysis.Of the 584 eligible patients, 208 (35.6%) were in the low-normal range and 99 (16.9%) had hyponatremia on admission. On multivariable analysis, compared with those with a sodium level ≥ 140 mmol/L, patients with hyponatremia were at increased risk for clinical events (hazard ratio [HR], 1.53; P = 0.041), whereas the HR of those in the low-normal range was attenuated and insignificant (HR, 1.08; P = 0.625). However, the HR of each category increased significantly as sodium level decreased (P value for HR trend, 0.024). In addition, when serum sodium level was treated as a continuous variable, the lower the serum sodium level, the greater the risk of clinical events (P = 0.012). The cut-off value of serum sodium level to predict mortality was < 138 mmol/L.In conclusion, a low serum sodium level on admission for ADHF, even if low-normal, can increase the risk of long-term mortality and/or re-hospitalization for ADHF.

Randomized controlled trial of an oral appliance (SomnoDent) for sleep-disordered breathing and cardiac function in patients with heart failure

In patients with heart failure (HF), sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a common comorbidity and a risk factor for poor clinical outcomes. SDB can be ameliorated by continuous positive airway pressure; however, inadequate adherence remains a major cause of treatment failure. On the other hand, the efficacy of oral appliance (OA) has been proved in orthodontics and otolaryngology, although the efficacy of OA in patients with HF remains to be elucidated. This trial aims to determine the efficacy of OA for SDB in patients with HF. Patients with HF undergoing optimal medical therapy who were diagnosed as having SDB (apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥ 10 and percentage of central AHI per total AHI ≤ 70%) by using polysomnography (PSG) will be enrolled in the present study. Either patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] ≤ 50%) or HF with preserved ejection fraction (history of hospitalization because of acute decompensated HF) or plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level ≥ 100 pg/mL will be included. Each patient will be randomly assigned into active OA or sham OA. PSG, laboratory, and echocardiographic data will be obtained after 3 months of intervention. The main outcome measures are AHI, plasma BNP, and E/e' determined with echocardiography. Furthermore, overnight urinary catecholamine, 6-min walk distance, Epworth sleepiness scale, and health-related quality of life will be assessed simultaneously. This trial started on April 1, 2017, and the projected end date is March 31, 2019. This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN000025731).

Control-matched comparison of refractive and visual outcomes between small incision lenticule extraction and femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK

Purpose

This retrospective case-matched study aimed to compare visual and refractive outcomes between small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and LASIK.

Patients and methods

Patients who underwent SMILE (34 eyes of 23 patients) or LASIK (34 eyes of 24 patients) were enrolled and matched according to preoperative manifest refractive spherical equivalents. The mean preoperative manifest refractive spherical equivalent was −4.69±0.6 and −4.67±0.64 D in the SMILE and LASIK groups, respectively. The safety, efficacy, and predictability were compared 3 months after surgery. Changes in corneal refractive power from the center to peripheral points and their maintenance ratios were analyzed and compared between the two groups.

Results

In the SMILE and LASIK groups, 82.4% and 85.3% of patients, respectively, achieved 20/13 or better uncorrected distance visual acuity (p=1.00). There were no eyes that lost two or more lines of corrected distance visual acuity in either group. The maintenance ratios of corneal refractive power changes at the peripheral points in the SMILE group were significantly higher than those in the LASIK group (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Both groups achieved similar high efficacy and safety. SMILE surgery resulted in higher refractive power correction in the peripheral cornea than LASIK surgery.

Influence of sleep-disordered breathing assessed by pulse oximetry on long-term clinical outcomes in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) has been recognized as an important risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). However, SDB was not fully examined, because sleep studies are limited. Nocturnal pulse oximetry has been suggested to be a useful tool for evaluating SDB. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of SDB assessed by nocturnal pulse oximetry on clinical outcomes in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, multicenter, observational cohort study, wherein SDB was assessed by finger pulse oximetry in patients who underwent PCI from January 2014 to December 2016. SDB was defined as 4% oxygen desaturation index of 5 and higher. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular event (MACCE), defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, acute coronary syndrome, and/or stroke.

RESULTS

Of 539 patients, 296 (54.9%) had SDB. MACCE occurred in 32 patients (5.8%) during a median follow-up of 1.9 years. The cumulative incidence of MACCE was significantly higher in patients with SDB (P = 0.0134). In the stepwise multivariable Cox proportional model, the presence of SDB was a significant predictor of MACCE (hazard ratio 2.26; 95% confidence interval 1.05-5.4, P = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

SDB determined by nocturnal pulse oximetry was associated with worse clinical outcomes in patients who underwent PCI. Screening for SDB with nocturnal pulse oximetry was considered to be important for risk stratification in patients with CAD.

Prevalence and Clinical Correlates of Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Patients Hospitalized With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

Limited data are available regarding the presence of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) assessed using polysomnography in patients hospitalized with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction after acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). We investigated the prevalence and clinical correlates of SDB in patients hospitalized with ADHF and LV systolic dysfunction.

METHODS

Prospectively collected data from 105 consecutive patients with an LV ejection fraction < 50% who were hospitalized with ADHF from May 2012 to July 2014 were retrospectively assessed. Polysomnography was performed during the initial hospitalization after the initial improvement in ADHF acute signs and symptoms. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), including obstructive or central AHI, was computed as a severity of obstructive or central sleep apnea. Echocardiography and blood sampling for various parameters, such as B-type natriuretic peptide level, were performed systematically.

RESULTS

The proportions of patients with an AHI ≥ 5 events per hour and those with an AHI ≥ 15 events per hour were 93% and 69%, respectively, and central sleep apnea was predominant (66% and 44%, respectively). In the multivariate analysis, only body mass index (BMI) was independently correlated with AHI, whereas age, BMI, and E/e' level were independently correlated with obstructive AHI. In addition, use of loop diuretics and E/e' level were independently correlated with central AHI.

CONCLUSIONS

SDB determined using polysomnography was common in hospitalized patients with ADHF and LV systolic dysfunction. Age, BMI, and E/e' levels were significantly correlated with obstructive sleep apnea severity, whereas E/e' levels and use of loop diuretics were significantly correlated with central sleep apnea severity.

Acute Effects of Positive Airway Pressure on Functional Mitral Regurgitation in Patients with Systolic Heart Failure

Background: Acute effects of positive airway pressure (PAP) [including continuous PAP (CPAP) and adaptive servo-ventilation, an advanced form of bi-level PAP] on functional mitral regurgitation (fMR) in patients with heart failure (HF) with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction remain unclear. Thus, whether PAP therapy reduces fMR in such patients with HF was investigated. Methods and Results: Twenty patients with HF and LV systolic dysfunction defined as LV ejection fraction (LVEF) <50% (14 men; mean LVEF, 35.0 ± 11.5%) with fMR underwent echocardiography during 10-min CPAP (4 and 8 cm H₂O) and adaptive servo-ventilation. For fMR assessment, MR jet area fraction, defined as the ratio of MR jet on color Doppler to the left atrial area, was measured. The forward stroke volume (SV) index (fSVI) was calculated from the time-velocity integral, cross-sectional area of the aortic annulus, and body surface area. fMR significantly reduced on CPAP at 8 cm H₂O (0.30 ± 0.12) and adaptive servo-ventilation (0.29 ± 0.12), compared with the baseline phase (0.37 ± 0.12) and CPAP at 4 cm H₂O (0.34 ± 0.12) (P < 0.001). The fSVI did not change in any of the PAP sessions (P = 0.888). However, significant differences in fSVI responses to PAP were found between sexes (P for interaction, 0.006), with a significant reduction in fSVI in women (P = 0.041) and between patients with baseline fSVI ≥ and < the median value (27.8 ml/m², P for interaction, 0.018), with a significant fSVI reduction in patients with high baseline fSVI (P = 0.028). In addition, significant differences were found in fSVI responses to PAP between patients with LV end-systolic volume (LVESV) index ≥ and < the median value (62.0 ml/m², P for interaction, 0.034), with a significant fSVI increase in patients with a high LVESV index (P = 0.023). Conclusion: In patients with HF, LV systolic dysfunction, and fMR, PAP can alleviate fMR without any overall changes in forward SV. However, MR alleviation due to PAP might be associated with a decrease in forward SV in women with high baseline SV, whereas MR alleviation due to PAP might be accompanied by increased forward SV in patients with a dilated LV.

Low 1,5-anhydroglucitol levels are associated with long-term cardiac mortality in acute coronary syndrome patients with hemoglobin A1c levels less than 7.0

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is considered an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. High hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, which indicate poor glycemic control, have been associated with occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. There are few parameters which can predict cardiovascular risk in patients with well-controlled diabetes. Low 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) levels are considered a clinical marker of postprandial hyperglycemia. We hypothesized that low 1,5-AG levels could predict long-term mortality in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with relatively low HbA1c levels.

METHODS

The present study followed a retrospective observational study design. We enrolled 388 consecutive patients with ACS admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit at the Juntendo University Hospital from January 2011 to December 2013. Levels of 1,5-AG were measured immediately before emergency coronary angiography. Patients with early stent thrombosis, no significant coronary artery stenosis, malignancy, liver cirrhosis, a history of gastrectomy, current steroid treatment, moderately to severely reduced kidney function (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 45 ml/min/1.73 m2; chronic kidney disease stage 3B, 4, and 5), HbA1c levels ≥ 7.0%, and those who received sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor therapy were excluded.

RESULTS

During the 46.9-month mean follow-up period, nine patients (4.5%) died of cardiovascular disease. The 1,5-AG level was significantly lower in the cardiac death group compared with that in the survivor group (12.3 ± 5.3 vs. 19.2 ± 7.7 µg/ml, p < 0.01). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that low 1,5-AG levels were associated with cardiac mortality (p = 0.02). Multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that 1,5-AG levels were an independent predictor of cardiac mortality (hazard ratio 0.76; 95% confidence interval 0.41-0.98; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Low 1,5-AG levels, which indicate postprandial hyperglycemia, predict long-term cardiac mortality even in ACS patients with HbA1c levels < 7.0%.

Abstract P346: Diurnal Variation of Serum Uric Acid Levels and Corresponding Variations of Oxidative Stress Makers in Patients With Hypertension and Stable Coronary Artery Disease

Background: Hyperuricemia has been known as a risk factor of hypertension, stroke and coronary artery disease (CAD). Uric acid (UA) itself has antioxidative activity, but it is also reported that UA can also stimulate oxidative stress. In healthy subjects, it has been shown that UA has diurnal variation; elevate in the early morning. However, it is unclear whether such diurnal variation is observed and whether corresponding diurnal variation of oxidative stress can also be observed even in patients with CAD. Therefore, we investigated presence of diurnal variation of serum levels of UA, oxidative stress makers in patients with hypertension and CAD.

Method: We measured serum levels of UA, NOx, and urinary levels of 8-OHdG, serum at 6 p.m., 6 a.m., 12 p.m. in 26 men with CAD. We excluded patients who was taking drugs which can affect UA levels.

Result: Overall 20 patients were enrolled. Serum UA levels were 5.67±0.99 mg/dl at 6 p.m., 5.86±0.99 mg/dl at 6 a.m., and 5.73±0.99 mg/dl at 12 p.m., indicating obvious diurnal variation (P=0.0004). Serum UA levels increased significantly from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. (P=0.002) and decreased significantly from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. (P=0.002). Urinary level of 8-OHdG were 13.96±4.95 ng/mlCr at 6 p.m., 19.47±9.20 ng/mlCr at 6 a.m., and 16.19±5.52 ng/mlCr at 12 p.m., indicting corresponding diurnal variation to the serum UA level (P=0.013). Similarly, urinary levels of 8-OHdG increased significantly from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. (P=0.008) and tend to decrease from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. (P=0.57). Serum NOx levels were 13.19±6.60μM at 6 p.m., 12.11±6.02μM at 6 a.m. and 15.08±6.61μM at 12 p.m. and showed reciprocal diurnal variation to the serum UA and urinary 8-OHdG levels (p=0.0028).

Discussion: Serum UA levels showed diurnal variation even in patients with hypertension and CAD. Considering the fact that oxidative stress makers showed corresponding diurnal variations, diurnal variation of serum UA level may play a role in the pathogenesis of CAD.

Decreased circulating dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid levels are associated with total mortality in patients with acute cardiovascular disease and acute decompensated heart failure

Background

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have important roles in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. However, the clinical significance of omega-6 PUFAs in acute cardiovascular disease remains unknown.

Methods

We enrolled 417 consecutive patients with acute cardiovascular disease admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit at Juntendo University Hospital between April 2012 and October 2013. We investigated the association between serum PUFA levels and long-term mortality. Blood samples were collected after an overnight fast, within 24 h of admission. We excluded patients who received eicosapentaenoic acid therapy and those with malignancy, end-stage kidney disease, chronic hepatic disease, and connective tissue disease.

Results

Overall, 306 patients (mean age: 66.4 ± 15.0 years) were analysed. During the follow-up period of 2.4 ± 1.2 years, 50 patients (16.3%) died. The dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) levels, arachidonic acid (AA) levels, and DGLA/AA ratio were significantly lower in the nonsurvivor group than in the survivor group (DGLA: 23.2 ± 9.8 vs. 31.5 ± 12.0 μg/ml, AA: 151.1 ± 41.6 vs. 173.3 ± 51.6 μg/ml, and DGLA/AA: 0.16 ± 0.05 vs. 0.19 ± 0.06, all p < 0.01). Kaplan–Meier curves showed that survival rates were significantly higher in the higher DGLA, AA, and DGLA/AA groups than in their lower counterparts (DGLA and AA; p < 0.01, DGLA/AA; p = 0.01), although omega-3 PUFAs were not associated with prognosis. Furthermore, in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), survival rates were significantly higher in the higher DGLA, AA, and DGLA/AA groups than in their lower counterparts (DGLA and AA; p < 0.01, DGLA/AA; p = 0.04). However, among patients with acute coronary syndrome, none of the PUFA levels were associated with prognosis. Among patients with ADHF, after controlling for confounding variables, DGLA and DGLA/AA were associated with long-term mortality [DGLA: hazard ratio (HR), 0.94; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.88–0.99; p = 0.01 and DGLA/AA: HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.77–0.97; p < 0.01], whereas AA was not associated with prognosis.

Conclusion

Low omega-6 PUFA levels, particularly DGLA, and a low DGLA/AA ratio predict long-term mortality in patients with acute cardiovascular disease and ADHF.

Trial registration

UMIN-CTR; UMIN000007555.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12944-017-0542-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.