Síndrome cardiorrenal: diagnóstico y tratamiento / Cardiorenal syndrome: diagnosis and treatment

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardíacas y renales coexisten con frecuencia. El síndrome cardiorrenal es una entidad compleja; en ella, la disfunción primaria cardíaca produce daño renal (tipos 1 y 2) y viceversa (tipos 3 y 4) o efecto de una enfermedad sistémica que afecta a ambos órganos (tipo 5). Objetivo: Actualizar el diagnóstico y tratamiento de los pacientes con síndrome cardiorrenal. Métodos: Se utilizan métodos teóricos y empíricos para realizar análisis del conocimiento actualizado sobre el tema. Se ha definido la existencia de un síndrome cardiorrenal que compromete a ambos órganos, con interacción bidireccional. En su detección, el diagnóstico clínico es insuficiente y requiere marcadores bioquímicos; estas herramientas, junto con la medición del sodio urinario, permite vigilar la efectividad terapéutica. Otro recurso es la ultrafiltración, según complicaciones. Conclusiones: Se debe indicar tratamiento con base en la evidencia para mejorar la calidad de vida, reducir la mortalidad y retrasar el deterioro de la función renal y cardíaca a largo plazo; el trasplante renal se debe considerar en pacientes en diálisis con disfunción ventricular severa. Idealmente, deberían recibir un trasplante combinado: cardíaco y renal, lo cual es difícil; algunos pacientes sometidos exclusivamente a trasplante renal presentan una mejoría notable en su fracción de eyección y en la sobrevida.

Introduction: heart and kidney diseases frequently coexist. Cardiorenal syndrome is a complex entity in which primary cardiac dysfunction causes a kidney damage (types 1 and 2) and vice versa (types 3 and 4) or an effect of a systemic disease that affects both organs (type 5). Objective: to update the diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiorenal syndrome. Methods: theoretical and empirical methods are used to carry out the analysis of updated knowledge on the subject. The existence of a cardiorenal syndrome that compromises both organs has been defined with bidirectional interaction. In its detection, clinical diagnosis is insufficient and requires biochemical markers; these tools, together with the measurement of urinary sodium, allow us to monitor therapeutic effectiveness. Another resource is ultrafiltration, according to complications. Conclusions: evidence-based treatment should be indicated to improve quality of life, reduce mortality, and delay the deterioration of renal and cardiac function in the long term; kidney transplantation should be considered in dialysis patients with severe ventricular dysfunction. Ideally, they should receive a combined transplant: heart and kidney, which is difficult; some patients undergoing exclusively a renal transplantation show a notable improvement in their ejection fraction and survival.

Uso de carboximaltose férrica no tratamento de deficiência de ferro em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca na perspectiva da saúde suplementar: análise de custo-efetividade e impacto orçamentário / Ferric carboxymaltose for treatment of iron deficiency in heart failure patients from the supplementary health care system perspective: cost-effectiveness and budgetary impact analysis

Objetivo: Avaliar a relação de custo-efetividade e impacto orçamentário (AIO) do tratamento de deficiência de ferro (DF), com ou sem anemia, em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) com fração de ejeção reduzida NYHA II e III, com uso de carboximaltose férrica (CMF), comparada ao placebo (não intervenção), sob a perspectiva pagadora da saúde suplementar (SS). Métodos: No modelo econômico, foi utilizada a árvore de decisão, no horizonte temporal de 52 semanas, na perspectiva da SS, sendo mensurados os benefícios clínicos e os custos associados à intervenção. Também foram executadas análises de sensibilidade determinística e probabilística para avaliar possíveis incertezas futuras. A elaboração da AIO foi realizada considerando o horizonte temporal de cinco anos, a população a ser tratada, os diferentes cenários de market share e os custos diretos envolvidos no tratamento atual e no tratamento proposto. Resultados: A razão de custo-efetividade incremental (RCEI) foi de -R$ 20.517,07 para um ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade (QALYs). O impacto da incorporação da CMF na SS gerou uma economia em cinco anos de -R$ 43.945.225. Conclusões: A análise apresentada mostrou que o tratamento com CMF reduziu o custo de hospitalização, o número de consultas ambulatoriais e o custo de outros medicamentos relacionados à IC e proporcionou uma economia anual. Considerando um horizonte de tempo de 52 semanas, a terapia intravenosa com CMF resultou em uma estratégia de redução de custos, quando comparada ao tratamento proposto para a DF em pacientes com IC.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and budget impact (AIO) of iron carboxymaltose (CMF) for treatment of iron deficiency (ID), with or without anemia, in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction NYHA II and III compared to placebo (non-intervention), from the perspective of paying supplementary health (SS). Methods: In the economic model, the decision tree was used, with a time horizon of 52 weeks, from the SS perspective, measuring the clinical benefits and costs associated with the intervention. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyzes were also performed to assess possible future uncertainties. The elaboration of the AIO was carried out considering a time horizon of five years, population to be treated, different market share scenarios and direct costs involved in the current treatment and in the proposed treatment. Results: The incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) was -R$ 20,517.07 for 1 quality-adjusted life year (QALY). The budget impact of incorporation of the CMF in SSprovided savings in five years of -R$ 43,945,225. Conclusions: The presented analysis showed that treatment with CMF reduced the cost of hospitalization, the number of outpatient visits and the cost of other HF-related medications and provided annual savings. Considering a time horizon of 52 weeks, intravenous therapy with CMF resulted in a cost-saving strategy when compared to the proposed treatment for DF in patients with HF.

La cardio-oncología como una visión multidisciplinaria en el enfoque y tratamiento de la patología oncológica contemporánea / Cardio-oncology as a multidisciplinary vision in approaching and treating contemporary oncological pathology

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la principal causa de muerte en el mundo, y las enfermedades oncológicas están aumentando en prevalencia. Los medicamentos oncológicos pueden tener efectos secundarios cardiovasculares, y la cardiooncología es una subespecialidad de la cardiología que se ocupa de la prevención y el tratamiento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares relacionadas con el cáncer. Puntos importantes del editorial: Las antraciclinas son un grupo de medicamentos oncológicos que pueden causar cardiotoxicidad, lo que puede causar una variedad de síntomas, incluyendo fatiga, disnea, edema y dolor en torácico. En casos graves, la cardiotoxicidad puede provocar insuficiencia cardíaca. Otros medicamentos oncológicos que pueden causar cardiotoxicidad incluyen los anticuerpos anti-HER2, el fluorouracilo y la gemcitabina. Los inhibidores de la tirosinkinasa y los inhibidores del factor de crecimiento derivado del endotelio también pueden causar problemas cardiovasculares, como hipertensión, formación de coágulos sanguíneos y arritmia. Los pacientes con cáncer también tienen un mayor riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones tromboembólicas venosas en miembros inferiores. Conclusión: El diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares relacionadas con el cáncer son esenciales para mejorar la supervivencia de los pacientes con cáncer. La cardiooncología es una especialidad emergente y multidisciplinaria que requiere la participación de oncólogos, hematólogos, radiooncólogos y cardiólogos. El equipo de cardiooncología trabaja en conjunto para evaluar el riesgo cardiovascular de los pacientes con cáncer, prevenir las complicaciones cardiovasculares y tratar las complicaciones cardiovasculares que ocurren.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the world, and oncological diseases are increasing in prevalence. Cancer drugs can have cardiovascular side effects, and cardio-oncology is a subspecialty of cardiology concerned with preventing and treating cardiovascular complications related to cancer. Important points from the editorial: Anthracyclines are a group of cancer drugs that can cause cardiotoxicity, which can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, dyspnea, edema, and chest pain. In severe cases, cardiotoxicity can lead to heart failure. Other cancer drugs that can cause cardiotoxicity include anti-HER2 antibodies, fluorouracil, and gemcitabine. Tyrosine kinase and endothelium-derived growth factor inhibitors can also cause cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, blood clot formation, and arrhythmia. Cancer patients are also at increased risk of developing lower limb venous thromboembolic complications. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer-related cardiovascular complications are essential to improve the survival of cancer patients. Cardio-oncology is an emerging, multidisciplinary specialty that requires the participation of oncologists, hematologists, radiation oncologists, and cardiologists. The cardio-oncology team works together to assess cardiovascular risk in cancer patients, prevent cardiovascular complications, and treat cardiovascular complications that do occur.

Sarcopenia em pacientes de 40 a 64 anos hospitalizados por insuficiência cardíaca / Sarcopenia in patients aged 40­64 years hospitalized for heart failure

Introdução: a insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e a sarcopenia são condições prevalentes e inter-relacionadas, figurando como importantes causas de limitações funcionais. Objetivo: avaliar critérios de sarcopenia, e suas relações com parâmetros cardiometabólicos, em pacientes de 40 a 64 anos hospitalizados por IC. Metodologia: estudo de corte transversal com caráter analítico envolvendo indivíduos com IC confirmada. A massa muscular apendicular (MMA) foi avaliada através da absorciometria por raios-X de dupla energia (DXA), considerando-se baixa MMA mulheres com MMA/altura² <5,5 kg/m² ou MMA/índice de massa corporal (IMC) <0,512 e homens com MMA/altura² <7,0 kg/m² ou MMA/IMC <0,789. Baixa força de preensão manual (FPM) foi considerada quando <16 kg em mulheres e <27 kg em homens. Resultados: avaliou-se 109 pacientes (50,5% mulheres), com mediana de idade de 58 anos. Constatou-se baixa MMA em 41,3% e baixa FPM em 64,2%, não havendo correlação significativa entre FPM e MMA em nenhum dos gêneros. Baixa MMA se associou ao gênero masculino (68,9% versus 35,9%; p=0,001), a maiores idades (60,0 [53,0-63,0] versus 57,0 [51,3-60,0] anos; p=0,039) e maiores níveis séricos de paratormônio (48,0 [30,5-94,4] versus 29,9 [23,0-54,1] pg/mL; p=0,009). Baixa FPM se associou a maior sintomatologia cardíaca (75,7% com baixa FPM tinham classificação funcional da New York Heart Association III-IV, versus 51,3% daqueles com FPM normal; p=0,009). Conclusões: há uma relevante prevalência de sarcopenia em pacientes de 40 a 64 anos hospitalizados por IC, observando-se maior frequência de baixa MMA nos homens, associação entre baixa FPM e sintomatologia cardíaca, e maiores níveis de paratormônio naqueles com perda muscular.

Introduction: heart failure (HF) and sarcopenia are prevalent and interrelated conditions, being important causes of functional limitations. Objective: to evaluate sarcopenia criteria, and their relationship with cardiometabolic parameters, in patients aged 40­64 years hospitalized for HF. Methodology: Cross-sectional study including patients with established HF. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), considering low ASMM women with ASMM/height² <5.5 kg/m² or ASMM/body mass index (BMI) <0.512 and men with ASMM/height² <7.0 kg/m² or ASMM/BMI <0.789. Low handgrip strength (HGS) was considered when <16 kg in women and <27 kg in men. Results: we evaluated 109 patients (50.5% women), with a median age of 58 years. Low ASMM was found in 41.3% and low HGS in 64.2%, with no significant correlation between HGS and ASMM in either gender. Low ASMM was associated with male gender (68.9% versus 35.9%; p=0.001), older age (60.0 [53.0-63.0] versus 57.0 [51.3-60, 0] years; p=0.039) and higher serum parathyroid hormone (48.0 [30.5-94.4] versus 29.9 [23.0-54.1] pg/mL; p=0.009). Low HGS was associated with greater cardiac symptoms (75.7% with low HGS had a New York Heart Association III-IV functional classification, versus 51.3% of those with normal HGS; p=0.009). Conclusions: there is a relevant prevalence of sarcopenia in patients aged 40­64 years hospitalized for HF, observing a higher frequency of low ASMM in men, an association between low HGS and cardiac symptoms, and higher levels of parathyroid hormone in those with muscle wasting.

Intervención de la telemedicina en pacientes peruanos con insuficiencia cardíaca en tiempos de COVID-19 / Telemedicine Intervention in Peruvian Patients with Heart Failure in Times of COVID-19

Introducción: La insuficiencia cardíaca tiene un gran impacto epidemiológico, no solo por su alta morbilidad y mortalidad, sino también por el alto costo en servicios hospitalarios. Las tasas de hospitalización por reagudizaciones y readmisiones luego del alta se han incrementado los últimos años, lo que constituye en la actualidad un problema de salud pública. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de la intervención de la telemedicina en pacientes peruanos con insuficiencia cardíaca en tiempos de COVID-19. Métodos: Se utilizó un diseño cuasi experimental con evaluación antes y después de la intervención en 32 pacientes provenientes de Chimbote (Perú), entre los meses de enero a junio del 2021, que aceptaron participar en el estudio y cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se utilizó una ficha de recolección de datos que registró las características clínicas de los pacientes, frecuencia de hospitalización y clase funcional, así como el cuestionario de Kansas City que midió la calidad de vida relacionada a salud. En la intervención, se implementaron actividades de telemedicina que comprendió teleconsulta médica de cardiología, telemonitoreo y teleorientación de enfermería, y teleorientación de nutrición. Resultados: Se redujo la frecuencia de hospitalización de 9,4 por ciento a 0 por ciento en los pacientes categorizados en clase funcional III disminuyó de 28,1 por ciento a 15,6 por ciento, y el score general se mejoró de 65,8 a 69,6 puntos. Conclusiones: La intervención de la telemedicina mejoró los resultados sanitarios de los pacientes peruanos con insuficiencia cardíaca(AU)

Introduction: Heart failure has a great epidemiological impact, not only because of its high morbidity and mortality, but also because of the high cost in hospital services. Hospitalization rates for exacerbations and readmissions after discharge have increased in recent years, which is currently a public health problem. Objective: To evaluate the effect of telemedicine intervention in Peruvian patients with heart failure in COVID-19 times. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was used with evaluation before and after the intervention in 32 patients from Chimbote (Peru), between January and June 2021, who agreed to participate in the study and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A data collection form was used to record the clinical characteristics of the patients, frequency of hospitalization and functional class, as well as the Kansas City questionnaire that measured health-related quality of life. Telemedicine activities were implemented in the intervention, including cardiology medical teleconsultation, telemonitoring and nursing tele-guidance, and nutrition tele-guidance. Results: The frequency of hospitalization was reduced from 9.4 to 0 percent, while in patients categorized in functional class III it decreased from 28.1 to 15.6 percent. The overall score was improved from 65.8 to 69.6 points. Conclusions: The telemedicine intervention improved health outcomes in Peruvian patients with heart failure(AU)

La Insuficiencia Cardíaca Aguda como Manifestación de la Tirotoxicosis. A Propósito de un Caso / Acute heart failure as a manifestation of thyrotoxicosis. A case report

Introducción: La tirotoxicosis se considera una emergencia endocrinológica. Suele ser la complicación más grave y menos frecuente de una patología relativamente frecuente como es el hipertiroidismo. Tiene afectación a nivel sistémico, con especial hincapié en el sistema cardiovascular, por lo que una de las manifestaciones prevalentes y a considerar en este trabajo, es la insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. Caso clínico: Paciente femenina de 40 años con antecedente de tabaquismo e hipertiroidismo, con abandono de medicación (Metimazol) y de controles en contexto de pandemia. Consultó en reiteradas ocasiones por evento sincopal asociado a palpitaciones, agregando en esta consulta episodio tos con expectoración hemoptoica y náuseas. Laboratorio con TSH<0.01mU/L y T4 7.77pmol/L. Troponinas 19.3ng/L. Evolucionó con hipotensión sin respuesta a cristaloides y mayor disnea. Se decidió intubación orotraqueal. Se realizó ecocardiograma que informaba función sistólica con deterioro severo. Realizó tratamiento con Metimazol y solución de Lugol con mejoría de los parámetros de laboratorio. A los diez días evolucionó con abdomen agudo perforado con posterior shock séptico refractario y falleció. Discusión y conclusiones: Luego de examinar la bibliografía disponible, y contrastarla de forma retrospectiva con la evolución de la paciente, se puede observar la relación entre el hipertiroidismo y los cambios hemodinámicos. En el caso presentado, la paciente tuvo como antecedente el diagnóstico de hipertiroidismo y se consideró que el factor desencadenante fue la suspensión del metimazol; a su vez, la insuficiencia cardíaca aguda que presentó durante los primeros días de internación fue consecuencia del efecto cardiovascular directo de las hormonas tiroideas.

Introduction: Thyrotoxicosis is considered an endocrinological emergency; It is usually the most serious and least frequent complication of a relatively frequent pathology such as hyperthyroidism. It has systemic involvement, with special emphasis on the cardiovascular system, which is why one of the most prevalent manifestations to be considered in this work is acute heart failure. Clinical case: A 40-year-old female patient with a history of smoking and hyperthyroidism, with abandonment of medication (Methimazole) and controls in the context of a pandemic. She consulted repeatedly due to a syncopal event associated with palpitations, adding to this consultation an episode of coughing with bloody sputum and nausea. Laboratory with TSH <0.01mU/L and T4 7.77pmol/L. Troponins 19.3ng/L. He evolved with hypotension without response to crystalloids and increased dyspnea. Orotracheal intubation was decided. An echocardiogram was performed, which reported severely impaired systolic function. She underwent treatment with Methimazole and Lugol's solution with improvement in laboratory parameters. Ten days later, he developed an acute perforated abdomen with subsequent refractory septic shock and died. Discusion. Conclusion: After examining the available bibliography, and contrasting it retrospectively with the evolution of the patient, the relationship between hyperthyroidism and hemodynamic changes can be observed. In the case presented, the patient had a history of a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, and it was considered that the triggering factor was the suspension of methimazole; In turn, the acute heart failure that she presented during the first days of hospitalization was a consequence of the direct cardiovascular effect of thyroid hormones.

Laboratorio de Insuficiencia Cardíaca: experiencia en un hospital universitario / Heart failure laboratory: experience in an university hospital

Introducción: La mayor parte del manejo del paciente con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) se logra de manera ambulatoria. La adhesión a los estándares de tratamiento recomendados y el acceso al sistema de salud determinan su evolución. Se describe nuestra experiencia en pacientes con IC ambulatoria en un Hospital Universitario. Material y métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes derivados para interconsulta al Laboratorio de IC entre los meses de enero de 2021 y octubre de 2022. Se realizó una intervención estructurada, que incluyó visitas presenciales y seguimiento por email y/o telefónico y asesoramiento nutricional. Resultados: Se incluyeron 98 pacientes. La media de edad fue 64,05 años. El promedio total de FEVI fue 36,26%. Se observó asociación significativa entre los mayores de 60 años (n=65; 66,33%) y dislipemia, hipertensión arterial, enfermedad oncológica y enfermedad coronaria, en comparación con los individuos más jóvenes. La FEVI baja se correlacionó con los portadores de enfermedad coronaria y oncológica. En ellos se observó mayor utilización de betabloqueantes, ARNI, iSGLT2 y ácido acetil salicílico. El sexo masculino, la FEVI disminuida y la edad, fueron predictores de peor pronóstico. Conclusión: La utilización del tratamiento farmacológico en la IC depende de múltiples factores. A pesar de ello, se observó una distribución de la terapéutica instaurada acorde a la recomendación de guía y registros nacionales e internaciones de pacientes con IC

Introduction: Most of the management of the patient with heart failure (HF) is accomplished on an outpatient basis. Adherence to the recommended treatment standards and access to the health system determine their evolution. We describe our experience in patients with ambulatory HF in a University Hospital. Material and methods: Patients referred for interconsultation to the HF Laboratory between the months of January 2021 and October 2022 were included. A structured intervention was carried out, which included face-to-face visits and follow-up by email and/or telephone and nutritional advice. Results: 98 patients were included. Mean age was 64.05 years. Total mean LVEF was 36.26%. A significant association was observed between those over 60 years of age (n=65; 66.33%) and dyslipidemia, arterial hypertension, oncological disease, and coronary disease, compared to younger individuals. The low LVEF was correlated with coronary and oncological disease. In them was observed greater use of beta-blockers, ARNI, iSGLT2 and acetylsalicylic acid. Male sex, decreased LVEF and age were predictors of worse prognosis. Conclusion: The use of pharmacological treatment in HF depends on multiple factors. Despite this, a distribution of the established therapy according to the guideline recommendation and national registries and hospitalizations of patients with HF was observed.

Desenvolvimento e validação de material educacional para pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca / Development and validation of educational material for patients with heart failure / Desarrollo y validación de material educativo para pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca

Objetivo: Desenvolver e validar um folder educativo para uso em pessoas com Insuficiência Cardíaca. Métodos: Estudo metodológico para elaboração de folder educativo e validação por especialistas. Os juízes técnicos foram enfermeiros especialistas em cardiologia, que validaram conteúdo e aparência, e designers gráfico validaram a aparência, estética e a comunicação visual. O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) foi calculado, as respostas foram consistentes quando Alfa de Cronbach> 0,60 e o índice de concordância entre avaliadores (IRA) foi calculado. Resultados: Alta concordância entre enfermeiros (IRA = 1), consistência interna quase perfeita (Alfa de Cronbach = 0,84), IVC total e isolado acima de 0,8. A cartilha foi considerada válida. Para os designers gráficos, o IVC geral obteve um valor que garantiu a validade de aparência. Conclusão: A cartilha educativa foi validada pelos juízes e apresenta-se como instrumento para auxiliar no preparo para alta e acompanhamento em longo prazo de pacientes com IC. (AU)

Objective: To develop and validate an educational folder for use in people with Heart Failure. Methods: Study with a methodological approach for the elaboration of an educational folder and validation by experts. Technical specialists were nurses, cardiology specialists, who validated content and appearance; Specialist designers validated appearance, aesthetics and visual communication. The content validity index (IVC) was calculated; responses were consistent when Cronbach's alpha > 0.60 and the inter-rater agreement index (IRA) was calculated. Results: High agreement among nurses (ARI = 1), almost perfect internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.84), total and isolated CVI above 0.8. The booklet was considered valid. For graphic designers, the overall IVC achieved a value that guaranteed appearance validity. Conclusion: The educational booklet was validated by the judges and is presented as an instrument to assist in the preparation for discharge and long-term follow-up of patients with HF. (AU)

Objetivo: Desarrollar y validar una carpeta educativa para su uso en personas con Insuficiencia Cardíaca. Métodos: Estudio con enfoque metodológico para la elaboración de una carpeta educativa y validación por expertos. Los técnicos especialistas fueron enfermeros, especialistas en cardiología, quienes validaron el contenido y la apariencia; Diseñadores especializados validaron apariencia, estética y comunicación visual. Se calculó el índice de validez de contenido (IVC); las respuestas fueron consistentes cuando se calculó el alfa de Cronbach> 0,60 y el índice de acuerdo entre evaluadores. Resultados: Alto acuerdo entre enfermeras (ARI = 1), consistencia interna casi perfecta (alfa de Cronbach = 0,84), IVC total y aislado por encima de 0,8. El folleto se consideró válido. Para los diseñadores gráficos, el IVC general logró un valor que garantizaba la validez de la apariencia. Conclusion: El folleto educativo fue validado por los jueces y se presenta como un instrumento para ayudar en la preparación para el alta y el seguimiento a largo plazo de los pacientes con IC. (AU)

Fibrilación auricular una arritmia y un sindrome / Atrial fibrillation, an arrhythmia and a syndrome

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and is highly prevalent in elderly patients. It confers a higher risk for ischemic stroke, heart failure and death. The diagnosis and treatment of AF has been extensively studied and remain under constant revision. This article reviews the recent European guidelines and the advances observed with the introduction of direct oral anticoagulants in the last ten years. This new family of drugs has clear benefits in terms of efficacy and safety compared with traditional vitamin K antagonists. Treatment of most common comorbidities in patients with AF such as advanced age, heart failure, diabetes, renal failure, and others are also analyzed. New therapies for AF will be shortly available.

Effect of home-based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Rehabilitación para pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca: una revisión sistemática y metanálisis

SUMMARY: This study is to investigate the effect of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) on quality of life, functional capacity, and readmission rates in patients with heart failure. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were screened from Cochrane Library, CINAHL, EMBASE, and MEDLINE. The intervention group received a standardized HBCR or a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy that included HBCR. The participants in the control group received CR at a medical center or usual care without CR intervention. The main outcome measurements included quality of life, exercise capacity, mortality and re-hospitalization. This meta-analysis included 20 RCTs, in which 16 studies compared HBCR with usual care, and 4 studies compared HBCR with center-based CR. In comparison with the usual care, HBCR improved the total quality of life score [MD=-5.85, 95 % CI (-9.76, - 1.94), P=0.003, I2=75 %]. Patients with HBCR and usual care were significantly different in VO2max [MD=1.05 mL/kg/min, 95 % CI (0.35, 1.75), P=0.003, I2=46 %]. However, VO2max of patients with HBCR was not significantly different from those with center-based CR [MD=0.08 mL/kg/min, 95 % CI (-1.29, 1.44), P=0.91, I2=0 %]. There was statistically significant difference in the 6-min Walk Distance between usual care and HBCR (for distance [MD=11.84, 95 % CI (7.41, 16.28), P<0.00001, I2=0 %]; and for feet [MD=98.93, 95 % CI (26.79, 171.08), P=0.007, I2=56 %]). However, there was no significant difference in 6-min Walk Distance between patients with HBCR and center-based CR [MD=12.45, 95 % CI (-9.81, 34.72), P=0.27, I2=0 %] , or in anxiety and depression between patients with usual care and HBCR (for anxiety, [MD=-0.25, 95 % CI (-0.56, 0.05), P=0.11, I2=0 %]; for depression, [MD=-0.18, 95 % CI (-0.51, 0.16), P=0.30, I2=0 %] . No significant difference was found in death number [RR=1.04, 95 % CI (0.55, 1.98), P=0.90, I2=0 %] or in the number of re-hospitalization [RR=0.88, 95 % CI (0.66, 1.18), P=0.40, I2=0 %] between usual care and HBCR. For patients with heart failure, compare with usual care and center-based CR, HBCR can improve the total quality of life. Compare with usual care, HBCR can improve VO2max and 6-min Walk Distance, but compare with center- based CR, there are no differences in mortality, re-hospitalization rate or incidence of anxiety and depression. Additionally, center- based CR and HBCR showed similar outcomes and medical costs.

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar el efecto de la rehabilitación cardíaca domiciliaria (HBCR) sobre la calidad de vida, la capacidad funcional y las tasas de reingreso en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca. Se seleccionaron ensayos controlados aleatorios (ECA) de la Biblioteca Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE y MEDLINE. El grupo de intervención recibió un HBCR estandarizado o una estrategia de rehabilitación integral que incluía HBCR. Los participantes del grupo de control recibieron RC en un centro médico o atención habitual sin intervención de RC. Las principales medidas de resultado incluyeron la calidad de vida, la capacidad de ejercicio, la mortalidad y la rehospitalización. Este metanálisis incluyó 20 ECA, en los que 16 estudios compararon HBCR con la atención habitual y 4 estudios compararon que mejoró la puntuación total de calidad de vida [DM=-5,85, IC del 95 % (-9,76, -1,94), P=0,003, I2=75 %]. Los pacientes con HBCR y atención habitual fueron significativamente diferentes en el VO2máx [DM = 1,05 ml/kg/ min, IC del 95 % (0,35, 1,75), P = 0,003, I2 = 46 %]. Sin embargo, el VO2max de los pacientes con HBCR no fue significativamente diferente de aquellos con CR basada en el centro [DM = 0,08 ml/kg/min, IC del 95 % (-1,29, 1,44), P = 0,91, I2 = 0 %]. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la distancia de caminata de 6 minutos entre la atención habitual y HBCR (para la distancia [DM=11,84, IC del 95 % (7,41, 16,28), P<0,00001, I2=0 %]; y para los pies [DM= 98,93, IC 95 % (26,79, 171,08), P=0,007, I2=56 %]). Sin embargo, no hubo una diferencia significativa en la distancia de caminata de 6 minutos entre los pacientes con HBCR y CR basada en el cen- tro [DM = 12,45, IC del 95 % (-9,81, 34,72), P = 0,27, I2 = 0 %], o en la ansiedad y depresión entre pacientes con atención habitual y HBCR (para ansiedad, [DM=-0,25, IC del 95 % (-0,56, 0,05), P=0,11, I2=0 %]; para depresión, [DM=-0,18, 95 % IC (- 0,51, 0,16), P=0,30, I2=0 %] No se encontraron diferencias significativas en el número de muertes [RR=1,04, IC del 95 % (0,55, 1,98), P=0,90, I2=0 %] o en el número de reingresos [RR=0,88, IC 95 % (0,66, 1,18), P=0,40, I2=0 %] entre atención habitual y HBCR. Para los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca, en comparación con la atención habitual y la CR en un centro, la HBCR puede mejorar la calidad de vida total. En comparación con la atención habitual, la HBCR puede mejorar el VO2máx y la distancia recorrida en 6 minutos, pero en comparación con la CR basada en un centro, no hay diferencias en la mortalidad, la tasa de rehospitalización o la incidencia de ansiedad y depresión. Además, CR y HBCR basados en el centro mostraron resultados y costos médicos similares.

Efeito da idade no equilíbrio corporal e nos resultados do vídeo teste do impulso cefálico em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca / Effect of age on body balance and on the results of the video head impulse test in patients with heart failure

RESUMO Objetivo verificar se existe associação entre a avaliação clínica do equilíbrio e o ganho do reflexo vestíbulo-ocular com o avanço da idade em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca. Métodos estudo transversal analítico-descritivo, de caráter observacional, que incluiu pacientes com diagnóstico de insuficiência cardíaca, divididos em dois grupos, por idade (G1, menos de 60 anos e G2, 60 anos ou mais). Os pacientes foram avaliados por meio de anamnese, avaliação cardiológica, avaliação clínica do equilíbrio corporal (triagem da função cerebelar e avaliação do equilíbrio estático e dinâmico) e instrumental da função vestibular (Video Head Impulse Test-vHIT). Os achados obtidos foram descritos e comparados por meio de análise estatística inferencial. Resultados foram avaliados 34 pacientes com média de idade de 55 anos e 9 meses, a maioria homens (71,49%). Não houve associação do ganho do reflexo vestíbulo-ocular, simetria dos canais semicirculares e avaliações do equilíbrio corporal com o avanço da idade. Observaram-se associações entre os resultados da prova de Unterberger-Fukuda com o ganho do reflexo vestíbulo-ocular do canal semicircular lateral direito e posterior esquerdo e com os percentuais de simetria dos canais semicirculares anteriores para os pacientes do Grupo 2. Para os indivíduos do Grupo 1, foi observada associação entre os resultados da prova de Unterberger-Fukuda com os valores de simetria dos canais semicirculares anteriores e do ganho de reflexo vestíbulo-ocular dos canais semicirculares anterior esquerdo e posterior direito. Conclusão não houve associação entre os resultados da avaliação clínica do equilíbrio corporal e dos achados do vHIT com o avanço da idade, em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca. Entretanto, observou-se diferença entre o ganho do reflexo vestíbulo-ocular específico para alguns canais semicirculares, com maiores índices de alteração na prova de equilíbrio dinâmico, em ambos os grupos. Os resultados dos testes aplicados permitiram caracterizar o predomínio da hipofunção vestibular crônica de origem periférica nos pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca, independentemente da faixa etária.

ABSTRACT Purpose to verify whether there is an association between the clinical assessment of balance and the gain in the vestibulo-ocular reflex with advancing age in patients with heart failure. Methods analytical-descriptive, observational cross-sectional study, which included patients diagnosed with heart failure, divided into two groups by age (G1, under 60 years old and G2, 60 years old or older). The patients were evaluated through anamnesis, cardiac assessment, clinical assessment of body balance (cerebellar function screening and assessment of static and dynamic balance) and instrumental assessment of vestibular function (Video Head Impulse Test-vHIT). The findings were described and compared through inferential statistical analysis. Results 34 patients with a mean age of 55 years and 9 months, mostly men (71.49%). There was no association between vestibulo-ocular reflex gain, symmetry of the semicircular canals and body balance with advancing age. Associations were observed between the results of the Unterberger-Fukuda test with the gain in the vestibulo-ocular reflex of the right lateral and left posterior semicircular canals and with the percentages of symmetry of the anterior semicircular canals for patients in Group 2. In Group 1, an association was observed between the results of the Unterberger-Fukuda test and the symmetry values of the anterior semicircular canals and the gain in the vestibulo-ocular reflex of the left anterior and right posterior semicircular canals. Conclusion there was no association between the results of the clinical assessment of body balance and the vHIT findings with advancing age in patients with heart failure. However, there was a difference between the gain of the specific vestibulo-ocular reflex for some semicircular canals, with higher rates of alteration in the dynamic balance test, in both groups. The results of the applied tests allowed characterize the predominance of chronic vestibular hypofunction of peripheral origin in patients with heart failure, regardless of age group.

Insuficiência cardíaca em cão / Congestive heart failure in a dog / Insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva en un perro

A insuficiência cardíaca congestiva é considerada, atualmente, a principal causa de óbitos em cães, sendo resultante da degeneração mixomatosa da válvula mitral, processo que inviabiliza o fechamento total da mesma durante a sístole. Apesar de se tratar de uma doença progressiva, os efeitos patológicos podem ser reduzidos significativamente e concomitantemente prolongar a vida do animal, desde que haja protocolos de tratamentos específicos e descritos por profissionais capacitados na área médica animal. Esse estudo teve como objetivo relatar um caso de insuficiência congestiva em um animal da espécie canina, sem raça definida, sexo masculino resgatado pela prefeitura do município de Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil. Durante a necropsia foi observado os seguintes achados macroscópicos: neoplasias cutâneas aderidas ao tecido, tártaro dentário, pneumonia intersticial hemorrágica, companhias de fibrose e enfisema pulmonar hemorrágico, metástase calcificada circular em lobo pulmonar direito, necrose pulmonar, cardiomiopatia hipertrófica concêntrica, insuficiência cardíaca congestiva, aderência de pericárdio na cavidade torácica, fígado em aspecto de noz moscada, metástase hepática, hepatite, esplenomegalia, dilatação entérica multifocal, intussuscepção, necrose intestinal, hipertrofia de pelve renal e aderência de cápsula renal. Esses achados demonstram o comprometimento de todos os órgãos do animal, demonstrando que a causa mortis foi em decorrência de uma insuficiência respiratória de origem infecciosa que ocasionou a insuficiência cardíaca congestiva.(AU)

Congestive heart failure is currently considered the main cause of death in dogs, resulting from myxomatous degeneration of the mitral valve, a process that prevents its total closure during systole. Despite being a progressive disease, the pathological effects can be significantly reduced and, at the same time, prolong the animal's life, as long as there are specific treatment protocols described by trained professionals in the field of animal medicine. This study aimed to report a case of congestive insufficiency in an animal of the canine species, mixed breed, male, rescued by the municipality of Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil. During the necropsy, the following macroscopic findings were observed: skin neoplasms adhered to the tissue, dental tartar, hemorrhagic interstitial pneumonia, fibrosis and hemorrhagic pulmonary emphysema, circular calcified metastasis in the right pulmonary lobe, pulmonary necrosis, concentric hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure, adherence of pericardium in the thoracic cavity, nutmeg liver, liver metastasis, hepatitis, splenomegaly, multifocal enteric dilation, intussusception, intestinal necrosis, renal pelvis hypertrophy and renal capsule adherence. These findings showed the involvement of all tissues, demonstrating that the cause of death was due to respiratory failure of infectious origin that caused congestive heart failure.(AU)

Actualmente se considera la insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva como la principal causa de muerte en perros, resultante de la degeneración mixomatosa de la válvula mitral, proceso que impide su cierre total durante la sístole. A pesar de ser una enfermedad progresiva, los efectos patológicos pueden reducirse significativamente y, al mismo tiempo, prolongar la vida del animal, siempre y cuando existan protocolos de tratamiento específicos descritos por profesionales capacitados en el campo de la medicina animal. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo reportar un caso de insuficiencia congestiva en un animal canino, mestizo, macho, rescatado por el municipio de Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil. Durante la necropsia se observaron los siguientes hallazgos macroscópicos: neoplasias cutáneas adheridas al tejido, sarro dental, neumonía intersticial hemorrágica, compañías de fibrosis y enfisema pulmonar hemorrágico, metástasis circular calcificada en lóbulo pulmonar derecho, necrosis pulmonar, miocardiopatía hipertrófica concéntrica, insuficiencia cardíaca, adherencia del pericardio en la cavidad torácica, hígado de nuez moscada, metástasis hepática, hepatitis, esplenomegalia, dilatación entérica multifocal, intususcepción, necrosis intestinal, hipertrofia de la pelvis renal y adherencia de la cápsula renal. Estos hallazgos demuestran la afectación de todos los órganos del animal, demostrando que la causa de la muerte se debió a una insuficiencia respiratoria de origen infeccioso que provocó una insuficiencia cardíaca congestiva.(AU)

Efectividad de Intervención en enfermería para fortalecer la cooperación al tratamiento en pacientes con falla cardiaca / Effectiveness of nursing intervention to strengthen treatment cooperationinpatients with heart failure

Introducción: La falla cardiaca (FC) afecta a más de 23 millones de personas en el mundo. Se ha demostrado que las intervenciones de enfermería mejoran el conocimiento, comportamientos y reingresos hospitalarios. Objetivo: Determinar la efectividad de intervención de enfermería para fortalecer la cooperación al tratamiento en pacientes con FC. Métodos: Estudio pretest y postest cuasi experimental en una muestra conveniente de 70 pacientes con FC, grupo control (n=35) que recibió atención habitual y grupo experimental (n=35) tuvo la IE. Se utilizaron dos instrumentos: Escala Europea de Autocuidado EHFScB y la nueva escala de cooperación ECOOPFRGv1 previo proceso de validación por expertos. El estudio contó con el aval de comité de ética institucional y consentimiento informado de pacientes. Resultados: Se evaluó el efecto de la intervención de enfermería, los hallazgos evidenciaron que existió diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p=<0,001) en el grupo experimental con respecto a las mediciones obtenidas en el grupo control. Conclusiones: Se comprueba la efectividad de la intervención de enfermería para fortalecer la cooperación al tratamiento en los pacientes con FC. Los hallazgos sugieren la importancia de desarrollar programas de educación que se centren en mejorar la cooperación al tratamiento y los comportamientos de gestión del cuidado. (AU)

Introduction: Heart failure (HR) affects more than 23 million people worldwide. Nursing interventions have been shown to improve hospital knowledge, behaviors, and readmissions. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of nursing intervention to strengthen treatment cooperation in patients with CF. Methods: Pretest and quasi- experimental posttest study in a suitable sample of 70 patients with CF, control group(n=35) who received usual care and experimental group (n=35) had EI. Two instruments were used: European Self-Care Scale EHFScB and the new ECOOPFRGv1 cooperation scale after validation process by experts. The study was endorsed by the institutional ethics committee and informed consent of patients. Results: The effect of the nursing intervention was evaluated, the findings showed that there was a statistically significant difference (p = < 0.001) in the experimental group with respect to the measurements obtained in the control group. Conclusions: The effectiveness of nursing intervention to strengthen treatment cooperation in patients with CF was verified. The findings suggest the importance of developing education programs that focus on improving treatment cooperation and care management behaviors. (AU)

Uso da inteligência artificial aplicada ao Eletrocardiograma para diagnóstico de Disfunção Sistólica Ventricular Esquerda / Use of artificial intelligence applied to the Electrocardiogram to diagnose Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction

INTRODUÇÃO: a insuficiência cardíaca (IC) é uma das três causas mais comuns de doenças cardiovasculares (DCV), grupo de enfermidades que é a principal causa de morbimortalidade no mundo. O eletrocardiograma (ECG) é um dos exames utilizados na avaliação da IC, sendo de baixo custo e amplamente acessível. Quando associado à inteligência artificial, o ECG pode ser uma poderosa ferramenta para triagem de indivíduos com maior probabilidade de IC. O objetivo foi avaliar o desempenho de um algoritmo de IA, aplicado ao ECG, para detecção de DSVE e compará-lo ao das alterações maiores ao ECG (AME), de acordo com o código de Minnesota. MÉTODOS: estudo transversal retrospectivo de acurácia diagnóstica que utilizou a população do Estudo Longitudinal da Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil). Foram avaliados 2567 indivíduos que possuíam ecocardiograma (ECO) e ECG válidos e valores de predição para disfunção sistólica do ventrículo esquerdo (DSVE) estimadas por um algoritmo de inteligência artificial (IA). A DSVE foi definida como Fração de Ejeção do Ventrículo Esquerdo (FEVE) menor que 40%, calculada utilizando o ECO. A prevalência de DSVE foi de 1,13% na população estudada (29 indivíduos). Foram calculados sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo (VPP), valor preditivo negativo (VPN), razão de verossimilhança positivo (RVP), razão de verossimilhança negativa (RVN), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) para o algoritmo e para as AME. Calculou-se também a área sob a curva ROC (ASC-ROC) para o algoritmo. RESULTADOS: a população estudada possui mediana de 62 anos, sendo 47,2% do sexo masculino. A ASC-ROC do algoritmo para predição de IC foi de 0,947 (IC 95% 0,913 ­ 0,981). A sensibilidade, especificidade, VPP, VPN, RVP, RVN e DOR para o algoritmo foi de 0,690; 0,976; 0,244; 0,996; 27,6; 0,32 e 88,74, respectivamente. Para as AME foi 0,172; 0,837; 0,012; 0,989; 1,09; 0,990 e 1,07 respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: A IA aplicada ao ECG é uma fermenta promissora para identificação de pacientes com maior probabilidade de IC e que devem ser priorizados para realização de ECO. Isso poderia aprimorar o diagnóstico de IC em nosso meio e, assim, permitir o início precoce do tratamento, com possível impacto na redução da morbidade e mortalidade.

INTRODUCTION: Heart failure (HF) is one of the three most common causes of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is one of the tests used in the evaluation of HF, combining low-cost and wide accessibility. When combined with artificial intelligence, the ECG can be a powerful tool for screening individuals with a higher risk of HF. Our objective was to assess the performance of an AI algorithm applied to the ECG for the detection of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and compare it to the performance of major ECG abnormalities (MEA) according to the Minnesota code. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study using data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brazil). A total of 2567 individuals with valid echocardiograms (ECO) and ECGs and probability values for left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) estimated by an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm, were evaluated. LVSD was defined as a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) less than 40%, calculated using ECO. The prevalence of LVSD was 1.13% in the studied population (29 individuals). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated for the algorithm and MEA. The area under the ROC curve (AUC-ROC) was also calculated for the algorithm. RESULTS: The study population had a median age of 62 years, with 47.2% being male. The AUC-ROC for the algorithm to predict HF was 0.947 (95% CI 0.913 ­ 0.981). Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, PLR, NLR, and DOR for the algorithm were 0.690, 0.976, 0.244, 0.996, 27.6, 0.32, and 88.74, respectively. For MEA, it was 0.172, 0.837, 0.012, 0.989, 1.09, 0.990, and 1.07, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: AI applied to the ECG is a promising tool for identifying patients with a higher likelihood of HF who should be prioritized for ECO. This could improve the diagnosis capacity of HF in our setting and thus enable early treatment initiation, with possible impact on reducing morbidity and mortality.

O papel dos RNAs longos não codificantes na insuficiência cardíaca: uma revisão de literatura / The role of non-coding long RNAs in heart failure: a literature review / El papel de las RNAs largas no codificantes en la insuficiencia cardiaca: una revisión de la literatura

A Insuficiência Cardíaca (IC) é uma das principais causas de internação hospitalar no mundo e tem um elevado grau de morbidade e mortalidade, sendo um grave problema de saúde pública. Os lncRNAs (RNAs longo não codificantes), têm funções regulatórias transcricionais e/ou pós transcricionais bem complexas e que ainda não são totalmente claras, mas que podem exercer influência sobre as doenças cardiovasculares, dentre elas a IC. Assim o estudo teve como objetivo identificar na literatura o papel dos lncRNAs na patogênese da IC por meio de uma revisão integrativa com busca sistemática. Foram considerados elegíveis para leitura e composição do estudo 33 artigos e os principais papéis dos lncRNA na IC foram relatados como possíveis marcadores biológicos para diagnóstico e prognóstico da doença devido a sua expressividade na corrente sanguínea. Além disso, os lncRNAs podem estar relacionados à capacidade funcional uma vez que o aumento ou diminuição de sua expressão promove redução da apoptose de células endoteliais, melhora a disfunção cardíaca, distúrbios de contratilidade e dos canais de cálcio em pacientes com IC. Portanto, os lncRNAs parecem estar envolvidos na patogênese e/ou fisiopatologia da IC, podendo ser utilizados como biomarcadores genéticos com sensibilidade e especificidade semelhantes ou superiores aos empregados atualmente no diagnóstico e prognóstico da IC.

Heart Failure (HF) is one of the main causes of hospitalization worldwide and has a high degree of morbidity and mortality being considered a public health pro- blem. lncRNAs (non-coding long RNAs) have very complex transcriptional and/or post- transcriptional regulatory functions that are still not entirely clear but may influence car- diovascular diseases, including HF. Thus, the study aimed to identify in the literature the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of HF through an integrative review with a systema- tic search. A total of 33 articles were considered eligible for reading and composition of the study. The roles of lncRNA in HF were reported as possible biological markers for the diagnosis and prognosis of the disease due to its expressiveness in the bloodstream. In addition, lncRNAs may be related to functional capacity since the increase or decrease in their expression promotes a reduction in endothelial cell apoptosis, and improves car- diac dysfunction, contractility, and calcium channel disorders in patients with HF. The- refore, lncRNAs seem to be involved in the pathogenesis and/or pathophysiology of HF and can be used as genetic biomarkers with sensitivity and specificity similar or superior to those currently employed in the diagnosis and prognosis of HF.

La Insuficiencia Cardiaca (IC) es una de las principales causas de hospita- lización en el mundo y tiene un alto grado de morbimortalidad considerándose un pro- blema de salud pública. Los lncRNAs (ARN largos no codificantes) tienen funciones re- guladoras transcripcionales y/o post-transcripcionales muy complejas que aún no están del todo claras pero que pueden influir en las enfermedades cardiovasculares, incluida la IC. Así pues, el estudio se propuso identificar en la literatura el papel de los lncRNAs en la patogénesis de la IC mediante una revisión integradora con una búsqueda sistemática. Un total de 33 artículos fueron considerados elegibles para su lectura y composición del estudio. Las funciones de los lncRNA en la IC se señalaron como posibles marcadores biológicos para el diagnóstico y pronóstico de la enfermedad debido a su expresividad en el torrente sanguíneo. Además, los lncRNAs pueden estar relacionados con la capacidad funcional, ya que el aumento o disminución de su expresión promueve una reducción de la apoptosis de las células endoteliales y mejora la disfunción cardiaca, la contractilidad y los trastornos de los canales de calcio en pacientes con IC. Por tanto, los lncRNAs parecen estar implicados en la patogénesis y/o fisiopatología de la IC y pueden ser utili- zados como biomarcadores genéticos con sensibilidad y spe-cificidad similares o superi- ores a los empleados actualmente en el diagnóstico y pronóstico de la IC.

Correlation between serum cystatin C and lipid level in patients with chronic heart failure / 中南大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVES@#Serum cystatin C (Cys C) and blood lipid levels are related to the occurrence and development of chronic heart failure (CHF). However, there are few reports on the correlation between blood lipid level and serum Cys C level in patients with CHF. The aim of this study is to explore the correlation between serum Cys C level and blood lipid level in patients with CHF, and to provide valuable reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment of CHF.@*METHODS@#A total of 336 CHF patients who were hospitalized in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine of Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital from October 2017 to July 2018 were included and they were divided into a Cys C normal group (n=180) and a Cys C abnormal group (n=156) according to serum Cys C level of the patients. The general data, laboratory indicators, and cardiac ultrasound results were compared between the 2 groups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to detect the correlation between serum Cys C level and blood lipid level and other factors, and the data related to Cys C were further analyzed by multivariate logistic regression.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the Cys C normal group, patients in the Cys C abnormal group had lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P<0.001), older age (P=0.030), higher incidence rate of diabetes and smoking index (P=0.002 and P=0.003, respectively). The levels of serum creatinine (SCr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and total bilirubin (TBIL) were higher (all P<0.001), while the levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), apolipoprotein (Apo) A, and albumin (ALB) were lower (P<0.001, P=0.001, and P=0.003, respectively) in the Cys C abnormal group. Pearson correlation analysis showed that serum Cys C level was negatively correlated with platelet count, HDL, Apo A, ALB, and LVEF. It was positively correlated with smoking index, mean platelet volume, neutrophil ratio, BUN, and TBIL (all P<0.05). The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the decreased HDL level was a risk factor for the abnormality of serum Cys C in patients with CHF (OR=0.119, P=0.003), while Apo A was not a risk factor for its abnormality (P=0.337).@*CONCLUSIONS@#HDL might be the only blood lipid index associated with abnormal serum Cys C in patients with CHF.

Therapeutic Efficacy of Shexiang Baoxin Pill Combined with Exercise in Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Single-Center, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Shexiang Baoxin Pill combined with exercise in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).@*METHODS@#Sixty patients with HFpEF were randomly divided into group A (n=20), receiving Shexiang Baoxin Pill combined with home-based exercise training based on conventional drugs for 12 weeks; group B (n=20), receiving conventional drugs combined with home-based exercise training for 12 weeks; and group C (n=20), receiving conventional drug treatment only. Peak oxygen uptake (peakVO2), anaerobic threshold (AT), 6-min walking test (6MWT), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and SF-36 questionnaire (SF-36) results before and after treatment were compared among groups.@*RESULTS@#After the 12-week intervention, patients in group C showed significant declines in peakVO2, AT, 6MWT, PSQI, and SF-36 compared with pre-treatment (P<0.01), while groups A and B both showed significant improvements in peakVO2, AT, 6MWT, PSQI, and SF-36 results compared with pre-treatment (P<0.01). Compared with group C, patients in groups A and B showed significant improvements in peakVO2, AT, 6MWT, PSQI, and SF-36 (P<0.01). In addition, patients in group A showed more significant improvements in physical function, role-physical, vitality, and mental health scores on the SF-36 questionnaire, and PSQI scores than those in group B (P<0.01).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Exercise training improved exercise tolerance, sleep quality and quality of life (QoL) in patients with HFpEF. Notably, Shexiang Baoxin Pill played an active role in sleep quality and QoL of patients with HFpEF. (The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR2100054322)).

Effects of Buyang Huanwu Decoction on Intestinal Barrier, Intestinal Flora, and Trimethylamine Oxide in Rats with Heart Failure / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the mechanisms of Buyang Huanwu Decoction (BYHWD) modulating the gut microbiome and trimethylamine oxide (TAMO) to exert cardioprotective effects.@*METHODS@#Ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery was performed in rats to induce heart failure (HF). Except for the sham-operation group (n=10), 36 operation-induced models were randomized into 3 groups using a random number table (n=12 in each group): the model group, the BYHWD group (15.02 g/kg BYHWD), and the positive group (4.99 g/kg metoprolol succinate). After 4-week treatment (once daily by gavage), echocardiography was applied to evaluate the cardiac function and the Tei index (the ratio of ventricular isovolumic contraction time (IVCT) and isovolumic diastolic time (IVRT) to ejection time (ET)) was calculated; hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining was observed to characterize the pathology of the myocardium and small intestinal villi. D-lactic acid was detected by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Expressions of occludin, claudin-1, and zonula occludens (ZO-1) were detected by Western blot. 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (16S rRNA) sequencing was used to explore the changes in the intestinal flora. TMAO was detected via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).@*RESULTS@#In the echocardiography, the Tei index was considerably lower in the positive and BYHWD groups compared with the model group (P<0.05). Besides, BYHWD improved the pathology of myocardium and small intestine of HF rats and lowered the D-lactic acid content in the serum, when compared with the model group (P<0.05). BYHWD also improved the expression of occludin and claudin-1 (P<0.05); in the gut microbiota analysis, BYHWD slowed down modifications in the structure distribution of gut microbiota and regulated the diversity of intestinal flora in HF rats. The content of TMAO in the serum was significantly lowered by BYWHT compared with the model group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#BYHWD may delay progression of HF by enhancing the intestinal barrier structure, and regulating intestinal flora and TAMO.

Shenmai Injection Improves Hypertensive Heart Failure by Inhibiting Myocardial Fibrosis via TGF-β 1/Smad Pathway Regulation / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To study effects of Shenmai Injection on hypertensive heart failure and its mechanism for inhibiting myocardial fibrosis.@*METHODS@#Salt-sensitive (Dahl/SS) rats were fed with normal diet (0.3% NaCl) and the high-salt diet (8% NaCl) to observe the changes in blood pressure and heart function, as the control group and the model group. Salt-insensitive rats (SS-13BN) were fed with the high-salt diet (8% NaCl) as the negative control group. After modeling, the model rats were randomly divided into heart failure (HF) group, Shenmai Injection (SMI) group and pirfenidone (PFD) group by a random number table, with 6 rats in each group. They were given sterilized water, SMI and pirfenidone, respectively. Blood pressure, cardiac function, fibrosis and related molecular expression were detected by sphygmomanometer, echocardiogram, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson staining, immunofluorescence and qPCR analysis.@*RESULTS@#After high-salt feeding, compared with the control and negative control group, in the model group the blood pressure increased significantly, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricular fraction shortening (LVFS) were significantly reduced, and the serum NT-proBNP concentration increased significantly (all P<0.05); furthermore, the arrangement of myocardial cells was disordered, the edema was severe, and the degree of myocardial fibrosis was also significantly increased (P<0.05); the protein and mRNA expressions of collagen type I (Col I) were up-regulated (P<0.05), and the mRNA expressions of transforming growth factor β 1 (TGF- β 1), Smad2 and Smad3 were significantly up-regulated (P<0.05). Compared with HF group, after intervention of Shenmai Injection, LVEF and LVFS increased, myocardial morphology was improved, collagen volume fraction decreased significantly (P<0.05), and the mRNA expressions of Col I, TGF- β 1, Smad2 and Smad3, as well as Col I protein expression, were all significantly down-regulated (all P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Myocardial fibrosis is the main pathological manifestation of hypertensive heart failure, and Shenmai Injection could inhibit myocardial fibrosis and effectively improve heart failure by regulating TGF-β 1/Smad signaling pathway.