Sbp2l contributes to oligodendrocyte maturation through translational control in Tcf7l2 signaling

Oligodendrocytes (OLs) are the myelin-forming cells in the CNS that support neurons through the insulating sheath of axons. This unique feature and developmental processes are achieved by extrinsic and intrinsic gene expression programs, where RNA-binding proteins can contribute to dynamic and fine-tuned post-transcriptional regulation. Here, we identified SECIS-binding protein 2-like (Sbp2l), which is specifically expressed in OLs by integrated transcriptomics. Histological analysis revealed that Sbp2l is a molecular marker of OL maturation. Sbp2l knockdown (KD) led to suppression of matured OL markers, but not a typical selenoprotein, Gpx4. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that Sbp2l KD decreased cholesterol-biosynthesis-related genes regulated by Tcf7l2 transcription factor. Indeed, we confirmed the downregulation of Tcf7l2 protein without changing its mRNA in Sbp2l KD OPCs. Furthermore, Sbp2l KO mice showed the decrease of Tcf7l2 protein and deficiency of OL maturation. These results suggest that Sbp2l contributes to OL maturation by translational control of Tcf7l2.

Attenuated cerebellar phenotypes in Inpp4a truncation mutants with preserved phosphatase activity

Phosphoinositides (PIPs) act as intracellular signaling molecules that regulate various cellular processes. Abnormalities in PIP metabolism cause various pathological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and immune disorders. Several neurological diseases with diverse phenotypes, such as ataxia with cerebellar atrophy or intellectual disability without brain malformation, are caused by mutations in INPP4A, which encodes a phosphoinositide phosphatase. This study examined two strains of Inpp4a mutant mice with distinct cerebellar phenotypes: the first Inpp4aΔEx1,2 mutant exhibited striatal degeneration without cerebellar atrophy, and the other Inpp4aΔEx23 mutant exhibited a severe striatal phenotype with cerebellar atrophy. Both strains exhibited reduced expressions of Inpp4a mutant proteins in the cerebellum. N-terminal truncated Inpp4a proteins were expressed from Inpp4aΔEx1,2 allele by alternative translation initiation and had phosphatase activity for PI(3,4)P2, whereas the Inpp4a mutant protein encoded by Inpp4aΔEx23 completely lacked phosphatase activity. The diverse phenotypes observed in Inpp4a-related neurological diseases could be due to the varying protein expression levels and retained phosphatase activity in different Inpp4a variants. These findings provide insights into the role of Inpp4a mutations in disease pathogenesis and may help to develop personalized therapy.

DNA damage stress-induced translocation of mutant FUS proteins into cytosolic granules and screening for translocation inhibitors

Fused in sarcoma/translated in liposarcoma (FUS) is an RNA-binding protein, and its mutations are associated with neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), through the DNA damage stress response, aberrant stress granule (SG) formation, etc. We previously reported that translocation of endogenous FUS into SGs was achieved by cotreatment with a DNA double-strand break inducer and an inhibitor of DNA-PK activity. In the present study, we investigated cytoplasmic SG formation using various fluorescent protein-tagged mutant FUS proteins in a human astrocytoma cell (U251) model. While the synergistic enhancement of the migration of fluorescent protein-tagged wild-type FUS to cytoplasmic SGs upon DNA damage induction was observed when DNA-PK activity was suppressed, the fluorescent protein-tagged FUS^P525L mutant showed cytoplasmic localization. It migrated to cytoplasmic SGs upon DNA damage induction alone, and DNA-PK inhibition also showed a synergistic effect. Furthermore, analysis of 12 sites of DNA-PK-regulated phosphorylation in the N-terminal LC region of FUS revealed that hyperphosphorylation of FUS mitigated the mislocalization of FUS into cytoplasmic SGs. By using this cell model, we performed screening of a compound library to identify compounds that inhibit the migration of FUS to cytoplasmic SGs but do not affect the localization of the SG marker molecule G3BP1 to cytoplasmic SGs. Finally, we successfully identified 23 compounds that inhibit FUS-containing SG formation without changing normal SG formation. Highlights Characterization of DNA-PK-dependent FUS stress granule localization.A compound library was screened to identify compounds that inhibit the formation of FUS-containing stress granules.

Knockdown of TMEM160 leads to an increase in reactive oxygen species generation and the induction of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response

Transmembrane protein 160 (TMEM160) was recently reported to be localized to the mitochondrial inner membrane, but mitochondrial function was noted to be unaffected by loss of TMEM160. In contrast to these previously published findings, we report here that the absence of TMEM160 influences intracellular responses. After confirming that TMEM160 is localized in the inner mitochondrial membrane, we knocked down TMEM160 in human cultured cells and analyzed the changes in cellular responses. TMEM160 depletion led to an upregulation of the mitochondrial chaperone HSPD1, suggesting that depletion induced the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPR^mt ). Indeed, the expression of key transcription factors that induce the UPR^mt (ATF4, ATF5, and DDIT3) was increased following TMEM160 depletion. Expression of the mitochondrial protein import-receptors TOMM22 and TOMM20 was also enhanced. In addition, we observed a significant increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation following TMEM160 depletion. Glutathione S-transferases, which detoxify the products of oxidative stress, were also upregulated in TMEM160-depleted cells. Immunoblot analysis was performed to detect proteins modified by 4-hydroxynonenal (which is released after the peroxidation of lipids by ROS): the expression patterns of 4-hydroxynonenal-modified proteins were altered after TMEM160 depletion, suggesting that depletion enhanced degradation of these proteins. HSPD1, TOMM22, ATF4, ATF5, and DDIT3 remained upregulated after ROS was scavenged by N-acetylcysteine, suggesting that once the UPR^mt is induced by TMEM160 depletion, it is not suppressed by the subsequent detoxification of ROS. These findings suggest that TMEM160 may suppress ROS generation and stabilize mitochondrial protein(s).

Relation of lymphopenia to comorbidity burden and its prognostic value in patients with acute decompensated heart failure with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction: a multicentre study

Background

Systemic inflammation resulting from comorbidities is postulated to play a central role in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Lymphopenia is a common manifestation of systemic inflammation and a prognostic factor in patients with HF. However, the association of lymphopenia with the comorbidity burden is unknown, and its prognostic value in patients with HFpEF admitted due to acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) also remains elusive.

Purpose

We sought to clarify the relation of lymphopenia with the comorbidity burden, as well as its prognostic value and complementarity with the Get with the Guidelines-Heart Failure (GWTG-HF) risk score in ADHF patients with HFpEF.

Methods

Patients' data were extracted from the Prospective mUlticenteR obServational stUdy of patIenTs with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (PURSUIT-HFpEF), which is a prospective multicentre registry for patients with ADHF with a LVEF ≥50%. We analysed data of patients admitted between June 2016 and December 2020 who survived to discharge. The total lymphocyte count (per μL) and GWTG-HF risk score were obtained on admission, as previously reported. Comorbidity burden was defined as the number of comorbidities from the following: atrial fibrillation, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, anaemia, and obesity. The study endpoint was all-cause death.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 417 days, 181 of the 1013 included patients died. The proportion of patients with a total lymphocyte count in the lowest tertile was increasing with the increase in comorbidity burden (Figure 1). In the multivariate Cox analysis, a total lymphocyte count in the intermediate (hazard ratio [HR] 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–2.41, p=0.0486) and lowest tertile (HR 2.23, 95% CI 1.47–3.38, p=0.0002) was independently associated with all-cause death. There was a significant difference in the all-cause death rate among the groups stratified by total lymphocyte count tertile (Figure 2). The total lymphocyte count had a higher C-statistic value (0.627) for the prediction of all-cause death than the GWTG-HF risk score, and the C-statistic value of the GWTG-HF risk score was improved when the total lymphocyte count was added (0.613 to 0.636, p=0.0260).

Conclusions

Lymphopenia was significantly associated with comorbidity burden. Furthermore, it was a useful marker of poor prognosis in hospitalised patients with acute HFpEF and was shown to be complementary to the contemporary HF prognostic score.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K.Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

Clinical trajectory and outcomes of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction with normal or indeterminate diastolic function

Background

Heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a chronic and progressive disease, but limited therapeutic strategies are currently available. Although left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) is a prominent mechanism of HFpEF, a certain number of patients with HFpEF have a normal diastolic function (ND) or indeterminate diastolic function (ID). With the progressive nature of HFpEF, diastolic function may change over time. However, the change of diastolic function, its predictor and prognosis in patients with clinically established HFpEF remains unknown.

Purpose

To investigate the clinical trajectory and outcomes of patients with HFpEF with ND or ID and to identify factors associated with progression from ND or ID at discharge to DD at 1-year follow-up.

Methods

Using data from a prospective multicenter observational study of patients with HFpEF, we extracted 289 patients with HFpEF with ND or ID at discharge who had echocardiographic data at 1-year follow-up for the re-evaluation of diastolic function. Diastolic function was assessed according to the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography recommendations. Patients were classified according to the absence or presence of progression from ND or ID to DD at 1 year. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death and HF rehospitalization.

Results

Median age was 81 years, and 138 (47.8%) patients were female. At 1 year, 107 (37%) patients progressed to DD. During a median follow-up of 709 days, the composite endpoint occurred in 90 (31.1%) patients. Compared to patients without progression to DD, those with progression to DD had a significantly higher cumulative incidence rate of the composite endpoint (incidence rate: 11.7/100 person-year versus 23.3/100 person-year, P<0.001). Progression to DD (adjusted HR: 2.014, 95% CI: 1.239–3.273, P=0.005) was independently associated with the composite endpoint. Age (adjusted OR: 1.046, 95% CI: 1.008–1.087, P=0.018), body mass index (BMI) (adjusted OR: 1.107, 95% CI: 1.029–1.192, P=0.006), and serum albumin (adjusted OR: 0.459, 95% CI: 0.216–0.974, P=0.042) were independently associated with progression from ND or ID to DD at 1 year.

Conclusion

More than one-third of patients with HFpEF with ND or ID progressed to DD at 1 year and had poor clinical outcomes. Age, BMI, and serum albumin were independently associated with this progression.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by grants from Japan Society for the Promotion of Science KAKENHI (No. JP 17K09496) and Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (No. JP16lk1010013).

Association between prognosis and the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and/or angiotensin II receptor blocker in frail patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Background

The effectiveness of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) has not been demonstrated in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We recently reported significant interaction between the use of ACE-I and/or ARB (ACE-I/ARB) and frailty on prognosis in patients with HFpEF.

Purpose

In the present study, we examined the association between ACE-I/ARB and prognosis in patients with HFpEF stratified by the presence or absence of frailty.

Methods

We examined the association between the use of ACE-I/ARB and prognosis according to the presence (Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) ≥5) or absence (CFS ≤4) of frailty in patients with HFpEF in a post-hoc analysis of registry data. Primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality and heart failure admission. Secondary endpoints were all-cause mortality and heart failure admission.

Results

Of 1059 patients, median age was 83 years and 45% were male. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that the risk of composite endpoint (log-rank P=0.001) and all-cause death (log-rank P=0.005) in patients with ACE-I/ARB was lower in those with CFS ≥5, but similar between patients with and without ACE-I/ARB in patients with CFS ≤4 (composite endpoint: log-rank P=0.830; all-cause death: log-rank P=0.192). In a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model, use of ACE-I/ARB was significantly associated with lower risk of the composite endpoint (hazard ratio = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.33–0.83, P=0.005) and heart failure admission (hazard ratio = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.25–0.83, P=0.010) in patients with CFS ≥5, but not in patients with CFS ≤4 (composite endpoint: hazard ratio = 1.41, 95% CI: 0.99–2.02, P=0.059; heart failure admission: hazard ratio = 1.43, 95% CI: 0.94–2.18, P=0.091). The association between ACE-I or ARB and prognosis did not significantly differ by CFS (CFS ≤4: log-rank P=0.562; CFS ≥5: log-rank P=0.100, for with ACE-I vs. ARB, respectively). Adjusted HRs for CFS 1–4 were higher than 1.0, but were less than 1.0 at CFS 5.

Conclusions

In patients with HFpEF, use of ACE-I/ARB was associated with better prognosis in patients with frailty as assessed with the CFS, but not in those without frailty.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche

The clinical relevance of quality of life in patients with acute decompensated heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: insights from the PURSUIT-HFpEF Registry

Background

Improvement of quality of life (QOL) is one of the most important therapeutic goals for patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). It is, therefore, clinically relevant to comprehensively identify aggravating factors among cardiac factors, non-cardiac comorbidities, and social factors. The aim of this study was to elucidate determinant factors of impaired QOL and clarify the association between QOL and prognosis in patients with HFpEF.

Methods and results

Patient data were extracted from The Prospective mUlticenteR obServational stUdy of patIenTs with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (PURSUIT HFpEF) study. EuroQol 5 dimensions 5-level (EQ-5D-5L) data were obtained at discharge to evaluate patients' health-related QOL. A total of 864 patients were enrolled in this study. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that only non-cardiac factors such as age, female sex, frailty, malnutrition and inflammation were significantly associated with low EQ-5D-5L score, whereas cardiac factors showed no significant association after multivariable adjustment. A total of 206 patients died over a mean follow-up period of 2.0±1.2 years. Kaplan–Meier survival curve analysis demonstrated a significant increase in risk of mortality stratified by tertiles of EQ-5D-5L score (p<0.0001). Cox multivariable analysis revealed that patients with low EQ-5D-5L score had a significantly greater risk of mortality than those with high EQ-5D-5L score (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.20 (1.40–3.45), p=0.001).

Conclusion

Among patients with HFpEF, non-cardiac factors such as age, female sex, frailty, malnutrition and inflammation are significantly associated with impaired QOL. The QOL score itself also offers useful prognostic information in patients with HFpEF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Insight into the relationship between heart rate and mortality in patients in sinus rhythm with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Background

There are several reports showing that elevated heart rate (HR) is associated with poor outcomes in patients in sinus rhythm (SR) with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), although the association is weak or none in HFpEF patients with atrial fibrillation (Af). However, in previous studies, cardiac and non-cardiac factors which may be associated with elevated HR, have not been fully adjusted for.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore covariates of elevated HR and to investigate the relationship between heart rate and mortality in HFpEF patients in SR.

Methods and results

Of the 1161 patients, who registered prospective multicenter, observational study of patients with HFpEF (PURSUIT-HFpEF), 726 patients in SR were examined. We performed laboratory testing and echocardiography in the compensated stage (in stable condition after treatment of acute decompensated HF). Geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) was calculated as nutrition index. Resting heart rate (HR) was analyzed as categorical (tertiles, T1–3). We followed the patients for median of 598 days (interquartile range 329–1028 days) to observe the outcome all-cause mortality.

The Kaplan analysis revealed that there was a significant difference between heart rate and mortality (log-rank, p=0.001). Characteristics were compared between patients in T1 (HR ≤63) and T3 (HR ≥75). There were no differences in cardiac factors between patients in T1 and T3. C-reactive protein (CRP) was significantly higher in patients in T3 than those in T1 (p=0.0004,). GNRI was significantly lower in patients in T3 than those in T1 (p=0.001). After adjustment for covariates including N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide and estimated glomerular filtration rate, CRP and GNRI significantly correlated with HR (continuous variable) by multiple regression analysis (beta-coefficient = 1.52, p=0.003 and beta-coefficient = −0.14, p=0.04, respectively). Taking T1 as the reference, multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that T3 was independently associated with mortality (hazard ratio: 2.10, 95% confidence interval: 1.33–3.32, p=0.001).

Conclusion

Although elevated HR was associated with enhanced inflammation and malnutrition, it itself was an independent predictor of death in HFpEF patients in SR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnosis K.K.Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

Prognostic impact of the serial change of a systemic inflammation-nutrition index in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: insights from pursuit-hfpef registry

Background

Malnutrition and inflammation are associated with poor outcomes with heart failure (HF). It has been reported that advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI), calculated by body mass index × serum albumin level / neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) can be useful for the risk stratification and predicting the post-discharge prognosis of the patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). However, there is no information available on the prognostic value of the serial ALI change in ADHF patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

Patients' data were extracted from The Prospective mUlticenteR obServational stUdy of patIenTs with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (PURSUIT HFpEF) study, which is a prospective multicenter observational registry for ADHF-HFpEF in Osaka. Laboratory data and body weight measurements were performed at the discharge and 1 year after the discharge. We analyzed 527 patients after exclusion of patients on dialysis, in-hospital death, missing follow-up data, or missing data to calculate ALI. The study patients were categorized by the serial change from baseline to 1 year after the discharge (ΔALI) as follows: low tertile: ΔALI <−6.99 (n=176), middle tertile: −6.99 ≤ ALI <8.44 (n=176), and high tertile: 8.44 ≤ ΔALI (n=175). The endpoints of the present study were all-cause death (ACD) and cardiovascular death (CVD). During a mean follow-up period of 1.5±1.0 years, 94 patients had ACD and 40 patients had CVD. The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the patients with middle and low ΔALI at 1 year after heart failure hospitalization had a significantly greater risk of reaching the ACD and CVD than those with high ΔALI (ACD: 22% vs 22% vs 10%, p=0.0011, CVD: 10% vs 9% vs 3%, p=0.014). On multivariate Cox analysis, ΔALI was significantly associated with ACD independently of age, gender, serum NT-proBNP level, and baseline ALI after adjustment for NYHA functional class, serum creatinine level, serum hemoglobin level, serum CRP level, serum sodium level and LVEF.

Conclusion

This study showed that patients with the increased ALI after the discharge had improved outcome in comparison to those without the increased ALI. The serial change of ALI, a systemic inflammation-nutrition index, might be useful for stratifying ADHF patients with HFpEF at risk for the total mortality and cardiovascular mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Isoform-specific mutation in Dystonin-b gene causes late-onset protein aggregate myopathy and cardiomyopathy

Dystonin (DST), which encodes cytoskeletal linker proteins, expresses three tissue-selective isoforms: neural DST-a, muscular DST-b, and epithelial DST-e. DST mutations cause different disorders, including hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy 6 (HSAN-VI) and epidermolysis bullosa simplex; however, etiology of the muscle phenotype in DST-related diseases has been unclear. Because DST-b contains all of the DST-a-encoding exons, known HSAN-VI mutations could affect both DST-a and DST-b isoforms. To investigate the specific function of DST-b in striated muscles, we generated a Dst-b-specific mutant mouse model harboring a nonsense mutation. Dst-b mutant mice exhibited late-onset protein aggregate myopathy and cardiomyopathy without neuropathy. We observed desmin aggregation, focal myofibrillar dissolution, and mitochondrial accumulation in striated muscles, which are common characteristics of myofibrillar myopathy. We also found nuclear inclusions containing p62, ubiquitin, and SUMO proteins with nuclear envelope invaginations as a unique pathological hallmark in Dst-b mutation-induced cardiomyopathy. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed changes in expression of genes responsible for cardiovascular functions. In silico analysis identified DST-b alleles with nonsense mutations in populations worldwide, suggesting that some unidentified hereditary myopathy and cardiomyopathy are caused by DST-b mutations. Here, we demonstrate that the Dst-b isoform is essential for long-term maintenance of striated muscles.

Characteristics and prognosis in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients without left ventricular hypertrophy

Background

Clinical heterogeneity exists in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Left ventricular (LV) structure in HFPEF is characterized by normal LV cavity size and LV hypertrophy (LVH). However some of HFPEF patients do not have LV hypertrophy, and these patients may have distinct characteristics,

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to clarify the clinical characteristics and the prognosis for HFPEF patients without LVH.

Methods

We studied 1097 patients, who were hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure with LVEF ≥50%, and enrolled in the PURSUIT-HFpEF registry. Laboratory testing and echocardiography were examined in the compensated stage (in stable condition after treatment of acute decompensated HF). We divided these patients into 2 groups based on LV mass index (LVMI) in the compensated stage according to the American Society of Echocardiography/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging recommendations; patients with LVH (48%) and those without LVH (52%).

Results

Patients without LVH had significantly lower levels of C-reactive protein and N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and higher levels of estimated glomerular filtration rate in the compensated stage than those with it (p<0.05 for all). Cox hazard regression analysis showed that absence of LVH was favorably associated with the primary composite endpoint of all-cause death, HF rehospitalization, and cerebrovascular events (hazard ratio 0.776, 95% confidence interval 0.620-to 0.970, p<0.05).

On the other hand, the frequency of atrial fibrillation (Af) in the decompensated stage was higher in patients without LVH than those with it (52.1% vs 39.3%, p<0.001). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that absence of LVH was independently associated with presence of Af in the decompensated stage (odds ratio=1.520, 95% confidence interval 1.130 to 2.050, P<0.01)

Conclusions

HFPEF patients without LVH have less organ damage and favorable prognosis. Af may play a role in the decompensation of HF in HFPEF patients without LVH.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K. (Grant number: not applicable)Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co., Ltd. (Grant number: not applicable)

Cardiac phenotypes in the acute-phase of microscopic polyangiitis involves dilatation of the left atrium caused by LV diastolic dysfunction

Background

Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a type of primary systemic vasculitis that affects various organs, especially the lungs and kidneys. However, few reports regarding cardiac features of MPA patients were found.

Purpose

We aim to investigate the echocardiographic parameters of acute-phase MPA.

Methods and results

This single-center retrospective study included 15 patients with MPA (Mean age at 72.2±7.1 years, women 73.3%) who underwent echocardiography within two weeks of commencing steroid therapy for induction or reinduction. The echocardiography parameters of the patients were compared with those of 30 age and sex-matched controls. In the MPA group, the commonly affected organs were kidneys (93.3%) and lungs (46.7%); 5 patients (33.3%) had a history of hypertension, which had a similar frequency as the control group. No significant difference in left ventricular (LV) diameter, LV ejection fraction, e', or inferior vena cava diameter was observed between the two groups. However, the MPA group showed significantly higher left atrial (LA) diameter (p=0.033) and LA volume index (p=0.001), as well as higher early diastolic filling velocity (E-wave, p=0.015; E/A, p=0.043; E/e', p=0.041), diastolic pulmonary venous flow velocity (p=0.013), trans-tricuspid pressure gradient (p=0.019), and shorter deceleration time (p=0.038), associated with mildly thicker ventricular walls of left ventricle (LV) than the control group. Moreover, serum levels of C-reactive protein showed significant correlation between E wave (r=0.58, p=0.023), E/A (r=0.67, p=0.006), and deceleration time (r=−0.69, p=0.005) in the MPA group. These results may indicate that in MPA, increased LV stiffness, rather than impairment of LV relaxation was contributed to LV diastolic function, resulting in LA enlargement.

Conclusion

Patients with acute-phase MPA had LA dilatation associated with LV diastolic dysfunction. This finding indicates the importance of cardiac assessment in patients with MPA.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Prediction of functional capacity by the HFA-PEFF score in patients with acute decompensated heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a post-hoc analysis from the PURSUIT-HFpEF registry

Background

Diagnosing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is still challenging, and the H2FPEF- and the HFA-PEFF score were proposed as simple and reliable diagnostic tools. We recently reported that the HFA-PEFF score was significantly associated with the composite endpoint of all-cause death and heart failure readmission in patients with acute decompensated HFpEF (Sotomi. Eur J Heart Fail, in press).

Purpose

To investigate the relation whether the HFA-PEFF or H2FPEF score can evaluate functional capacity in patients with HFpEF

Methods

We calculated H2FPEF score and the second step of HFA-PEFF score among the registered patients in the PURSUIT-HFpEF (Prospective, Multicenter, Observational Study of Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction) study, which is a multicenter registration of patients hospitalized for acute decompensated HFpEF. We performed 6 minute walk (6MW) test and measured NT-proBNP before discharge. We followed the study patients for median of 360 days (IQR 237–630 days) to observe the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; composite of death, heart failure hospitalization and stroke).

Results

We enrolled 757 patients (age 81±9 years, male gender 45%) hospitalized for acute decompensated HFpEF for the present study. The H2FPEF score was obtained in 588 (77.7%) patients and all patients had ≥2 points. The HFA-PEFF score was obtained in 615 (81.2%) patients, though global longitudinal strain was not available. We divided these patients into 3 groups based on the HFA-PEFF score (score 2 to 4, 5, and 6) or on the H2FPEF score (score 0 to 3, 4 to 5 and 6 to 8). There were a significant difference in NT-pro BNP between 3 groups based on HFA-PEFF score (p=0.01, Table 1), and patients with score 6 had significantly higher NT-proBNP than those with score 2 to 4 (p=0.02). A significant difference was observed in 6MW distance among these groups (p=0.04, Table), and those with score 6 had significantly shorter distance than those with score 2 to 4 (p=0.04). Cox proportional hazard model selected HFA-PEFF score as a significant predictor for MACE, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that classification of HFA-PEFF score significantly stratified the patients' risk for MACE. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in 6MW distance among 3 groups based on H2FPEF score (p=0.53), and H2FPEF score was not an independent predictor for MCE by the Cox model analysis. Moreover, the lowest H2PEF score group had higher NT-proBNP than other 2 groups (p=0.02)

Conclusions

The HFA-PEFF score predicted functional capacity as well as prognosis in patients hospitalized for HFpEF, while the H2PEF score did not.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Table 1

Sterile inflammation through Ca2+/ Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II signaling is essential for adverse cardiac remodeling

Introduction and hypothesis

Sterile inflammation is associated with cardiac remodeling in response to non-ischemic stress, but how it is initiated in the absence of cell death and how it is propagated are not well elucidated. We tested the hypothesis that activation of CaMKII in cardiomyocytes and macrophages in response to pressure overload initiates inflammatory responses leading to adverse cardiac remodeling.

Methods and results

Cardiomyocyte specific CaMKIIδ knockout (CKO) mice were subjected to transverse aortic constriction (TAC). CaMKII and NFkB activation were significantly increased in control fl/fl (CTL) but not in CKO hearts. Cardiac mRNA levels for pro-inflammatory cytokines also increased vs sham. These responses were significantly attenuated in the CKO mice. Activated NLRP3 inflammasome was shown by elevated caspase-1 activity in isolated cardiomyocytes of CTL while attenuated in CKO. Macrophage accumulation was attenuated in the CKO and NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 treated mice. Cardiac fibrosis and subsequent cardiac dysfunction were less impaired in the CKO vs CTL (ejection fraction 43±3% vs 33±5%). Upregulated NLRP3 gene expression, elevated CaMKII and caspase-1 activity were observed in neonatal mouse cardiomyocytes (NMCMs) in response to osmotic stretch. Increased caspase-1 activity was observed in macrophages cultured with media from osmotic-stretched NMCMs and it was attenuated by pretreatment of CaMKII inhibitor KN-93. Coincubation with stretched NMCMs induced inflammatory responses in isolated macrophages from wild-type mice but not in isolated macrophages from KN-93 pretreated mice.

Conclusions

Activated CaMKIIδ in response to pressure overload triggers inflammatory signals including NLRP3 inflammasome cascade in cardiomyocytes. CaMKII could also contribute amplification of inflammasome signal in macrophages leading fibrosis and consequent cardiac dysfunction. CaMKII in cardiomyocytes and macrophages could be a therapeutic target to prevent progression of non-ischemic heart failure.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

The impact of substrate and trigger ablation for reduction of functional mitral regurgitation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation

Background

Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) is not uncommon in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Left atrial (LA) substrate remodeling and corresponding mitral valve annulus dilation has been reported as the most possible cause of FMR. Percutaneous catheter ablation (CA) is an effective treatment for AF. Although significant FMR could be improved by sinus restoration, patients with mitral regurgitation were more likely to experience recurrent AF post ablation, especially those with significant mitral regurgitation. There is no information available on the efficacy of CA for persistent AF in patients with FMR.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the predictors of FMR improvement by CA and to determine the efficacy of substrate and trigger CA for persistent AF in patients with FMR.

Methods

We prospectively studied 512 consecutive patients admitted for persistent AF ablation from the EARNEST-PVI (Prospective Multicenter Randomized Study of Effect of Extensive Ablation on Recurrence in Patients with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Treated with Pulmonary Vein Isolation) trial.

On admission, enrolled patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) or PVI-plus additional ablation (linear ablation or/and CFAE ablation). Of the 512 patients, we studied 94 patients with preoperative echocardiography showing moderate or greater baseline FMR. FMR grades were classified into 5 grades (0/1/2/3/4). The FMR improvement group (FMRI(+)) was defined as a case in which the FMR was improved by two or more grades compared the preoperative echocardiography and the one year follow-up examination.

Results

Of the 94 patients, 42 were in the PVI group and 52 were in the PVI-plus additional ablation group. There were 30 cases in the FMRI(+) group and 64 cases in the FMRI(−) group. There were no significant baseline differences in age, sinus rhythm maintenance, plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level, left ventricular diastolic dimension, or left atrium dimension between the FMRI(+) and FMRI(−) groups. AF duration was significantly shorter in the FMRI(+) group than FMRI(−) groups (5.8±9.4 months vs 12.4±15.4 months, p<0.0001). In addition, significantly more additional ablation cases were observed in the FMRI(+) group than in the FMRI(−) group (73.3% vs 46.8%, p=0.016). In multivariate analyses, only additional ablation was an independent predictor of FMRI (odds ratio 0.226 95% CI 0.081–0.626; p=0.004).

Conclusions

Catheter ablation is a valid option for the treatment of AF in patients with functional MR and additional substrate and trigger ablation were the only independent predictor of FMR improvement.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Identification of hub molecules of FUS-ALS by Bayesian gene regulatory network analysis of iPSC model: iBRN

Fused in sarcoma/translated in liposarcoma (FUS) is a causative gene of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Mutated FUS causes accumulation of DNA damage and cytosolic stress granule (SG) formation, thereby motor neuron (MN) death. However, key molecular aetiology remains unclear. Here, we applied a novel platform technology, iBRN, "Non- biased" Bayesian gene regulatory network analysis based on induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cell model, to elucidate the molecular aetiology using transcriptome of iPSC-derived MNs harboring FUS^H517D. iBRN revealed "hub molecules", which strongly influenced transcriptome network, such as miR-125b-5p-TIMELESS axis and PRKDC for the molecular aetiology. Next, we confirmed miR-125b-5p-TIMELESS axis in FUS^H517D MNs such that miR-125b-5p regulated several DNA repair-related genes including TIMELESS. In addition, we validated both introduction of miR-125b-5p and knocking down of TIMELESS caused DNA damage in the cell culture model. Furthermore, PRKDC was strongly associated with FUS mis-localization into SGs by DNA damage under impaired DNA-PK activity. Collectively, our iBRN strategy provides the first compelling evidence to elucidate molecular aetiology in neurodegenerative diseases.

Multicenter prospective trial of total gastrectomy versus proximal gastrectomy for upper third cT1 gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

The appropriate surgical procedure for patients with upper third early gastric cancer is controversial. We compared total gastrectomy (TG) with proximal gastrectomy (PG) in this patient population.

METHODS

A multicenter, non-randomized trial was conducted, with patients treated with PG or TG. We compared short- and long-term outcomes between these procedures.

RESULTS

Between 2009 and 2014, we enrolled 254 patients from 22 institutions; data from 252 were included in the analysis. These 252 patients were assigned to either the PG (n = 159) or TG (n = 93) group. Percentage of body weight loss (%BWL) at 1 year after surgery, i.e., the primary endpoint, in the PG group was significantly less than that of the TG group (- 12.8% versus - 16.9%; p = 0.0001). For short-term outcomes, operation time was significantly shorter for PG than TG (252 min versus 303 min; p < 0.0001), but there were no group-dependent differences in blood loss and postoperative complications. For long-term outcomes, incidence of reflux esophagitis in the PG group was significantly higher than that of the TG group (14.5% versus 5.4%; p = 0.02), while there were no differences in the incidence of anastomotic stenosis between the two (5.7% versus 5.4%; p = 0.92). Overall patient survival rates were similar between the two groups (3-year survival rates: 96% versus 92% in the PG and TG groups, respectively; p = 0.49).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who underwent PG were better able to control weight loss without worsening the prognosis, relative to those in the TG group. Optimization of a reconstruction method to reduce reflux in PG patients will be important.

DGCR8-dependent efficient pri-miRNA processing of human pri-miR-9-2

Microprocessor complex, including DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (DGCR8) and DROSHA, recognizes and cleaves primary transcripts of microRNAs (pri-miRNAs) in the maturation of canonical miRNAs. The study of DGCR8 haploinsufficiency reveals that the efficiency of this activity varies for different miRNA species. It is thought that this variation might be associated with the risk of schizophrenia with 22q11 deletion syndrome caused by disruption of the DGCR8 gene. However, the underlying mechanism for varying action of DGCR8 with each miRNA remains largely unknown. Here, we used in vivo monitoring to measure the efficiency of DGCR8-dependent microprocessor activity in cultured cells. We confirmed that this system recapitulates the microprocessor activity of endogenous pri-miRNA with expression of a ratiometric fluorescence reporter. Using this system, we detected mir-9-2 as one of the most efficient targets. We also identified a novel DGCR8-responsive RNA element, which is highly conserved among mammalian species and could be regulated at the epi-transcriptome (RNA modification) level. This unique feature between DGCR8 and pri-miR-9-2 processing may suggest a link to the risk of schizophrenia.

Associations between Dietary Variety and Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older People Who Live Alone: Gender Differences

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the influences of living arrangements on the association between dietary variety and frailty by gender in community-dwelling older people.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Nishinomiya city, Hyogo prefecture, Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 4,996 randomly selected community-dwelling older people aged 65 years and older and living in Nishinomiya City.

MEASUREMENTS

Survey questionnaires were distributed via mail. The frailty score was evaluated by the 5-item frailty screening index. Dietary variety was assessed using the dietary variety score developed for the general older Japanese population.

RESULTS

A total of 2,764 community-dwelling participants aged ≥ 65 years responded to the questionnaires. After excluding missing data, 1,780 participants were included in the study analysis. The frailty scores in older men living alone were significantly higher than those in older men living with someone (P < 0.001). The dietary variety scores in older men living alone were significantly lower than those in older men living with someone (P < 0.001). However, differences in the frailty and dietary variety scores between living alone and living with someone were not were observed in older women (P = 0.360 and P = 0.265, respectively). In the multivariable regression analysis, the associations between dietary variety score and frailty score in living alone (β= -0. 271, P = 0.011) were stronger than those in living with someone in the case of older men (β= -0.131, P = 0.045). Similar associations between dietary variety and frailty were presented in older women living alone than in those living with someone (β -0.114, P = 0.002; β -0.088, P = 0.012, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Older men who live alone had higher frailty score and lower dietary variety. The associations between dietary variety and frailty were different according to living arrangements in both older men and older women.

Depletion of TMEM65 leads to oxidative stress, apoptosis, induction of mitochondrial unfolded protein response, and upregulation of mitochondrial protein import receptor TOMM22

Mutation in the transmembrane protein 65 gene (TMEM65) results in mitochondrial dysfunction and a severe mitochondrial encephalomyopathy phenotype. However, neither the function of TMEM65 nor the cellular responses to its depletion have been fully elucidated. Hence, we knocked down TMEM65 in human cultured cells and analyzed the resulting cellular responses. Depletion of TMEM65 led to a mild increase in ROS generation and upregulation of the mRNA levels of oxidative stress suppressors, such as NFE2L2 and SESN3, indicating that TMEM65 knockdown induced an oxidative stress response. A mild induction of apoptosis was also observed upon depletion of TMEM65. Depletion of TMEM65 upregulated protein levels of the mitochondrial chaperone HSPD1 and mitochondrial protease LONP1, indicating that mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPR^mt) was induced in response to TMEM65 depletion. Additionally, we found that the mitochondrial protein import receptor TOMM22 and HSPA9 (mitochondrial Hsp70), were also upregulated in TMEM65-depleted cells. Notably, the depletion of TMEM65 did not lead to upregulation of TOMM22 in an ATF5-dependent manner, although upregulation of LONP1 reportedly occurs in an ATF5-dependent manner. Taken together, our findings suggest that depletion of TMEM65 causes mild oxidative stress and apoptosis, induces UPR^mt, and upregulates protein expression of mitochondrial protein import receptor TOMM22 in an ATF5-independent manner.

Validation of the HFA-PEFF- and H2FPEF score in Japanese patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Background

Diagnosing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) still remains challenging, and simple and reliable diagnostic tools have been required. Recently, novel and evidence-based diagnostic algorithms for HFpEF were proposed, such as H2FPEF score (Circulation. 2018) and HFA-PEFF score (Eur Heart J 2019), and their accuracy was validated in the outside patient group. However, there are regional and ethnic variations in patient characteristics of HFpEF, particularly between Western and Asian countries, and it is not elucidated whether these diagnostic scores are useful in Asian population.

Purpose

To investigate the validity of the HFA-PEFF- and H2FPEF score in Japanese patients with HFpEF.

Methods

We calculated H2FPEF score and the second step of HFA-PEFF score among the registered patients in the PURSUIT-HFpEF (Prospective, Multicenter, Observational Study of Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction) study, which is a multicenter registration of patients hospitalized for HFpEF. The obtained scores were compared with the scores of the HFpEF cohort in the previous validation studies. We followed the study patients for median of 360 days (IQR 237–630 days) to observe the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; composite of death, heart failure hospitalization and stroke).

Results

We enrolled 757 patients hospitalized for HFpEF between June 2016 and August 2019 for the present study. H2FPEF score was obtained in 588 (77.7%) patients among them. Compared with the HFpEF cohorts in the previously reported sub-analysis of TOPCAT trial, the PURSUIT-HFpEF cohort had lower mean value of HFpEF score (4.0±1.8 points vs. 6.0±2.0 points in Americans or 5.3±1.9 points in Russians). It had significantly higher proportion (40.3%, p&lt;0.001) of patients in the low likelihood of HFpEF category (0–3 points) than the TOPCAT cohorts (8.0% in Americans and 19.6% in Russians).

HFA-PEFF score was obtained in 615 (81.2%) patients, though global longitudinal strain was not available. The mean value of HFA-PEFF score was 5.0±0.8, and all patients had ≥2 points. The proportion of patients in the high likelihood of HFpEF category (5–6 points) was 88.3%, which was significantly higher (p&lt;0.001) than those of the HFpEF cohort from Europe and USA in the previous validation study (Eur J Heart Fail 2019). There was no correlation between H2FPEF score and HFA-PEFF score (R=0.06, p=0.14). Cox proportional hazard model selected HFA-PEFF score as a significant predictor for MACE during follow-up period, whereas H2PEF score was not selected. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that patients with 6 points of HFA-PEFF score had higher incidence rate of MACE than those with ≤5 points (p=0.002).

Conclusion

The HFA-PEFF score could be more useful for the diagnosis and risk stratification for HFpEF than the H2PEF score in the Japanese cohort.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K.; Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

Negative impact of ultra-thin strut on neointimal coverage condition within one year after implantation as compared to thin sturt in biogradable-polymer sirorimus eluting stents

Background

BIOSCIENCE randomized trial which compared biodegradable-polymer sirolimus-eluting stents with ultra-thin (60μm) strut (ultra-thin BP-SES) and durable-polymer everolimus-eluting stents with thin (81μm) strut (thin DP-EES) have reported that definite stent thrombosis within 1 year had more frequently occurred in ultra-thin BP-SES (0.9%) than in thin DP-EES group (0.4%) although it was not statistically significant. It suggests that neointimal coverage after stent implantation within 1 year might be different between ultra-thin BP-SES and thin DP-EES. Recently, two types of biogradable-polymer sirorimus eluting stents, thin (80μm) strut type (thin BP-SES) and ultra-thin (60μm) strut type (ultra-thin BP-SES), can be available in clinical settings.

Purpose

We compared neointimal coverage conditions between ultra-thin BP-SES and thin BP-SES by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

Consecutive Forty-six patients who underwent 21 ultra-thin BP-SESs or 25 thin BP-SESs implantation were enrolled. We compared incidences of acute coronary syndrome, type B2/C lesion, atherectomy device use, stent size, stent length, maximum inflation pressure, and 8-month follow-up OCT parameters including proportions of uncovered struts (%Uncovered), malapposed struts, (%Mallaposed) and mean neointimal hyperplasia thickness (mean NHT) between the two groups.

Results

%Uncovered and %malapposed were significantly higher and mean NHT was significantly lower in ultra-thin BP-SES than in thin BP-SES (Table). The other parameters were similar between the two groups.

Conclusion

Ultra-thin BP-SES showed worse neointimal coverage as compared to thin BP-SES within 1 year after stent implantation, which may increase stent thrombosis.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Real-world clinical impact of external elastic lamina-based stent sizing criteria using optical coherence tomography

Introduction

ILUMIEN III trial has reported that non-inferiority of optical coherence tomography (OCT)-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to intravascular ultrasound-guided PCI for postprocedural minimum stent area. In the trial, external elastic lamina (EEL)-based stent sizing criteria was introduced, however OCT has limitations including incomplete visualization of EEL in severale lesions.

Purpose

The aim of the study is to investigate real-world clinical impact of EEL-based stent sizing criteria.

Methods

The study included consecutive patients who underwent OCT-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for de novo lesions in our institution between September 2016 and April 2018. EEL visibility, mean EEL diameter, mean lumen diameter and plaque morphology were assessed at proximal and distal references. The plaque morphology at references was categorized according to its most prevalent component as follows: normal, fibrous plaque, lipid plaque, and calcified plaque. Both references were divided into 3 groups according to visibility of EEL.

Results

Among 205 lesions, 31 lesions had artifacts at references (16 proximal and 17 distal references). EEL visibility was summarized in a table. Out of 174 lesions with both analyzable references, 111 lesions (63.8%) had &gt;180-degree EEL visibility at both references. Proportion of plaque morphology were significantly different among 3 groups at proximal and distal references as shown in a figure.

Conclusions

EEL-based stent sizing criteria was usable for 63.8% of all the lesions. Vessel size and plaque morphology were significantly associated with EEL visibility.

Proportion of plaque morphology

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

The impact of an empiric superior vena cava isolation added to pulmonary vein isolation for non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation associated with left atrial low voltage areas

Introduction

Left atrial low-voltage areas (LVAs) are associated with recurrence after radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the impact of LVAs on recurrence after an empiric pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) plus superior vena cava isolation (SVCI) strategy for non-Paroxysmal AF (PAF) patients remains unclear.

Purpose

We evaluated the impact of LVAs on the recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATs)/AF in patients who underwent an empiric SVCI added to the PVI for non-PAF.

Methods

We enrolled 153 consecutive patients with non-PAF who underwent a PVI alone (PVI group; n=51) or empiric PVI plus SVCI (PVI+SVCI group; n=102). Left atrial voltage maps were constructed during sinus rhythm to identify the LVAs (&lt;0.5 mV). No patients underwent a substrate modification of the LVAs. We divided the patients into two groups based on the LVAs (with or without an LVA &gt;5% of the left atrial surface area) and investigated the ATs/AF free survival rate after the initial and multiple procedures.

Results

LVAs were identified in 65% and 73% of the PVI and PVI + SVCI groups, respectively (P=0.319). In the PVI group, the 18-month ATs/AF-free survival was 61% of the patients without LVAs and 27% of patients with LVAs after the initial session (P=0.018) (Figure 1-A). Seventy-two percent of the patients without LVAs and 46% of those with LVAs were free from ATs/AF after multiple sessions (P=0.083) (Figure 1-B). In the PVI+SVCI group, 50% of the patients with LVAs and 61% of those without LVAs had no recurrence after the initial session (P=0.374) (Figure 2-A). Moreover, there was no significant difference in the 18-month ATs/AF-free survival between the patients with and without LVAs after multiple sessions (73% vs. 79%; P=0.520) (Figure 2-B).

Conclusion

A PVI alone strategy for non-PAF patients with LVAs had limited efficacy for the outcomes, even with multiple procedures. However, an SVCI may have the potential to compensate for an impaired outcome in patients with LVAs.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Impact of simple nutrition index on the long-term mortality of acute decompensated heart failure patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction: insight from PURSUIT-HFpEF registry

Background

The novel nutrition index; triglyceride (TG) × total cholesterol (TG) × body weight (BW) index (TCBI) has been reported to be an easy and useful predictor for patients with coronary artery disease. However, there is no information available on the prognostic value of TCBI in patients with heart failure with preserved LVEF (HFpEF) who admitted with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF).

Methods and results

Data were extracted from The Prospective mUlticenteR obServational stUdy of patIenTs with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (PURSUIT HFpEF) study. PURSUIT-HFpEF study is a prospective multicenter observational study in which collaborating hospitals recorded clinical, echocardiographic, and outcome data of ADHF pts with HFpEF. We enrolled consecutive 757 HFpEF patients who admitted with ADHF from June 2016 to June 2019. TCBI was calculated by the formula; TG × TC × BW / 1000 at the discharge. After we excluded patients with in-hospital death or without sufficient data, we analyzed 419 patients. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. During a median follow up period of 1.1 (0.9–1.9) years, 59 patients died. ROC analysis revealed that TCBI at discharge was a fair discriminator for predicting all-cause mortality (AUC 0.676, sensitivity 53%, specificity 78%). Multivariate Cox proportional analysis showed that TCBI (p=0.002) was an independent predictor for all cause death after adjustment with major confounders such as age, gender, NT-proBNP, hemoglobin and serum creatinine level. We divided patients into 4 groups according to quartiles of TCBI. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a significantly higher risk of all-cause death in relation to the decrease in TCBI.

Conclusion

TCBI, a simple and novel nutrition index, is a useful and strong long-term prognostic indicator in ADHF patients with HFpEF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnositics K.K.; Fuji Film Toyoma Chemical Co. Ltd.

Difference of myocardial injury, inflammation and early recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation among laser balloon ablation, radiofrequency catheter ablation and cryoballoon ablation

Background

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has become well-established as the main therapy for patients with drug-refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and various isolation methods including radiofrequency ablation (RFA), cryoballoon ablation (CBA) and laser balloon ablation (LBA) were available. Pathological findings in each ablation methods such as myocardial injury and inflammation are thought to be different. High sensitive cardiac troponin I (hs-TnI), subunit of cardiac troponin complex, is a sensitive and specific marker of myocardium injury. High-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a biomarker of inflammation and is elevated following cardiomyocyte necrosis. Relationship between myocardial injury and inflammation after ablation using RFA, CBA and LBA and early recurrence of atrial fibrillation (ERAF) remains unclear.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive PAF patients from Osaka Rosai Atrial Fibrillation (ORAF) registry who underwent PVI from January 2019 to October 2019. We compared the clinical characteristics including age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, history of heart failure, CHADS2Vasc score, renal function, serum BNP level and echocardiographic parameters including left ventricular dimensions, left atrial diameter (LAD) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) between RFA, CBA and LBA groups. We investigated the difference of relationship between myocardial injury marker (hs-TnI), inflammation markers (white blood cell change (DWBC) from post to pre PVI, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio change (DNLR) from after to before PVI and hs-CRP) at 36–48 hours after PVI and ERAF (&lt;3 months after PVI) between each group.

Results

We enrolled 187 consecutive PAF patients who underwent PVI. RFA, CBA and LBA groups comprised 108, 57 and 22 patients, respectively. There were no significant differences of age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, history of heart failure, CHADS2Vasc score, renal function, serum BNP level and echocardiographic parameters between each group. Serum hs-TnI in RFA group and LBA group were significantly lower than in CBA group (2.643 ng/ml vs 5.240ng/ml, 1.344 ng/ml vs 5.240 ng/ml, p&lt;0.001, p=0.002, respectively, Figure). DWBC was significantly higher in LBA group than CBA group (1157.3/μl vs 418.4/μl, p=0.045). DNLR did not differ between each group. Hs-CRP in RFA group and LBA group were significantly higher than in CBA group (1.881 mg/dl vs 1.186 mg/dl, 2.173 mg/dl vs 1.186 mg/dl, p=0.010, p=0.003, respectively, Figure). Incidence of ERAF was significantly higher in LBA group than RFA group (36.4% vs 16.7%, p=0.035). Incidence of ERAF tended to be higher in LBA group than CBA group (36.4% vs 19.3%, p=0.112).

Conclusion

LBA may cause less myocardial injury than RFA and CBA, on the contrary LBA may cause more inflammation than CBA. Incidence of ERAF in LBA was highest between each procedure.

Inflammation markers and ERAF

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Outcome of contact force-guided radiofrequency catheter ablation or second generation cryoballoon ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: propensity score matched analysis

Background

Little has been reported on the outcome of contact force (CF)-guided radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) and second generation cryoballoon ablation (CBA).

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome of CF-guided RFCA and second generation CBA for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF).

Methods

We enrolled the consecutive 364 patients with PAF who underwent initial ablation between September 2014 and July 2018 in our hospital. We compared the late recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmia more than three months after ablation between RFCA group and CBA group. All RFCA procedures were performed using CF-sensing catheter and all CBA procedures were performed using second generation CB.

Results

There were significant differences in background characteristics: chronic kidney disease, serum brain natriuretic peptide level, and left ventricular ejection fraction. After propensity score matched analysis (Table), atrial tachyarrhythmia free survival was significantly higher in CBA group than in RFCA group (Figure).

Conclusions

Second generation CBA showed a significantly lower late recurrence rate compared to CF-guided RFCA.

Kaplan-Meier Curve

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Not only power and energy but also balloon size is correlated with lesion formation in laser ablation model in vitro study

Background

Power and total energy were known to correlate with lesion formation during laser balloon ablation for atrial fibrillation. However, it is unclear whether balloon size can influence lesion formation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of balloon size on lesion formation during laser balloon procedure in vitro model.

Methods

Laser energy was applied to chicken muscles using first generation laser balloon. Laser ablation was performed with different 2 balloon size (18mm and 32mm) using 2 different power settings (12W/20sec and 8.5W/20sec). Forty lesions were evaluated for each setting. We compared maximum lesion width, maximum lesion depth, depth at maximum width and endocardial lesion width between 18mm and 32mm balloon groups at 12W/20sec and 8.5W/20sec, respectively.

Results

At 8.5W/20sec, inadequate lesion formation to assess lesion size was observed in 1/40 lesion of 18mm balloon group and in 5/40 lesions of 32mm balloon group. Thus, at 8.5W/20sec 18 mm balloon group consisted of 39 lesions and 32 mm balloon group consisted of 35 lesions. At 12W/20sec 18 mm balloon group consisted of 40 lesions and 32 mm balloon group consisted of 40 lesions. At both power settings, maximum lesion depth was larger in 18mm balloon than in 32mm balloon group. At 12W/20sec setting, maximum lesion width and endocardial width were larger in 32mm balloon group than in 18mm balloon group. At 12W/20sec setting, depth at maximum width was smaller in 32mm balloon group than in 18mm balloon group. Lesion morphologies were summarized in a figure.

Conclusion

Balloon size could affect lesion formation during laser balloon ablation in addition to laser power and energy. Laser ablation lesion were wider but shallower in 32mm balloon group compared with in 18mm balloon group.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Clinical characteristics and prognostic impact of pulmonary hypertension in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the PURSUIT HFpEF study

Background

Heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) can develop pulmonary hypertension (PH), which can result from pre-capillary PH as well as post-capillary PH. However, the prevalence and clinical significance of pre-capillary component of PH in HFpEF remain unknown.

Purpose

We aimed to investigate prevalence, clinical features, and prognostic impact of pre-capillary and/or post capillary PH associated with HFpEF.

Methods

From the PURSUIT-HFpEF (Prospective Multicenter Observational Study of Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction) registry, 204 patients (men: 46%, age: 79±9 years) who were hospitalized with HF and underwent right heart catheterization were divided into 4 groups according to the PH guidelines: non-PH, isolated post-capillary PH (Ipc-PH), pre-capillary PH, and combined pre- and post-capillary PH (Cpc-PH). Patients who had been diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension were excluded from the analysis.

Results

The prevalence of PH was 31% (Ipc-PH: 22%, pre-capillary PH: 3%, Cpc-PH: 6%). The prevalence of subcategories of PH was significantly different depending on mean right atrial pressure (RAP) (figure). Echocardiography at discharge showed no significant differences in RV diameter or TAPSE, but smaller LV diameter and higher E/e' in pre-capillary PH and Cpc-PH, which resulted in a higher operant diastolic elastance (Ed). Composite endpoint of all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization at 1 year occurred 13% in non-PH, 25% in Ipc-PH, 49% in pre-capillary PH, and 63% in Cpc-PH, respectively (p=0.001 by log-rank test).

Conclusions

Distinct prevalence of PH was observed in the groups with different RAP levels. Pre-capillary component of PH was associated with impaired LV diastolic function and worse outcomes in HFpEF.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K.; Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd

Clinical characteristics and outcomes after pulmonary vein isolation in atrial fibrillation patients with complete right bundle branch block

Background

Complete right bundle branch block (CRBBB) is one of the most frequent alterations of the electrocardiogram (ECG). Several studies have shown that CRBBB was a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and the appearance of CRBBB in patients hospitalized for exacerbated heart failure (HF) was associated with a worse prognosis. Various alternations of ECG such as early repolarization pattern and intraventricular conduction disturbance were associated with high recurrence ratio of atrial fibrillation (AF) after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). However clinical outcome after PVI in patients with CRBBB remains unclear.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive AF patients who underwent PVI from September 2014 to November 2018 rom Osaka Rosai Atrial Fibrillation (ORAF) registry. We excluded patients with other wide QRS (left bundle branch block, ventricular pacing and unclassified intraventricular conduction disturbance) and divided into 2 groups; CRBBB (QRS duration ≥120msec) group and no-CRBBB (QRS duration &lt;120) group. We compared the clinical characteristics including age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, history of heart failure, history of stroke, CHADS2Vasc score, paroxysmal AF (PAF), renal function, plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level and echocardiographic parameters including left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVDd), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVDs), left atrial diameter (LAD) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) between the 2 groups. We also compared the incidence of late recurrence of AF/atrial tachycardia (AT) between the 2 groups. We investigated whether CRBBB was an independent predictor of late recurrence of AF/AT after PVI by multivariate Cox analysis.

Results

We enrolled 736 consecutive AF patients who underwent PVI. CRBBB patients comprised 55 patients (7.5%). There were no significant differences of age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, history of heart failure, history of stroke, CHADS2Vasc score, PAF, renal function, plasma BNP level and echocardiographic parameters (LVDd, LVDs, LVEF and LAD) between the 2 groups. Incidence of AF/AT recurrence after PVI was significantly higher in CRBBB group than no-CRBBB group (Figure). CRBBB was an independently and significantly associated with late recurrence of AF/AT after PVI by multivariate Cox analysis (hazard ratio: 1.923, 95% CI: 1.190–2.961, p=0.009) in addition to female (p&lt;0.001), no-PAF (p=0.005) and left atrial diameter (p=0.042).

Conclusion

CRBBB may be a strong predictor of AF/AT late recurrence after PVI.

AF/Ar recurrence after PVI

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Clinical outcome of non-use of touch-up focal ablation catheters strategy during cryoballoon atrial fibrillation ablation

Background

It has been reported that frequent use of touch-up focal ablation catheters was related to worse outcomes after cryoballoon (CB) atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation. It is unknown whether non-use of touch-up focal ablation catheters strategy affects the outcome of AF ablation. Therefore, this study aimed to assess whether non-use of touch-up focal ablation catheters strategy improve clinical outcome after AF ablation using CB.

Methods

A total of 151 consecutive patients who received CB ablation from February 2017 to August 2019 were enrolled. Non-use of a touch-up focal ablation catheters strategy was started from February 2018. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the type of strategy. In the non-touch-up group, pulmonary veins were isolated without touch-up focal ablation catheters as much as possible and in conventional group, touch-up focal ablation catheters were used as required. The 1-year atrial tachyarrhythmia free survival without class 1 or 3 antiarrhythmic drugs after a 90-day blanking period was assessed between the 2 groups.

Results

The conventional group consisted of 76 patients and the non-touch-up group consisted of 75 patients. Baseline characteristics were comparable between 2 groups. Touch-up focal ablation catheters were used more in the conventional group (11 patients, 14%) than non-touch-up group (0 patients, 0%) (p&lt;0.001). Pulmonary isolation was achieved in all patients of both groups. Atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence occurred more frequently in the non-touch-up group (15/75 patients, 20%) than conventional group (7/76 patients, 9%) (p=0.045).

Conclusion

Non-use of a touch-up focal ablation catheters strategy may be related to worse outcome after CB AF ablation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Different clinical features between left atrial and left atrial appendage thrombus: an insight into more than 16,000 transesophageal echography database

Background

Thrombosis localization inside the left atrium (LA) is very frequently in the left atrial appendage (LAA). Some cases show atrial thrombus outside LAA, whose characteristics have not well elucidated.

Purpose

To reveal the different clinical background between thrombus inside LAA and outside LAA in a large transesophageal echo (TEE) database.

Methods

We searched the TEE database over 8 years of our center to identify patients in whom LA thrombus was pointed out. After initial TEE imaging, LA thrombus was confirmed with repeated TEE by echocardiography specialist or other modality, such as CT images.

Results

In a consecutive 16,142 TEE cases, LA thrombus was suspected in 162 cases (1%), finally 38 cases were identified as LA thrombus. They were divided into two groups; LAA only group and outside LAA group. Atrial fibrillation was concomitant in 34 patients (89%). History of stroke was significantly higher in LAA group (46.2% vs 8.3%, p=0.03) and malignant tumor was significantly higher in outside LAA group (23.1% vs 58.3%, p=0.035). LA thrombus was the first symptom in 3 cases of outside LAA group, following by malignant tumor was newly detected. Oral anticoagulation was prescribed in 23 cases (61%) at TEE study, mostly treated with warfarin, and median 123 days later thrombus dissolution was confirmed in 21 cases (55%). During mean follow up of 893 days, 4 patients experienced ischemic stroke, but two of them were due to self-interruption.

Conclusion

Outside LAA thrombus is minor but more concomitant with malignant tumor. Physician must be aware that screening of cancer is important if outside LAA thrombus is detected.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Ablation index guide pulmonary vein isolation can reduce early recurrence of atrial fibrillation: a propensity score-matched analysis

Background

Ablation index (AI) is a novel marker of ablation lesion quality for radiofrequency ablation (RFA). It has been reported that AI guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) reduced pulmonary vein reconnection and late recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, little is known about the impact of AI guided PVI on early recurrence of AF (ERAF).

Purpose

The aim of this study is to clarify whether AI guided PVI can reduce ERAF.

Methods

From September 2014 to August 2019, consecutive AF patients who underwent 1st session PVI were enrolled. We compared prevalence of ERAF between AI guided PVI group (AI group) and conventional contact force guided PVI group (CF group) using propensity score-matched analysis, which adjusted patient backgrounds (age, sex, and body mass index (BMI)), type of AF, the history of heart failure, hypertension, diabetes and stroke, laboratory findings including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and echocardiographic parameters including left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left atrial diameter.

Results

Total 711 patients were enrolled. AI group comprised 233 patients and CF group comprised 233 patients. Prevalence of ERAF were significantly lower in AI group than in CF group significantly (21.5% vs 36.1%, p=0.001, Table).

Conclusions

AI guided PVI can reduce ERAF as compared to conventional method.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Prognostic value of nutritional status in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, with and without atrial fibrillation: insights From PURSUIT-HFpEF Registry

Background

Malnutrition is one of the most important comorbidities among heart failure (HF) patients, and serum cholinesterase (CHE) has been reported to be a prognostic factor in HF patients. On the other hand, atrial fibrillation (AF) is frequently observed in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, there is little information available on the prognostic value of nutritional status in HFpEF patients, with and without AF. We sought to clarify the prognostic value of CHE in HFpEF with and without AF and compare it with that of other nutrition indices such as gastric nutritional risk index (GNRI), controlling nutritional status (CONUT), and the prognostic nutritional index (PNI).

Methods and results

Patients data were extracted from The Prospective mUlticenteR obServational stUdy of patIenTs with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (PURSUIT HFpEF) study, which is a prospective multicenter observational registry for acute decompensated heart failure patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% in Osaka. We analyzed 380 patients (median age: 80 [75–87] years, male: 46%) after exclusion of patients with in-hospital death, missing follow-up data, or missing data to calculate nutritional indices. On admission, 155 patients had AF. Laboratory data were obtained at discharge. During a mean follow up period of 1.1±0.6 years, 131 patients had a composite endpoint (CE) of all-cause death and hospitalization for worsening heart failure or cerebrovascular disorder. In multivariate Cox analysis, in patients with AF, CHE was significantly associated with CE independently of age, gender and body mass index after the adjustment with serum albumin, total cholesterol levels and total lymphocyte count, while it was not significantly associated with CE in patients without AF. C-index of CHE (0.708) was higher than that of GNRI (0.555, p=0.0028), CONUT (0.651, p=0.208) and PNI (0.635, p=0.208) in AF patients, while there were no significant differences in those nutritional indices in patients without AF. Kaplan-Meier curve analysis revealed that AF patients with lower CHE (&lt;208 U/L = median value) had higher risk of CE than those with higher CHE (44% vs 18%, adjusted HR 3.26 95% CI [1.66–6.67], p=0.0005), while there was no significant difference in the occurrence rate of CE between patients with and without higher CHE in non-AF group (42% vs 31%, adjusted HR 1.28 95% CI [0.78–2.13], p=0.33).

Conclusions

Prognostic value of CHE would be stronger than other nutritional indices in HFpEF patients with AF, while it would be weak in HFpEF patients without AF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K.; Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

Multicenter study of novel mapping technique to detect non-pulmonary vein triggers excluding the origin from left atrial posterior wall and superior vena cava

Background

It has been reported that elimination of non-pulmonary vein (PV) triggers after PV isolation is a good predictor of atrial tachyarrhythmia free survival. However, precise mapping of triggers outside from superior vena cava (SVC) or left atrial posterior wall (LAPW) are difficult. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of self-reference mapping technique to eliminate non-PV triggers originated from outside of primordial pulmonary vein area.

Methods

Total of 431 patients (446 procedures) underwent atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in a hospital and in a medical center from January 2017 to March 2019. After isolation of PV, non-PV triggers were induced with isoproterenol and/or adenosine triphosphate. Reproducible non-PV triggers were targeted to ablate using following self-reference mapping technique: A trigger conducts centrifugally and the earliest site should be distinguished from other later activated sites. Using a PentaRay multipolar catheter, the operators annotated the earliest site of local activation and a reference tag was placed. The multipolar catheter was then moved to the reference tag and the process repeated. Ultimately, we identified clusters of early circumferential activation and ablated.

Results

A total of 32 non-PV triggers excluding the origin from LAPW and SVC were induced in 23 patients. Nineteen triggers (59%) were located in the right atrium and 13 triggers (41%) in the left atrium (Figure 1). All triggers were eliminated with ablation and AF was non-inducible in all patients at the end of the procedure. During the follow-up (529±270 days), 18 patients (77%) were free from atrial tachyarrhythmias after a 3-month blanking period. Three patients received additional ablation procedures for recurrent atrial arrhythmias. No non-PV triggers ablated during the previous procedure were observed.

Conclusion

A novel self-reference mapping technique is useful for eliminating non-PV triggers in terms of the short- and long-term success.

Figure 1. Distribution of non-PV triggers

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

The impact of frailty and aging on prognosis in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction – insights from PURSUIT-HFpEF registry

Introduction

Frailty and aging are two common conditions both associated with increased vulnerability to stressful events with high risk of adverse outcomes.

Purpose

To evaluate the association between frailty and aging and their impacts on clinical outcome in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods

Analysis was performed from a prospective multicenter observational registry for HFpEF (PURSUIT-HFpEF Registry) conducted in the Osaka region of Japan. A total of 757 patients hospitalized for acute heart failure (diagnosed by using Framingham criteria) met the inclusion criteria: a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% and brain natriuretic peptide ≥100pg/ml. We included 483 patients (age, 80±9 years; men, 45%; atrial fibrillation, 35%) whose follow-up data after survival discharge were available. Patients' frailty and aging were evaluated using the clinical frailty scale (CFS) and age quartiles (Q1: &lt;76 years (n=122), Q2: 76–82 years (n=111), Q3: 82–87 years (n=127), Q4: &gt;87 years (n=123)), respectively. The primary clinical endpoint was defined as the composite of death, re-hospitalization for heart failure, and cerebrovascular accident.

Results

The median (interquartile range) CFS rating was 3 (2–5), and there was a little correlation between CFS rating and age (r2=0.16, p&lt;0.001). The prevalence of frailty, defined as a CFS rating &gt;4 (n=132), was positively correlated with age quartiles (Q1: 9.0%, Q2: 21.4%, Q3: 29.9%, Q4: 48.0%, p&lt;0.001). During the median follow-up period 396 days (interquartile range, 344–698) after discharge, the clinical endpoint was observed in 172 patients. The incidence was higher in patients with frailty than those without it (49.6% vs. 30.4%, log-rank p&lt;0.001). It was also correlated with age quartiles (Q1: 23.0%, Q2: 34.2%, Q3: 36.2%, Q4: 48.8%, log-rank p=0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that frailty (hazard ratio, 1.52; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–2.10; p=0.013) and age (hazard ratio per quartile increase, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–1.43; p=0.004) were both associated with the clinical endpoint. Subgroup analysis in 352 patients without frailty also revealed the significant impact of age on the endpoint (1.26; 1.06–1.51; p=0.008). However, in 131 patients with frailty, there was no significant impact of age on the endpoint (1.16; 0.90–1.51; p=0.25).

Conclusions

Frailty was common and was associated with aging in HFpEF patients. Although they were both associated with unfavorable events, aging was no longer a significant predictor of adverse outcomes under the frailty conditions.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K. and Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

The comparison of clinical significance between atrial and ventricular structural remodeling in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction – insights from PURSUIT-HFpEF registry

Introduction

Structural remodeling is an important aspect of pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). The compensatory mechanism against diastolic dysfunction would be more obvious on the left atrium rather than left ventricle in HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Purpose

To investigate the impact of left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) remodeling on clinical outcomes in HFpEF patients.

Methods

Analysis was performed from a prospective multicenter observational registry for HFpEF (PURSUIT-HFpEF Registry) conducted in the Osaka region of Japan. A total of 757 patients hospitalized for acute HF (diagnosed by using Framingham criteria) met the inclusion criteria: a LV ejection fraction ≥50% and brain natriuretic peptide ≥100pg/ml. We included 381 patients (age, 82±9 years; men, 45%; atrial fibrillation (AF), 34%) whose follow-up data after survival discharge were available and whose LA volume index (LAVI) and left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) at discharge were measured by the biplane Simpson's method using echocardiography. The primary endpoint was defined as the composite of death, re-hospitalization for HF, and cerebrovascular accident.

Results

The LAVI and LVEDVI at discharge was 54±25 ml/m2 and 55±21 ml/m2, respectively (r2=0.014, p=0.021). When patients were classified into the LAVI tertiles groups (T1: &lt;40ml/m2 (n=124), T2: 41–59ml/m2 (n=127), T3: &gt;60ml/m2 (n=130)), there was a positive correlation between the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction and the LAVI tertiles (T1, 21.0%; T2, 48.8%; T3, 51.5%; p&lt;0.001). On the other hand, significant association was not observed between the prevalence of diastolic dysfunction and the LVEDVI tertile groups (p=0.42). During the median follow-up period of 396 days (IQR, 345–698), the composite endpoint was observed in 131 patients and there was a positive correlation between the endpoint and the LAVI tertiles (T1, 24.2%; T2, 38.6%; T3, 40.3%; p=0.011). On the other hand, no correlation was found between the endpoint and the LVEDVI tertiles (p=0.13). After adjustment for age, gender, and presence of diastolic dysfunction, Cox regression analysis revealed that not LVEDVI but LAVI at discharge was a significant predictor of the composite endpoint in the entire cohort (hazard ratio per 10 ml/m2 increase; 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.16; p=0.009) and in the sinus rhythm subgroup (1.10; 1.01–1.20; p=0.034). However, not LAVI but LVEDVI was a significant predictor for the adverse outcomes in the AF subgroup (1.23; 1.04–1.46; p=0.016).

Conclusions

Increased LAVI at discharge, which was associated with diastolic dysfunction, related to unfavorable prognosis in patients with HFpEF. However, LAVI was no more a predictor for the adverse outcomes but LVEDVI was in the AF subgroup. The clinical significance of atrial and ventricular remodeling may differ between sinus rhythm and AF rhythm in HFpEF population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K. and Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

Cardiac factors as well as non-cardiac factors were associated with frailty in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Background

Frailty is associated with malnutrition and poor prognosis in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, the cardiac factors associated with frailty have not been fully examined in patients with HFpEF.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to clarify the cardiac factors related to frailty in patients with HFpEF.

Methods

Of the 756 patients who registered prospective, multicenter, observational study of patients with HFpEF (PURSUIT-HFpEF) registry, 481 cases with clinical frailty score (CFS) and prognosis after discharge were examined. Frailty was defined as CFS ≥5. Outcomes were composite endpoint of all-cause death and heart failure readmission, and all-cause mortality. We compared outcomes between patients without and with frailty, and sought to identify factors which were associated with increase in clinical frailty score by the correlation analysis and linear regression analysis.

Results

Of 481 patients, 131 patients (27.2%) were frail. Male gender was less in patients with frailty than those without frailty (26.7% vs 73.3%, P&lt;0.001). Frail patients had higher age (85.2±7.3 vs 78.7±9.4 years, P&lt;0.001). During follow-up period of 396 [343, 697] days, composite endpoint (Kaplan-Meier event rate estimates, 77% vs. 60%; log-rank P&lt;0.001), and all-cause mortality (Kaplan-Meier event rate estimates, 57% vs. 28%; log-rank P&lt;0.001) was higher in patients with frailty than those without frailty. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed frailty was significantly and independently associated with mortality (HR=1.40, 95% CI=1.17–1.68, P&lt;0.001). CFS was significantly correlated with age (r=0.401, P&lt;0.001), sex (r=0.223, P&lt;0.001), body mass index (r=−0.146, P=0.001), hemoglobin (r=−0.148, P=0.001), albumin (r=−0.222, P&lt;0.001), left ventricular diastolic diameter (r=−0.184, P&lt;0.001), interventricular septum thickness (r=−0.124, P=0.008), left ventricular mass (r=−0.217, P&lt;0.001), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (r=−0.165, P=0.001), and tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient (TRPG) (r=0.189, P&lt;0.001). Multivariate linear regression analysis using these factors as covariates revealed age (standardized β: 0.337, P&lt;0.001), sex (standardized β: 0.120, P=0.014), albumin (standardized β: −0.151, P=0.003) and TRPG (standardized β: 0.129, P=0.005) were significantly and independently associated with increase in clinical frailty score.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that not only nutritional factors but also a cardiac factor were associated with frailty, and frailty was associated with mortality in patients with HFpEF. Improvement of hemodynamics in HFpEF patients as well as improvement of nutrition might contribute to alleviation of frail in HFpEF patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Roche Diagnostics K.K.; Fuji Film Toyama Chemical Co. Ltd.

Diverse dystonin gene mutations cause distinct patterns of Dst isoform deficiency and phenotypic heterogeneity in Dystonia musculorum mice

Loss-of-function mutations in dystonin (DST) can cause hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type 6 (HSAN-VI) or epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS). Recently, DST-related diseases were recognized to be more complex than previously thought because a patient exhibited both neurological and skin manifestations, whereas others display only one or the other. A single DST locus produces at least three major DST isoforms: DST-a (neuronal isoform), DST-b (muscular isoform) and DST-e (epithelial isoform). Dystonia musculorum (dt) mice, which have mutations in Dst, were originally identified as spontaneous mutants displaying neurological phenotypes. To reveal the mechanisms underlying the phenotypic heterogeneity of DST-related diseases, we investigated two mutant strains with different mutations: a spontaneous Dst mutant (Dst^dt-23Rbrc mice) and a gene-trap mutant (Dst^Gt mice). The Dst^dt-23Rbrc allele possesses a nonsense mutation in an exon shared by all Dst isoforms. The Dst^Gt allele is predicted to inactivate Dst-a and Dst-b isoforms but not Dst-e. There was a decrease in the levels of Dst-a mRNA in the neural tissue of both Dst^dt-23Rbrc and Dst^Gt homozygotes. Loss of sensory and autonomic nerve ends in the skin was observed in both Dst^dt-23Rbrc and Dst^Gt mice at postnatal stages. In contrast, Dst-e mRNA expression was reduced in the skin of Dst^dt-23Rbrc mice but not in Dst^Gt mice. Expression levels of Dst proteins in neural and cutaneous tissues correlated with Dst mRNAs. Because Dst-e encodes a structural protein in hemidesmosomes (HDs), we performed transmission electron microscopy. Lack of inner plaques and loss of keratin filament invasions underneath the HDs were observed in the basal keratinocytes of Dst^dt-23Rbrc mice but not in those of Dst^Gt mice; thus, the distinct phenotype of the skin of Dst^dt-23Rbrc mice could be because of failure of Dst-e expression. These results indicate that distinct mutations within the Dst locus can cause different loss-of-function patterns among Dst isoforms, which accounts for the heterogeneous neural and skin phenotypes in dt mice and DST-related diseases.

Summary: This paper describes the mechanism by which diverse dystonin gene mutations result in phenotypic heterogeneity in neural and cutaneous tissues of Dystonia musculorum mice.

Analysis of the nucleocytoplasmic shuttling RNA-binding protein HNRNPU using optimized HITS-CLIP method

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) control many types of post-transcriptional regulation, including mRNA splicing, mRNA stability, and translational efficiency, by directly binding to their target RNAs and their mutation and dysfunction are often associated with several human neurological diseases and tumorigenesis. Crosslinking immunoprecipitation (CLIP), coupled with high-throughput sequencing (HITS-CLIP), is a powerful technique for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis by comprehensive identification of RBP target sequences at the transcriptome level. However, HITS-CLIP protocol is still required for some optimization due to experimental complication, low efficiency and time-consuming, whose library has to be generated from very small amounts of RNAs. Here we improved a more efficient, rapid, and reproducible CLIP method by optimizing BrdU-CLIP. Our protocol produced a 10-fold greater yield of pre-amplified CLIP library, which resulted in a low duplicate rate of CLIP-tag reads because the number of PCR cycles required for library amplification was reduced. Variance of the yields was also reduced, and the experimental period was shortened by 2 days. Using this, we validated IL-6 expression by a nuclear RBP, HNRNPU, which directly binds the 3’-UTR of IL-6 mRNA in HeLa cells. Importantly, this interaction was only observed in the cytoplasmic fraction, suggesting a role of cytoplasmic HNRNPU in mRNA stability control. This optimized method enables us to accurately identify target genes and provides a snapshot of the protein-RNA interactions of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling RBPs.

Unveiling synapse pathology in spinal bulbar muscular atrophy by genome-wide transcriptome analysis of purified motor neurons derived from disease specific iPSCs

Spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) is an adult-onset, slowly progressive motor neuron disease caused by abnormal CAG repeat expansion in the androgen receptor (AR) gene. Although ligand (testosterone)-dependent mutant AR aggregation has been shown to play important roles in motor neuronal degeneration by the analyses of transgenic mice models and in vitro cell culture models, the underlying disease mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated because of the discrepancy between model mice and SBMA patients. Thus, novel human disease models that recapitulate SBMA patients’ pathology more accurately are required for more precise pathophysiological analysis and the development of novel therapeutics. Here, we established disease specific iPSCs from four SBMA patients, and differentiated them into spinal motor neurons. To investigate motor neuron specific pathology, we purified iPSC-derived motor neurons using flow cytometry and cell sorting based on the motor neuron specific reporter, HB9^e438::Venus, and proceeded to the genome-wide transcriptome analysis by RNA sequences. The results revealed the involvement of the pathology associated with synapses, epigenetics, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in SBMA. Notably, we demonstrated the involvement of the neuromuscular synapse via significant upregulation of Synaptotagmin, R-Spondin2 (RSPO2), and WNT ligands in motor neurons derived from SBMA patients, which are known to be associated with neuromuscular junction (NMJ) formation and acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clustering. These aberrant gene expression in neuromuscular synapses might represent a novel therapeutic target for SBMA.

P2691Excimer laser coronary angioplasty can achieve favorable clinical outocomes for in-stent restenosis lesion with neoatherosclerosis

Background

Recent reports revealed that residual area stenosis (% AS) ≤30% after lesion preparation is a suitable predictor for target lesion revascularization (TLR) after drug-coated balloon (DCB) treatment for in-stent restenosis (ISR). Excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA) can obtain larger lumen area and may be more useful for lesion preparation than plain old ballooning (POBA). On the other hands, it has been reported that in-stent neoatherosclerosis (NA) is major cause of restenosis. It is unclear the correlation between NA of ISR and the effect of ELCA. Thus, we compared the influence of NA which was evaluated by optical coherence tomography (OCT) on % AS for ISR treatment between ELCA and DCB (ELCA) group and POBA and DCB (non-ELCA) group and their clinical outcome.

Methods

We enrolled 58 consecutive ISR lesions which were treated by OCT guidance between July 2014 and July 2018 in our hospital. The lesions were divided into NA and non-NA lesions according to OCT findings. In each lesion, we compared post procedural % AS and % AS change which was calculated by the difference between pre and post procedural % AS between ELCA and non-ELCA groups. In addition, we compared 8-month major advance cardiac events (MACE) defined by composite of binary restenosis and target lesion revascularization (TLR) between ELCA and non-ELCA group in NA lesions.

Results

There were 19 NA (33.3%) and 39 non-NA lesions. In NA lesions, ELCA group can obtain significantly lower % AS (p=0.02) and significantly larger % AS change (p<0.01) than non-ELCA group, but in non-NA lesions, % AS and %AS change were similar between ELCA and non-ELCA groups (table). In 8-month clinical outcome, non-ELCA group experienced MACE twice as much as ELCA group did. (31% vs 17%)

Results of %AS NA lesions (n=19) P value non-NA lesions (n=39) P value ELCA group (n=6) non-ELCA group (n=13) ELCA group (n=17) non-ELCA group (n=22) Post %AS (%) 2±21 26±25 0.02 7±29 23±19 0.07 %AS change (%) 71±15 38±19 <0.01 56±29 44±17 0.11

Conclusion

Although neoatherosclerosis is correlated with refractory restenosis, ELCA can improve residual area stenosis in neoatherosclerosis lesions and can achieve better clinical outcomes for in-stent neoatherosclerosis.

P3385Difference of vascular healing after percutaneous coronary intervention between 4 kinds of new generation drug-eluting stents: an optical coherence tomography analysis

Background

New generation drug eluting stents (DES) have improved target vessel failure as compared with early generation DES and bare metal stent. Contemporary several new generation DES are different each other regarding strut thickness and drug and polymer type. A little is known about which stent induces a more favorable vascular healing at follow up.

Purpose

In this study, we compared the vascular healing at 8-month follow up by optical coherence tomography (OCT) between 4 different kinds of new generation DES.

Methods

We enrolled 112 consecutive patients (121 lesions) who underwent PCI using 4 kinds of new generation DES including biodegradable-polymer everolimus-eluting stents (BP-EES), biodegradable-polymer sirolimus-eluting stents (BP-SES), durable-polymer everolimus-eluting stents (DP-EES) and durable-polymer zotarolimus-eluting stents (DP-ZES) and who underwent 8-month follow up angiogram and OCT between July 2016 and April 2018. We compared the OCT parameters including percentage of covered struts, uncovered struts, well-apposed and uncovered struts, malapposed strut and mean neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) thickness between them.

Results

BP-EES consisted of 29 lesions, BP-SES consisted of 25 lesions, DP-EES consisted of 38 lesions and DP-ZES consisted of 29 lesions. A total of 734 frames with 5163 struts in BP-EES, 481 frames with 4214 struts in BP-SES, 783 frames with 6119 struts in DP-EES and 583 frames with 4708 struts in DP-ZES were analyzed. As shown in a table, mean NIH thickness was significantly higher in BP-EES and BP-SES. Thus, we compared the OCT parameters between durable-polymer (DP) group including DP-ZES and DP-EES and biodegradable-polymer (BP) group including BP-EES and BP-SES. The percentage of uncovered struts was significantly lower and mean NIH thickness was significantly higher in BP group than DP group.

Results of OCT parameters BP-EES (n=29) BP-SES (n=25) DP-EES (n=38) DP-ZES (n=29) P value BP group (n=54) DP group (n=67) P value Covered struts (%) 89.5±13.6 92.4±8.6 85.5±17.5 85.0±17.7 0.29 90.9±11.6 85.3±17.4 0.08 Uncovered struts (%) 8.8±10.8 7.1±8.7 14.5±17.5 15.0±17.7 0.14 8.0±9.9 14.7±17.4 0.03 Well-apposed and uncovered struts (%) 7.9±9.9 5.9±7.7 11.7±13.1 12.3±14.0 0.15 7.0±8.9 11.9±13.4 0.04 Malapposed struts (%) 0.8±1.6 1.3±2.2 2.7±5.8 2.7±4.7 0.33 1.0±1.9 2.7±5.3 0.07 Mean NIH thickness (μm) 102±57 121±48 78±28 88±33 <0.01 111±53 82±31 <0.01

Conclusion

The present OCT study demonstrated that delayed neointimal healing characterized by the presence of uncovered struts and lower mean NIH thickness was less common in BP group than DP gruop. Biodegradable-polymer may be more favorable than durable-polymer from the point of view of vascular healing.

103Maximum calcium thickness is a useful predictor for under expansion after post dilatation in calcified lesions: optical coherence tomographic study

Background

Several reports have revealed that stent under expansion is associated with target lesion failure and calcified lesions usually induced inadequate stent expansion. Contemporary debulking devices such as rotational/orbital atherectomy can modify severe calcified lesions before stenting. However, it is uclear which calcium parameter is most useful predictor for stent expansion in the calcified lesions. Thus, we investigated useful calcium parameters correlating with stent expansion in the calcified lesions.

Methods

We enrolled 43 consecutive calcified lesions (43 patients) who underwent optical coherence tomography (OCT) guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) between September 2016 and January 2019. We evaluated the lesions treated with post dilatation by non-compliant balloon due to stent under expansion after stenting. Exclusion criteria included acute coronary syndrome, in-stent restenosis and lesions without any calcium or treated with rotational atherectomy. If there were several calcium lesions in one patient, we selected maximum calcium angle lesion. Stent expansion defined as post-PCI lumen area divided by the values predicted by the manufactures compliance charts. We compared mean reference area, pre lesion area stenosis, calcium parameters including calcium arc, maximum thickness, area and longitudinal length in pre-PCI OCT evaluations with post-PCI stent expansion at that site.

Results

Maximum calcium thickness showed significant correlation with stent expansion, while the others did not show a significant correlation with stent expansion (table). The optimal thresholds of maximum calcium thickness for the prediction of acceptable stent expansion defined by 80% of the values predicted by the manufactures compliance charts was 870mm (area under curve (AUC): 0.65) (figure).

Results of OCT parameters Univariate analysis P value Mean reference area 0.41 Pre % area stenosis 0.16 Calcium parameters   Calcium arc 0.37   Calcium maximum thickness 0.04   Calcium area 0.20   Calcium longitudinal length 0.43

Conclusion

A maximum calcium thickness<870mm is a useful predictor for acceptable stent expansion after post dilatation in calcified lesions.

P3393Comparison of intermediate-term vascular response to new-generation biodegradable polymer and durable polymer-based drug-eluting stents: optical coherence tomographic study

Background

Over the last decade, drug-eluting stents (DES) have undergone substantial modifications with thinner struts and more biocompatible durable polymer (DP) or biodegradable polymer (BP). In DP-based DES, after drug elusion has been completed, DP remnants may trigger of local inflammatory vascular reactions and promote delayed healing, leading to accelerated neoatherosclerosis (NA). Thus, BPs have been developed to reduce the above-mentioned risks. Recently, poor strut coverage and in-stent NA are increasingly recognized the cause of late stent failure, but it is unclear whether BPs can reduce the incidence of NA and the poor stent coverage as compared to DPs.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of NA and the stent coverage using optical coherence tomography (OCT) between the DPs and the BPs.

Methods

Between July 2016 and April 2018, 127 consecutive patients with new-generation DES who underwent 8-month follow up OCT imaging were enrolled. Patients were divided into the two groups: DP group who had the new-generation durable polymer everolimus-eluting and zotarolimus-eluting stents and BP group who had the new-generation biodegradable polymer sirolimus-eluting and everolimus-eluting stents. We compared patient characteristics including hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus and 8-month follow up OCT findings including NA, uncovered struts and malapposed struts between the two groups.

Results

The DP group comprised 64 patients (50.4%. The incidence of NA, uncovered struts and malapposed struts were similar between the two groups (DPs vs BPs, 1.56% vs 7.94%, P=0.11; 7.80% vs 5.88%, P=0.16 and 2.76% vs 2.01%, P=0.43, respectively) (table). The other parameters were also similar between the two groups.

Table 1 DP group (n=64) BP group (n=63) P value Hypertension 44 (68.8%) 50 (79.4%) 0.2251 Dyslipidemia 39 (60.9%) 37 (58.7%) 0.8573 Diabetes mellitus 25 (39.1%) 30 (47.6%) 0.3731 8 month OCT follow up findings   Neoatherosclerosis 1 (1.6%) 5 (7.9%) 0.1147   Uncovered struts 7.8% (2.8–20.4) 5.9% (0.7–16.7) 0.1616   Malapposed struts 0.2% (0–2.8) 0% (0–2.8) 0.4392

Conclusions

The new-generation DP based-DES may have similar effects on vascular response compared to the new-generation BP-based DES during 8-month follow-up period.

P2689Irregular protrusion area is associated with incidence of cardiac events after implantation of new generation drug-eluting stents - optical coherence tomography study

Background

Several studies using optical coherence tomography (OCT) have shown that the prevalence of irregular protrusion was associated with the incidence of adverse cardiac events. However, the correlation between cardiac events and protrusion area is not well investigated.

Method

One hundred twenty-nine consecutive patients with 138 clesions with 2nd and 3rd generation drug-eluting stents (DES) which had pre-stenting and post-stenting OCT imaging between April 2016 and April 2018 were evaluated. We compared baseline characteristics, procedure findings and OCT findings including minimum stent area, protrusion type and maximum protrusion area between target lesion revascularization (TLR) group and non-TLR group.

Results

TLR occurred in 12 (9.3%) in 129 patients. The baseline characteristics and procedure findings were similar between TLR group and non-TLR group. Univariate analysis revealed that maximum irregular protrusion area was significantly larger (0.51 [0.00–0.63] vs 0.00 [0.00–0.27], p=0.036) in TLR group than non-TLR group. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the suitable cutoff value of maximum irregular protrusion area were 0.43mm2 for TLR. In multivariate analysis using the parameters with p value<0.10 determined by univariate analysis, maximum irregular protrusion (≥0.43mm2) and minimum stent area (MSA) were independently correlated with TLR (table).

Odd's ratio (95% CI) P value Major irregular protrusion (≥0.43mm2) 17.3 (3.63–82.6) <0.001 MSA 2.13 (1.15–3.93) 0.002

Conclusion

Major irregular protrusion (>0.43mm2) in post-stenting OCT findings may be a powerful predictor of TLR in the patients with new generation DES.