Thyroid stimulating hormone testing in ED evaluation of patients with atrial fibrillation and various psychiatric diagnoses

BackgroundPrevious studies of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in Emergency Department (ED) patients largely have centered on patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). In our ED patients with AF as well as patients with Psychiatric diagnoses (psych) are screened. The purpose of the present study was to compare TSH levels in the 2 groups. Our hypotheses were that an abnormal TSH and/or AF predicted the need for hospital admission and that TSH is more likely decreased in AF and increased in psych patients.MethodsOur goal in the study was to compare the use of TSH testing in two ED populations, AF vs. psych patients. The study was a cross sectional cohort of AF vs. psych patients who had TSH levels drawn in the ED over a two year period. Our laboratory ranges were used to determine high vs. low TSH. Two chart examiners collected data after a training process. Charts were reviewed extracting demographic data, TSH levels, outcome (admit vs. discharge), history of AF, thyroid disease, psych diagnoses, presence of CHF, diabetes, hypertension. We compared AF vs. Psych groups using chi square and t-tests for parametric data. Odds ratios were calculated for comparisons between the 2 groups. For non-parametric data Mann Whitney U was used. A logistic regression was performed with the outcome of admission vs. discharge to find predictors of hospital admission. Kappa was calculated for inter-rater agreement. An a priori power analysis showed 80% power with 2 groups of 100 with an absolute difference of 20% between the 2 groups.Results252 patients were included, 101 with AF and 152 Psych. Demographics differed in age only with AF patients being older. Mean TSH for AF vs. 2.4 for AF, 2.9 for psych (NS) with no differences in percentages with high or low TSH in the 2 groups. Fifty-three patients had abnormal TSH levels (21%), 27% of AF and 17% of Psych patients (NS). There were significant differences in incidence of CHF, DM, HTN, and tachycardia with more in the AF group (P < 0.001). Significantly more of the psych patients had a history of hypothyroidism (OR 2.28). Our logistic regression showed that taking into account demographics including age, the only predictors of admission were the presence of CHF (aOR 18.6) and having a diagnosis of AF (aOR 4.0).ConclusionThere were no differences in TSH levels between the 2 groups. Twenty-one percent had an abnormal level. CHF and AF predicted hospital admission on regression analysis. Many with these AF or Psych diagnoses had abnormal ED TSH levels that could be useful in diagnosis, maintenance, or continuous treatment for their conditions diagnoses.     

Therapy with Renin‐Angiotensin System Blockers after Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: Who Is a Responder?

Aims: The data on anti‐arrhythmic effect of renin‐angiotensin‐aldesteron system blockers (RASB) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are controversially discussed. The goal of this analysis was to identify cohort of patients with AF and hypertension, who may have benefit from RASB therapy after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Methods: A total of 284 patients with AF and hypertension (paroxysmal AF [PAF]= 218, male = 185, age = 61 years, left ventricular ejection fraction = 60%, coronary artery disease = 42) considered for PVI were included. The patients with PAF were stratified according to time spent in AF (AF burden) within 3 months prior to admission (</> 500 hours). Further patients were divided into two groups: (1) low‐burden AF; (2) high‐burden AF (PAF and persistent AF). In 195 patients, RASB therapy was administered. A 7‐day continuous Holter electrocardiogram was performed after discharge, every 3 months thereafter and by symptoms. Results: Preventive effect of RASB was revealed in whole group (112 out of 195 [57%] vs 36 out of 89 [40%]; P = 0.025) and was more pronounced in patients with low‐burden AF (79 out of 112 [71%] receiving RASB vs 27 out of 55 [49%] being on other drugs; P = 0.013). However, efficiency of RASB failed in patients with high‐burden AF (33 out of 83 on RASB [40%] vs nine out of 34 on other drugs [27%]; P = 0.328). Conclusions: Our data suggest that RASB appears to protect against AF recurrences after PVI in patients with low‐burden paroxysmal AF. These results should be tested in a prospective study. (PACE 2010; 33:1101–1111)     

Efficacy and safety of solifenacin succinate 10 mg once Daily: A multicenter, phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial in patients with overactive bladder

Background: Solifenacin succinate is an antimuscarinic drug with reported efficacy and tolerability at a recommended starting dose of 5 mg QD in patients with overactive bladder (OAB).Objective: The objective of this trial was to investigate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of solifenacin 10 mg QD in patients with OAB.Methods: In this multicenter, Phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial, patients aged ≥18 years with OAB were randomized at a 1:1 ratio to receive solifenacin 10 mg or placebo QD for 12 weeks. The patients were instructed to complete a micturition diary for the 3 days preceding each scheduled visit (weeks 4, 8, and 12). The primary end point was the change from baseline in the mean number of micturitions per 24 hours; secondary end points included the mean change from baseline in the number of episodes per 24 hours of urgency, incontinence, nocturnal voiding, and nocturia and the mean volume voided per micturition. Tolerability was monitored through adverse events (AEs), vital sign measurements, ECGs, laboratory assessments, and physical examination.Results: A total of 672 patients were randomized and received ≥1 dose of study drug (solifenacin, n = 340; placebo, n = 332). The mean (SE) decrease from baseline to study end in the number of micturitions per 24 hours was significantly greater in the solifenacin group compared with the placebo group (−3.0 [0.2] vs −1.5 [0.2], respectively; P < 0.001). The mean decrease in the number of episodes of incontinence was significantly greater in the solifenacin group compared with the placebo group (−2.0 [0.2] vs −1.1 [0.2]; P < 0.001), as was the mean decrease in the number of episodes of urgency (−4.1 [0.2] vs −2.1 [0.2]; P < 0.001). Of the patients with ≥1 incontinence episode per 24 hours at baseline, significantly more patients in the solifenacin group achieved complete continence at study end than did patients in the placebo group (119/225 [52.9%] vs 80/237 [33.8%]; P < 0.001). The change from baseline to study end in the mean volume voided per micturition increased significantly in the solifenacin group compared with the placebo group (47.2 vs 2.7 mL; P < 0.001). Most AEs were mild or moderate in intensity. The AEs that were most commonly reported in the solifenacin-treated group were anticholinergic in nature: dry mouth (91 [26.8%] vs 13 patients [3.9%] in the placebo group; P < 0.001); constipation (58 [17.1%] vs 11 [3.3%]; P < 0.001); and blurred vision (12 [3.5%] vs 4 [1.2%]; P < 0.05). Serious AEs (SAEs) were reported for 5 patients in the solifenacin group and 3 patients in the placebo group. In the solifenacin group, 2 patients experienced chest pain, 1 had cellulitis, 1 had dehydration, and 1 had colonic obstruction; only 1 SAE (colonic obstruction) was judged to be possibly related to the study drug. In the placebo group, 1 patient had chest pain, 1 had bacterial meningitis, and 1 had hemopericardium.Conclusions: This study found that solifenacin 10 mg QD for 12 weeks was associated with significantly reduced symptoms of OAB, including the frequency of micturition, and episodes of urgency and of incontinence. With solifenacin, the volume voided per micturition increased by 47.2 mL, and 53% of patients with ≥1 incontinence episode per 24 hours at baseline achieved complete continence. This efficacy was accompanied by a favorable safety and tolerability profile.     

Persistent Symptoms and Disability After COVID-19 Hospitalization: Data From a Comprehensive Telerehabilitation Program

ObjectiveTo report symptoms, disability, and rehabilitation referral rates after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hospitalization in a large, predominantly older population.DesignCross-sectional study, with postdischarge telemonitoring of individuals hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 at the first month after hospital discharge, as part of a comprehensive telerehabilitation program.SettingPrivate verticalized health care network specialized in the older population.ParticipantsIndividuals hospitalized because of COVID-19. We included 1696 consecutive patients, aged 71.8±13.0 years old and 56.1% female. Comorbidities were present in 82.3% of the cases (N=1696).InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome MeasuresDependence for basic activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) using the Barthel Index and Lawton's Scale. We compared the outcomes between participants admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) vs those admitted to the ward.ResultsParticipant were followed up for 21.8±11.7 days after discharge. During postdischarge assessment, independence for ADL was found to be lower in the group admitted to the ICU than the ward group (61.1% [95% confidence interval (CI), 55.8%-66.2%] vs 72.7% [95% CI, 70.3%-75.1%], P<.001). Dependence for IADL was also more frequent in the ICU group (84.6% [95% CI, 80.4%-88.2%] vs 74.5%, [95% CI, 72.0%-76.8%], P<.001). Individuals admitted to ICU required more oxygen therapy (25.5% vs 12.6%, P<.001), presented more shortness of breath during routine (45.2% vs 34.5%, P<.001) and nonroutine activities (66.3% vs 48.2%, P<.001), and had more difficulty standing up for 10 minutes (49.3% vs 37.9% P<.001). The rehabilitation treatment plan consisted mostly of exercise booklets, which were offered to 65.5% of participants. The most referred rehabilitation professionals were psychologists (11.8%), physical therapists (8.0%), dietitians (6.8%), and speech-language pathologists (4.6%).ConclusionsIndividuals hospitalized because of COVID-19 present high levels of disability, dyspnea, dysphagia, and dependence for both ADL and IADL. Those admitted to the ICU presented more advanced disability parameters.     

磁共振feature tracking初步评价终末期肾病患者心肌形变

目的 采用心脏磁共振feature tracking (CMR-FT)技术初步分析终末期肾病患者左心室心肌形变各参数的变化情况。方法 对10例正常志愿者和9例终末期肾病接受血液透析治疗的患者行1.5T心脏非对比增强、FIESTA序列电影成像,并采用feature tracking (FT) 2D模型对左心室运动及整体心肌形变情况进行定量分析。结果 终末期肾病患者左心室心肌质量[(132.70±44.44) g]大于正常志愿者[(80.00±11.29)g, P<0.05]。终末期肾病患者左心室心肌整体径向应变、环向应变、径向收缩期峰值运动速度、径向舒张期峰值运动速度均低于健康志愿者[(22.52±10.41)% vs (39.46±7.10)%,(-12.57±3.91)% vs (-19.80±2.11)%,(22.70±5.72)mm/s vs (34.77±3.81)mm/s, (-24.71±8.83)mm/s vs (-43.88±8.89)mm/s, P均<0.05)。而终末期肾病患者和正常志愿者的左心室射血分数、左心室舒张末期容积、左心室收缩末期容积差异无统计学意义(P均>0.05)。结论 CMR-FT技术能够定量评价终末期肾病患者左心室心肌运动及形变情况。     

Pharmacokinetics of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and Extreme Obesity

PurposeDirect oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are recommended in preference to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) eligible for oral anticoagulation therapy; however, data and clinical experiences supporting the use of DOACs in patients with a body mass index ≥40 kg/m² or weight >120 kg remain limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties of DOACs in patients with AF and extreme obesity.MethodsWe enrolled all consecutive patients with AF and extreme obesity undergoing treatment with DOACs followed up at Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy. To determine peak plasma and trough levels of DOACs, plasma samples were collected at 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 12th hours from the last dose intake in patients receiving apixaban and dabigatran and at the 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 24th hours in those receiving edoxaban and rivaroxaban. The DOACs’ peak and trough plasma levels obtained from our study population were compared with those sourced from pharmacokinetic studies among patients without obesity, defined as a normal reference range in the literature. If at least 1 peak or trough plasma level was found ​​below or above the normal reference ranges, the patients were classified as having out-of-range DOAC plasma levels. Study population was then divided into in-range and out-of-range groups. Baseline characteristics, including DOAC treatment, were compared between the 2 groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to identify baseline variables associated with DOACs’ plasma concentration out of the expected range.FindingsA total of 58 patients (mean [SD] age, 70.93 [8.73] years; 40% female) with extreme obesity (mean [SD] body mass index. 44.43 [3.54] kg/m²) and AF while undergoing DOAC treatment were included in the present study. In 9 patients (15.5 %), the DOAC plasma concentrations were out of the expected ranges (out-of-range group);, indicating a greater likelihood of edoxaban 30 mg treatment (33% vs 2%; P < 0.01) and inappropriate DOAC underdosing (56% vs 4%; P < 0.005) compared with the in-range group. According to the multivariate logistic analysis (P = 0.0011), the inappropriate DOAC underdosing (hazard ratio = 29.37; P = 0.0002) was an independent predictor of DOAC plasma levels out of the expected ranges.ImplicationsPatients with extreme obesity and AF who were receiving DOAC therapy had DOAC plasma concentrations in the expected range. The inappropriate DOAC underdosing seems to be the only independent clinical factor associated with a plasma concentration of the drug out of the expected range.     

Impact of atrial fibrillation on prognosis of chronic heart failure patients with left ventricular ejection fraction>or=0.5]

OBJECTIVE: To explore the prevalence, distribution type and impact of atrial fibrillation on prognosis of hospitalized patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)>or=0.50. METHODS: The medical records of 417 unselected consecutive patients with CHF were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were categorized as LVEF<0.50 or LVEF>or=0.50. And they were also categorized by the past history of atrial fibrillation and divided into three groups: paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, continuous atrial fibrillation and onset of atrial fibrillation after admission. Then the vicious events, the number of readmission due to CHF and the interval between discharge and readmission were observed and recorded. RESULTS: Male patients were prevalent with CHF whose LVEF<0.50. The occurrence of acute myocardial infarction in the 1st year [15.6% (34/218)] was higher than that of CHF with LVEF>or=0.5 [8.0% (16/199), P<0.01]. The occurrence of cerebral stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation [24.3% (27/111)] was higher than that of patients without atrial fibrillation [8.4% (9/107), P<0.05). The numbers of acute coronary syndrome and cardiac death were also increased. In the patients with CHF whose LVEF>or=0.50 the incidence atrial fibrillation occurring after readmission was significantly higher than that of patient with CHF whose LVEF<0.50 (51 vs. 30, P<0.05). Atrial fibrillation could be found in nearly 2/3 of patients. And the number of readmission (2.78+/-1.79 vs. 2.00+/-1.35, P<0.01) was increased, while the interval between discharge and readmission [(117+/-107) days vs. (154+/-130) days, P<0.05] was shorter. CONCLUSION: Atrial fibrillation occurs more likely in patients with CHF whose LVEF>or=0.50, leading to a shorter interval of readmission. Therefore the importance of treatment of atrial fibrillation should be emphasized.     

Effects of a single, 24-hour, low-dose intravenous dobutamine infusion on left ventricular myocardial performance index in congestive heart failure: A prospective, nonrandomized study

Background:

Dobutamine, a predominantly beta-adrenergic sympathomimeticagent, is used for improving left ventricular (LV) systolic performance with different dosing regimens in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). Myocardial performance index (MPI) is an indicator of LV global function that is correlated with LV end-diastolic pressure, and it is increased in CHF.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a single, 24-hour, low-dose, IV dobutamine infusion on LV systolic and diastolic function and on MPI in CHF as an indicator of LV global function, as well as the adverse effects (AEs) of the infusion.

Methods:

This prospective, nonrandomized study was conducted at theDepartment of Cardiology, Baskent University Hospital, Ankara, Turkey. Adult patients with LV ejection fraction (EF) <35%, sinus rhythm, and symptomatic CHF were treated using a standard protocol for at least 4 weeks. At the end of this period, patients with symptomatic CHF and EF <35% underwent echocardiography that included measuring isovolumic relaxation and contraction times (IRT and ICT, respectively) and LV ejection time (ET), and calculating LV MPI using the formula MPI = (IRT + ICT)/ET Dobutamine 2.5 μg/kg · min was then infused intravenously for 24 hours. Echocardiography was repeated 24 hours later and values were compared with preinfusion data. Patients were observed and monitored for CHF symptoms and AEs for 24 hours.

Results:

Forty-three patients were enrolled in the study, and 31 (22 men,9 women; mean [SD] age, 67.55 [11.78] years) continued after the 4-week standard-treatment period. Mean (SD) heart rate (74.93 [20.15] vs 80.23 [13.74] bpm, respectively), systolic blood pressure (129.00 [19.23] vs 126.67 [23.79] mm Hg), and diastolic blood pressure (75.80 [11.26] vs 74.96 [8.30] mm Hg) were statistically similar before and after the infusion. The mean (SD) end-diastolic volume was statistically similar to the preinfusion value (215.87 [76.74] vs 211.08 [65.51] mL); however, the mean (SD) end-systolic volume was significantly reduced (163.80 [63.86] vs 146.74 [53.12] mL; P = 0.01). Mean (SD) EF (25.33% [7.77%] vs 30.45% [7.63%]; P = 0.001) and stroke volume (SV) (54.92 [22.30] vs 63.59 [23.91] mL; P = 0.04) increased significantly. The mean (SD) early:late diastolic flow velocity (E/A ratio) (1.58 [1.36] vs 1.65 [1.27]), IRT (107.03 [35.37] vs 100.42 [34.32] ms), ICT (96.61 [34.27] vs 86.35 [44.80] ms), ET (240.65 [33.28] vs 243.48 [33.54] ms), and MPI (0.81% [0.28%] vs 0.78% [0.31%]) did not change significantly after dobutamine infusion. No AEs were observed.

Conclusions:

In this study of adult patients with symptomatic CHF, a single, 24-hour, low-dose, IV dobutamine infusion (2.5 μg/kg · min) was associated with decreased LV end-systolic volume and increased SV and EF However, LV diastolic function parameters, isovolumic time intervals, ET, and MPI were statistically similar to preinfusion values. The infusion was well tolerated.     

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein as a predictor of atrial fibrillation recurrence after primary circumferential pulmonary vein isolation

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after circumferential pulmonary vein isolation (CPVI) is difficult to predict. Inflammation is associated with the development of AF. Inflammatory markers, such as high sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), are related to AF development via atrial remodeling. However, it is unknown whether plasma hsCRP concentration before CPVI can be used as a predictor for AF recurrence. Methods: A total of 121 patients without structural heart disease who underwent primary CPVI by a single operator were included in the study (paroxysmal/persistent AF: 77/44). Left atrial diameter was measured by transesophageal echocardiography. Plasma hsCRP concentration was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Based on the follow‐up outcomes, patients were divided into two groups, a recurrence group and a nonrecurrence group. AF recurrence was defined as AF or atrial flutter or atrial tachycardia episodes lasting for ≥30 s during regular follow‐up (>12 months). Results: A total of 36 (29.8%) patients (paroxysmal/persistent AF: 19 [24.7%]/17 [38.6%]) had AF recurrence in a mean 23 (range, 12–44) month follow‐up period. The plasma hsCRP concentration in the recurrence group was significantly higher than that in the nonrecurrence group for all patients (median [quartile range] 2.22 [1.97] mg/L vs 0.89 [1.30] mg/L, P < 0.001), for patients with paroxysmal AF (2.12 [2.78] mg/L vs 0.84 [1.15] mg/L, P = 0.028), and for those with persistent AF (2.29 [1.08] mg/L vs 0.89 [1.53] mg/L, P = 0.005). Multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the higher level of the plasma hsCRP (P < 0.001) was a significant prognostic predictor of AF recurrence, both for patients with paroxysmal AF (P = 0.012) and those with persistent AF (P = 0.003). Conclusion: Plasma hsCRP concentration before CPVI was associated with AF recurrence after primary CPVI procedure for both paroxysmal and persistent AF patients. Plasma hsCRP concentration could play a role in prediction of AF recurrence after primary CPVI. (PACE 2011; 34:398–406)     

Macrovascular Thrombotic Events in a Mayo Clinic Enterprise-Wide Sample of Hospitalized COVID-19–Positive Compared With COVID-19–Negative Patients

ObjectiveTo determine the difference in the rate of thromboembolic complications between hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)–positive compared with COVID-19–negative patients.Patients and MethodsAdult patients hospitalized from January 1, 2020, through May 8, 2020, who had COVID-19 testing by polymerase chain reaction assay were identified through electronic health records across multiple hospitals in the Mayo Clinic enterprise. Thrombotic outcomes (venous and arterial) were identified from the hospital problem list.ResultsWe identified 3790 hospitalized patients with COVID-19 testing across 19 hospitals, 102 of whom had positive test results. The median age was lower in the COVID-positive patients (62 vs 67 years; P=.03). The median duration of hospitalization was longer in COVID-positive patients (8.5 vs 4 days; P<.001) and more required intensive care unit care (56.9% [58 of 102] vs 26.8% [987 of 3688]; P<.001). Comorbidities, including atrial fibrillation/flutter, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and malignancy, were observed less frequently with COVID-positive admissions. Any venous thromboembolism was identified in 2.9% of COVID-positive patients (3 of 102) and 4.6% of COVID-negative patients (168 of 3688). The frequency of venous and arterial events was not different between the groups. The unadjusted odds ratio (OR) for COVID-positive–patients for any venous thromboembolism was 0.63 (95% CI, 0.19 to 2.02). A multivariable logistic regression model evaluated death within 30 days of hospital discharge; neither COVID positivity (adjusted OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 0.54 to 2.34) nor thromboembolism (adjusted OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.60 to 1.32) was associated with death.ConclusionEarly experience in patients with COVID-19 across multiple academic and regional hospitals representing different US regions demonstrates a lower than previously reported incidence of thrombotic events. This incidence was not higher than a contemporary COVID-negative hospitalized comparator.     

心房颤动对慢性心力衰竭伴左室射血分数≥0.50患者预后的临床研究

目的 探讨左室射血分数(LVEF)≥0.50的住院慢性心力衰竭(心衰)患者中心房颤动(房颤)的发生和分布类型,及房颤对此类心衰预后的影响.方法 调查患者417例次,按LVEF＜0.50与≥0.50分为两组,根据患者入院前是否有房颤病史分为阵发性房颤、持续性房颤及入院后新发房颤.随后观察并记录严重恶性事件发生情况及因慢性心衰而再人院次数及每两次住院的间隔时间.结果 LVEF＜0.50的慢性心衰更多见于男性,一年内心肌梗死的发病率较LVEF≥0.50者高[15.6%(34/218)比8.0%(16/199),P<0.01],且房颤使得患者脑卒中发生率较不伴房颤者明显增高(24.3%(27/111)比8.4%(9/107),P＜0.05),急性冠脉综合征、心血管死亡事件例数及死亡数也高于不伴房颤者;在LVEF≥0.50的慢性心衰患者中新发房颤数量较LVEF＜0.50者明显增多(51比30,P＜0.05),房颤可见伴发在近2/3的患者中,且再入院次数较不伴房颤者增加[(2.78±1.79)次比(2.00±1.35)次,P＜0.01],前两次入院间隔时间亦较不伴房颤者缩短[(117±107)d比(154±130)d,P＜0.05].结论 房颤更易发生在LVEF≥0.50的慢性心衰患者,导致更短的再入院间隔,强调治疗和管理这类房颤的重要性.     

Effect of rosuvastatin on concentrations of plasma lipids, urine and plasma oxidative stress markers, and plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in hypercholesterolemic patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus: A 12-week, open-label, pilot study

Background: Oxidative stress and inflammation of the arterial wall are now recognized as important factors in the progression of atherosclerosis. C-reactive protein (CRP) has been defined as a sensitive but not specific marker of inflammation. Statin therapy has been reported to decrease plasma high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) concentration in hypercholesterolemic patients.Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of rosuvastatin on concentrations of plasma lipids, urine and plasma oxidative stress markers, and plasma hs-CRP in hypercholesterolemic patients with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus.Methods: Patients with hypercholesterolemia with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus were enrolled in this pilot study after written informed consent was given. At baseline and after 12 weeks of open-label treatment with rosuvastatin 2.5 mg/d, concentrations of plasma lipids, urine and plasma oxidative stress markers, and plasma hs-CRP were measured. Urine 8-iso-prostaglandin F_2α (8-iso-PGF_2α) and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) concentrations were also measured to asess whole-body oxidative stress. Plasma free-radical generation was estimated using a total reactive oxygen species (TROS) assay system. Adverse effects were assessed at each study visit (4-week intervals) through patient interviews and laboratory testing.Results: Thirty-five patients were enrolled with 1 dropping out prior to study completion; therefore, 34 patients (19 women, 15 men; mean [SE] age, 55.4 [13.6] years; range, 30–78 years) completed the study. Compared with baseline, significant decreases were found in serum concentrations of total cholesterol (TC) (252.3 [39.3] vs 187.8 [30.1] mg/dL; P < 0.001; Δ = 24.5%), LDL-C (162.0 [44.3] vs 98.5 [31.9] mg/dL; P < 0.001; Δ = 38.7%), and triglycerides (TG) (157.2 [93.6] vs 124.4 [69.9] mg/dL; P < 0.05; Δ = 11.7%) after 12 weeks of treatment with rosuvastatin. Serum HDL-C concentration did not change significantly from baseline (59.7 [20.5] vs 63.7 [19.3] mg/dL; Δ = 9.4%). The plasma LDL-C/HDL-C ratio decreased significantly after rosuvastatin treatment (3.03 [1.33] vs 1.72 [0.83]; P < 0.001; Δ = 43.2%). Compared with baseline, significant decreases were observed in urine concentrations of the oxidative stress markers after 12 weeks of rosuvastatin treatment: 8-iso-PGF_2α (342.8 [154.3] vs 300.6 [101.2] pg/mg; P < 0.05) and 8-OHdG (11.1 [4.53] vs 8.1 [2.7] ng/mg; P < 0.01). TROS decreased significantly (182.3 [29.0] vs 157.6 [17.3] U; P < 0.001), and plasma hs-CRP concentration also decreased significantly (0.107 [0.100] vs 0.054 [0.033] mg/dL; P < 0.05). When the patients' results were assessed according to the presence or absence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, urine 8-iso-PGF_2α concentration was significantly decreased from baseline only in the nondiabetic group. No adverse events were reported or observed during the course of the study.Conclusion: Rosuvastatin treatment was associated with significant reductions in plasma concentrations of TC, LDL-C, and TG, urine and plasma oxidative stress markers, and plasma hs-CRP in these hypercholesterolemic patients.     

Cilazapril Treatment in a Cohort of Seven Patients with Congestive Heart Failure: A Seven-Year Follow-Up Study

Background: Although angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) have been shown to prolong life in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), the prognosis of these patients remains poor.Objective: The purpose of the study was to reevaluate a cohort of patients with CHF after 7 years of follow-up with cilazapril therapy to assess the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), anatomic and functional capacity of the heart, and aldosterone escape.Methods: Surviving patients from a cohort hospitalized for CHF between January 1994 and December 1994 who were treated with cilazapril in our center were included in this study. Exercise testing was carried out using the Kattus protocol, and breath-by-breath oxygen analysis, echocardiography, and hormonal analysis were done.Results: Seven patients (5 men, 2 women; mean [SD] age, 70.6 [4.4]) were included in the study. Compared with the early effects (at 15 days) of cilazapril therapy, only mean (SD) peak exercise time decreased significantly at the 7-year follow-up (8.9 [2.4] minutes vs 5.1 [1.9] minutes; P = 0.02). Mean (SD) anaerobic threshold (AT) oxygen consumption and AT ratio increased slightly from 15 days, although these changes were not statistically significant (12.86 [3.5] mL/kg·min vs 13.57 [2.6] mL/kg·min; 70.3% [7.7%] vs 78.9% [9.8%], respectively). Compared with the early effect of therapy, patients had slightly lower mean (SD) ejection fractions (EFs), but the decrease did not reach statistical significance (52% [4%] vs 48% [4%]). Aldosterone levels were within normal limits in all patients, and 2 patients had increased RAS activity.Conclusions: In this study, the observed lack of aldosterone escape, as well as patient survival during ACEI therapy, may be due to selection bias of the surviving patients, who had better EFs and lack of aldosterone escape. Therefore, the remaining issue seems to be the selection of patients who will not show aldosterone escape during chronic ACEI treatment.     

Impact of atrial fibrillation on levels of high-sensitivity troponin I in a 75-year-old population

Abstract

Purpose. Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been associated with elevated levels of cardiac troponins; however, it is not clear if this association is independent of underlying cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of AF on cardiac troponin I levels in a 75-year-old cohort from the general population, using a recently introduced, highly sensitive assay. Methods. All 75-year-old citizens in Asker and Baerum counties were invited to participate in a prevalence study of AF. High-sensitive troponin I (hs-TnI) levels were measured (Abbott Diagnostics) in serum samples collected from 62 subjects with AF and a gender-matched control group of 126 subjects in sinus rhythm. Results. Hs-TnI was detectable in all subjects (median 7.3 ng/L [range 3.0–88.7]). Patients with AF had higher levels than subjects in sinus rhythm (8.3 ng/L [3.7–88.7] vs. 6.8 ng/L [3.0–77.5]; p = 0.011). Male gender (p = 0.002), hypertension (p = 0.001), coronary heart disease (p < 0.001), heart failure (p < 0.001), prior stroke or transient ischemic attack (p = 0.013) and serum creatinine (p < 0.001) were all associated with higher levels of hs-TnI in univariate analysis. Heart failure and coronary heart disease remained significantly associated with hs-TnI in multivariate analysis, whereas the relation between AF and hs-TnI was no longer statistically significant. Conclusion. All subjects had detectable levels of hs-TnI. AF patients had higher hs-TnI levels than subjects in sinus rhythm; however, this difference was not statistically significant after adjustment for heart failure and coronary heart disease.     

Mild traumatic brain injury affects the features of migraine

BackgroundHeadache is one of the most common symptoms after concussion, and mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a risk factor for chronic migraine (CM). However, there remains a paucity of data regarding the impact of mTBI on migraine-related symptoms and clinical course.MethodsOf 2161 migraine patients who participated in the American Registry for Migraine Research between February 2016 and March 2020, 1098 completed questions assessing history of TBI (50.8%). Forty-four patients reported a history of moderate to severe TBI, 413 patients reported a history of mTBI. Patients’ demographics, headache symptoms and triggers, history of physical abuse, allodynia symptoms (ASC-12), migraine disability (MIDAS), depression (PHQ-2), and anxiety (GAD-7) were compared between migraine groups with (n = 413) and without (n = 641) a history of mTBI. Either the chi-square-test or Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate, was used for the analyses of categorical variables. The Mann-Whitney test was used for the analyses of continuous variables. Logistic regression models were used to compare variables of interest while adjusting for age, gender, and CM.ResultsA significantly higher proportion of patients with mTBI had CM (74.3% [307/413] vs. 65.8% [422/641], P = 0.004), had never been married or were divorced (36.6% [147/402] vs. 29.4% [187/636], P = 0.007), self-reported a history of physical abuse (24.3% [84/345] vs. 14.3% [70/491], P <  0.001), had mild to severe anxiety (50.5% [205/406] vs. 41.0% [258/630], P = 0.003), had headache-related vertigo (23.0% [95/413] vs. 15.9% [102/640], P = 0.009), and difficulty finding words (43.0% [174/405] vs. 32.9% [208/633], P <  0.001) in more than half their attacks, and headaches triggered by lack of sleep (39.4% [155/393] vs. 32.6% [198/607], P = 0.018) and reading (6.6% [26/393] vs. 3.0% [18/607], P = 0.016), compared to patients without mTBI. Patients with mTBI had significantly greater ASC-12 scores (median [interquartile range]; 5 [1–9] vs. 4 [1–7], P < 0.001), MIDAS scores (42 [18–85] vs. 34.5 [15–72], P = 0.034), and PHQ-2 scores (1 [0–2] vs. 1 [0–2], P = 0.012).ConclusionPatients with a history of mTBI are more likely to have a self-reported a history of physical abuse, vertigo, and allodynia during headache attacks, headaches triggered by lack of sleep and reading, greater headache burden and headache disability, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. This study suggests that a history of mTBI is associated with the phenotype, burden, clinical course, and associated comorbid diseases in patients with migraine, and highlights the importance of inquiring about a lifetime history of mTBI in patients being evaluated for migraine.     

Association between hospital post-resuscitative performance and clinical outcomes after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

BackgroundSurvival varies among those resuscitated from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Evidence-based performance measures have been used to describe hospital quality of care in conditions such as acute coronary syndrome and major trauma. It remains unclear if adherence to performance measures is associated with better outcome in patients hospitalized after OHCA.ObjectivesTo assess whether a composite performance score based on evidence-based guidelines for care of patients resuscitated from OHCA was independently associated with clinical outcomes.MethodsIncluded were 3252 patients with OHCA who received care at 111 U.S. and Canadian hospitals participating in the Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (ROC-PRIMED) study between June 2007 and October 2009. We calculated composite performance scores for all patients, aggregated these at the hospital level, then associated them with patient mortality and favorable neurological status at discharge.ResultsComposite performance scores varied widely (median [IQR] scores from lowest to highest hospital quartiles, 21% [20%, 25%] vs. 59% [55%, 64%]. Adjusted survival to discharge increased with each quartile of performance score (from lowest to highest: 16.2%, 20.8%, 28.5%, 34.8%, P < 0.01), with similar findings for adjusted rates of good neurologic status. Hospital score was significantly associated with outcome after risk adjustment for established baseline factors (highest vs. lowest adherence quartile: adjusted OR of survival 1.64; 95% CI 1.13, 2.38).ConclusionsGreater survival and favorable neurologic status at discharge were associated with greater adherence to recommended hospital based post-resuscitative care guidelines. Consideration should be given to measuring, reporting and improving hospital adherence to guideline-based performance measures, which could improve outcomes following OHCA.     

The Impact of Prehospital Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on the Rate of Intubation and Mortality from Acute Out-of-hospital Respiratory Emergencies

Abstract

Background. Previous studies have demonstrated decreased rates of intubation and mortality with prehospital use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). We sought to validate these findings in a larger observational study. Methods. We conducted a before and after observational study of consecutive patients transported by emergency medical services (EMS) during the 12 months before and the 12 months following implementation of a prehospital CPAP protocol for acute respiratory distress. Included were all patients transported by EMS meeting preestablished criteria indicative of acute respiratory distress and CPAP use (patient's problem specified as cardiac, respiratory distress, respiratory disease, or congestive heart failure [CHF]; age ≥ 12 years; chest sounds documented as wheezes or rales; Glascow Coma Scale [GCS] ≥ 11; respiratory rate ≥ 24 breaths per minute; systolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg; and oxygen saturation < 90%). Data were abstracted from ambulance call reports (ACRs) and hospital records. All cases in which “do not resuscitate” (DNR) was documented on the patient chart or ACR or whose in-hospital outcome (death or discharge) was unknown were excluded. Results. In all, 442 patients met the above criteria. The mean (SD) age was 73.0 (13.9) years, and 51.5% were women. In-hospital mortality rates did not differ for these patients: 17/228 (7.5%) in the before group and 17/214 (7.9%) in the after group (p = 0.85). In-hospital intubation rates were similar for both groups (12.7 vs. 14.5%, p = 0.59). An analysis of the subgroup that had a hospital diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), CHF, or pulmonary edema (n = 273) showed mortality was somewhat lower in the before group (3/138, 2.2%) than in the after group (8/135, 5.9%) (p = 0.13). In-hospital intubation rates were also similar for both groups in this subgroup analysis (11.6 vs. 9.6%, p = 0.61). Conclusion. In contrast to previous studies, we were unable to demonstrate a decrease in intubation or mortality related to the use of prehospital CPAP. Our findings may be specific to our EMS system but suggest that further large-scale, randomized, controlled trials may be warranted to firmly establish the benefit of prehospital CPAP.     

Risk of cardiac arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in patients with acute myocardial infarction receiving packed red blood cell transfusions

Purpose

Although transfusion has been linked to the development of atrial fibrillation (AF) in cardiac surgical patients, this association has not been investigated in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Evidence supports an inflammatory mechanism in the development of AF, and red cell transfusions also elicit an inflammatory response. We therefore sought to evaluate whether packed red blood cell transfusion increases the risk of AF, ventricular tachycardia (VT), and other arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in patients with AMI.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective study on patients with AMI and no prior history of AF, admitted to a critical care area and entered in Project Impact database from 08/2003-12/2007. Primary outcome measures were new-onset cardiac arrhythmias or conduction disturbances.

Results

Transfused patients had significantly higher incidences of AF (4.7% vs 1.3%, P = .008), cardiac arrest (9.5% vs 1.7%, P < .001) and heart block (3.4% vs 0.1%, P < .001), and a trend toward a higher incidence of VT (3.4% vs 1.3%, P = .058). Multivariate regression analysis confirmed transfusion as an independent risk factor for “non-lethal” cardiac events (AF/heart block; odds ratio [OR], 4.7 [1.9-11.9]; P = .001), “lethal” events (VT/cardiac arrest; OR, 2.4 [1.1-5]; P = .016), and all cardiac events (OR, 2.8 [1.5-65.1]; P = .001). Transfused patients had significantly longer length of stay (P < .0001) and significantly higher mortality rates than nontransfused patients (OR, 3 [1.7-5.5]; P < .001).

Conclusions

Packed red blood cell transfusion is independently associated with an increased risk of new-onset cardiac arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities in the setting of AMI, even after controlling for traditional risk factors.     

Predictors of return visits to the emergency department among different age groups of older adults

ObjectiveTo identify predictors of 30-day emergency department (ED) return visits in patients age 65–79 years and age ≥ 80 years.MethodsThis was a cohort study of older adults who presented to the ED over a 1-year period. A mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to identify predictors for returning to the ED within 30 days. We stratified the cohort into those aged 65–79 years and aged ≥80 years. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. This study adhered to the STROBE reporting guidelines.ResultsA total of 21,460 ED visits representing 14,528 unique patients were included. The overall return rate was 15% (1998/13,300 visits) for age 65–79 years, and 16% (1306/8160 visits) for age ≥ 80 years. A history of congestive heart failure (CHF), dementia, or prior hospitalization within 2 years were associated with increased odds of returning in both age groups (for age 65–79: CHF aOR 1.36 [CI 1.16–1.59], dementia aOR 1.27 [CI 1.07–1.49], prior hospitalization aOR 1.36 [CI 1.19–1.56]; for age ≥ 80: CHF aOR 1.32 [CI 1.13–1.55], dementia aOR 1.22 [CI 1.04–1.42], and prior hospitalization aOR 1.27 [CI 1.09–1.47]). Being admitted from the ED was associated with decreased odds of returning to the ED within 30 days (aOR 0.72 [CI 0.64–0.80] for age 65–79 years and 0.72 [CI 0.63–0.82] for age ≥ 80).ConclusionAge alone was not an independent predictor of return visits. Prior hospitalization, dementia and CHF were predictors of 30-day ED return. The identification of predictors of return visits may help to optimize care transition in the ED.