Finerenone in Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced or Preserved Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND: Steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists reduce morbidity and mortality among patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction, but their efficacy in those with heart failure and mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction has not been established. Data regarding the efficacy and safety of the nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone in patients with heart failure and mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction are needed. METHODS: In this international, double-blind trial, we randomly assigned patients with heart failure and a left ventricular ejection fraction of 40% or greater, in a 1:1 ratio, to receive finerenone (at a maximum dose of 20 mg or 40 mg once daily) or matching placebo, in addition to usual therapy. The primary outcome was a composite of total worsening heart failure events (with an event defined as a first or recurrent unplanned hospitalization or urgent visit for heart failure) and death from cardiovascular causes. The components of the primary outcome and safety were also assessed. RESULTS: Over a median follow-up of 32 months, 1083 primary-outcome events occurred in 624 of 3003 patients in the finerenone group, and 1283 primary-outcome events occurred in 719 of 2998 patients in the placebo group (rate ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.74 to 0.95; P = 0.007). The total number of worsening heart failure events was 842 in the finerenone group and 1024 in the placebo group (rate ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.71 to 0.94; P = 0.006). The percentage of patients who died from cardiovascular causes was 8.1% and 8.7%, respectively (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.11). Finerenone was associated with an increased risk of hyperkalemia and a reduced risk of hypokalemia. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with heart failure and mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction, finerenone resulted in a significantly lower rate of a composite of total worsening heart failure events and death from cardiovascular causes than placebo. (Funded by Bayer; FINEARTS-HF ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04435626.).

Clot lysis time and thrombin generation in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

BACKGROUND: Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is the most prevalent valvular heart disease and is associated with a significant increase in mortality. AS has been shown to be linked with numerous coagulation system abnormalities, including increased fibrin deposition on the stenotic aortic valves. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is the primary treatment method for patients at high surgical risk. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of treating severe AS with TAVI on thrombin generation and clot lysis time (CLT). METHODS: We studied 135 symptomatic AS patients recommended for TAVI by the local Heart Team. All measurements were performed before and 5-7 days after TAVI. Alongside clinical assessment and echocardiographic analysis, we assessed clot lysis time (CLT) and thrombin generation parameters, including lag time, peak thrombin generation, time to peak thrombin generation (ttPeak), and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP). RESULTS: 70 patients were included in the final analysis. After TAVI, there was a significant 9% reduction in CLT despite a 12% increase in fibrinogen concentration. We observed significant increase in lag time and ttPeak (20% and 12%, respectively), and 13% decrease in peak thrombin concentration compared to pre-procedural levels. Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated that baseline CLT and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were independent predictors of significant reduction in mean aortic gradient, defined as TAVI procedure success. CONCLUSIONS: CLT and peak thrombin concentration decreased, while Lag time and ttPeak increased significantly after TAVI. Multivariable linear regression analysis demonstrated CLT and CRP levels as independent predictors of achieving a reduction in mean aortic gradient, defining TAVI procedure success.

Outcomes of Participants With Diabetes in the ISCHEMIA Trials.

BACKGROUND: Among patients with diabetes and chronic coronary disease, it is unclear if invasive management improves outcomes when added to medical therapy. METHODS: The ISCHEMIA (International Study of Comparative Health Effectiveness with Medical and Invasive Approaches) trials (ie, ISCHEMIA and ISCHEMIA-Chronic Kidney Disease) randomized chronic coronary disease patients to an invasive (medical therapy + angiography and revascularization if feasible) or a conservative approach (medical therapy alone with revascularization if medical therapy failed). Cohorts were combined after no trial-specific effects were observed. Diabetes was defined by history, hemoglobin A1c ≥6.5%, or use of glucose-lowering medication. The primary outcome was all-cause death or myocardial infarction (MI). Heterogeneity of effect of invasive management on death or MI was evaluated using a Bayesian approach to protect against random high or low estimates of treatment effect for patients with versus without diabetes and for diabetes subgroups of clinical (female sex and insulin use) and anatomic features (coronary artery disease severity or left ventricular function). RESULTS: Of 5900 participants with complete baseline data, the median age was 64 years (interquartile range, 57-70), 24% were female, and the median estimated glomerular filtration was 80 mL·min-1·1.73-2 (interquartile range, 64-95). Among the 2553 (43%) of participants with diabetes, the median percent hemoglobin A1c was 7% (interquartile range, 7-8), and 30% were insulin-treated. Participants with diabetes had a 49% increased hazard of death or MI (hazard ratio, 1.49 [95% CI, 1.31-1.70]; P<0.001). At median 3.1-year follow-up the adjusted event-free survival was 0.54 (95% bootstrapped CI, 0.48-0.60) and 0.66 (95% bootstrapped CI, 0.61-0.71) for patients with diabetes versus without diabetes, respectively, with a 12% (95% bootstrapped CI, 4%-20%) absolute decrease in event-free survival among participants with diabetes. Female and male patients with insulin-treated diabetes had an adjusted event-free survival of 0.52 (95% bootstrapped CI, 0.42-0.56) and 0.49 (95% bootstrapped CI, 0.42-0.56), respectively. There was no difference in death or MI between strategies for patients with diabetes versus without diabetes, or for clinical (female sex or insulin use) or anatomic features (coronary artery disease severity or left ventricular function) of patients with diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Despite higher risk for death or MI, chronic coronary disease patients with diabetes did not derive incremental benefit from routine invasive management compared with initial medical therapy alone. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01471522.

Associations between myeloperoxidase and paraoxonase-1 and type 2 diabetes in patients with ischemic heart disease.

BACKGROUND: The phrase "dysfunctional high-density lipoprotein" has been developed in the literature to describe the particle which loses its basic role- anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activity. In this porcess, the significance of enzymes- pro-oxidant myeloperoxidase (MPO) and antioxidant paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) from the perspective of HDL-C function has been noted. AIMS: The objective of this study was to analyze the associations between two enzymes -MPO and PON-1 and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD). METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study including 70 patients with IHD of whom 35 had also T2DM, and 35 had no T2DM. Laboratory tests (MPO, PON-1, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) were performed. RESULTS: The study revealed a significant difference in the serum concentration of the enzymes between patients with IHD with and without T2DM. Our results showed increased MPO concentration levels in diabetic patients. The analysis also revealed that T2DM is independently associated with an increase in MPO levels. Simultaneously, a decrease in PON-1 levels was observed in patients with T2DM. The study also revealed that T2DM is independently associated with a decrease in PON-1 levels. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with type 2 diabetes the profile of enzymes involved in high-density lipoprotein metabolism in patients with IHD is worse than in patients without T2DM. The increase in the levels of MPO, an enzyme with oxidative and atherogenic properties and on a decrease in PON-1 levels, an enzyme with antioxidant and atheroprotective properties is observed.

Prostacyclin analogues decrease platelet aggregation but have no effect on thrombin generation, fibrin clot structure, and fibrinolysis in pulmonary arterial hypertension: PAPAYA coagulation.

Prostacyclin (PGI2) analogues (epoprostenol, treprostonil, iloprost) are the cornerstone of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) treatment. PGI2 analogues inhibit platelet reactivity, but their impact on coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters has not been elucidated. We compared platelet reactivity, thrombin generation, clot permeation, and lysis properties in patients with PAH treated with PGI2 analogues (n = 20) and those not receiving PGI2 analogues (n = 20). Platelet reactivity was lower in patients treated with PGI2 analogues, compared to the control group, as evaluated with arachidonic acid (ASPI), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and thrombin receptor-activating peptide-6 (TRAP) tests (p = .009, p = .02, p = .007, respectively). In the subgroup analysis, both treprostinil and epoprostenol decreased platelet reactivity to the similar extent. There were no differences regarding thrombin generation, clot permeation, and lysis parameters in patients receiving and not receiving PGI2 analogues (p ≥ .60 for all). In the subgroup analysis, there were no differences regarding coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters between treprostinil, epoprostenol, and no PGI2 analogues. To conclude, patients with PAH treated with PGI2 analogues have reduced platelet reactivity, but similar clot formation and lysis parameters, compared to patients not receiving PGI2 analogues. Further randomized clinical trials are required to confirm these findings.

Relationship between polyunsaturated fatty acid composition in serum phospholipids, systemic low-grade inflammation, and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND: There are inconsistent data about the role of serum phospholipid fatty acid composition in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between serum phospholipid fatty acid composition, systemic low-grade inflammation, and glycemic control in high-risk T2DM patients. METHODS: Seventy-four patients (26% women, mean age 65.6 ± 6.8 years) with T2DM (median diabetes duration 10 years) and documented ASCVD (74 with coronary artery disease, 26 with peripheral arterial disease) were enrolled in the study. Baseline HbA1c was estimated using turbidimetric inhibition immunoassay. According to the median value of HbA1c the patients were grouped into those with HbA1c < 7.0% (< 53 mmol/mol) (n = 38) and those with HbA1c ≥ 7.0% (≥ 53 mmol/mol) (n = 36). Serum phospholipid fatty acids were measured with gas chromatography. RESULTS: Patients with HbA1c ≥ 7.0%, compared with those with HbA1c < 7.0% had similar composition of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids in serum phospholipids, but had higher concentrations of linoleic acid (LA) and higher n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio as well as lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), total n-3 PUFAs, and the EPA/arachidonic acid ratio. We found that LA (r = 0.25; p = 0.03) and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio (r = 0.28; p = 0.02) were positively correlated with HbA1c. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio, hsCRP and T2DM duration were independent predictors of worse glycemic control in patients with T2DM and ASCVD. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that glycemic control in high-risk T2DM patients with ASCVD was significantly associated with unfavorable serum phospholipid n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio and greater systemic inflammation.

Polyhedrocytes in blood clots of type 2 diabetic patients with high cardiovascular risk: association with glycemia, oxidative stress and platelet activation.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about factors that affect the composition of contracted blood clots in specific diseases. We investigated the content of polyhedral erythrocytes (polyhedrocytes) formed in blood clots and its determinants in type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients. METHODS: In 97 patients with long-standing T2D [median HbA1c, 6.4% (interquartile range 5.9-7.8)], we measured in vitro the composition of blood clots, including a clot area covered by polyhedrocytes using scanning electron microscopy and the erythrocyte compression index (ECI), defined as a ratio of the mean polyhedrocyte area to the mean native erythrocyte area. Moreover, plasma fibrin clot permeability (Ks), clot lysis time (CLT), thrombin generation, oxidative stress [total protein carbonyl (total PC), total antioxidant capacity and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)], and platelet activation markers were determined. The impact of glucose concentration on polyhedrocytes formation was assessed in vitro. RESULTS: Polyhedrocytes content in contracted clots was positively correlated with glucose (r = 0.24, p = 0.028), glycated hemoglobin (r = 0.40, p = 0.024), total cholesterol (r = 0.22, p = 0.044), TBARS (r = 0.60, p = 0.0027), P-selectin (r = 0.54, p = 0.0078) and platelet factor-4, PF4 (r = 0.59, p = 0.0032), but not with thrombin generation, platelet count, Ks or CLT. Patients who formed more polyhedrocytes (≥ 10th percentile) (n = 83, 85.6%) had higher glucose (+ 15.7%, p = 0.018), fibrinogen (+ 16.6%, p = 0.004), lower red blood cell distribution width (RDW, - 8.8%, p = 0.034), reduced plasma clot density (- 21.8% Ks, p = 0.011) and impaired fibrinolysis (+ 6.5% CLT, p = 0.037) when compared to patients with lesser amount of polyhedrocytes (< 10th percentile). ECI and the content of polyhedrocytes were strongly associated with total PC (r = 0.79, p = 0.036 and r = 0.67, p = 0.0004, respectively). In vitro an increase of glucose concentration by 10 mmol/L was associated with 94% higher polyhedrocytes content (p = 0.033) when compared to the baseline (7.1 mM). After adjustment for age, sex and fibrinogen, multiple regression analysis showed that RDW was the only independent predictor of polyhedrocytes content in T2D (OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.39-0.92). CONCLUSIONS: Poor glycemic control, together with enhanced platelet activation and oxidative stress, increase the content of polyhedrocytes in blood clots generated in T2D patients.

Treatment with high-dose n-3 PUFAs has no effect on platelet function, coagulation, metabolic status or inflammation in patients with atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes.

BACKGROUND: Despite numerous studies on cardioprotective effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), there is limited evidence for n-3 PUFA-mediated effects, especially at its higher dose, on cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes (DM2) and established atherosclerosis. PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of daily treatment with a higher dose (2 g) of n-3 PUFAs on platelet function, coagulation parameters, fibrin clot properties, markers of systemic inflammation and metabolic status, in patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease and DM2 who receive optimal medical therapy. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, double-center study, in which thrombin generation (plasma thrombogenic potential from automated thrombogram), fibrin clot properties (plasma fibrin clot permeability; lysis time), platelet aggregation (light transmission aggregometry with adenosine diphosphate and arachidonic acid used as agonists), HbA1c, insulin level, lipid profiles, leptin and adiponectin levels, as well as markers of systemic inflammation (i.e., hsCRP, IL-6, TNF-α, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and myeloperoxidase) were determined at baseline and at 3 months after treatment with 2 g/day of n-3 PUFAs (n = 36) or placebo (n = 38). Moreover, we assessed serum fatty acids of the phospholipid fraction by gas chromatography both at baseline and at the end of the study. RESULTS: Majority of patients were treated with optimal medical therapy and achieved recommended treatment targets. Despite higher serum levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (by 204%; p < 0.001) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (by 62%; p < 0.0001) in n-3 PUFA group at the end of treatment no changes in platelet aggregation, thrombin generation, fibrin clot properties or markers of systemic inflammation were observed. No intergroup differences in the insulin, HbA1c and lipid levels were found at the end of the study. There was no change in adiponectin and leptin in interventional group, however leptin increased in control group (p = 0.01), therefore after study period leptin levels were lower in the interventional group (p = 0.01). Additionally, resolvin D1 did not differ between interventional and control group. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, our study demonstrated that in patients with long-standing, well-controlled DM2 and atherosclerotic disease the treatment with a high dose of n-3 PUFAs (namely, 1 g/day of EPA and 1 g/day of DHA for 3 months) does not improve coagulation, metabolic, and inflammatory status when measured with the specified tests. The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov; identifier: NCT02178501. Registration date: April 12, 2014.

Low fasting glucose is associated with enhanced thrombin generation and unfavorable fibrin clot properties in type 2 diabetic patients with high cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of low blood glucose on thrombin generation and fibrin clot properties in type 2 diabetes (T2DM). METHODS: In 165 patients with T2DM and high cardiovascular risk, we measured ex vivo plasma fibrin clot permeation [Ks], turbidity and efficiency of fibrinolysis including clot lysis time [t50%], together with thrombin generation and platelet activation markers in relation to fasting blood glucose. RESULTS: As compared to patients in medium (4.5-6.0 mmol/l, n = 52) and higher (>6.0 mmol/l, n = 75) glucose group, subjects with low glycemia (<4.5 mmol/l, n = 38) had lower Ks by 11% (p < 0.001) and 8% (p = 0.01), respectively, prolonged t50% by 10% (p < 0.001) and 7% (p = 0.016), respectively, and higher peak thrombin generation by 21% and 16%, respectively (p < 0.001 for both). There were no significant differences in Ks and t50% between patients in medium and higher glucose group. In the whole group, a J-shape relationship was observed between glycemia and the following factors: peak thrombin generation, Ks and t50%. Only in patients with HbA1c < 6.0% (42 mmol/mol) (n = 26) fasting glucose positively correlated with Ks (r = 0.53, P = 0.006) and inversely with t50% (r = -0.46, P = 0.02). By multiple regression analysis, after adjustment for age, fibrinogen, HbA1c, insulin treatment and T2DM duration, fasting glycemia was the independent predictor of Ks (F = 6.6, df = 2, P = 0.002), t50% (F = 8.0, df = 2, P < 0.001) and peak thrombin generation (F = 13.5, df = 2, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: In T2DM patients fasting glycemia <4.5 mmol/l is associated with enhanced thrombin formation and formation of denser fibrin clots displaying lower lysability, especially when strict glycemia control was achieved (HbA1c<6.0%).

Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids reduce lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A(2) in patients with stable angina.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Increased consumption of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) together with lifestyle measures and medications is recommended for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, the exact mechanisms underlying observed benefits are not well defined. To this aim, we evaluated the effects of omega-3 PUFA in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) mass and activity and their relation to oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxy-LDL). METHODS AND RESULTS: In a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study Lp-PLA2, oxy-LDL, myeloperoxidase and interleukin-6 were determined at baseline, 3-5 days and 30 days during administration of omega-3 PUFA 1 g/day (n = 30) or placebo (n = 24). Treatment with omega-3 PUFA resulted in reduction of Lp-PLA2 mass by 10.7%, activity by 9.3 (p = 0.026 for both) and oxy-LDL by 10.9% (p = 0.014) at 30 days, with no change in myeloperoxidase and interleukin-6. Compared with placebo, patients receiving omega-3 PUFA had lower Lp-PLA2 mass by 9.42%, activity by 9.2 (p = 0.041 for both) and oxy-LDL by 12.3% (p = 0.10) after one month, but not at 3-5 days. There were no correlations between Lp-PLA2 and both myeloperoxidase and oxy-LDL throughout the study. The multivariate model showed that only treatment with omega-3 PUFA and baseline myeloperoxidase levels were independent predictors of Lp-PLA2 mass changes at one month (R(2) = 0.37, P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Administration of omega-3 PUFA can decrease Lp-PLA2 in patients with stable angina undergoing PCI. This novel effect may contribute to the benefits derived from omega-3 PUF.

Alcohol, health loss, and mortality: can wine really save the good name of moderate alcohol consumption?

It is estimated that one­third of the world's population consumes alcohol. At the same time, it is well­known that excessive alcohol consumption in one of the leading causes of premature mortality. The history of production of alcoholic beverages, especially wine, dates back as long as 8000 years. However, people soon realized adverse effects of alcohol abuse and tried to limit its consumption. Higher alcohol consumption is associated with health loss and increased risk of all­cause mortality. It is linearly associated with a greater risk of many types of cancers, liver disease, incidence of atrial fibrillation, hemorrhagic stroke, or heart failure. Although many scientific societies recommend reduction of alcohol intake and specify the recommended limits of consumption, there is no proven safe amount of alcohol for the general population. There are conflicting data on the effect of low­to­moderate alcohol consumption on mortality, with most of the studies indicating a J­shaped curve related mostly to a reduction of coronary artery disease complications, including cardiovascular death. Among different types of alcohol, red wine consumption may have different health effects, due to its high content of antioxidative polyphenols. Wine, together with abundance of plant­based foods, olive oil, and fish, is an important part of the Mediterranean diet. There are both observational and randomized studies documenting a wide spectrum of health­promoting effects of such a diet, especially a reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events. People who want to drink alcohol should be advised to limit their consumption to a minimum, and should consider choosing red wine.

Blood clot properties, thrombin generation, and platelet activation in patients with dysglycemia and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: The CASCARA study.

BACKGROUND: There is a strong link between coronary artery disease (CAD), type 2 diabetes (T2D) on one hand, and altered fibrin clot properties, including increased clot density, and unfavorable fibrin clot structure on the other. T2D-related changes in fibrin clots can increase cardiovascular (CV) disease risk, including future CV events. We aimed to assess fibrin clot properties, thrombin generation, and platelet activation in CAD patients with prediabetes (PD) or T2D, compared to CAD patients without glycemic disorders. METHODS: We allocated patients to three groups: 1) Those with angiographically established CAD but without glycemic abnormalities (CAD group); 2) individuals with PD and established CAD (CAD+PD group); and 3) patients with T2D and CAD (CAD+T2D group). We conducted comparisons across these groups for thrombin generation, fibrin clot permeability, fibrin clot lysis, and platelet activation. RESULTS: The final analysis included 116 eligible patients: 1) CAD group (n = 31); 2) CAD+PD (n = 42); and 3) CAD+T2D (n = 43). The CAD+T2D patients enrolled had well-controlled T2D (median HbA1c level of 5.90%; IQR: 5.7%-6.3%). We found no significant differences in thrombin generation, fibrin clot properties, or platelet activation markers across the three analyzed groups (all P-values >0.20). However, elevated interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were noted in both the highest and lowest glucose concentration quartiles. Additionally, a substantial increase in endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) was observed in patients in the highest glycated hemoglobin quintile. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with established CAD and concomitant PD or well-controlled T2D exhibited comparable fibrin clot phenotypes, thrombin generation potential, and platelet activation when compared to CAD patients without dysglycemia.

Thrombin generation, fibrin clot permeation and lysis in patients with severe mitral regurgitation undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral valve repair: Mitral Fibrin Study.

INTRODUCTION: Intricate management of heart failure (HF), especially in the context of reduced ejection fraction, is further complicated by an elevated risk of thromboembolic events. Studies published so far offer inconclusive insight into the interplay between mitral regurgitation (MR) and the coagulation system. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the impact of transcatheter edge­to­edge repair (TEER) on specific coagulation parameters in HF patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A cohort of 31 HF patients with severe MR treated with TEER underwent a systematic evaluation at 3 visits (V1, V2, and V3). Coagulation parameters, including fibrinogen concentration, thrombin generation, fibrin clot permeability, and clot lysis time (CLT) were assessed (n = 27 at V2; n = 25 at V3). RESULTS: TEER induced changes in fibrinogen levels (P = 0.01; V3 vs V2) and improved fibrin clot properties over 50­day follow­up (P = 0.01; V3 vs V2). No significant differences were observed between time points in the analyzed blood clot parameters. Correlation analysis showed that baseline CLT was associated with ΔN­terminal pro-B­type natriuretic peptide (NT­proBNP) level (P = 0.049; r = 0.4). Multivariable analysis identified baseline CLT as an independent predictor of early post­TEER NT­proBNP change (R2 = 0.55; P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS: We found decreased level of fibrinogen and increased permeation coefficient over a median 50 (interquartile range, 32.5-75.5)-day post­TEER follow­up, as compared with early postprocedural assessments. Other blood coagulation parameters remained unchanged from baseline at both follow­up time points after TEER. Finally, CLT was an independent predictor of early NT­proBNP increase, emphasizing its role as an indicator of hemodynamic response to TEER.

Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes by Baseline HbA1c and Change in HbA1c in People With Overweight or Obesity but Without Diabetes in SELECT.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the cardiovascular effects of semaglutide by baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and change in HbA1c in a prespecified analysis of Semaglutide Effects on Cardiovascular Outcomes in People With Overweight or Obesity (SELECT). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: In SELECT, people with overweight or obesity and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease without diabetes were randomized to weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg or placebo. The primary end point of first major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) (cardiovascular mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or stroke) was reduced by 20% with semaglutide versus placebo. Analysis of outcomes included first MACE, its individual components, expanded MACE (cardiovascular mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or stroke; coronary revascularization; or hospitalization for unstable angina), a heart failure composite (heart failure hospitalization or urgent medical visit or cardiovascular mortality), coronary revascularization, and all-cause mortality by baseline HbA1c subgroup and categories of HbA1c change (<-0.3, -0.3 to 0.3, and >0.3 percentage points) from baseline to 20 weeks using the intention-to-treat principle with Cox proportional hazards. RESULTS: Among 17,604 participants (mean age 61.6 years, 72.3% male), baseline HbA1c was <5.7% for 33.5%, 5.7% to <6.0% for 34.6%, and 6.0% to <6.5% for 31.9%. Cardiovascular risk reduction with semaglutide versus placebo was not shown to be different across baseline HbA1c groups and was consistent with that of the overall study for all end points, except all-cause mortality. Cardiovascular outcomes were also consistent across subgroups of HbA1c change. CONCLUSIONS: In people with overweight or obesity and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease but not diabetes, semaglutide reduced cardiovascular events irrespective of baseline HbA1c or change in HbA1c. Thus, semaglutide is expected to confer cardiovascular benefits in people with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease who are normoglycemic at baseline and/or in those without HbA1c improvements.

Effect of Semaglutide on Regression and Progression of Glycemia in People With Overweight or Obesity but Without Diabetes in the SELECT Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether semaglutide slows progression of glycemia in people with cardiovascular disease and overweight or obesity but without diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: In a multicenter, double-blind trial, participants aged ≥45 years, with BMI ≥27 kg/m2, and with preexisting cardiovascular disease but without diabetes (HbA1c <6.5%) were randomized to receive subcutaneous semaglutide (2.4 mg weekly) or placebo. Major glycemic outcomes were HbA1c and proportions achieving biochemical normoglycemia (HbA1c <5.7%) and progressing to biochemical diabetes (HbA1c ≥6.5%). RESULTS: Of 17,604 participants, 8,803 were assigned to semaglutide and 8,801 to placebo. Mean ± SD intervention exposure was 152 ± 56 weeks and follow-up 176 ± 40 weeks. In both treatment arms mean nadir HbA1c for participants was at 20 weeks. Thereafter, HbA1c increased similarly in both arms, with a mean difference of -0.32 percentage points (95% CI -0.33 to -0.30; -3.49 mmol/mol [-3.66 to -3.32]) and with the difference favoring semaglutide throughout the study (P < 0.0001). Body weight plateaued at 65 weeks and was 8.9% lower with semaglutide. At week 156, a greater proportion treated with semaglutide were normoglycemic (69.5% vs. 35.8%; P < 0.0001) and a smaller proportion had biochemical diabetes by week 156 (1.5% vs. 6.9%; P < 0.0001). The number needed to treat was 18.5 to prevent a case of diabetes. Both regression and progression were dependent on glycemia at baseline, with the magnitude of weight reduction important in mediating 24.5% of progression and 27.1% of regression. CONCLUSIONS: In people with preexisting cardiovascular disease and overweight or obesity but without diabetes, long-term semaglutide increases regression to biochemical normoglycemia and reduces progression to biochemical diabetes but does not slow glycemic progression over time.

Baseline characteristics of patients with heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction: The FINEARTS-HF trial.

AIMS: To describe the baseline characteristics of participants in the FINEARTS-HF trial, contextualized with prior trials including patients with heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF). The FINEARTS-HF trial is comparing the effects of the non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone with placebo in reducing cardiovascular death and total worsening HF events in patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF. METHODS AND RESULTS: Patients with symptomatic HF, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥40%, estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 25 ml/min/1.73 m2, elevated natriuretic peptide levels and evidence of structural heart disease were enrolled and randomized to finerenone titrated to a maximum of 40 mg once daily or matching placebo. We validly randomized 6001 patients to finerenone or placebo (mean age 72 ± 10 years, 46% women). The majority were New York Heart Association functional class II (69%). The baseline mean LVEF was 53 ± 8% (range 34-84%); 36% of participants had a LVEF <50% and 64% had a LVEF ≥50%. The median N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was 1041 (interquartile range 449-1946) pg/ml. A total of 1219 (20%) patients were enrolled during or within 7 days of a worsening HF event, and 3247 (54%) patients were enrolled within 3 months of a worsening HF event. Compared with prior large-scale HFmrEF/HFpEF trials, FINEARTS-HF participants were more likely to have recent (within 6 months) HF hospitalization and greater symptoms and functional limitations. Further, concomitant medications included a larger percentage of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors than previous trials. CONCLUSIONS: FINEARTS-HF has enrolled a broad range of high-risk patients with HFmrEF and HFpEF. The trial will determine the safety and efficacy of finerenone in this population.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids increase plasma adiponectin to leptin ratio in stable coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND: Growing evidence suggests a cardioprotective role of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). However, the exact mechanisms underlying the effects of omega-3 PUFA in humans have not yet been fully clarified. PURPOSE: We sought to evaluate omega-3 PUFA-mediated effects on adipokines in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). METHODS: We conducted a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study, in which adiponectin, leptin and resistin were determined at baseline, 3-5 days and 30 days during administration of omega-3 PUFA 1 g/day (n=20) or placebo (n=28). RESULTS: As compared to controls administration of omega-3 PUFA resulted in increase of adiponectin by 13.4% (P<0.0001), reduction of leptin by 22% (P<0.0001) and increase of adiponectin to leptin (A/L) ratio by 45.5% (P<0.0001) at 30 days, but not at 3-5 days. Compared with placebo adiponectin was 12.7% higher (P=0.0042), leptin was 16.7% lower (P<0.0001) and A/L ratio was 33.3% higher (P<0.0001) in the omega-3 PUFA group at 30 days. Resistin decreased similarly in both groups after 1 month, without intergroup differences (P=0.32). The multivariate model showed that the independent predictors of changes in adiponectin at 1 month (P<0.001) were: omega-3 PUFA treatment, baseline platelet count, total cholesterol and those in leptin (P<0.0001) were: omega-3 PUFA treatment and waist circumference. Independent predictors of A/L ratio changes (P<0.0001) were: assigned treatment, current smoking and hyperlipidemia. CONCLUSIONS: In high risk stable coronary patients after PCI omega-3 PUFA supplementation improves adipokine profile in circulating blood. This might be a novel, favourable mechanism of omega-3 PUFA action.

Predictive value of metabolic score for insulin resistance and triglyceride glucose-BMI among patients with acute myocardial infarction in 1-year follow-up.

BACKGROUND: Recently two indicators - metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) and triglyceride glucose-BMI (TyG-BMI) have been proposed as surrogate markers of IR and potential cardiovascular risk factors. The aim of the study was to assess the predictive value of METS-IR and TyG-BMI concerning the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality in 1-year follow-up among patients admitted with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). METHODS: Two thousand one hundred fifty-three patients with a median age of 68 years were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the type of AMI. RESULTS: MACE occurred in 7.9% of the patients in the ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) group and in 10.9% of the non-STEMI (NSTEMI) group. No significant difference in median MACE-IR and TyG-BMI between patients with and without incidence of MACE was found in both groups. None of the examined indices were predictors of MACE in the STEMI and NSTEMI groups. Moreover, both of them did not predict MACE in subgroups of patients classified according to the presence of diabetes. Finally, METS-IR and TyG-BMI were significant predictors of 1-year morality, however with low prognostic value and only in univariate regression analysis. CONCLUSION: METS-IR and TyG-BMI should not be used in predicting MACE among patients with AMI.

Gender-related and PUFA-related differences in lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

BACKGROUND: Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) may play an important role in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Increased plasma levels of Lp-PLA2 may predict future cardiovascular (CV) events in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The potential beneficial effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on ASCVD have been widely investigated. However, the impact of different PUFA concentrations on Lp-PLA2 remains uncertain. OBJECTIVES: We sought to determine the intergender differences in a population of patients with both T2D and ASCVD regarding Lp-PLA2 mass and the association between Lp-PLA2 mass and plasma levels of PUFA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we measured the Lp-PLA2 mass, PUFA concentrations and inflammatory markers in 74 patients (49 males and 25 females) with T2D and ASCVD. RESULTS: In this very high-risk population, males had, on average, 33.6% higher levels of Lp-PLA2 than females. The Lp-PLA2 mass was positively associated with interleukin 6 (IL-6) (r = 0.27, p = 0.019), creatinine (r = 0.29, p = 0.03) and triglyceride levels (r = 0.41, p = 0.002). Additionally, male gender and higher levels of triglycerides, leptin, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) were independent predictors for an increased Lp-PLA2. Moreover, arachidonic acid (AA) negatively correlated with Lp-PLA2 (r = -0.26, p = 0.024), which was especially apparent in the female subgroup. CONCLUSIONS: In the population of patients with ASCVD and T2D, males present with higher plasma levels of Lp-PLA2 than females. Additionally, higher plasma levels of AA were associated with lower Lp-PLA2 levels. Our findings support the utilization of Lp-PLA2 as a novel biomarker in ASCVD risk assessment in a very high CV risk population.

Right ventricle to pulmonary artery coupling as a predictor of perioperative outcome in patients with secondary mitral valve insufficiency.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to assess some parameters of right ventricle (RV) function as predictors of short-term mortality in patients with severe secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR) after mitral valve surgery. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 112 consecutive patients with severe SMR who had undergone mitral valve repair or replacement with or without concomitant coronary artery bypass surgery. We assessed RV to pulmonary artery coupling by calculating the ratio of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to non-invasively estimated RV systolic pressure (RVSP). The study endpoint was 30 days post-procedural mortality. RESULTS: Overall, the 30-day mortality was 6%. TAPSE/RVSP ratio < 0.42 mm/mmHg was a significant predictor of mortality and remained so after adjusting for age and sex. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that patients with RVSP > 55 mmHg and those with TAPSE/RVSP ratio < 0.42 mm/mmHg had a lower survival probability. CONCLUSIONS: TAPSE/RVSP < 0.42 mm/mmHg is a strong predictor of short-term mortality in patients with SMR when considered for valve surgery.