Cardiology Research And Practice[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
From anatomy to vulnerability: A comprehensive appraisal of coronary physiology and plaque characterization.
Fezzi S, Coradello E, Huang J … +2 more , Tu S, Wijns W
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42396219 · Full text
A substantial proportion of acute coronary syndromes arise from non-obstructive plaques with high-risk biological, morphological, and biomechanical features. This review summarizes contemporary concepts of plaque vulnera...
A substantial proportion of acute coronary syndromes arise from non-obstructive plaques with high-risk biological, morphological, and biomechanical features. This review summarizes contemporary concepts of plaque vulnerability, including plaque rupture, plaque erosion, and calcified nodules, and examines the role of invasive imaging and computational techniques in identifying lesions at increased risk of future events. Intravascular ultrasound, near-infrared spectroscopy, and optical coherence tomography provide complementary information on plaque burden, lipid content, fibrous cap thickness, macrophage infiltration, calcification, and thrombotic substrates. However, their routine use may be limited by cost, procedural complexity, contrast requirements, and operator dependency. Emerging angiography-derived approaches, particularly radial wall strain, offer a simplified method to assess plaque deformability and biomechanical instability from standard coronary angiography. Elevated radial wall strain has shown correlation with optical coherence tomography-defined vulnerable plaque features and independent prognostic value for adverse cardiovascular outcomes, including in non-flow-limiting lesions. Integration of coronary physiology, plaque morphology, and biomechanical indices may therefore refine lesion-level risk stratification and support a more personalized approach to coronary artery disease management. Further prospective studies are needed to determine whether vulnerability-guided diagnostic and therapeutic strategies can improve clinical outcomes beyond current anatomy- and ischaemia-based paradigms.
Incorporating of an enhanced radiation protection device into the treatment of ST elevation myocardial infarctions: A single center retrospective analysis.
Hutchings J, Mai E, Blay SP … +2 more , Ballinger C, Riley RF
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42388675 · Full text
STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether incorporation of the EggNest Complete enhanced radiation protection device (ERPD) affects door-to-balloon (D2B) time in treatment of patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial i...
STUDY OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether incorporation of the EggNest Complete enhanced radiation protection device (ERPD) affects door-to-balloon (D2B) time in treatment of patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). DESIGN: Single-center retrospective observational study. SETTING: Catheterization laboratories in a tertiary care hospital. PARTICIPANTS: 133 consecutive patients presenting with STEMI (71 in the ERPD group, 62 in the standard shielding) group from July 1, 2024 until December 31, 2025. INTERVENTIONS: Evaluation of D2B time components in rooms with ERPD vs standard shielding. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: D2B time (total time and time-based components). RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in overall D2B times between groups (48.0 vs 52.0 min; = 0.32) or it's individual components. Use of the EggNest Complete ERDP was not associated with D2B (β = 1.14, = 0.88). CONCLUSION: Use of the EggNest Complete ERPD does not delay STEMI reperfusion. These findings support a paradigm shift from operator-dependent shielding to integrated, system-level radiation protection, demonstrating that improvements in occupational safety for cath lab workers can be achieved without tradeoffs in the timeliness of life-saving reperfusion therapy.
Outcomes of isolated ostial LAD PCI versus multivessel PCI including ostial LAD lesions.
Ntantou E, Camilleri W, Daemen J … +6 more , Diletti R, Wilschut J, Kardys I, Nuis RJ, van Mieghem NM, den Dekker WK
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42388674 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Ostial lesions of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery are critical targets for revascularization due to their role in supplying a large portion of the myocardium, and are often accompanied by m...
BACKGROUND: Ostial lesions of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery are critical targets for revascularization due to their role in supplying a large portion of the myocardium, and are often accompanied by multivessel disease, complicating treatment planning and prognosis. METHODS: This was a retrospective, single-center study. Patients with ostial LAD PCI isolated or in conjunction with PCI in another vessel were included and were grouped into isolated ostial LAD PCI ( = 276) or multivessel PCI including ostial LAD PCI ( = 218). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined by a composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, or unplanned repeat revascularization. RESULTS: Participants undergoing multivessel PCI were significantly older, with a median age of 70 years (IQR: 62-77), compared to 68 years (IQR: 59-75) in the isolated ostial LAD PCI group ( = 0.036). The sex distribution was similar between groups, with females comprising 26.6% of the multivessel PCI group and 28.6% of the isolated ostial LAD group ( = 0.619). At a median follow-up of 756 days (IQR: 433-1165), the incidence of MACE was comparable between groups, occurring in 28.4% of the multivessel PCI group versus 25.4% in the isolated ostial LAD PCI group (adjusted HR 1.04; 95% CI 0.73-1.48; = 0.81). CONCLUSION: In patients undergoing ostial LAD PCI, treatment of an additional vessel did not increase the risk of MACE in long-term follow-up.
Stage D heart failure in the United States: A study from a national database.
Adhikari G, Baral N, Dahal D
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42382842 · Full text
STUDY OBJECTIVE: To study the clinical characteristics and outcomes of hospitalized Stage D HF as there is paucity of data regarding this class of HF patients. DESIGN: This is a non-interventional retrospective cohort st...
STUDY OBJECTIVE: To study the clinical characteristics and outcomes of hospitalized Stage D HF as there is paucity of data regarding this class of HF patients. DESIGN: This is a non-interventional retrospective cohort study from a National database. Statistical analyses were conducted using STATA/MP, version 18 (StataCorp, TX). SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: We identified all the principal hospitalizations of Stage D or End Stage HF in adults ≥18 years of old for the calendar year 2019. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Characteristics, in-hospital mortality, 30-day readmissions, and causes of readmissions. RESULTS: We identified 28,356 Stage D or End Stage HF patients, with a mean age of 66 years. 31% were females. 56% had Acute kidney injury, 5% were on hemodialysis, 51% had atrial fibrillation, 26% developed cardiogenic shock, 9% required mechanical ventilator support, and 4% sustained cardiac arrest on index hospitalization. All-cause mortality was 14% during hospitalization. The 30-day readmission rate was 7.98%, with the most common cause of readmissions being heart failure (49.78%), cardiac and vascular device-related infections (4.86%), sepsis (2.65%), acute renal failure (2.49%), and ventricular tachycardia (2.09%). 8.16% died during readmission. The mean length of stay (LOS) for the index hospitalization was 11.59 days. CONCLUSION: Stage D or End Stage HF poses a significant public health challenge in the United States and is associated with increased mortality, readmissions, and financial burden.
Vitamin D deficiency and associated factors among cardiology patients in Nouakchott, Mauritania: A cross-sectional study using modified Poisson regression.
El Hanefi RM, Ebou MH, El Welati AE … +5 more , Issa MY, Dehah CMEH, Yacouba D, Elhoumed M, El Kebir MVO
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42382841 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and identify associated demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors among cardiology patients at the National Cardiology Center in Nouakchott, Mauritania. M...
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and identify associated demographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors among cardiology patients at the National Cardiology Center in Nouakchott, Mauritania. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 170 cardiology patients, with vitamin D status assessed using serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations (deficiency: <20 ng/mL). We used modified Poisson regression with robust (sandwich) variance estimators to directly estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals. Univariable and multivariable analyses identified associated factors. RESULTS: Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent in 74.71% of participants. Significant associations were found with higher education (adjusted PR (aPR) = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.02-1.78).). household wealth (aPR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.00-1.94), non-regular physical activity (aPR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.03-2.33), and non-active status (aPR = 1.79, 95% CI: 1.18-2.71). The association for Sex-stratified analyses were exploratory and underpowered, showing wide confidence intervals for sex-specific estimates. Conclusions: This study found a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency associated with socioeconomic and lifestyle factors among cardiology patients in Nouakchott. These associations highlight potential targets for future interventional studies and public health strategies particularly for females and those with socioeconomic and lifestyle risk factors, to reduce cardiovascular risk in this population.
Emerging Role of Statin Therapy in Preventing Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity.
Mansour E, Raji NA, Salloum P … +8 more , Jreij N, Ayoub TM, Merheb M, Attieh P, Harbieh B, Harb F, Azar S, Ghadieh HE
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42375634 · Full text
Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs), animal studies, and observational studies have demonstrated the cardioprotective effects of statins, though their effectiveness varies. The observed variability may be attribu...
Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs), animal studies, and observational studies have demonstrated the cardioprotective effects of statins, though their effectiveness varies. The observed variability may be attributed to individual differences, patient ages, disparities in statin type and dosage of anthracyclines (ANT) administered, and variations in cancer conditions among patients. Overall, statins play a beneficial role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, enhancing tumor sensitivity to chemotherapeutic drugs, improving mitochondrial function in cardiac cells, exerting antiapoptotic effects, and preserving left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Despite these promising findings, the long-term effects of statins remain unclear due to the lack of a standardized protocol. Statins may also cause side effects by depleting essential substances in the body. This limitation underscores the need for further research to assess their long-term impact and establish standardized guidelines for dosing, duration, and potential side effects. The implications of this review highlight the importance of understanding the pleiotropic effects of statins to develop targeted therapies for chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. Additionally, integrating ongoing research into clinical guidelines is essential, ensuring that clinicians carefully consider patient-specific factors when prescribing statins alongside ANT. This present review explores the potential role of statins in mitigating ANT-induced cardiotoxicity, a major complication of chemotherapy that reduces LVEF and leads to heart failure (HF).
Phenotypic Age Acceleration as a Mediator in Thyroid Hormone-Related Cardiovascular Risk Among the Elderly.
Wen M, Hou Y, Shi K … +5 more , Zuo J, Zhang C, Zhang S, Shen Z, Jie W
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42375633 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The association between thyroid hormones and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been widely examined; however, the role of biological aging in this relationship remains unclear. This study systematically invest...
BACKGROUND: The association between thyroid hormones and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been widely examined; however, the role of biological aging in this relationship remains unclear. This study systematically investigates the mediating role of phenotypic age acceleration (PhenoAgeAccel) in the relationship between thyroid hormones and CVD. METHODS: The data were sourced from the 2007-2010 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Analyses included logistic regression, linear regression, restricted cubic splines, subgroup analyses, and mediation analysis to assess the role of PhenoAgeAccel. RESULTS: Among participants aged ≥ 60 years, elevated free triiodothyronine (FT3) concentrations were linked to a reduced risk of CVD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.483; 95% CI: 0.273-0.856; = 0.013). Similarly, total triiodothyronine (TT3) levels were associated with a decreased CVD risk in those aged 60 and above (aOR = 0.988; 95% CI: 0.980-0.995; = 0.013). Mediation analysis showed that PhenoAgeAccel mediated 21.13% of the FT3-CVD association and 23.41% of the TT3-CVD association in older adults. CONCLUSION: This study identifies an age-dependent relationship between FT3, TT3, and CVD and reveals that PhenoAgeAccel partially mediates this association. These findings suggest that interventions targeting thyroid function and biological aging may offer novel strategies for CVD prevention and management in older populations.
Applicability of Stress Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients With Cardiac Implantable Devices: A Systematic Review.
Zakavi S, Khorgami MR, Babaee P … +10 more , Babaeizadeh A, Rahmati R, Felfeli M, Meftah E, Houshmand G, Abedpour F, Fazelifar A, Pouraliakbar H, Hekmat H, Omidi N
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42371510 · Full text
PURPOSE: The utilization of stress perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is still limited. METHODS: The study was registered in the Prospective Registe...
PURPOSE: The utilization of stress perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is still limited. METHODS: The study was registered in the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with ID CRD42023457308. PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, ProQuest, and CINAHL databases were searched using the Mesh and related terms of CMR imaging, stress, and CIEDs. RESULTS: Out of the 1695 papers we found, eight met our inclusion criteria. We reviewed the included studies and provided a concluding remark concerning (a) image quality; (b) CMR compatibility, scanner, and safety; (c) device protocols and exclusion criteria; (d) vasodilator choices, effects, and safety; and (e) clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: This study has demonstrated a positive trend in the utilization of stress CMR in MR-conditional devices. However, the review has identified multiple research gaps that warrant further investigation.
Latest Management of Cardiac Sarcoidosis: A Comprehensive Review.
Alhareth D, Ghazawi AE, Ajami S … +2 more , Saifi Z, Refaat M
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42369165 · Full text
Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is a rare but serious manifestation of sarcoidosis. Its complications might include high-grade conduction blocks, atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and even heart failure. Despite its clinical...
Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is a rare but serious manifestation of sarcoidosis. Its complications might include high-grade conduction blocks, atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, and even heart failure. Despite its clinical significance, it exhibits a heterogeneous presentation that makes its diagnosis and management challenging. In this review, we aim to address the different management options of CS, encompassing pharmacotherapy, implantable devices, lifestyle modifications, and surgical interventions. Research findings suggested a positive role of corticosteroids in alleviating the inflammation associated with CS while also improving cardiac parameters. However, given their serious side effects, the use of steroid-sparing medications was also supported. In addition, device-based interventions and ablation were effective in managing the increased risk of arrhythmias and heart failure-associated CS. The importance of lifestyle modifications was tackled as a simultaneous treatment option along with the above. Still, interindividual variability and the absence of strict guidelines were major challenges.
Magnetocardiography to screen adults with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy: A feasibility study.
Friese S, Wunderl P, Jensch T … +11 more , Wunderl L, Wolf CM, Reich B, Meierhofer C, Heckel R, Diebold I, Martens E, Westphal D, Fierlinger P, Ewert P, Wacker-Gussmann A
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42359277 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a primary cardiomyopathy associated with mechanical and electrical dysfunction, making diagnosis a clinical challenge. This feasibility study investigates whether Optica...
BACKGROUND: Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a primary cardiomyopathy associated with mechanical and electrical dysfunction, making diagnosis a clinical challenge. This feasibility study investigates whether Optically Pumped Magnetometer (OPM)-based magnetocardiography (MCG), which offers complementary spatial information about cardiac electrical activity compared to ECG, can identify biomarkers in ACM patients. METHODS: MCG data were acquired using an array of 16 OPMs. After signal processing and artifact removal via Independent Component Analysis (ICA), two-dimensional vector magnetocardiogram (VMCG) projections were constructed for the QRS and T-wave segments. Geometric features derived from the VMCG loops were compared between groups using Welch's -test. To ensure statistical robustness, Monte Carlo simulations modeled measurement uncertainty, correlation analyses assessed potential age-related confounding, and post-hoc false discovery rate (FDR) correction was applied to account for repeated sensor-wise comparisons. RESULTS: We enrolled 9 ACM patients and 12 healthy controls. The main finding was signal attenuation in ACM patients compared to healthy controls, as evidenced by smaller VMCG loop dimensions. This effect was most pronounced during the T-wave segment, where ACM patients exhibited a smaller convex hull area. During the QRS complex, reductions in maximum signal amplitude were observed. Correlation analysis in healthy controls revealed no significant association between age and signal strength. No significant differences were found in the ST segment. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that flexible, room-temperature OPM-based MCG may non-invasively detect electrophysiological alterations in ACM affecting both ventricular repolarization (T-wave area) and depolarization (QRS amplitude), with repolarization changes being particularly prominent. Further evaluation in larger studies is warranted.
Predictive Equation for Peak Heart Rate and First Ventilatory Threshold Heart Rate in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease.
Zheng X, Wang P, Wang S … +13 more , Cui H, Tan H, Guan L, Zhang S, Zhang H, Wang F, Hou X, Li Q, Cao T, Zheng Y, Wu X, Wu J, Yu B
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42344553 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Peak heart rate (HR peak) and first ventilatory threshold heart rate (HR VT1) guide exercise prescription formulation, but existing formulas lack accuracy in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients due to unacc...
BACKGROUND: Peak heart rate (HR peak) and first ventilatory threshold heart rate (HR VT1) guide exercise prescription formulation, but existing formulas lack accuracy in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients due to unaccounted pathophysiological differences. This study aimed to construct prediction equation for HR peak and HR VT1 in CHD patients. METHODS: This was a multicenter retrospective study that included 14,465 cases of cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) data from CHD patients in 20 hospitals in China. Seventy percent of the cohort was divided into a development group ( = 10,125), and the remaining 30% served as a validation group ( = 4340). Stepwise multiple backward regression established HR peak and HR VT1 equations, with accuracy compared to traditional formulas. RESULTS: Age, weight, resting heart rate (HR rest), CHD diagnostic category, and β-blockers were included in the equation. The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of China-CPET-HR peak is 9.04%, with an adjusted coefficient of determination ( ) of 0.399. For the China-CPET-HR VT1 formula, the MAPE is 7.32% and the adjusted is 0.509. The %HR peaks of the FOX, TANAKA, KETEYIAN, and China-CPET-HR peak formulas are 82 ± 11%, 79 ± 11%, 105 ± 13%, and 100 ± 11%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Based on CPET data from CHD patients, we developed prediction equations for HR peak and HR VT1. The prediction accuracy of these equations is significantly higher than others, which helps to formulate accurate individualized exercise prescriptions and rehabilitation training guidance for CHD patients.
Electroacupuncture Protects Against Post-MI Heart Failure Through Autonomic Regulation and α7nAChR Activation.
Wang W, Wu J, Xu Y … +4 more , Lin Q, Wang K, Liu A, Zhou J
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42344552 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated whether electroacupuncture (EA) at Neiguan (PC6) acupoint alleviates adverse myocardial remodeling in post-myocardial infarction (MI) heart failure (HF) by activating the vagus nerve-me...
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated whether electroacupuncture (EA) at Neiguan (PC6) acupoint alleviates adverse myocardial remodeling in post-myocardial infarction (MI) heart failure (HF) by activating the vagus nerve-mediated cholinergic pathway and its downstream α7nAChR-Akt-HIF-1α-VEGF signaling cascade. METHODS: Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomized into sham, MI model, and EA groups ( = 6 per group). MI was induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. EA was applied at PC6 for 14 days starting 1 week after MI induction. Cardiac function and structure were evaluated using echocardiography and histological examination. The expression levels of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR), phosphorylated Akt (-Akt), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: EA intervention significantly attenuated pathological myocardial remodeling and improved cardiac function. Compared with the model group, EA treatment markedly enhanced cardiac function, increased contractility, reduced ventricular dilation, restored autonomic balance, and alleviated myocardial necrosis and fibrosis. Molecular studies revealed that EA treatment increased the expression of ChAT and α7nAChR, elevated -Akt levels, and upregulated the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF. These findings suggest the activation of the vagus nerve-cholinergic signaling pathway and its downstream prosurvival and pro-angiogenic pathways. CONCLUSIONS: EA attenuated maladaptive ventricular remodeling and improved cardiac performance. These effects were associated with modulation of autonomic function and engagement of the α7nAChR/Akt/HIF-1α/VEGF signaling axis, supporting a potential neuro-immune-angiogenic mechanism underlying EA-mediated myocardial repair during the subacute post-MI phase.
Correlation of Controlling Nutritional Status Score and Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index With Frailty and Prognosis in Chronic Heart Failure Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.
Wang J, Xing JW, Bo GG
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42338699 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To explore the predictive value of the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score combined with the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) for frailty and prognosis in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients...
OBJECTIVE: To explore the predictive value of the controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score combined with the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) for frailty and prognosis in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). METHODS: This retrospective study included 264 patients with CHF and AF who were admitted to and treated at the inpatient and outpatient departments of Nanjing Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital from January 2016 to July 2019. Follow-up ended upon patient death, with the final follow-up deadline set for September 2024. Binary logistic regression and Cox regression were used to identify factors influencing frailty and all-cause mortality. The cutoff values for the CONUT score and SII are determined by the ROC diagnostic threshold for mortality. Cutoff values for the CONUT score and SII were 6.5 and 990.2, respectively, categorizing patients into four groups: G1 (high CONUT ≥ 6.5 and high SII ≥ 990.2), G2 (high CONUT ≥ 6.5 and low SII < 990.2), G3 (low CONUT < 6.5 and high SII ≥ 990.2), and G4 (low CONUT < 6.5 and low SII < 990.2). RESULTS: Frailty was present in 165 patients (165/264). Multivariate logistic regression identified disease duration, CONUT score, and SII as significant factors for frailty. A positive correlation between CONUT and SII was observed ( = 0.648, < 0.001). Cox regression analysis found smoking, CONUT, and SII as risk factors for mortality. Survival analysis showed lower survival rates in high CONUT and high SII groups ( < 0.001), with the G1 group having the lowest survival rate compared to G2, G3, and G4 ( < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The CONUT score and SII are useful predictors of frailty and mortality in CHF patients with AF. Their combined use may improve the assessment of frailty and prognosis in this population.
Bibliometric Analysis of Research Hotspots and Emerging Trends in Mitochondrial DNA and Atherosclerosis (2004-2025).
Ouyang Y, Wang G, Zhang M … +2 more , Min P, Guo M
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42338698 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To explore the research course, hotspots, and development trends of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and atherosclerosis (AS) based on knowledge graph technology, providing references for clinical and basic research...
OBJECTIVE: To explore the research course, hotspots, and development trends of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and atherosclerosis (AS) based on knowledge graph technology, providing references for clinical and basic research in this field. METHODS: Publications themed on mtDNA and AS published between 2004 and 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. CiteSpace 6.4. R1 Advanced software was used to construct and visually analyze knowledge graphs of authors, institutions, keywords, etc. RESULTS: A total of 341 publications were included, with the annual publication volume showing an overall upward trend. Research methods for mtDNA and AS are diversifying, with mechanistic investigations showing a trending focus toward specific molecular pathways. A total of 241 authors and 353 publishing institutions were analyzed. Ten keyword clusters were identified, including Cluster #0 oxidative stress, Cluster #1 mitochondrial DNA, Cluster #2 degradation, Cluster #3 atherosclerosis, Cluster #4 hydrogen peroxide, Cluster #5 roles, Cluster #6 MAPK pathway, Cluster #7 epigallocatechin gallate, Cluster #8 mitochondrial DNA copy number, and Cluster #9 vascular disease. CONCLUSION: Research has evolved from foundational mechanistic studies to a focus on translational and clinical applications. Moving forward, efforts should be intensified to enhance collaboration among research teams and deepen mechanistic investigations, thereby laying a solid foundation for clinical translation.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection with associated takotsubo syndrome: Possible pathogenetic underpinnings.
Madias JE
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Aug · PMID 42327917 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
TAVR vs. SAVR in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis and Chronic Kidney Disease Undergoing Dialysis: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis.
Mylavarapu M, Kiyani M, Tanwar N … +6 more , Reddy M, Garcia I, Karnan N, Rao NL, Kodali LSM, Borra N
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42325936 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing dialysis who also suffer from severe aortic stenosis (AS) present a complex management challenge. Both transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and s...
BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing dialysis who also suffer from severe aortic stenosis (AS) present a complex management challenge. Both transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) are treatment options, but comparative outcomes in this specific, high-risk population continue to remain unclear. AIM: This study aims to compare TAVR and SAVR postoperative clinical outcomes in patients with severe AS and CKD undergoing dialysis. METHODS: According to PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across various databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Original studies that compared the clinical outcomes between TAVR and SAVR in patients with severe AS and CKD undergoing dialysis were included in the study. RESULTS: Ten studies, all retrospective, involving 28,625 (14,625 TAVR and 14,000 SAVR) patients with severe AS and CKD undergoing dialysis who underwent TAVR or SAVR were included in this study. Patients who underwent TAVR had significantly lower odds of in-hospital mortality (OR 0.49; 0.29, 0.84; = 0.01) and shorter length of stay (LOS) (SMD -2.59; 95% CI -5.04, -0.14; ≤ 0.04). However, the TAVR group had significantly higher odds of permanent pacemaker implantation (OR 2.25; 95% CI 1.71-2.94; < 0.00001). CONCLUSION: In patients with severe AS and CKD undergoing dialysis, TAVR is associated with lower in-hospital mortality and shorter LOS, suggesting a favorable early safety profile and recovery in this population.
Colchicine Prevents Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery Patients: Contemporary Evidence From a Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Saeed MH, Haider SZ, Lohana KC … +5 more , Kashish F, Zaheer MA, Abbasi TN, Mazhar S, Rahman J
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42318173 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia following cardiac and thoracic surgery. Stems from atrial oxidative stress and pericardial inflammation, POAF is associated with adverse...
BACKGROUND: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia following cardiac and thoracic surgery. Stems from atrial oxidative stress and pericardial inflammation, POAF is associated with adverse clinical outcomes such as heart failure, stroke, and increased mortality. As an anti-inflammatory agent, colchicine has shown effective POAF risk reduction. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating colchicine for POAF prevention till september 2025. Data were pooled using random-effects models with restricted maximum likelihood (REML). Subgroup analyses examined treatment duration (< 2 weeks vs. > 2 weeks) and surgery type. Heterogeneity was assessed with I and stability of outcomes was assessed using leave-one-out (LOO) analyses. RESULTS: Twelve RCTs encompassing 5637 participants were included. Colchicine significantly reduced POAF incidence compared with control (RR = 0.73; 95% CI = 0.64-0.84; < 0.0001; I = 0%). Both short-course (< 2 weeks) and long-course (> 2 weeks) regimens were effective without any significant subgroup difference ( = 0.57). Colchicine increased gastrointestinal adverse events (OR = 2.25; 95% CI = 1.86-2.73) and diarrhea (RR = 3.16; 95% CI = 2.25-4.42) but showed no excess bleeding (RR = 0.89; 95% CI = 0.61-1.28), sepsis (RR = 1.32; 95% CI = 0.48-3.59), or in-hospital mortality (RR = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.43-1.86). Funnel plots and Egger's tests revealed no publication bias. CONCLUSIONS: Colchicine achieved significant POAF risk reduction without serious adverse events. Both short- and long-course regimens were effective, with the short-course approach offering optimal tolerability. These findings support colchicine as a safe, inexpensive adjunct for POAF prevention.
β-Blockers after myocardial infarction with preserved or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction: Fragility of contemporary evidence.
Zuin M, Chopard R, Drachman DE … +5 more , Rigatelli G, De Luca L, Temporelli PL, De Caterina R, Piazza G
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Jul · PMID 42306649 · Full text
BACKGROUND: β-Blockers have been traditionally prescribed after acute myocardial infarction (MI), but contemporary evidence in patients with preserved or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥40%) have...
BACKGROUND: β-Blockers have been traditionally prescribed after acute myocardial infarction (MI), but contemporary evidence in patients with preserved or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥40%) have not provided consistent results. We assessed the robustness of the evidence for the efficacy of β-blocker therapy in this population using contemporary randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and pooled analyses. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Embase through August 1, 2025, for phase 3-4 RCTs evaluating β-blockers in patients with LVEF ≥40% during index MI hospitalization. Primary outcomes included robustness of each trial's primary endpoint; secondary outcomes included all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, recurrent MI, heart failure hospitalization, and unplanned revascularization. Fragility index (FI) and fragility quotient (FQ) were calculated. Data were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS: Four trials (REDUCE-AMI, CAPITAL-RCT, BETAMI-DANBLOCK, REBOOT) with 19,245 patients were included. Event rates were low across the various outcomes with limited robustness: FI and FQ values indicated high sensitivity to small changes in events. BETAMI-DANBLOCK suggested modest benefit for recurrent MI, while REDUCE-AMI and REBOOT showed no significant effect. Pooled analysis revealed a 9% relative risk reduction and 0.9% absolute risk reduction for the composite of death, recurrent MI, or heart failure hospitalization (number needed to treat = 111; FI = 5). CONCLUSION: In patients with MI and LVEF ≥40%, β-blocker therapy confers only modest absolute benefits, with trial results that are fragile. Routine use in this population may not provide consistent or clinically meaningful benefit, underscoring the need for individualized therapy.
A Narrative Review of Risk Assessment Approaches for Implantable Defibrillator Therapy to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Death in Acute Myocardial Infarction.
Kakavand N, Shojaei Y, Sadri M … +4 more , Rouhani S, Hassannejad R, Roohafza H, Sadeghi M
Cardiol Res Pract · 2026 · PMID 42306070 · Full text
Despite considerable progress in managing ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains a major clinical challenge. Although implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy, guided p...
Despite considerable progress in managing ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), sudden cardiac death (SCD) remains a major clinical challenge. Although implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy, guided primarily by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), has been proven to reduce mortality in landmark trials (e.g., MADIT, MUSTT, and MADIT-II), the modest sensitivity and specificity of LVEF limit its utility as a sole risk stratifier. Emerging clinical trends highlight the progression from traditional LVEF-based models to more comprehensive risk assessment strategies. This review critically examines additional modalities, including advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, echocardiography, myocardial biomarkers, detailed electrocardiographic parameters, and assessments of myocardial tissue heterogeneity, as well as patient-specific factors such as age, sex, and prehospital cardiac arrest history. Furthermore, we discuss recent advances, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, that help to enhance risk prediction and optimize ICD therapy decisions. By combining these novel approaches into a comprehensive risk assessment framework, our review promotes a more personalized strategy to identify STEMI patients most likely to benefit from ICD implantation, improve survival outcomes, and reduce unnecessary interventions. Future research should focus on validating these integrative models in large prospective cohorts and refining current guidelines for ICD therapy post-STEMI.
ACOT1-specific expression modulates metabolic reprogramming in diabetic cardiomyopathy: The role of SREBP1c lactylation in CD36-mediated lipotoxicity.
Liao Z, Fu Y, Li R
Am Heart J Plus · 2026 Jul · PMID 42292690 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by metabolic dysfunction and lipotoxicity. The roles of acyl-CoA thioesterase 1 (ACOT1) and the novel post-translational modification lactylation in its pathogene...
OBJECTIVE: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by metabolic dysfunction and lipotoxicity. The roles of acyl-CoA thioesterase 1 (ACOT1) and the novel post-translational modification lactylation in its pathogenesis remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the stage-specific function of ACOT1 and the mechanism by which lactylation of SREBP1c regulates lipid metabolism in DCM. METHODS: Key genes were screened via bioinformatic analysis. ACOT1 was functionally assessed in early and decompensated DCM mouse models using gain- and loss-of-function strategies, evaluated by echocardiography and hemodynamics. SREBP1c lactylation was identified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and validated via site-directed mutagenesis. RESULTS: ACOT1 exhibited a biphasic expression pattern: protective upregulation in early DCM improved cardiac function and attenuated oxidative stress, whereas its downregulation in decompensated DCM exacerbated remodeling and dysfunction. Mechanistically, ACOT1 physically interacted with SREBP1c and facilitated its lactylation under high-lactate conditions. This modification was essential for SREBP1c transcriptional activity, driving its nuclear translocation and subsequent upregulation of the fatty acid transporter CD36. The enhanced CD36-mediated uptake led to free fatty acid accumulation, aggravating myocardial lipotoxicity and DCM progression. CONCLUSION: This study reveals a dual-stage regulatory role of ACOT1 in DCM and identifies a novel ACOT1-SREBP1c(lactylation)-CD36 axis linking metabolic reprogramming to lipotoxic injury. These findings establish lactylation as a key regulatory mechanism in diabetic heart metabolism and propose ACOT1 and SREBP1c lactylation as potential therapeutic targets for mitigating myocardial lipotoxicity in DCM.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe