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Abebe Nega Zelelew,1 Demeke Lakew Workie2 1Department of Statistics, CNS, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia; 2Department of Statistics, CNS, BahirDar University, BahirDar, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Abebe Nega Zelelew, Email abebe017n@yahoo.comIntroduction: Hypertension is also referred to as a silent killer and a leading factor for cardiovascular disease complication in the world today. This study aimed to identify the factors that affect longitudinal outcomes and survival time for cardiovascular disease complications among patients with hypertension.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted among a randomly selected sample of 178 outpatients with hypertension at the Debre Tabor Specialized Hospital between September 2017 and December 2019. Three different models were used to analyze the data: the bivariate mixed-effects model, Cox proportional hazard model, and bivariate joint model for longitudinal and survival sub-models linked by shared random effects.Results: Bivariate mixed-effects and Cox proportional hazards survival sub-models were jointly preferred based on the minimum Akaike Information Criterion value. The estimated values of the association parameters were 0.0655 (p = 0.0270) and 0.963 (p = 0.0387), indicating that the association between systolic and diastolic blood pressure with time to event was guaranteed. The joint bivariate mixed-effects model analysis showed that patients with hypertension with a family history of hypertension and clinical stage II hypertension have a high chance of developing cardiovascular disease complications and have high average systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to their counterparts. Patients with hypertension and diabetes have higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure than their counterparts.Conclusion: Generally, systolic and diastolic blood pressure stabilized over the follow-up period of treatment, while sex and residence were statistically insignificant to the survival time of cardiovascular di

Bizuayehu Ashine Lakew, Daniel M Bekele, Wudma Alemu Kassa, Boka Dugassa Tolera School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Boka Dugassa Tolera, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, Tel +251-913-132-398, Email boka.dugassa@aau.edu.etBackground: Acute Coronary Syndrome is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developing nations including Ethiopia. As frontline healthcare providers, nurses need to be prudent in handling cases of acute coronary syndrome. However, nurses’ knowledge and practice of acute coronary syndrome are not well-known across Ethiopia. Thus, this study aimed to assess knowledge, practice, and associated factors regarding the care of acute coronary syndrome among acute care nurses working at selected hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.Methods: Institution-based descriptive cross-sectional study design was conducted from February to March among 252 purposively selected nurses working in tertiary hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A pretested and structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were entered into Epi-Data 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to describe and test the association between selected variables. P-values < 0.05 were declared as significant factors for the outcome variable.Results: Out of 252 nurses, (52%) had good knowledge, and (44.4%) had good practice towards care of Acute Coronary Syndrome. Being a master’s degree [AOR=3.801, (95% CI:1.314– 10.996), P =0.014] and having guidelines [AOR= 10.998, (95% CI:2.478– 48.805), P =0.002] were significantly associated with nurse’s good knowledge of ACS. While having a master’s degree [AOR=4.258, (95% CI:1.676– 10.820), P=0.002] and getting in-service training [AOR= 1.902, (95% CI:1.022– 3.539), P = 0.042] were significantly associated with nurse’s good le

M Patrick Witvliet,1,2 E Karin Arkenbout,3 Pieter W Kamphuisen1,4 1Department of Internal Medicine, Tergooi Medical Center, Hilversum, the Netherlands; 2Department of General Practice, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; 3Department of Cardiology, Tergooi Medical Center, Hilversum, the Netherlands; 4Department of Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the NetherlandsCorrespondence: M Patrick Witvliet, Department of Internal Medicine, Tergooi Medical Center, Laan van Tergooi 2, 1212 VG, Hilversum, the Netherlands, Tel +31 205664271, Email m.p.witvliet@amsterdamumc.nlBackground: The coronary artery calcium (CAC) score can be used to increase (CAC score > 0) or decrease (CAC score = 0) the likelihood of coronary artery disease (CAD). We compared the CAC score with the pre-test probability (PTP) for CAD (low, intermediate, and high). Furthermore, we compared the CAC score with exercise electrocardiography (ECG) and compared both tests with coronary angiography.Methods and Results: We retrospectively identified patients with angina and/or dyspnea for whom CAC score was used to increase or decrease the likelihood of CAD. Of 882 patients, majority had low (45%) or intermediate (44%) PTP. Patients with higher PTP had significantly higher CAC scores (Cramer’s V = 0.29, p < 0.0001). Most patients (57%) had a CAC score of zero, especially those with low (73%) and intermediate (49%) PTP. However, 20% of patients with high PTP had CAC score of zero. Higher CAC scores were observed in patients with abnormal exercise ECG, but association was weak and not significant (Cramer’s V = 0.13, p = 0.08). Moreover, more than 40% of patients with an abnormal exercise ECG had CAC score of zero. Higher CAC scores were associated with more severe abnormalities on coronary angiography (Cramer’s V = 0.43, p < 0.0001), whereas there was no association between results of exercise ECG and coronary angiogra

Aan Nuraeni,1 Firman Sugiharto,2 Anastasia Anna,1 Eka Sari,3 Ristina Mirwanti,1 Yanny Trisyani,1 Etika Emaliyawati1 1Department of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia; 2Master Program, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia; 3Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, West Java, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Aan Nuraeni, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Ir. Soekarno KM. 21, Hegarmanah, Jatinangor, Sumedang, Bandung, West Java, 45363, Indonesia, Tel +62 85624217606, Fax +62 2287793411, Email aan.nuraeni@unpad.ac.idBackground: Low self-efficacy (SE) can impact decreasing health status, poor self-care, and quality of life among patients with Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). Many factors can affect SE. However, studies on SE in CHD patients with Rasch Model analysis have not been carried out widely.Purpose: This study aims to identify the SE in self-care and its related factors that correlate SE among CHD patients.Patients and Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted on 104 adult patients (≥ 18 years) diagnosed with CHD. Selection of the sample using convenience sampling technique with several predetermined criteria. SE was measured using the SEQ-CHDM questionnaire, with high validity and reliability results. Data were analyzed using the Rasch model and chi-square test.Results: The results showed that most respondents had a moderate SE (51.5%). Care units (p=0.003) and duration of illness (p=0.049) were significantly correlated to SE among patients with CHD. “Maintaining an ideal body weight” is the most challenging thing. On the other hand, stop smoking is the most confident thing to be performed by the respondents.Conclusion: We conclude that CHD patients in the acute care unit and patients with a duration of illness > 6 months have a lower tendency for SE. Health interventions such

Fang Wen,1,&ast; Shantong Jiang,1– 4,&ast; Ping Yuan,1– 5,&ast; Jinbo Liu,1– 4 Xiu Bai,1 Hongwei Zhao,1– 4,6,7 Xin Chen,1– 4,7 Yan-Bing Gong,5 Roland Asmar,8 Hongyu Wang1– 4,6,7 1Department of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 2Vascular Health Research Center of Peking University Health Science Center (VHRC-PKUHSC), Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 3Beijing Shijingshan District Key Clinical Specialty of Vascular Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 4Heart and Vascular Health Research Center of Peking University Clinical Research Institute (HVHRC-PUCRI), Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 5Department of Scientific Research, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 6State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, (Peking University), Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 7Heart and Vascular Health Research Center of Chengdu Medical College (HVHRC-CMC), Chengdu, People’s Republic of China; 8Foundation-Medical Research Institutes, Beirut, Lebanon&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Hongyu Wang, Department of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, 100144, People’s Republic of China, Email dr.hongyuwang@foxmail.comAbstract: Cardiovascular disease(CVD) has become a major disease burden affecting people’s health in China. Blood vessels are very important for human health and are the “sentinel” for the development of many cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The key to effectively preventing fatal, disabling heart, brain and peripheral vascular events lies in controlling traditional and non-traditional risk factors for vascular health from the source, and early assessment and intervention of early vascular lesions. Since 2004, China government promoted the early detection technology of vascular lesions and vascular medicine, and proposed the Bei

Patricio Lopez-Jaramillo, Jose P Lopez-Lopez Masira Research Institute, Medical School, Universidad de Santander, Bucaramanga, ColombiaCorrespondence: Patricio Lopez-Jaramillo, Email jplopezj@gmail.com

Maria Teresa Cacua Sanchez,1 Lina M Vargas Abello,2 Álvaro Orrego,3 Paola Ortiz,4 Héctor Segura,5 Jhon Jairo Berrio Caicedo,6 Luz Marina Zuluaga,7 José Ordoñez,8 José Ignacio Fernández Montequin,9 Jorge Ulloa10 1Ambulatory Surgery Center, Kennedy Hospital, Vascular Laboratory SURA, Bogotá, Colombia; 2Lumina Vein & Aesthetic Institute, Windermere, FL, USA; 3Laser & Veins Clinic, Viña del Mar, Chile; 4Uruguay Vein Center, Universidad de la República Oriental de Uruguay, Montevideo, Uruguay; 5Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Department, Hospital Español, Mexico City, Mexico; 6Universidad Del Valle, San José de Buga Hospital Foundation, Buga, Colombia; 7San Juan de Dios Hospital, Cartago Valle, Colombia; 8Department of Vascular Surgery, Fundación Santa Fe, Bogotá, Colombia; 9National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery, Havana, Cuba; 10Department of Vascular Surgery, Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Universidad de los Andes, Bogota, ColombiaCorrespondence: Maria Teresa Cacua Sanchez, Email mcacua@gmail.comAbstract: Venous Ulcers (VU) represent 60– 80% of all leg ulcers and are the final stage of the disease secondary to venous hypertension or valve insufficiency. Conventional treatment that focuses on its etiological factors continues to be the gold standard; however, 30% of ulcers do not heal with this treatment; thus, it has been seen that the use of growth factor can be used as an adjuvant for this pathology. A literature review was carried out to evaluate the evidence from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case studies, and quantitative studies that respond to the objective of this analysis review in the different databases with specific inclusion criteria with publications between 2002 and 2022, initially finding the topical application of the factor and later, more recently, the intralesional and perilesional application, the latter being an alternative treatment for this type of pathology and generating some recommendations for usi

Si Dung Chu,1,2 Minh Thi Tran2 1Haiphong - Vinhbao International General Hospital, Hai Phong City, Vietnam; 2Internal Medicine Department, Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine, Hanoi Capital, VietnamCorrespondence: Si Dung Chu, Department of Internal Medicine, Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine, Hanoi, Vietnam, Tel +84 906086168, Email sichu.bvbachmai@gmail.comObjective: Study on effect of risk factors on over-anticoagulation in patients taking anticoagulant drugs with VKAs (vitamin K antagonists).Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive, prospective research. Study on 79 patients taking anticoagulant drugs with VKAs who had an INR (International Normalized Ratio) index of more than indicated anticoagulation dose with VKAs therapy.Results: A total of 79 patients, mean age 65.65 ± 12.17 years [33:85], the elderly group is common (73.4%). Patients had hemorrhage disorders account for 22.8%. The INR index had an average value was 5.88 ± 3.0 [3.02– 23.95]; The INR> 5 level group is a higher risk of bleeding than the INR ≤ 5 level group, it’s the statistical significance (p < 0.001). The risk factors such as drugs to treat dyslipidemia, hyperthyroid, amiodarone, beta blocker, prednisone, NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory), BMI (Body Mass Index), smoke and alcohol that the risk factors of increasing of bleeding when receiving anticoagulants but it’s not statistically significant yet (OR > 1, p > 0.05); These patients using coenzyme Q10 and green vegetable nutrition such as cruciferous vegetables (Brassicaceae, Asteraceae) are quite common (31.6% and 35.4%), its effect on coagulation with vitamin K and cause of the increased in risk of bleeding was statistical significantly with OR = 5.28 (CI: 1.72– 16.17, p < 0.01), and OR = 2.99 (CI: 1.01– 8.80, p < 0.05) respectively.Conclusion: Most patients in over-anticoagulation were the elderly group. Patients had hemorrhage disorders account for 22.8%. The INR> 5 level group was a

Yassin Abdelrahim Abdalla,1 Arwa Mustafa Kamil,2 Samya Abbas Abdelrazig Mohamed,3 Ahmed Hashim Ahmed Mohamed,4 Eman Khalifa,5 Mohamed Hamid Abdelsalam Mohamed,2 Eilaf Eltayeb Abdalla Abdelgadir,6 Muawiya Dabora,7 Mohammed Salah Eldin Mohammed Elshikh Awoda8 1Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Omdurman Islamic University, Khartoum, Sudan; 2MBBS, Alzaiem Alazhari University, Khartoum, Sudan; 3MBBS, Al Gezira University, Wadmedani, Sudan; 4MBBS, National Ribat University, Khartoum, Sudan; 5MBBS, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan; 6MBBS, Alneelain University, Khartoum, Sudan; 7Department of Surgery, Alshuhada Teaching Hospital, Khrtoum, Sudan; 8Surgery Department, National Ribat University, Khartoum, SudanCorrespondence: Yassin Abdelrahim Abdalla, Email yasinabdo96@gmail.comBackground: Hospital-acquired thrombosis (HAT) is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and financial burden globally. Following trusted guidelines for VTE prevention has shown effective, safe, and satisfactory results. This prompts national collaborative efforts to maintain a consensus approach for the safe risk assessment of inpatients and the prescription of thromboprophylaxis.Objective: This study aimed to detect and estimate deviations from international thromboprophylaxis protocols. The study also aimed to raise the quality of practice and adherence to evidence-based protocols in Alshuhada Teaching Hospital.Methods: A cross-sectional audit of general surgical inpatients was performed from October 2021 to May 2022. The first cycle was from 1/10/2021 to 21/10/2021, and the second cycle was from 13/5/2022 to 31/5/2022. The target population was adults aged > 18 years. Data were collected via an online checklist on two separate occasions. The criteria were based on the NICE guideline for venous thromboembolism in individuals aged over 16 years: “Reducing the risk of hospital-acquired deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism NG89”.Results

Firman Sugiharto,1 Aan Nuraeni,2 Yanny Trisyani,2 Azalia Melati Putri,1 Nuraulia Aghnia Armansyah1 1Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Jawa Barat, Indonesia; 2Department of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Jawa Barat, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Firman Sugiharto, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Ir. Soekarno KM. 21, Hegarmanah, Jatinangor, Sumedang, West Java, 45363, Indonesia, Tel +6282218235600, Fax +6282287793411, Email firman17001@mail.unpad.ac.idAbstract: Patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) experience many barriers to participate in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs. Several studies identify barriers that can affect participation in CR among patients with CHD after reperfusion therapy. However, there has yet to be a review specifically in this population. This review aims to identify the literature systematically that analyzes the barriers that affect the participation of CHD patients after reperfusion therapy in implementing the CR program. This study used the Preferred Reporting Item for PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) with databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, EBSCO-hosted Academic Search Complete, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and Sage Journals. The keywords used in English were “coronary artery disease OR myocardial infarction OR cardiovascular disease OR heart disease” AND “Barrier OR obstacle”, AND “percutaneous coronary intervention OR PCI OR angioplasty OR coronary artery bypass graft surgery OR CABG” AND “cardiac rehabilitation OR rehabilitation OR recovery”. The inclusion criteria in this review were full-text articles in English, articles with a descriptive, cross-sectional, and cohort design with a minimum of 100 participants that discussed barriers to participation in patients with CHD after undergoing reperfusion therapy, and the CR phases such as I, II, III, and IV have also been identified. Based on the initi

Ling-Ling Zhu,1 Quan Zhou2 1Geriatric VIP Ward, Division of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Quan Zhou, Department of Pharmacy, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, 310009, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-571-8778-4615, Email zhouquan142602@zju.edu.cn

Gulnara Junusbekova,1 Meiramgul Tundybayeva,1 Nazgul Akhtaeva,2 Lyazzat Kosherbayeva3,4 1Cardiology Department, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan; 2Biostatistics and Fundamentals of Scientific Research, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan; 3Health Policy and Management department, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty, Kazakhstan; 4ALimRE (Advancing Learning Through the Innovation Methods in Research and Education), Almaty oblast, KazakhstanCorrespondence: Lyazzat Kosherbayeva; Meiramgul Tundybayeva, Email kosherbaeva.l@kaznmu.kz; miratundybayeva@gmail.comIntroduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality in Kazakhstan. In the last decade, Kazakhstan has carried out a number of reforms in the healthcare sector, in particular, to reduce mortality from significant diseases, including CVD. This study aimed to provide the trend of avoidable mortality from CVD in Kazakhstan.Methods: We extracted data from the Bureau of National Statistics of the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan on population by age; mortality rates from chronic rheumatic heart disease (I05-I09); hypertensive diseases (I10-I15); ischaemic heart disease (I20-I25); cerebrovascular diseases (I60-I69) from 2011 to 2021, by gender and 5-year age group (0, 1– 4, 5– 9, 74). We applied join point regression to calculate the average annual percentage change (AAPC). In addition, crude mortality and trends were calculated per 100,000 population.Results: The avoidable mortality rates, including treatable and preventable mortality decreased between 2011 and 2019 and then increased in the last two years (2020 and 2021) in all four studied disease groups. The AAPC showed that total avoidable mortality rates decreased between 2011 and 2021– 6.0 points (− 10.6 to – 1.1) (p = 0.017), whereas in males − 4.2 (&min

Muhannad Ababneh,1 Abdullah Al-Kasasbeh,1 Emad Algorani2 1Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan; 2Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, JordanCorrespondence: Muhannad Ababneh, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan, Tel +9622 799964654, Email mjababneh@just.edu.joBackground: The use of anticoagulation is mandatory for prevention of prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT) worldwide, regardless of the valve type or position in the heart. In case a thrombosis causes symptomatic dysfunction, treatment usually includes the use of thrombolytic therapy or surgery. We report a case of PVT involving a patient with a mechanical aortic valve which was treated entirely with the use of anticoagulation therapy (warfarin).Case Presentation: A 58-year-old man had an aortic valve replacement using a Carbomedics® mechanical valve due to severe aortic stenosis as a result of a calcific bicuspid native aortic valve. He was commenced on warfarin after surgery which was continued thereafter. He presented to our hospital after three years with shortness of breath at rest. On clinical examination, his condition was poor with a New York Heart Association functional classification of IV. He was in sinus rhythm and had an enlarged heart shadow on chest X-ray. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) revealed aortic valve regurgitation with vegetations on the anterior valve leaflet causing reduced hemi leaflet motility and a mean pressure gradient of 50 mmHg. Cinefluoroscopy revealed a dysfunctional mechanical valve leaflet. Surgery was at high risk of mortality due to the patient’s clinical status and he was continued on warfarin therapy with close monitoring. Cinefluoroscopy and echocardiography done six months later revealed complete d

Wakgari Mosisa,1 Yenealem Gezehagn,2 Guta Kune,2 Melese Chego,3 Hamba Fida Yigezu,1 Masrie Getnet2 1Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Dambi Dollo University, Dambi Dollo, Ethiopia; 2Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia; 3Department of Public Health, Wollega University, Nekemte, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Guta Kune, Email gutakune12@gmail.comBackground: Stroke is the leading cause of cardiovascular disease death in sub-Saharan Africa and the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. In 2016, 6.23% of all fatalities in Ethiopia were stroke-related.Objective: To assess survival status and predictors of mortality among adult stroke patients admitted to Jimma University Medical Center from April 1/2017 to March 31/2022.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 480 adult stroke patients selected by simple random sampling from patients admitted to the Jimma University Medical Center Stroke Unit from April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2022. Data were extracted from May to June 2022 and entered Epi-data v.3.1 and analyzed by R v.4.2. The Kaplan-Meier curve with Log rank test was used to estimate survival time and to compare survival experience between categories of explanatory variables. The Cox regression model was computed to identify predictors of survival status in stroke patients. Then the 95% CI of the hazard ratio was set with corresponding p-value < 0.05 to declare statistical significance.Results: During 4350 person-days of follow-up; 88 (18.33%) patients died; resulting in an incidence mortality of 20.23 per 1000 person-days, with a median survival time of 38 days. Glasgow coma score < 8 on admission (AHR = 7.71; 95% CI: 3.78, 15.69), dyslipidemia (AHR = 3.96; 95% CI: 2.04, 7.69), aspiration pneumonia (AHR 2.30; 95% CI: 1.23– 4.26), and increased intracranial pressure (AHR = 4.27; 95% CI: 2.33, 7.81), were the independent predictors of the time until death.Conclusion: The incid

Ling-Ling Zhu,1 Quan Zhou2 1Geriatric VIP Ward, Division of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310009, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Quan Zhou, Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, 310009, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-571-8778-4615, Email zhouquan142602@zju.edu.cn

Praveen Kesav,1 Divya Manesh Raj,2 Seby John3 1Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; 2Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates; 3Department of Neurology and Neuro Interventional Surgery, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab EmiratesCorrespondence: Seby John, Staff Physician, Vascular Neurology and Neuro interventional Surgery, Neurological Institute, (C-226), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Tel +97125019000 Ext 65932, Email Johns5@clevelandclinicabudhabi.aeAbstract: Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a rare idiopathic, segmental, noninflammatory and nonatherosclerotic arteriopathy of medium-sized arteries. It is classically considered to be a disease of young and middle adulthood, with females more commonly affected than males. FMD is a systemic disease. Although historically considered to be rare, cerebrovascular FMD (C-FMD) has now been recognized to be as common as the renovascular counterpart. Extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries are the most commonly involved vascular territories in C-FMD with the clinical presentation determined by vessels affected. Common symptoms include headaches and pulsatile tinnitus, with transient ischemic attacks, ischemic stroke and subarachnoid or intracerebral hemorrhage constituting the more severe clinical manifestations. Cervical artery dissection involving carotids more often than vertebral arteries and intracranial aneurysms account for the cerebrovascular pathologies detected in C-FMD. Our understanding regarding C-FMD has been augmented in the recent past on account of dedicated C-FMD data from North American, European and other international FMD cohorts. In this review article, we provide an updated and comprehensive overview on epidemiology, clinical presentation, etiology, diagnosis and management of C-FMD.Keywords: fibromuscular dysplasia, st

Guofang Lu,1,2,&ast; Rui Du,3,&ast; Yali Liu,1 Shumiao Zhang,1 Juan Li,1 Jianming Pei1 1Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, National Key Discipline of Cell Biology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, 710032, People’s Republic of China; 2State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, 710032, People’s Republic of China; 3Institute for Biomedical Sciences of Pain, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, 710038, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Juan Li; Jianming Pei, Email jmpei8@fmmu.edu.cn; lijuan2162008@163.comIntroduction: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life-threatening disease characterized by a sustained rise in mean pulmonary artery pressure. Pulmonary vascular remodeling serves an important role in PAH. Identifying a key driver gene to regulate vascular remodeling of the pulmonary microvasculature is critical for PAH management.Methods: Differentially expressed genes were identified using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) GSE117261, GSE48149, GSE113439, GSE53408 and GSE16947 datasets. A co-expression network was constructed using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Novel and key signatures of PAH were screened using four algorithms, including weighted gene co-expression network analysis, GEO2R analysis, support vector machines recursive feature elimination and robust rank aggregation rank analysis. Regulator of G-protein signaling 5 (RGS5), a pro-apoptotic/anti-proliferative protein, which regulate arterial tone and blood pressure in vascular smooth muscle cells. The expression of RGS5 was determined using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) in PAH and normal mice. The location of RGS5 and pericytes was detected using immunofluore

Adam Arditya Fajriawan,1,&ast; Risqa Novita1,2,&ast; 1Research Center for Pharmaceutical Ingredients and Traditional Medicine, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Cibinong, Indonesia; 2Primatology Study Program, Graduate School of IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Risqa Novita, Research Center for Pharmaceutical Ingredients and Traditional Medicine, Research Organization for Health, National Research and Innovation Agency, Genomic Building, Cibinong Science Center, Jl. Raya Bogor No. 490, Cibinong, West Java, Indonesia, Email risq001@brin.go.id; my_risqa@apps.ipb.ac.id

Inmaculada Xu Lou,1,2,&ast; Jiayue Chen,2,3,&ast; Kamran Ali,4,&ast; Qilan Chen2 1Department of Cardiology, International Education College of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Cardiology, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310025, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Cardiology, Hangzhou Clinical Medical College Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310053, People’s Republic of China; 4Department of Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, 322000, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Qilan Chen, Department of Cardiology, Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310025, People’s Republic of China, Email cql13588750941@qq.comAbstract: Sexual dysfunction pertains to any issue that hinders an individual from attaining sexual contentment. This health issue can have a significant impact on the quality of life and psychological health of affected individuals. Sexual dysfunction can generate stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, which can lead to a reduction in overall life satisfaction and the quality of interpersonal relationships. Sexual dysfunction can manifest as erectile dysfunction in men or lack of sexual desire in women. Although both sexes can experience sexual problems, there are some significant differences in the manifestation of sexual dysfunction between men and women. In men, sexual dysfunction is usually physical and associated with problems such as erectile dysfunction, while in women, sexual dysfunction is usually related to psychological factors. Additionally, there was an association between hypertension and sexual dysfunction in both the sexes. In men

Fang Wen,1,&ast; Shantong Jiang,1– 4,&ast; Ping Yuan,1– 5,&ast; Jinbo Liu,1– 4 Xiu Bai,1 Hongwei Zhao,1– 4,6,7 Xin Chen,1– 4,7 Yan-Bing Gong,5 Roland Asmar,8 Hongyu Wang1– 4,6,7 1Department of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 2Vascular Health Research Center of Peking University Health Science Center (VHRC-PKUHSC), Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 3Beijing Shijingshan District Key Clinical Specialty of Vascular Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 4Heart and Vascular Health Research Center of Peking University Clinical Research Institute (HVHRC-PUCRI), Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 5Department of Scientific Research, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 6State Key Laboratory of Vascular Homeostasis and Remodeling, (Peking University), Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 7Heart and Vascular Health Research Center of Chengdu Medical College (HVHRC-CMC), Chengdu, People’s Republic of China; 8Foundation-Medical Research Institutes, Beirut, Lebanon&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Hongyu Wang, Department of Vascular Medicine, Peking University Shougang Hospital, Beijing, 100144, People’s Republic of China, Email dr.hongyuwang@foxmail.comAbstract: Cardiovascular disease(CVD) has become a major disease burden affecting people’s health in China. Blood vessels are very important for human health and are the “sentinel” for the development of many cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The key to effectively preventing fatal, disabling heart, brain and peripheral vascular events lies in controlling traditional and non-traditional risk factors for vascular health from the source, and early assessment and intervention of early vascular lesions. Since 2004, China government promoted the early detection technology of vascular lesions and vascular medicine, and proposed the Bei

Azusa Ueda,1,2 Satoshi Kasagi,2 Ken-ichi Maeno,2,3 Ryo Naito,4– 6 Takiko Kumagai,1,2 Yuka Kimura,1,2 Mitsue Kato,1,2,4 Fusae Kawana,1,2,4 Yasuhiro Tomita,2,5,6 Koji Narui,2,4 Takatoshi Kasai2,4– 6 1Clinical Physiology, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan; 2Department of Sleep Respiratory Medicine, Toranomon Hospital, Tokyo, Japan; 3Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Japanese Red Cross Ise Hospital, Mie, Japan; 4Cardiovascular Respiratory Sleep Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; 5Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; 6Sleep and Sleep Disordered Breathing Center, Juntendo University Hospital, Tokyo, JapanCorrespondence: Satoshi KasagiSleep Respiratory Medicine, Toranomon Hospital, 2-2-2 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8470, Japan, Tel +81-3-3588-1111, Fax +81-3-3560-7815, Email s-kasagi@toranomon.gr.jpAim: Prolonged P-wave duration (PWD), which indicates atrial conduction delay, is a potent precursor of atrial fibrillation (AF) that may be induced by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), which is an arterial stiffness parameter, is elevated in patients with OSA; moreover, an increased CAVI is associated with atrial conduction delay through left atrium enlargement in association with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. We aimed to examine the relationship between the CAVI and PWD in patients with OSA.Methods: We included patients with a sinus rhythm who underwent overnight polysomnography. We measured the PWD and CAVI on standard 12-lead electrocardiograms; further, we analyzed the relationship between PWD and CAVI.Results: We analyzed data from 300 participants (men, 89.0%; mean age, 52.3 ± 13.1 years; and body mass index, 26.2 ± 3.9 kg/m2). The mean PWD was 104.4 ± 10.4 ms while the mean CAVI was 7.5 ± 1.5. PWD was significantly correlated with CAVI (r = 0.478, p < 0.001); additionally, PWD and CAVI were directly asso

Ermiyas Endewunet Melaku,1 Esubalew Tesfahun Ayele,2 Besufekad Mulugeta Urgie,1 Getachew Bizuneh Ayidagnuhim,1 Erzik Mohammed Hassen,1 Aklile Semu Tefera2 1Department of Internal Medicine, school of Medicine, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia; 2Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Ermiyas Endewunet Melaku, Debre Berhan University, Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, Tel +251912980319, Email ermydddm96@gmail.comBackground: Atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular diseases (coronary heart diseases, ischemic stroke, and peripheral vascular diseases) account for the majority of deaths in diabetic and other high-risk patients. Statin therapy reduces major vascular events, coronary death or nonfatal myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, and ischemic stroke. However, a gap exists between guideline recommendations and the clinical practice of primary statin preventive therapy. This was a cross-sectional study that aimed to determine the prevalence and some associated risk factors of.Purpose: This study was intended to assess the magnitude of primary statin preventive therapy and associated factors among patients with high atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular disease risks.Patients and Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted by a consecutive sampling technique from February 1, 2023, to May 30, 2023. Face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, document review, and laboratory measurements were implemented to collect data. Data entered into Epi Data were analysed by STATA version 14 and summarized by using frequency tables and graphs. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed and checked for association at a p value of < 0.05.Results: A total of 389 patients were included in this study. Diabetes mellitus (43.75%), hypertension (47.3%), and chronic kidney disease (9.25%) were commonly identified diseases. One

Firman Sugiharto,1 Aan Nuraeni,2 Yanny Trisyani,2 Azalia Melati Putri,3 Nuraulia Aghnia Armansyah,3 Asroful Hulam Zamroni4 1Master Study Program Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia; 2Department of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia; 3Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia; 4Regional General Hospital Dr. Soetomo, Surabaya, East Java, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Firman Sugiharto, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Ir. Soekarno KM. 21, Hegarmanah Jatinangor, Sumedang, West Java, 45363, Indonesia, Tel +6282218235600, Fax +6202287793411, Email firman7001@mail.unpad.ac.idAbstract: Self-efficacy (SE) is the main predictor of self-care behaviour in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Several studies identified factors that influence SE in CHD patients. However, review studies have yet to synthesize these results systematically. This review aims to identify SE and the factors influencing SE in CHD patients. This scoping review is reported based on the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). We searched using relevant keywords using five databases: CINAHL Plus with Full Text and Academic Search Complete, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Taylor and Francis, and one search engine: Google Scholar, which was accessed on June 23, 2023. Articles with an observational design were included without date restrictions. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist, and data synthesis used thematic analysis. We found 11 articles discussing SE and the factors influencing SE in CHD patients. In this review, most studies reported that the SE level of CHD patients tends to be low to moderate. Factors associated with SE in this population are classified into three categories (low, moderate, and high). Cardiac knowledge and patient activation are the most

Jose P Lopez-Lopez,1,2,&ast; Ana Maria Gonzalez,1,&ast; Paola Lanza,1 Patricio Lopez-Jaramillo1 1MASIRA Research Institute, Universidad de Santander (UDES), Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia; 2Department of Internal Medicine. Cardiology Unit, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Patricio Lopez-Jaramillo, MASIRA Research Institute, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Santander (UDES), Bloque G, piso 6, Bucaramanga, Santander, Colombia, Tel +57 315 306 8939, Email jplopezj@gmail.comBackground: Higher medication adherence reduces the risk of new cardiovascular events. However, there are individual and health system barriers that lead to lower adherence. The polypill has demonstrated benefits in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality mainly driven by an increase in adherence. We aim to evaluate the impact of the polypill on adherence to cardiovascular medication, its efficacy and safety in cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention.Methods: A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted. Databases were searched from January 2003 to December 2022. We included randomized, pragmatic, or real-world clinical trials and observational studies. The primary outcome was medication adherence, secondary outcomes were efficacy in cardiovascular disease in primary and secondary prevention and safety.Results: From the 490 publications screened, 13 met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into a comparative table Of those included, 70% were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 53.8% focused on secondary prevention. Most of the studies received a high and moderate quality rating. Self-report, pill counting and, the Morisky scale were the most frequent methods to evaluate adherence (84.6%). Compared with standard medication, the polypill improved overall medication adherence by 13%, with percentages ranging from 7.6% to 34.9%.

Koji Takahashi, Tomoyuki Yamamoto Fukuda Denshi Co., Ltd, Tokyo, JapanCorrespondence: Tomoyuki Yamamoto, Email tomoyuki.yamamoto@fukuda.co.jp

Marcin Choroszy,1 Kamila &Sacute;roda-Pomianek,2 Magdalena Wawrzy&nacute;ska,3 Mateusz Chmielarz,1 Edyta Bo&zdot;emska,1 Beata Sobieszcza&nacute;ska1 1Department of Microbiology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; 2Department of Biophysics and Neuroscience, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland; 3Department of Preclinical Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, PolandCorrespondence: Marcin Choroszy, Chalubinskiego 4 Street, Wroclaw, 51-657, Poland, Tel +48-71-7840-065, Fax +48-71-784-0117, Email marcin.choroszy@student.umw.edu.plIntroduction: Metabolic endotoxemia most often results from obesity and is accompanied by an increase in the permeability of the intestinal epithelial barrier, allowing co-absorption of bacterial metabolites and diet-derived fatty acids into the bloodstream. A high-fat diet (HFD) leading to obesity is a significant extrinsic factor in developing vascular atherosclerosis. In this study, we evaluated the effects of palmitic acid (PA) as a representative of long-chain saturated fatty acids (LCSFA) commonly present in HFDs, along with endotoxin (LPS; lipopolysaccharide) and uremic toxin indoxyl sulfate (IS), on human vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs).Methods: HUVECs viability was measured based on tetrazolium salt metabolism, and cell morphology was assessed with fluorescein-phalloidin staining of cells’ actin cytoskeleton. The effects of simultaneous treatment of endothelial cells with PA, LPS, and IS on nitro-oxidative stress in vascular cells were evaluated quantitatively with fluorescent probes. The expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule VCAM-1, E-selectin, and occludin, an essential tight junction protein, in HUVECs treated with these metabolites was evaluated in Western blot.Results: PA, combined with LPS and IS, did not influence HUVECs viability but induced stress on actin fibers and focal adhesion complexes. Moreover, PA combined with LPS significantly enhanced

Beny Rilianto,1,2,&ast; Bambang Tri Prasetyo,1,2,&ast; Ricky Gusanto Kurniawan,1,2,&ast; Kelvin Theandro Gotama,1 Pratiwi Raissa Windiani,1 Abrar Arham,2,3 Muhammad Kusdiansah2,3 1Neurointervention Division, National Brain Center Hospital Prof. Dr. dr. Mahar Mardjono, East Jakarta, Indonesia; 2Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia; 3Neurosurgery Department, National Brain Center Hospital Prof. Dr. dr. Mahar Mardjono, East Jakarta, Indonesia&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Beny Rilianto, Neurointervention Division, National Brain Center Hospital Prof. Dr. dr. Mahar Mardjono, MT Haryono St No. Kav.11, Cawang, Kramat Jati, East Jakarta, Jakarta, 13630, Indonesia, Tel +62 21 29373377, Email beny.rilianto@gmail.comIntroduction: The anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysm, the most frequent cerebral aneurysm to rupture, carries a significant clinical burden, yet the factors influencing its rupture are limited in Indonesia. This study aims to determine the clinical and morphological features associated with ruptured ACoA compared to non-AcoA aneurysms among Indonesians.Patients and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our center’s aneurysm patient registry from January 2019 to December 2022, and compared the clinical and morphological features between ruptured ACoA aneurysms and ruptured aneurysms elsewhere with univariate and multivariate analyses.Results: Of the 292 patients with 325 ruptured aneurysms, 89 were from ACoA. The mean age of patients was 54.99 years, with female preponderance in the non-ACoA group (non-ACoA: 73.31%, ACoA: 46.07%). On univariate analysis, ages ≥ 60 [ages 60– 69: OR = 0.311 (0.111– 0.869), p= 0.026; ages ≥ 70: OR = 0.215 (0.056– 0.819), p= 0.024], female gender [OR = 0.311 (0.182– 0.533), p< 0.001], and smoking [OR=2.069 (1.036– 4.057), p= 0.022] exhibited significant association with ruptured ACoA aneurysm. On multivariate analysis, only the f

Hui Zhang,1 Zhigeng Jin,1 Hao Wang,2 Yutao Guo,1,3 Gregory YH Lip3,4 1Medical School of Chinese PLA, Department of Pulmonary Vessel and Thrombotic Disease, Sixth Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Cardiology, Second Medical Centre, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China; 3Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK; 4Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, DenmarkCorrespondence: Yutao Guo, Department of Pulmonary Vessel and Thrombotic Disease, Six Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, 5 Fucheng Road, Beijing, 100048, People’s Republic of China, Email dor_guoyt@hotmail.comBackground: Guideline-recommended integrated care based on the ABC (Atrial fibrillation Better Care) pathway for “general” patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) improves clinical outcomes, as demonstrated in our prior mobile Atrial Fibrillation Application (mAFA)-II cluster randomized trial. The present study aims to investigate whether mAFA III-supported structured follow-up rehabilitation packages adapted to patient risk profiles and different treatment patterns (eg, for patients receiving drug treatment only, AF ablation, or left atrial appendage occlusion [LAAO]) will improve guideline adherence and reduce the risk of adverse cardiovascular events.Methods and Analysis: In this prospective, observational mAFA III pilot cohort study, patients with AF aged ≥ 18 years will be enrolled using the mAFA III App for self-management. Assuming an annual rate of composite outcome of “ischaemic stroke or systemic embolism, all-cause death and cardiovascular hospitalization” of 29.3% for non-ABC pathway compliance compared with 20.8% for ABC pathway compliance, at least 1475 patients would be needed to d

Dimitrios Varrias,1,2,&ast; Michail Spanos,3,&ast; Damianos G Kokkinidis,4 Panagiotis Zoumpourlis,1,2 Dimitrios Rafail Kalaitzopoulos5 1Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; 2Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA; 3Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; 4Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA; 5Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Cantonal Hospital Schaffhausen, Schaffhausen, Switzerland&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Dimitrios Varrias, Jacobi NYCHHC, 1400 Pelham Parkway South, 3N1, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA, Tel +1 7189185000, Email varriasd@nychhc.orgAbstract: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious medical condition that can lead to severe morbidity and mortality, making it a significant public health concern. VTE is a multifactorial condition that results from the interaction of genetic, acquired, and environmental factors. Physiological changes during pregnancy increase the risk of VTE as they express Virchow’s triad (increased coagulation factors, decreased fibrinolysis, trauma, and venous stasis). Moreover, pregnancy-related risk factors, such as advanced maternal age, obesity, multiple gestations, and cesarean delivery, further increase the risk of VTE. Managing VTE in pregnancy is challenging due to the complexity of balancing the risks and benefits of anticoagulant therapy for both the mother and the fetus. A multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, hematologists, and neonatologists, is necessary to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and baby. This review aims to discuss the current challenges associated with VTE in pregnancy and identify potential solutions for improving outcomes for pregnant women at risk for VTE.Keywords: venous embolism, thrombosis, pregnancy, VTE, anticoagulation

Zoya Hakobyan,1 Parounak Zelveian,1 Jirar Topouchian,2 Lusine Hazarapetyan,1,3 Roland Asmar4 1Institute of Cardiology After Levon Hovhannisyan, Yerevan, Armenia; 2Diagnosis and Therapeutic Center, Hôtel Dieu Hospital, Paris, France; 3Yerevan State Medical University After Mkhitar Heratsi, Yerevan, Armenia; 4Foundation-Medical Research Institutes (F-MRI), Geneva, SwitzerlandCorrespondence: Roland Asmar, Foundation-Medical Research Institutes, Place St Gervais 1, Geneva, Switzerland, Tel +33640142239, Email ra@cmcv.orgBackground: Most of the scientific societies recommend assessing the accuracy of electronic devices for blood pressure (BP) measurements using established validation protocol.Objective: To determine the accuracy of the BP measurements using the Withings BPM Core device in the general population according to the “Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018/AMD 1:2020)”.Methods: The Withings BPM Core is an oscillometric device measuring BP at the brachial level. The study was performed according to the “Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018/AMD 1:2020) protocol” using the same-arm sequential BP measurement method. Subjects (n ≥ 85) fulfilling the age, gender, BP, and cuff distribution criteria of the protocol were included. Analysis was performed as required by the Universal protocol using Criterion 1 – differences between observers’ mercury sphygmomanometer reference measurements and test device BP values (test versus reference) and their standard deviation (SD); and Criterion 2 – The SD of the mean BP differences between the test device and reference BP per subject.Results: Eighty-six subjects were selected, 85 of whom were included. The mean BP differences between the simultaneous two observers’ measurements were − 0.2 ± 2.1 mmHg for systolic BP (SBP) and 0.3 ± 2.1 mmHg for diastolic BP (DBP). For validation criterion 1, the mean difference ± SD between the reference and device BP values was − 0.6 ± 4.8 mmHg for SBP and 0.1 ± 3.7 mmH

Yuni Choi,1 David R Jacobs Jr,1 Holly J Kramer,2 Gautam R Shroff,3 Alexander R Chang,4 Daniel A Duprez5 1Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA; 2Departments of Public Health Sciences and Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA; 3Division of Cardiology and Department of Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA; 4Departments of Population of Health Sciences and Nephrology, Geisinger, Danville, PA, USA; 5Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USACorrespondence: Daniel A Duprez, Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St SE, MMC 508, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA, Tel + 1 612-624-4948, Fax + 1 612-626-4411, Email dupre007@umn.eduBackground: The prevalence of advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) is higher in Black than in White Americans. We evaluated CKD progression in Black and White participants and the contribution of biological risk factors. We included the study of lung function (measured by forced vital capacity [FVC]), which is part of the emerging notion of interorgan cross-talk with the kidneys to racial differences in CKD progression.Methods: This longitudinal study included 2175 Black and 2207 White adult Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) participants. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) were measured at study year 10 (age 27– 41y) and every five years for 20 years. The outcome was CKD progression through no CKD, low, moderate, high, or very high-risk categories based on eGFR and UACR in combination. The association between race and CKD progression as well as the contribution of risk factors to racial differences were assessed in multivariable-adjusted Cox models.Results: Black participants had higher CKD transition probabilities than White

Daniela Arroyave-Atehortua,1 Veronica Cordoba-Sanchez,2 Renato Zambrano-Cruz1 1Psychology Faculty, Cooperative University of Colombia, Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia; 2School of Social, Human Sciences and Education, Institución Universitaria de Envigado, Envigado, Antioquia, ColombiaCorrespondence: Renato Zambrano-Cruz, Psychology Faculty, Cooperative University of Colombia, Medellín, Antioquia, 050012, Colombia, Tel +57 3183544990, Email renato.zambrano@ucc.edu.coPurpose: Several authors link hypertension with psychological dispositions such as stress, personality, and anxiety, some propose that stress is not enough to explain arterial hypertension and others propose the perseverative cognition model to explain. The aim of this study was to relate personality traits and blood pressure profile of a group of workers, examining the results of perseverative cognition as a possible mediating variable concerning blood pressure.Patients and Methods: Cross-sectional design study, with a sample of 76 employees of a Colombian university. The NEO-FFI, RRS, and blood pressure measurement instruments were applied; data were reviewed through correlation and mediation analysis.Results: We found evidence of association between neuroticism and perseverative cognition (rho=0.42 with brooding; rho =0.32 with reflection), but no evidence about mediation of perseverative cognition between personality and blood pressure.Conclusion: It is necessary to keep researching the mechanisms related to the occurrence of hypertension.Keywords: perseverative cognition, personality, blood pressure, hypertension, cross-sectional study

Saira Mauland Mansoor,1,2 Toril Rabben,1 Jonny Hisdal,1,2 Jørgen Joakim Jørgensen1– 3 1Department of Vascular Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; 2Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; 3Department of Traumatology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, NorwayCorrespondence: Saira Mauland Mansoor, Oslo Universitetssykehus, Ullevål, Karavdelingen, Postboks 4959 Nydalen, Oslo, 0424, Norway, Tel +47 92 82 92 78, Email saira.m.mansoor@gmail.comObjective: Since 2011, the Department of Vascular Surgery at Oslo University Hospital has offered screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) to 65-year-old men living in Oslo, Norway. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the screening project on AAA-related mortality and rupture and repair rates in the screened population.Methods: This cohort study included men that participated in AAA screening at the Department of Vascular Surgery at Oslo University Hospital in the period May 2011 to September 2019. All men with screen-detected AAA (aortic diameter ≥ 30 mm) and subaneurysmal aortic dilatation (aortic diameter 25– 29 mm) were included. A stratified (1:1 with the subaneurysm group), randomized selection of men with normal aortic diameter (< 25 mm) upon screening was also included. The follow-up data on events (ruptures, repairs, and deaths) after screening were collected retrospectively from patient electronic medical records at Oslo University Hospital, the National Population Register and the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry (CoDR).Results: In total, 2048 men were included, with a median follow-up time of 7.1 years (IQR 3.8). Among men with screen-detected AAA, 0.6% died of AAA-related causes (0.9 AAA-related deaths per 1000 person-years). The rupture rate was 0.3% among men with screen-detected AAA or subaneurysmal aortic dilatation, giving an incidence of 0.5 ruptures per 1000 person-years. The overall repair rate in the AAA group was 20.6% (3

Nicole Gebara,1 Tony Abdel-Massih,2 Jean-Paul Sahakian,2 Ghassan Sleilaty,3 Mariam Bazzi,4 Ramzi Ashoush,3 Victor Jebara,3 Jad Habib1 1Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon; 2Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon; 3Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon; 4Higher Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, LebanonCorrespondence: Nicole Gebara, Email nicole.gebara@aphp.frPurpose: To evaluate the correlation between unconventional risk factors and the Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation (SCORE), and estimate the prevalence of conventional and unconventional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors in the rural Lebanese population in order to assess their CV risk.Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study conducted between November 2017 and June 2019 among the Lebanese rural population. The risk factors were analyzed from the files of the patients who presented for the CV disease screening days organized by a non governmental organization. The CV risk estimation tool is the SCORE. The classification of socio-economic level ranges from zero (low level) to 3 (high level).Results: A total of 433 patients were included. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and metabolic syndrome was 45.1%, 31.2%, 39.2%, 50% and 42.9% respectively. Only 13.6% of hypertensive patients and 6.7% of diabetics were controlled. A total of 0 or 1 point for the classification of socio-economic status was found in 62.6% of cases. A family history of CV diseases was present in 87.3% of participants. The SCORE was correlated with diabetes and metabolic syndrome (p = 0.000), without being correlated to socio-economic status (HR = − 0.104; p = 0.059) or to family history (p = 0.834).Conclusion: The socio-economic status and the family history of CV disease must

Nawaf J Shatnawi,1 Nabil A Al-Zoubi,1 Lujain A Al-Bakkar,1 Ammar M Abu-Baker,1 Yousef S Khader,2 Mamoon Al-Omari,3 Mowafeq A El-Heis3 1Department of Surgery, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan; 2Department of Community Medicine, Public Health and Family Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan; 3Department of Radiology, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, JordanCorrespondence: Nawaf J Shatnawi, Department of Surgery, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan, Tel + 962 795576267, Email nshatnawi@yahoo.com Nabil A Al-Zoubi, Department of General Surgery/Vascular Surgery, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan, Tel + 962 795774637, Email dr_nabeil_z3bi@yahoo.comPurpose: Chronic limb-threatening ischemia in patients with diabetes is associated with a high risk of adverse outcomes. The associated co-morbidities, the heterogeneity of foot presentation and the distribution of atherosclerotic lesions led to the emergence of multiple revascularization strategies and scoring systems to improve management outcomes. This study aimed to introduce a new index, the revascularization index (RI), and to assess its predictive value for the outcomes of primary endovascular intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes presenting with chronic limb-threatening ischemia.Patients and Methods: A retrospective electronic medical records review was conducted for patients with type 2 diabetes presenting with chronic limb-threatening ischemia managed at King Abdullah University Hospital by primary endovascular interventions between January 2014 and August 2019. The RI was analyzed for its predictive value for the treatment outcomes.Results: A total of 187 patients were included in this study, with a major lower limb amputation rate of 19.3%. The performance of the RI was excellent in predicting secondary revascularization (AUC = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.7

Ibrahim Abobaker Alghanimi,1 Abdulaziz Mohammad Al-Sharydah,1 Afnan Amro Alqutub,2 Nehal Zeidan,2 Fatimah Bukhamseen,2 Alzahra Alradhi,2 Aqilah Taleb Alqassab,2 Mohammed Saad Al-Aftan1 1Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Department, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, AlKhobar City, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia; 2College of Medicine, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, AlKhobar City, Eastern Province, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Ibrahim Abobaker Alghanimi, Assistant Professor and Consultant of Radiology, Vascular and Interventional Radiologist, Faculty of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Radiology Department, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Khobar City, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, Tel +138957999 Ext 2007, Email ighanimi@iau.edu.saPurpose: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a common disease with multiple risk factors and affects patients worldwide. Several international studies have established correlations between anatomical topography/distribution of atherosclerosis and comorbidities in patients with PAD. In this cohort study, we aimed to analyze the patterns of atherosclerosis (site, distribution, and degree) in patients who underwent lower limb computed tomography angiography and arterial angiography by identifying the atherosclerotic plaque(s) that were possibly responsible for thrombi. Additionally, we aimed to determine any relationship between comorbidities and identified patterns.Patients and Methods: Between January 2015 and January 2021, we retrospectively recruited 140 patients at King Fahd Hospital of the University of Saudi Arabia. Data collected included patient characteristics, risk factors, and metabolic disorders, such as hypertension (HTN), diabetes mellitus (DM), dyslipidemia, and chronic kidney disease. Patients with incomplete records or unavailable radiological images were excluded.Results: The infrapopliteal territory was the

Heru Santoso Wahito Nugroho,1 I Putu Suiraoka,2 Sunarto1 1Center of Excellence for Community Empowerment in Health, Poltekkes Kemenkes Surabaya (Health Polytechnic of Surabaya), Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia; 2Department of Nutrition, Poltekkes Kemenkes Denpasar, Denpasar, Bali, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Sunarto, Poltekkes Kemenkes Surabaya (Health Polytechnic of Surabaya), Pucang Jajar Tengah Street, 56, Surabaya, East Java, 60282, Indonesia, Email sunartoyahyamuqaffi@gmail.com

Areej Alkhateeb,1 Hossam Eldin M Mahmoud,1 Mohammed AK,1 Mohammed H Hassan,2 Abdel Rahim Mahmoud Muddathir,3 Ahmed G Bakry1 1Cardiology Division of Internal Medicine Department, South Valley University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt; 2Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt; 3Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Alzaeim Alazhari University, Khartoum, SudanCorrespondence: Abdel Rahim Mahmoud Muddathir, Department of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Science, Alzaeim Alazhari University, Khartoum, Sudan, Email abdelrahimm@gmail.comBackground: The prognostic role of the soluble circulating suppression of tumorigenicity 2 marker (sST2) in different cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is still under investigation. This research aimed to assess the serum levels of sST2 in the blood of individuals with ischemic heart disease and its relation to disease severity, also to examine any changes in sST2 levels following a successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in those patients.Methods: A total of 33 ischemic patients and 30 non-ischemic controls were included. The plasma level of sST2 was measured using commercially available ELISA assay kit, at baseline and 24– 48 h after the intervention in the ischemic group.Results: On admission, there was a significant difference between the group of acute/chronic coronary syndrome cases and controls regarding the sST2 plasma level (p < 0.001). There was an insignificant difference between the three ischemic subgroups at the baseline sST2 level (p = 0.38). The plasma sST2 level decreased significantly after PCI (from 20.70 ± 1.71 to 16.51 ± 2.43, p = 0.006). There was a modestly just significant positive correlation between the acute change in post-PCI sST2 level and the severity of ischemia as measured by the Modified Gensini Score (MGS) (r =

Michael S Albosta,1 Jelani K Grant,2 Pam Taub,3 Roger S Blumenthal,2 Seth S Martin,2 Erin D Michos2 1Internal Medicine Department, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/ Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FL, USA; 2Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; 3Division of Cardiology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USACorrespondence: Erin D Michos, Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Blalock 524-B, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA, Tel +1 410-502-6813, Email edonnell@jhmi.eduAbstract: Multiple lines of evidence confirm that the cumulative burden of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is causally related to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). As such, lowering LDL-C is a central tenet in all ASCVD prevention guidelines, which recommend matching the intensity of LDL-C lowering with the absolute risk of the patient. Unfortunately, issues such as difficulty with long-term adherence to statin therapy and inability to achieve desired LDL-C thresholds with statins alone results in residual elevated ASCVD risk. Non-statin therapies generally provide similar risk reduction per mmol/L of LDL-C reduction and are included by major society guidelines as part of the treatment algorithm for managing LDL-C. Per the 2022 American College of Cardiology Expert Consensus Decision Pathway, patients with ASCVD are recommended to achieve both an LDL-C reduction ≥ 50% and an LDL-C threshold of < 55 mg/dL in patients at very high-risk and < 70 mg/dL in those not at very high risk. Patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) but without ASCVD should lower LDL-C to < 100 mg/dL. For patients who remain above LDL-C thresholds with maximally tolerated stat

I Made Adi Parmana,1 Cindy Elfira Boom,1 Herdono Poernomo,1 Chairil Gani,1 Budi Nugroho,1 Riza Cintyandy,1 Lisa Sanjaya,1 Yudi Hadinata,1 Dian Raseka Parna,1 Dudy Arman Hanafy2 1Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, Jakarta, Indonesia; 2Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, Jakarta, IndonesiaCorrespondence: I Made Adi Parmana, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, Letjen S. Parman St No. Kav. 87, West Jakarta, Jakarta, Indonesia, Email adiparmana13@gmail.comPurpose: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the primary cause of mortality in developing countries. Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) offers more upside in revascularization by preventing cardiopulmonary bypass trauma and minimizing aortic manipulation. Even though cardiopulmonary bypass is not involved, OPCAB still causes a significant systemic inflammatory response. This study determines the prognostic values of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) towards perioperative outcomes in patients who underwent OPCAB surgery.Patients and methods: This was a single-center retrospective study at the National Cardiovascular Center Harapan Kita, Jakarta, using secondary data from electronic medical records and medical record archives of all patients who underwent OPCAB from January 2019 through December 2021. A total of 418 medical records were obtained, and 47 patients were excluded based on the exclusion criteria. The values of SII were calculated from preoperative laboratory data of segmental neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and platelet count. Patients were divided into two groups based on the SII cutoff value of 878.056 x 103/mm3.Results: The baseline SII values of 371 patients were calculated, among which 63 (17%) patients had preoperative SII values of ≥ 878.057 x 103/mm3. High SII values were a significant predictor of pr

Federico Marchini, Sofia Meossi, Giulia Passarini, Gianluca Campo, Rita Pavasini Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Ferrara, Ferrara, ItalyCorrespondence: Rita Pavasini, Cardiology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, Ferrara, FE, 44124, Italy, Tel +39 0532237227, Email pvsrti@unife.itAbstract: Pulmonary stenosis (PS) is mainly a congenital defect that accounts for 7– 12% of congenital heart diseases (CHD). It can be isolated or, more frequently, associated with other congenital defects (25– 30%) involving anomalies of the pulmonary vascular tree. For the diagnosis of PS an integrated approach with echocardiography, cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is of paramount importance for the planning of the interventional treatment. In recent years, transcatheter approaches for the treatment of PS have increased however, meaning surgery is a possible option for complicated cases with anatomy not suitable for percutaneous treatment. The present review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding diagnosis and treatment of PS.Keywords: pulmonary valve stenosis, percutaneous treatment, valvotomy, valvuloplasty

Firman Sugiharto,1 Yanny Trisyani,2 Aan Nuraeni,2 Ristina Mirwanti,2 Azalia Melati Putri,1 Nuraulia Aghnia Armansyah1 1Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Jawa Barat, Indonesia; 2Department of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Jawa Barat, IndonesiaCorrespondence: Firman Sugiharto, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jl. Raya Ir. Soekarno KM. 21, Hegarmanah, Jatinangor, Sumedang, West Java, 45363, Indonesia, Tel +6282218235600, Fax +622287793411, Email firman17001@mail.unpad.ac.idAbstract: Several studies identify factors affecting increased length of stay (LOS) in patients with post-primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, there has not been a review study that synthesizes these results. This study aimed to describe the duration of LOS and factors associated with increased LOS among patients with STEMI after PPCI. This study used scoping review using EBSCO-host Academic Search Complete, PubMed, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and Google Scholar databases. The keywords used in English were “adults OR middle-aged” AND “length of stay OR hospital stay” AND “primary percutaneous coronary intervention OR PPCI” AND “myocardial infarction OR coronary infarction OR cardiovascular disease”. The inclusion criteria for articles were: the article was a full-text in English; the sample was STEMI patients who had undergone a PPCI procedure; and the article discussed the LOS. We found 13 articles discussing the duration and factors affecting LOS in patients post-PPCI. The duration of LOS was the fastest 48 hours, and the longest of LOS was 10.2 days. Factors influencing LOS are categorized into three predictors: low, moderate, and high. Post-procedure complications after PPCI was the most influential factors in increasing the LOS duration. Professional health workers, especially nurses, can identify various factors that can be modified to prevent complications and