Therapy of Dispelling Stasis， Removing Toxin， and Promoting Urination （Xuebijing Injection Combined with Modified Linggui Zhugantang） Affects Prognosis of Sepsis-induced Cardiomyopathy / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of the therapy of dispelling stasis， removing toxin， and promoting urination （modified Linggui Zhugantang combined with Xuebijing injection） on the prognosis of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy （SICM）. MethodA total of 96 patients were randomly assigned into an observation group and a control group， with 48 patients in each group. The patients in the control group received sepsis bundle， and those in the observation group additionally received the therapy of dispelling stasis， removing toxin， and promoting urination （intravenous drip of Xuebijing injection and oral administration of modified Linggui Zhugantang）. The course of treatment in both groups was 7 days. The disease and prognosis indicators ［28-day mortality， intensive care unit （ICU） length of stay， major adverse cardiac events （MACE）， acute physiology and chronic health evaluation Ⅱ （APACHE Ⅱ）， sequential organ failure assessment （SOFA） score， and mortality in emergency department sepsis （MEDS） score］， cardiac function indicators ［left ventricular ejection fraction （LVEF）， E/A ratio of peak velocity blood flow from left ventricular relaxation in early diastole （the E wave） to peak velocity flow in late diastole caused by atrial contraction （the A wave）， E/e′ ratio of mitral peak velocity of early filling （E） to early diastolic mitral annular velocity （e′）， and afterload-corrected cardiac performance （ACP）］， myocardial injury markers ［high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T （hs-cTnT）， N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide （NT-proBNP）， heart-type fatty acid-binding protein （H-FABP）， and high mobility group box-1 （HMGB-1）］， hemodynamic indicators ［extravascular lung water index （EVLWI）， global end-diastolic volume index （GEDVI）， cardiac index （CI）， and systemic vascular resistance index （SVRI）］， and TCM syndrome scores were assessed and compared between the two groups. ResultThe 28-day mortality and the incidence of MACE in the observation group were slightly lower than those in the control group. The ICU length of stay in the observation group was shorter than that in the control group （P<0.05）. After treatment， APACHE Ⅱ， SOFA， MEDS， syndrome score of stasis-caused internal obstruction， E/e′ ratio， hs-cTnT， NT-proBNP， H-FABP， and HMGB1 decreased compared with those before treatment （P<0.05）， while LVEF， E/A ratio， and ACP increased （P<0.05）. Moreover， the changes were more significant in the observation group （P<0.05）. On days 3， 5， and 7 after treatment， the EVLWI and SVRI in the observation group were lower than those in the control group （P<0.05）， while CI showed an opposite trend （P<0.05）. The observation group had higher GEDVI than the control group on days 3 and 5 after treatment （P<0.05）. ConclusionOn the basis of conventional bundle therapy， modified Linggui Zhugantang combined with Xuebijing injection with the effect of dispelling stasis， removing toxin， and promoting urination can inhibit the generation of myocardial injury markers and improve hemodynamics to shorten the length of ICU stay， mitigate the TCM syndrome， and reduce the risk of death， thereby improving the prognosis of SICM.

Effect of MG53 on Cardiac Function Affected by Acute Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Mice and Its Mechanism / 中山大学学报(医学科学版)

ObjectiveThis study was designed to explore the effect of MG53 on cardiac function affected by acute doxorubicin （DOX）-induced cardiotoxicity （DIC） in mice and its possible mechanism. MethodsIn vivo， C57BL/6 mice were injected intraperitoneally with twenty mg/kg DOX for one week to induce the acute DIC. In vitro， neonatal rat cardiomyocytes （NRCs） were treated with 1 μmol/L DOX to induce DIC. A small animal ultrasound imaging system was used to evaluate cardiac function， and the left ventricular changes in ejection fraction （EF） and fraction shortening （FS） were measured. qPCR technology was used to evaluate cardiac remodeling related factors ANP， BNP and α-MHC， autophagy-related factors Beclin1 and LC3， and apoptosis-related factor CASPASE3. Autophagy-related protein levels of Beclin1， LC3 and apoptosis-related protein levels of caspase3 were assessed by Western Blot. Transmission electron microscopy （TEM） was used to detect autophagosomes in heart tissues. TUNEL assay kit was used to detect apoptosis in neonatal murine cardiomyocytes. ResultsThe small animal ultrasound imaging revealed cardiac function was significantly reduced by doxorubicin in the DOX group and DOX+AAV9-NC group compared with the sham group （EF： Sham： 86.06 ± 2.08 vs. DOX：58.97 ± 1.62， P < 0.000 1； Sham： 86.06 ± 2.08 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 59.00 ± 1.86， P < 0.000 1. FS： Sham： 45.47 ± 1.95 vs. DOX：30.68 ± 1.21， P < 0.000 1； Sham： 45.47 ± 1.95 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 30.79 ± 1.13， P < 0.000 1）. However， the overexpression of MG53 with adeno-associated virus9 （AAV9） ameliorated cardiac dysfunction （EF： DOX+AAV9-MG53： 66.93 ± 1.78 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 59.00 ± 1.86， P < 0.000 1. FS： DOX+AAV9-MG53： 36.35 ± 1.33 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 30.79 ± 1.13， P < 0.000 1）. TEM showed autophagosomes were increased in the DOX+AAV9-MG53 group compared with the DOX group and DOX+AAV9-NC. qPCR results suggested that MG53 down-regulated the mRNA expression of cardiac remodeling related genes. Additionally， Western blot results confirmed that the protein level of caspases3 was decreased and Beclin1 and LC3 expression was increased in the DOX+AAV9-MG53 group compared with those in the DOX group and DOX+AAV9-NC group （caspase： DOX+AAV9-MG53： 1.49 ± 0.13 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 2.49 ± 0.46， P = 0.000 2； Beclin-1： DOX+AAV9-MG53：0.82 ± 0.02 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 0.62 ± 0.05， P < 0.000 1； LC3： DOX+AAV9-MG53： 0.83 ± 0.04 vs. DOX+AAV9-NC： 0.40 ± 0.05， P < 0.000 1）. In contrast， knockdown of MG53 significantly up-regulated the protein level of Caspase3 and significantly down-regulated the protein level of Beclin1 and LC3 （caspase： DOX+si-MG53： 4.52 ± 0.28 vs. DOX+si-NC： 3.37 ± 0.08， P < 0.000 1； Beclin-1： DOX+si-MG53： 0.34 ± 0.06 vs. DOX+si-NC： 0.54 ± 0.07， P = 0.026 2； LC3： DOX+si-MG53： 0.41 ± 0.12 vs. DOX+si-NC： 0.70 ± 0.07， P = 0.001 5）. TUNEL analysis showed overexpression of MG53 significantly inhibited the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes （DOX+Ad-MG53： 9.41 ± 0.53 vs. DOX+Ad-NC： 29.34 ± 7.29， P < 0.000 1）， and knockdown of MG53 significantly facilitate the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes （DOX+si-MG53： 71.34 ± 5.90 vs. DOX+si-NC： 32.19 ± 9.91， P < 0.000 1）. ConclusionMG53 inhibits cardiac apoptosis and enhances autophagy， which delays cardiac remodeling and ameliorates cardiac dysfunction.

Effects of electroacupuncture on cardiac function and local field potential of sensory and motor cortices in mice with stress cardiomyopathy / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To observe the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on cardiac function and local field potential (LFP) in sensory and motor cortices in mice with stress cardiomyopathy (SC), and to explore the possible mechanism of EA in improving SC.@*METHODS@#Twenty-seven female C57BL/6 mice were randomized into a blank group, a model group and an EA group, 9 mice in each group. In the model group and the EA group, SC model was established by continuous intraperitoneal injection of isoproterenol (ISO) for 14 days. At the same time of modeling, EA was applied at "Neiguan" (PC 6) and "Shenmen" (HT 7) in the EA group, with disperse-dense wave, in frequency of 2 Hz/15 Hz, 15 min each time, once a day for 14 days. After intervention, the total movement distance, the number of crossing grid and the number of crossing central grid of open field test within 5 minutes were observed; the left ventricular function indexes (left ventricular diameter of end-diastole [LVIDd], left ventricular diameter of end-systole [LVIDs], left ventricular volume of end-diastole [LVEDV], left ventricular volume of end-systole [LVESV], ejection fraction [EF] and fraction shortening [FS]) were detected by echocardiography; the changes in ST-segment amplitude and PR interval of electrocardiogram were observed; the morphology of myocardial tissue was observed by HE staining; the serum levels of cortisol (CORT), cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were detected by ELISA; the changes of LFP in sensory and motor cortices were recorded by Plexon multi-channel acquisition system.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the blank group, in the model group, the total movement distance, the number of crossing grid and the number of crossing central grid of open field test were decreased (P<0.05); LVIDd, LVIDs, LVEDV and LVESV were increased (P<0.05), EF and FS were decreased (P<0.05); ST-segment amplitude was increased (P<0.05) and PR interval was prolonged (P<0.05); irregular myocardial fiber arrangement, interstitial edema and inflammatory cell infiltration were observed; the serum levels of CORT, cTnT and BNP were increased (P<0.05); in the sensory cortex, the ratios of delta, theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were increased (P<0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of theta and beta frequency bands was increased (P<0.05), the power spectral density (PSD) of delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands was increased (P<0.05); in the motor cortex, the ratios of delta, theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were increased (P<0.05), the maximum energy spectrum as well as PSD of delta, theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands were increased (P<0.05). Compared with model group, in the EA group, the total movement distance, the number of crossing grid and the number of crossing central grid of open field test were increased (P<0.05); LVIDd, LVIDs, LVEDV and LVESV were decreased (P<0.05), EF and FS were increased (P<0.05); ST-segment amplitude was decreased (P<0.05), and the PR interval was shortened (P<0.05); myocardial fiber injury and inflammatory cell infiltration were reduced; the serum levels of CORT, cTnT and BNP were decreased (P<0.05); in the sensory cortex, the ratios of theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were decreased (P<0.05), the ratio of gamma frequency band was increased (P<0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of theta frequency band as well as the PSD of theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands were decreased (P<0.05); in the motor cortex, the ratios of theta, alpha and beta frequency bands were decreased (P<0.05) and the ratio of gamma frequency band was increased (P<0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of delta frequency band was increased (P<0.05), the maximum energy spectrum of theta frequency band as well as the PSD of theta and gamma frequency bands were decreased (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#EA can improve cardiac function in mice with stress cardiomyopathy, and its mechanism may be related to the regulation of local field potentials in sensory and motor cortices.

Clinical Efficacy of Qihuang Jianpi Zishen Granules in Treating Cardiac Involvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of Qihuang Jianpi Zishen granules in the treatment of cardiac involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus （SLE）. MethodA total of 62 SLE patients with cardiac involvement treated in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology， the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine from June 2021 to December 2022 were randomized into control and observation groups （n=31）. The control group was treated with methylprednisolone tablets and hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets， and the observation group with Qihuang Jianpi Zishen granules on the basis of the therapy in the control group. After 12 weeks of treatment， the two groups were compared in terms of the therapeutic effect， cardiac function indicators ［left atrial end-diastolic diameter （LADd）， left ventricular end-diastolic diameter （LVDd）， left ventricular posterior wall thickness （LVPWTd）， peak blood flow velocity in early diastolic period （peak E）， peak blood flow velocity in late diastolic period （peak A）， E/A ratio， stroke volume （SV）， left ventricular ejection fraction （LVEF）， left ventricular short axis shortening rate （LVFS）， and B-type natriuretic peptide （BNP）］， vascular damage indicators ［nitric oxide （NO）， endothelin-1 （ET-1）， vascular endothelial growth factor （VEGF）， and homocysteine （Hcy）］， inflammation indicators ［erythrocyte sedimentation rate （ESR） and hypersensitive C-reactive protein （Hs-CRP）］， anti-double-stranded DNA （dsDNA） antibodies， disease activity index （SLEDAI） score， mitigation of symptoms and signs， and occurrence of adverse reactions. ResultThe total response rate in the observation group was 87.09%， which was higher than that （67.74%） in the control group （P<0.01）， and the incidence of adverse reactions had no significant difference between the two groups. After treatment， the control group showed lowered LVDd， LVPWTd， BNP， ET-1， VEGF， and Hcy （P<0.05） and increased E peak， E/A ratio， SV， LVEF， and LVFS （P<0.05）. In the observation group， LADd， LVDd， LVPWTd， peak A， BNP， NO， ET-1， VEGF， and Hcy decreased （P<0.05）， while peak E， E/A ratio， SV， LVEF and LVFS increased （P<0.05） after treatment. The treatment in both groups decreased the scores of palpitation， chest tightness， dyspnea， and edema （P<0.05）， reduced ESR， Hs-CRP， ds-DNA， and SLEDAI （P<0.05）. After treatment， the observation group had lower LADd， LVDd， LVPWTd， peak A， BNP， and scores of palpation， chest tightness， dyspnea， and edema （P<0.05） and higher peak E， E/A ratio， SV， LVEF， and LVFS （P<0.05） than the control group. In addition， the observation group had lower NO， ET-1， VEGF， Hcy， ESR， Hs-CRP， ds-DNA， and SLEDAI than the control group （P<0.05）. ConclusionQihuang Jianpi Zishen granules combined with hydroxychloroquine sulfate and methylprednisolone can improve multiple indicators and mitigate the symptoms and signs of SLE patients with cardiac involvement， demonstrating a clinical application value.

Functional effect of aerobic combined with resistance exercise on old patients with coronary heart disease and hypertension using WHO-FICs framework / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo analyze the effect of moderate intensity aerobic combined with low intensity resistance exercise on old patients with coronary heart disease and hypertension. MethodsFrom November, 2021 to May, 2022, 16 patients with coronary heart disease and hypertension in Wuhan Donghu Hospital were divided into control group (n = 8) and experimental group (n = 8). Based on the World Health Organization Family of International Classification (WHO-FICs), the exercise intervention program was constructed. The control group accepted routine treatment, and the experimental group accepted moderate intensity aerobic combined with low intensity resistance exercise in addition, for eight weeks. They were measured lung function and cardiac function with cardiopulmonary exercise test system, and assessed with Timed 'Up and Go' Test, 6-Minute Walk Distance, 2-Minute Step Test, 30-Second Sit to Stand Test and grip strength before and after intervention. ResultsThe vital capacity, forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, forced expiratory volume in the one second as percentage of predicted volume, peak expiratory flow and maximal voluntary ventilation improved in the experimental after intervention (|t| > 2.391, P < 0.05), and the vital capacity, force vital capacity and maximal voluntary ventilation were more in the experimental group than in the control group (|t| > 2.207, P < 0.05). Peak oxygen uptake, anaerobic subthreshold oxygen uptake, metabolic equivalents, oxygen pulse, maximum work load and exercise load time improved in the experimental group after intervention (|t| > 2.823, P < 0.05), and they all were better in the experimental group than in the control group (|t| > 2.295, P < 0.05). Systolic blood pressure improved in both the groups (|t| > 4.608, P < 0.01), and diastolic blood pressure improved in the experimental group (t = 5.964, P < 0.01); while systolic blood pressure was less in the experimental group than in the control group (t = -3.654, P < 0.01). The performances of Timed 'Up and Go' Test, 6-Minute Walk Distance, 2-Minute Step Test, 30-Second Sit to Stand Test and grip strength improved in the experimental group after intervention (|t| > 2.996, P < 0.05), and all the performances were better in the experimental group than in the control group (|t| > 2.220, P < 0.05). ConclusionThe moderate intensity aerobic combined with low resistance exercise developed based on WHO-FICs can improve the cardiac function, lung function, cardiac load and motor function of old patients with coronary heart disease and hypertension.

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Patients with Goiter in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital

Background: Goiter is endemic in iodine deficient areas of the world including Nigeria. Cardiovascular disorder is a cause of morbidity in patients with thyroid diseases. These cardiovascular disorders are more likely to be found in patients with hypothyroid or hyperthyroid goiter. Large euthyroid goiter can potentially compromise respiration with potentials for secondary cardiac changes. Despite these, echocardiography is not a routine assessment of these patients. This study set out to determine the baseline cardiac function in a cohort of patients with endemic goiter using echocardiography. Materials and Methods: A comparative study of One hundred goiter patients presenting consecutively at the out-patient clinic of a tertiary hospital and 50 age and gender matched healthy non-goitrous control subjects. They all had thyroid function tests, cardiovascular evaluation and echocardiography done. Results: The mean ages of the goiter and the control groups were 46.92 + 13.85 and 46.58 + 11.62 years respectively (P=0.8510). The goiter population comprised 12 males and 88 females while the control group had 6 males and 44 females. 47% of the goiter subjects were hyperthyroid, while 44% and 9% were euthyroid and hypothyroid respectively. All the control subjects were euthyroid. Systolic and diastolic dysfunction were seen in 18% and 24% of the goiter group respectively, compared to 2% and 5% of the control group (P<0.0001). Hyperthyroid and hypothyroid subgroups had higher rates of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Systolic dysfunction was seen in 6.4%, 4.5% and 100% of the hyperthyroid, euthyroid and hypothyroid subgroups respectively while diastolic dysfunction was seen in 23.4%, 9.2 and 100% of the subgroups. Prevalence of systolic and diastolic dysfunction in the euthyroid and control subjects were 4.5% vs 2% (P=0.1228) and 9.2% vs 5% (P=0.2018). Conclusion: This study concluded that cardiac dysfunction is common in both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid goiter population while the prevalence of cardiac dysfunction in the euthyroid population is not influenced by the presence of goiter. This may suggest that routine echocardiography is unnecessary in patient with euthyroid goiter

Effect of positive end-expiratory pressure on cardiac function in patients with early left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: a prospective cohort study / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To evaluate the effect of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation on cardiac function in patients with early left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction undergoing laparoscopic radical gastrectomy.Methods:Patients who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy under elective general anesthesia from July 2021 to February 2022 at the Subei People's Hospital were enrolled [age 60-75 years old, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade Ⅰ-Ⅱ, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 0.50]. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed before operation, and the peak early diastolic velocity (E peak) and peak late diastolic velocity (A peak) at the mitral ostium were recorded and the E/A and E peak deceleration time (DT) were calculated. Then isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT) and early peak mitral annular diastolic velocity (e') were recorded and left ventricular E/e' (LVE/e') was calculated. According to the E/A, mitral e', LVE/e', DT, and IVRT, the patients were divided into early LV diastolic dysfunction group (E/A < 1, mitral e' < 7 cm/s, LVE/e' > 14, DT > 200 ms, and IVRT > 100 ms) and normal cardiac function group (1 < E/A < 2, 160 ms < DT < 240 ms, and 70 ms < IVRT < 90 ms), with 35 patients in each group. Both groups were received fixed 5 cmH 2O (1 cmH 2O≈0.098 kPa) PEEP 5 minutes after the beginning of the pneumoperitoneum until the end of the procedure. A volume controlled ventilation was used with a tidal volume (VT) of 7 ml/kg, an inspired oxygen concentration of 0.60, and an inspiratory to expiratory ratio of 1∶2. Left and right myocardial systolic and diastolic function related parameters, including LVEF, LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), tricuspid annulus plane systolic migration (TAPSE), the peak early diastolic velocity (E peak) at the mitral and tricuspid valve ostia and the peak early diastolic velocity (e') at the corresponding annulus were measured by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) before tracheal intubation (T 0), 5 minutes after the pneumoperitoneum (T 1), 5 minutes after PEEP ventilation (T 2), 30 minutes after PEEP ventilation (T 3), and 5 minutes after the end of pneumoperitoneum (T 4), respectively. The left and right ventricular myocardial performance index (LVMPI/RVMPI) was calculated. Results:Finally, 60 patients were included in the analysis, including 28 patients in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group and 32 patients in the normal cardiac function group. Compared with those at T 0, mean arterial pressure (MAP), LVEF, mitral e', LVGLS, tricuspid e' and TAPSE were significantly lower in the normal cardiac function group at T 1, and the early LV diastolic dysfunction group at T 1, T 2, and T 3, and LVMPI, LVE/e', RVE/e', and RVMPI were significantly higher. At T 4, the LVE/e' and the RVE/e' were significantly higher in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group than those at T 0 (LVE/e': 16.52±1.26 vs. 14.32±1.09, and RVE/e': 18.71±1.74 vs. 16.51±1.93, respectively, both P < 0.05), Mitral e' and tricuspid e' were significantly lower than those at T 0 [mitral e' (m/s): 0.07±0.01 vs. 0.09±0.01, tricuspid e' (m/s): 0.06±0.01 vs. 0.08±0.01, both P < 0.05]. Compared with the normal cardiac function group, MAP, LVEF, mitral e', LVGLS, tricuspid e', and TAPSE at T 1, T 2, and T 3 were significantly lower in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group, while LVMPI, LVE/e', RVE/e', and RVMPI were significantly higher. At T 4, the LVE/e' and the RVE/e' were significantly higher in the early LV diastolic dysfunction group than those in the normal cardiac function group (LVE/e': 16.52±1.26 vs. 9.87±1.25, RVE/e': 18.71±1.74 vs. 10.97±1.70, both P < 0.05). Mitral e' and tricuspid e' were significantly lower in the normal cardiac function group [mitral e' (m/s): 0.07±0.01 vs. 0.11±0.02, tricuspid e' (m/s): 0.06±0.01 vs. 0.10±0.02, both P < 0.05]. Conclusions:In early LV diastolic dysfunction patients, compared with patients with normal cardiac function, 5 cmH 2O PEEP can further exacerbate left and right myocardial systolic and diastolic function in patients during pneumoperitoneum; when the pneumoperitoneum was ended, 5 cmH 2O PEEP only worsen left and right myocardial diastolic function in patients, and did not affect left and right myocardial systolic function.

Clinical study of self-designed Yiqi Huoxue Huayu Decoction combined with western conventional therapy in the treatment of chronic heart failure complicated with atrial fibrillation / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective:To observe the effects of self-designed Yiqi Huoxue Huayu Decoction on cardiac function and serum endothelin (ET-1) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) levels in patients with chronic heart failure (GHF) complicated with atrial fibrillation.Methods:A total of 100 patients with GHF complicated with atrial fibrillation treated in our hospital from January 2019 to June 2021 were selected as the study subjects, and divided into experimental group and control group according to random number table method, with 50 patients in each group. Patients in both groups were given cardiotonic, diuretic, vasodilator and other conventional treatment, and patients in the experimental group added self-designed Yiqi Huoxue Huayu Decoction. TCM syndrome score, left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), left ventricular end systolic diameter (LVESD) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), serum ET-1 and MMP-9 levels, clinical efficacy, safety and incidence of adverse reactions were observed and compared between 2 groups before and after treatment.Results:The total response rate was 82.0% (41/50) in the observation group and 62.0% (31/50) in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant ( χ 2=4.96, P=0.026). After treatment, the symptoms scores of palpitation, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest and hypochasm pain in the observation group were significantly significantly lower than those in the control group ( t=5.28, 5.29, 5.62, 5.42, P<0.01). After treatment, the LVEDD[(51.23±6.59)mm vs. (55.65±6.17)mm, t=3.46], LVESD[(43.10±4.76)mm vs. (45.99±5.31)mm, t=2.87], serum ET-1[(65.79±8.29)μg/L vs. (79.83±10.08)μg/L, t=7.61], MMP-9 [(175.86±24.81)ng/L vs. (189.49±26.13)ng/L, t=2.68] in experimental group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( P<0.05), while LVEF [(50.01±7.6)% vs. (46.25±6.96)%, t=2.57] was significantly higher than that of the control group ( P<0.05). There were no significant differences in GPT, GOT, UA, SCr levels between both groups before and after treatment ( P>0.05). There were no obvious adverse reactions betewwn both groups. Conclusion:The self-designed Yiqi Huoxue Huayu Decoction can relieve the clinical symptoms, improve the heart function and serum ET-1 and MMP-9 levels in patients with GHF complicated with atrial fibrillation safely.

Mechanism of isorhamnetin in protecting myocardial injury in rats with acute myocardial infarction / 国际生物医学工程杂志

Objective:To investigate the protective effect and mechanism of isorhamnetin on myocardial injury in rats with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).Methods:The AMI rat model was established by coronary artery left anterior descending ligation. The SD rats were divided into sham-operated group, model group, Fasudil group (30 mg/kg) and low-, medium-, and high-dose (25, 50, 100 mg/kg) groups. Each group had 5 rats. They were administrated intragastric, once a day, and were treated for 14 d. Color Doppler ultrasonography was used to detect cardiac function by measuring left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESd), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDd), and left ventricular long-axis shortening fraction (FS). Myocardial infarct size was detected by TCT staining. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in rat serum were detected by ELISA and TUNEL assay for the cardiomyocyte apoptosis index. Cysteinyl aspartate specific proteinase-3 (Caspase-3) activity in myocardial tissue was detected by the Caspase-3 activity assay kit, and the expression of Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) proteins in myocardial tissue was detected by Western Blot.Results:Compared with the sham operation group, the FS, SOD content, and expression levels of Bcl-2 protein in the model group were significantly decreased (all P<0.05), and LVEDd, LVESd, myocardial infarct size, MDA content, IL-6 content, TNF-α content, IL-1β content, apoptosis index, Caspase-3 activity, and Bax protein expression level were significantly increased (all P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the low concentration of isorhamnetin and the model group (all P>0.05). However, the above changes caused by the construction model after treatment with Fasudil and medium- and high-concentrations of isorhamnetin significantly reversed (all P<0.05). Conclusions:Isorhamnetin can improve cardiac function and protect myocardial injury in AMI rats by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory damage to cardiomyocytes and inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

Effect of Auditory Stimulation by Upbeat Music on Radial Pulse

@#Introduction: Music of varying tempo or beats have physiological as well as adverse effects on the body. This study throws light on the influence of upbeat music on properties of radial pulse, in healthy young adults. Methods: One hundred and seventy-five students between the age of nineteen and twenty-four years were included in this study. The experiment was conducted in a room, devoid of any external disturbances. Subjects were made to listen the chosen upbeat music for 4 minutes using a headphone. The radial pulse was measured before and immediately after the experiment. Data analysis was done by using SPSS software version 16.0.Results: In this study we observed that normal mean pulse rate was 76 per minute in males and 72 per minute in female young adults. Following the auditory stimulation with upbeat music, rise in pulse rate was observed in more than 70% of subjects. Whilst, 24% showed a decrease pulse rate and 5% showed no change in pulse rate. Increased pulse rate was associated with decrease in amplitude of pulse wave but no change in rhythm and character of the pulse when compared to resting state. Conclusion: This study indicates that the music can increase the pulse rate in the majority of the subjects but also decreases the pulse rate in few individuals. This study provides the preliminary evidence to promote the music therapy in many preventive programs for patients with depression, patients with depressed cardiac functioning and useful in improving daily performances.

Effects of an intradialytic cardiovascular rehabilitation program on functional capacity and cardiac function: ICRP trial

Abstract Introduction: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health problem associated with an increased risk of death from cardiovascular complications. Although previous studies have described significant improvements in exercise in functional capacity and quality of life in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), there is a lack of studies that propose to assess its impact on cardiac function using transthoracic echocardiogram (ECHO). In addition, most of the intradialytic exercise protocols are inconsistent, and incomplete regarding their intensity prescription, time of intervention, and monitoring. Methods: The present study aims to evaluate the effects of an intradialytic cardiovascular rehabilitation protocol (ICRP) using medium intensity aerobic exercises, for 30 min. on cardiac function and functional capacity. In this 6-month longitudinal study, heart rate (HR), systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) and modified Borg scale will be analyzed in all HD sessions. The cardiac function will be evaluated by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) through ECHO; functional capacity by the six-minute walk test (6MWT); quality of life through the SF-36 questionnaire and routine laboratory tests and KT/Vsp calculation before and after the ICRP. Conclusion: ICRP protocol will be examined and is expected to improve cardiac function, functional capacity, and quality of life in ESKD patients on hemodialysis.

Tempo de aceleração na via de saída do ventrículo direito: correlação com a função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo, sexo e idade / Right ventricular outflow tract acceleration time: correlation with left ventricular diastolic function, sex, and age

Fundamento: O tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar (TAP) pode ser utilizado para avaliação da hipertensão pulmonar na análise da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo. Objetivo: Avaliar se existe correlação entre o valor do tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar e parâmetros da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo em indivíduos com função sistólica do ventrículo esquerdo preservada e de acordo com sexo, idade e fatores de risco cardiovasculares. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal. Foram selecionados 119 pacientes (59 mulheres; 49,6%). Os indivíduos foram submetidos ao ecocardiograma transtorácico incluindo os valores de tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar; ondas E e A e relação E/A ao Doppler espectral do influxo mitral; ondas e' septal, e' lateral e relação E/e' ao Doppler tecidual do anel mitral; pressão sistólica na artéria pulmonar e volume atrial esquerdo. Resultados: No sexo feminino, foi encontrada correlação positiva (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman) entre o valor do tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar e e' lateral (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,47; p=0,002), relação E/A (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,32; p=0,04) e e' septal (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,36; p=0,023) e uma correlação negativa entre o valor do tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar e pressão sistólica na artéria pulmonar (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de -0,43; p=0,034). No sexo masculino, não foi encontrada correlação significativa. Foram encontrados menores valores de tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar em mulheres com hipertensão arterial sistêmica quando comparadas a mulheres sem hipertensão arterial sistêmica (0,13±0,03 segundos versus 0,16±0,03 segundos; p = 0,015). Conclusão: O presente estudo mostrou correlação significativa dos valores do TAP com alguns parâmetros da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo apenas no sexo feminino, sendo que mulheres hipertensas apresentaram menores valores de TAP. (AU)

Background: Pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT) can be used as a parameter in the evaluation of pulmonary hypertension and aids left ventricular diastolic function (LVDF) analyses. Objective: To assess whether there is a correlation between PAAT and LVDF parameters in individuals with a preserved left ventricular systolic function and by sex, age, and cardiovascular risk factors. Method: Observational cross-sectional study. One hundred nineteen patients were selected (59 women [49.6%]). The subjects underwent transthoracic echocardiography including measurements of PAAT, E and A waves and E/A ratio, e' septal and e' lateral waves and E/e' ratio, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), and left atrial volume. Results: In female patients, a positive correlation (Spearman's correlation coefficient ­ Spearman correlation coefficient [SCC]) was found between the PAAT value and the lateral e' (SCC, 0.47; p = 0.002), with the E/A ratio (SCC, 0.32; p = 0.04), and with septal e' (SCC, 0.36; p = 0.023), and a negative correlation between PAAT and PASP (SCC, -0.43; p = 0.034). In men, no correlation was found between PAAT. and any parameters. Lower PAAT values were found in women with systemic arterial hypertension (hypertension) than in women without hypertension (0.13 ± 0.03 s versus 0.16 ± 0.03 s; p = 0.015). Conclusion: The present study showed a significant correlation between PAAT and some LVDF parameters in female patients only. Hypertension was correlated with lower PAAT values in women. (AU)

Excursão sistólica do anel tricúspide e do anel mitral: correlação com função diastólica ventricular esquerda / Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and mitral annular systolic excursion: correlation with left ventricular diastolic function

Introdução: A excursão sistólica do anel tricúspide e a do anel mitral são parâmetros utilizados para se avaliar a função contrátil do ventrículo direito e do ventrículo esquerdo, respectivamente. Pouco se conhece sobre sua relação com a função diastólica ventricular esquerda. Objetivo: Avaliar se os valores de excursão sistólica do anel tricúspide e do anel mitral se correlacionam com parâmetros utilizados na avaliação da função diastólica ventricular esquerda. Métodos: Estudo observacional transversal. Foram selecionados 219 indivíduos, sendo 116 mulheres, com função sistólica preservada de ambos os ventrículos. As análises foram feitas separadamente para os sexos masculino e feminino, por meio dos coeficientes de correlação de Pearson e de Sperman. Foram obtidos: excursão sistólica do anel tricúspide, excursão sistólica do anel mitral, volumes atriais e medidas relacionadas à avaliação da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo ao ecocardiograma transtorácico. Resultados: No sexo feminino, a excursão sistólica do anel mitral se correlacionou positivamente com o e' lateral (coeficiente de correlação de Sperman de 0,22; p=0,016) e a excursão sistólica do anel tricúspide se correlacionou positivamente com a relação E/A (coeficiente de correlação de Sperman de 0,23, p=0,037), com o e' lateral (coeficiente de correlação de Sperman de 0,28; p=0,012), com o e' septal (coeficiente de correlação de Sperman de 0,28; p=0,012) e negativamente com a relação E/e' (coeficiente de correlação de Pearson de -0,27; p=0,018) e onda A (coeficiente de correlação de Pearson de -0,29; p= 0,009). No sexo masculino, apenas a excursão sistólica do anel mitral se correlacionou positivamente com a onda E (coeficiente de correlação de Pearson de 0,21; p=0,037), e' lateral (coeficiente de correlação de Sperman de 0,34; p <0,001) e e' septal (coeficiente de correlação de Sperman de 0,26; p=0,008). Não houve correlação entre excursão sistólica do anel mitral e do anel tricúspide e volumes atriais. A presença de hipertensão arterial sistêmica e diabetes melito influenciou nos valores de excursão sistólica do anel tricúspide e do anel mitral correlacionados a ondas E e A, relação E/A, ondas e' septal e lateral e relação E/e'. Conclusão: No presente estudo, os valores da excursão sistólica do anel mitral e do anel tricúspide apresentaram correlação significativa com algumas variáveis da função diastólica ventricular esquerda com maior evidência no sexo feminino.(AU)

Introduction: Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and mitral annular systolic excursion are parameters used to assess the systolic function of the right ventricle and left ventricle, respectively. Little is known about its relationship with left ventricular diastolic function. Objective: To assess whether the values of mitral annular systolic excursion and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion correlate with parameters used in the evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function. Method: Observational cross-sectional study. Two hundred nine individuals were selected, 116 women, with both ventricles normal systolic function. The analyzes were performed for men and women, through Pearson correlation coefficient and Sperman correlation coefficient. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, mitral annular systolic excursion, atrial volumes and left ventricular diastolic function parameters on transthoracic echocardiogram were obtained. Results: In women, mitral annular systolic excursion was positively correlated with lateral e '(Sperman correlation coefficient of 0.22; p=0.016) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion was positively correlated with E / A ratio (Sperman correlation coefficient of 0.23; p=0.037), lateral e' (Sperman correlation coefficient of 0.28; p=0.012), and septal e' (Sperman correlation coefficient of 0.28; p=0.012), and negatively with the E/e' ratio (Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.27; p=0.018), and A wave (Pearson correlation coefficient of -0.29; p=0.009). In men, only mitral annular systolic excursion correlated positively with E wave (Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.21; p=0.037), lateral e' (Sperman correlation coefficient of 0.34; p <0.001) and the septal e' (Sperman correlation coefficient of 0.26; p=0.008). There was no correlation between mitral annular systolic excursion E and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and atrial volumes. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus influenced tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and mitral annular systolic excursion values correlated to E and A waves, E/A ratio, septal and lateral e' waves, and E/e' ratio. Conclusion: In the present study, mitral annular systolic excursion and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion values showed a significant correlation with some parameters of left ventricular diastolic function, with stronger evidence on female sex.(AU)

Aumento do trabalho miocárdico desperdiçado como indicador de lesão coronariana significativa / Increased wasted myocardial work as an indicator of significant coronary lesion

Introdução: A avaliação dos índices de trabalho miocárdico global em condições basais pode ser útil para a estratificação clínica de pacientes com suspeita de obstrução coronariana. Objetivo: Correlacionar o valor do índice de trabalho miocárdico global e a presença de lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas. Método: Estudo transversal, com pacientes encaminhados para cinecoronarioangiografia eletiva. Foi realizado ecocardiograma com obtenção das medidas para cálculo do valor do trabalho miocárdico, sendo avaliada a presença de lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas à cinecoronarioangiografia. Resultados: A amostra foi composta de 30 pacientes, com a idade média de 64,2±12,8 anos, sendo a maioria do sexo masculino (63,3%), dos quais 68,4% apresentaram lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas. O índice de trabalho miocárdico global foi de 1.876mmHg%±253,8 no grupo com lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas e de 2.054,2mmHg%±417,3 naqueles sem lesões significativas (p=0,089). O trabalho miocárdio construtivo global nos pacientes sem lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas foi maior (2.329,3mmHg%±462,9) do que naqueles com lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas (2.109,5mmHg%±332,3; p=0,064). O trabalho miocárdio desperdiçado global foi maior nos pacientes com lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas (103,7mmHg%±47,1 versus 68,3mmHg%±33,8; p=0,038). O ponto de corte de 115mmHg% foi aquele com a melhor área sob a curva (0,625), com sensibilidade de 83,3%. Conclusão: O aumento do trabalho miocárdio desperdiçado global se correlacionou com a presença de lesões obstrutivas coronarianas significativas em nossa amostra.(AU)

Introduction: The assessment of global myocardial work indices under baseline conditions may be useful for the clinical stratification of patients with suspected coronary obstruction. Objective: To correlate the value of global myocardial work indices and the presence of significant obstructive coronary lesions. Method: Cross-sectional study, with patients referred for elective coronary angiography. An echocardiogram was performed to obtain measurements to calculate the value of myocardial work and evaluated the presence or presence of significant obstructive coronary lesions at coronary angiography. Results: The sample consisted of 30 patients, with a mean age of 64.2±12.8 years, the majority being male (63.3%), of which 68.4% had significant obstructive coronary lesions. The global myocardial work indices was 1,876mmHg%±253.8 in the group with significant obstructive coronary lesions and 2,054.2mmHg%±417.3 in those without significant lesions (p=0.089). Global constructive myocardial work in patients without significant obstructive coronary lesions was higher (2,329.3mmHg%±462.9) than in those with significant obstructive coronary lesions (2,109.5mmHg%±332.3; p=0.064). Global wasted myocardial work was higher in patients with significant obstructive coronary lesions (103.7mmHg%±47.1 versus 68.3mmHg%±33.8; p=0.038). The cutoff point of 115 mmHg% was the one with the best area under the curve (0.625), with a sensitivity of 83.3%. Conclusion: The increase in global wasted myocardial work correlated with the presence of significant obstructive coronary lesions in our sample. (AU)

Evaluation of the effect of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl-borate on cardiac dysfunction in arsenic poisoning rats by stratified strain technique / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl-borate (2-APB) on cardiac dysfunction in arsenic poisoning rats by stratified strain technique.Methods:Thirty-two 12-week-old SD rats were randomly divided into control group ( n=8) and arsenic exposure group ( n=24). After 12 weeks of arsenic exposure, arsenic exposure group was divided into three groups: natural recovery group ( n=8), low-dose intervention group (n=8) and high-dose intervention group ( n=8). The rats were treated with 2-APB for 21 days. After the last administration, the routine parameters and the layered strain parameters were measured by ultrasonic instrument. Then the rats were killed and their blood and myocardial samples were obtained. The levels of serum creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were tested, and the morphological changes of cardiomyocytes were observed by HE staining. Results:Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular short axis shortening (LVFS), global circumferential strain of subendocardial myocardium (GCS-endo), global circumferential strain of middle myocardium (GCS-mid), global circumferential strain of subepicardial myocardium (GCS-epi) and circumferential strain rate of left ventricular segments (SrC) in the natural recovery group were lower than those in the control group ( P<0.05), while serum CK-MB and LDH were higher than those in the control group ( P<0.05). Some ultrasonic parameters and biochemical indexes in the low and high dose intervention groups were improved in varying degrees compared with the natural recovery group ( P<0.05). The correlation between GCS-endo and CK-MB was the highest ( r=-0.931, P<0.05). Myocardial HE staining showed that the degree of myocardial cell swelling and necrosis were reduced, and erythrocyte exudation was reduced in the low and high dose intervention groups compared with the natural recovery group. Conclusions:The stratified strain technique can be used to evaluate the protective effect of 2-APB on cardiac dysfunction in arsenic poisoning rats, and GCS-endo may be one of its sensitive indexes.

Evaluation of cardiac function and systolic dyssynchrony of fetuses exposed to maternal anti-SSA and anti-SSB antibodies using two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the cardiac function and systolic dyssynchrony of fetuses exposed to maternal autoimmune antibodies (anti-SSA/Ro60, anti-SSA/Ro52 and anti-SSB/La) by using two-dimensional speckle tracking imaging (2D-STI).Methods:A total of 52 pregnant women with singleton pregnancy in the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University from July 2018 to November 2020 were selected. Eighteen fetuses of mothers with autoimmune antibodies were enrolled as autoimmune disease (AD) group and 34 fetuses of healthy mothers without antibodies were included as control group. Maternal baseline characteristics, fetoplacental Doppler parameters, and conventional echocardiographic data of two groups were prospectively collected. The systolic global and regional longitudinal strain of left and right ventricles (LV and RV) and the time to peak strain of regional myocardium were measured using 2D-STI. The differences in time to peak strain between the LV free wall and RV free wall (two-chamber dyssynchrony, 2C-DYS) and between the septum and LV free wall (one-chamber dyssynchrony, 1C-DYS) were also calculated.Results:There were no significant differences between the two groups in conventional systolic and diastolic functional parameters for the LV and RV(all P>0.05). The myocardial deformation parameters and 2C-DYS obtained by 2D-STI showed no statistical differences between two groups(all P>0.05). However, 1C-DYS was significantly more prolonged in the AD group than control group[28.50(13.50, 39.25)ms vs 19.50(8.00, 29.25)ms, P=0.042]. Conclusions:LV systolic mechanical dyssynchrony in fetuses of mothers with autoimmune antibodies suggests in-utero subclinical damage of the cardiac conduction system.

Qishen Taohong Granule () as Adjuvant Therapy for Improving Cardiac Function and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure: A Randomized Controlled Trial / 中国结合医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To confirm the improvement of cardiac function and quality of life (QOL) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) via Chinese medicine (CM) Qishen Taohong Granule (, QTG).@*METHODS@#This study was a single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Seventy-six patients from 27 to 84 years old diagnosed with CHF New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II or III in stage C were enrolled and randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to receive QTG or trimetazidine (TMZ), in addition to their standard medications for the treatment of CHF. The study period was 4 weeks. The primary outcomes included cardiac function evaluated by NYHA classification and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), as well as QOL evaluated by CHF Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Survival Scale (CHFQLS). The secondary outcomes included 6-min walking test (6MWT), CM syndrome score, symptom and sign scores and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). All indices were measured at baseline and the end of the trial.@*RESULTS@#At the 4-week follow-up period, the effective rate according to NYHA classification in the QTG group was better than that in the TMZ group (74.29% vs. 54.29%, P<0.05). But there was no significant difference in post-treatment level of LVEF between the two groups (P>0.05). The CHFQLS scores improved by 13.82±6.04 vs. 7.49±2.28 in the QTG and TMZ groups, respectively (P<0.05). Subgroup analysis of the CHFQLS results showed that physiological function, role limitation and vitality were significantly higher in the QTG group than in the TMZ group (15.76±7.85 vs. 7.40±3.36, P<0.05; 16.00±8.35 vs. 10.53±4.64, P<0.05; 15.31±8.09 vs. 7.89±4.60, P<0.05). Compared with TMZ group, treatment with QTG also demonstrated superior performance with respect to 6MWT, CM syndrome, shortness of breath, fatigue, gasping, general edema and NT-proBNP level. No significant adverse reactions or adverse cardiac events occurred during treatment in either group.@*CONCLUSION@#In addition to conventional treatments, the use of QTG as an adjuvant therapy significantly improved cardiac function and QOL in patients with CHF class II or III in stage C. [Registration No. ChiCTR1900022036 (retrospectively registered)].

Achados ao ecocardiograma transtorácico em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID- 19: resultados do registro brasileiro de ecocardiografia durante a pandemia de COVID-19 (ECOVID) / Transthoracic echocardiography findings of hospitalized patients with COVID-19: results from the brazilian echocardiography registry during the COVID-19 Pandemic (ECOVID)

Fundamento: A ecocardiografia transtorácica (ETT) pode desempenhar um papel crucial na avaliação das manifestações cardíacas da COVID-19. Objetivo: Nosso objetivo foi relatar a prevalência das principais anormalidades ecocardiográficas em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19. Métodos: Realizou-se estudo observacional multicêntrico prospectivo com pacientes com COVID-19 submetidos a ETT durante a internação. Pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca prévia, doença arterial coronariana ou fibrilação atrial foram classificados como portadores de doença cardiovascular (DCV) prévia. Foram coletados dados clínicos e ecocardiográficos da estrutura e da função cardíaca. Resultados: Avaliamos 310 pacientes com COVID-19, com 62±16 anos de idade, 61% homens, 53% com hipertensão arterial, 33% com diabetes e 23% com DCV prévia. No total, 65% dos pacientes necessitaram de suporte em unidade de terapia intensiva. As alterações ecocardiográficas mais prevalentes foram hipertrofia do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) (29%), hipertensão pulmonar (25%), disfunção sistólida do VE (16,5%), disfunção sistólica do ventrículo direito (VD) (15,9%), disfunção diastólica do VE grau II/III (11%) e alteração da contratilidade regional do VE (11%). Derrame pericárdico foi incomum (7%). Hipertrofia do VE (25 vs. 45%, p=0,001), disfunção sistólica do VE (11 vs. 36%, p<0,001), alterações da contratilidade regional (6 vs. 29%, p<0,001), disfunção diastólica do VE grau II/III (9 vs. 19%, p=0,03) e hipertensão pulmonar (22 vs. 36%, p=0,019) foram menos comuns nos pacientes sem do que com DCV prévia. A disfunção sistólica do VD mostrou-se semelhante em pacientes sem e com DCV prévia (13 vs. 25%, p=0,07). Conclusões: Entre os pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19, os achados ecocardiográficos anormais foram comuns, porém menos encontrados naqueles sem DCV. A disfunção sistólica do VD pareceu afetar de forma semelhante pacientes com e sem DCV prévia. (AU)

Background: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) may play a crucial role in the evaluation of cardiac manifestations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Objective: We aimed to report the prevalence of the main echocardiographic abnormalities of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Methods: We performed a prospective multicenter observational study in patients with COVID-19 who underwent TTE during hospitalization. Patients with pre-existing heart failure, coronary artery disease, or atrial fibrillation were categorized as having previous cardiovascular disease (CVD). Clinical and echocardiographic data about cardiac structure and function were collected. Results: We evaluated 310 patients with COVID-19 (mean age, 62±16 years; 61% men; 53% with arterial hypertension; 33% with diabetes; and 23% with previous CVD). Overall, 65% of the patients required intensive care unit support. The most prevalent echocardiographic abnormalities were LV hypertrophy (29%), pulmonary hypertension (25%), left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction (16.5%), right ventricular (RV) systolic dysfunction (15.9%), grade II/III LV diastolic dysfunction (11%), and LV regional wall motion abnormality (11%). Pericardial effusion was uncommon (7% of cases). LV hypertrophy (25% vs. 45%, p=0.001), LV systolic dysfunction (11% vs. 36%, p<0.001), regional wall motion abnormalities (6% vs. 29%, p<0.001), grade II/III LV diastolic dysfunction (9% vs. 19%, p=0.03), and pulmonary hypertension (22% vs. 36%, p=0.019) were less common in patients without previous CVD. RV systolic dysfunction occurred at similar frequencies in patients with versus without previous CVD (13% vs. 25%, p=0.07). Conclusions: Among patients hospitalized with COVID-19, abnormal echocardiographic findings were common, but less so among those without previous CVD. RV systolic dysfunction appeared to affect similar proportions of patients with versus without previous CVD. (AU)

Análise do processo de manutenção e de vida útil dos equipamentos médicos ecocardiógrafos: a experiência de um hospital de ensino / Analysis of the maintenance process and useful life of echocardiography equipment: An experience in a teaching hospital

Introdução: A ecocardiografia é uma ferramenta diagnóstica de crescente utilização na prática clínica, aplicada a diversos cenários médicos. Os cuidados e os processos de manutenção preventiva ou corretiva dos equipamentos são ainda pouco padronizados. O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever o processo de manutenção atualmente aplicado a equipamentos ecocardiográficos em um laboratório. Descrever o processo inclui a caracterização de danos e aplicações de manutenção preventiva ou corretiva. Métodos: Estudo observacional descritivo e exploratório realizado em centro único. As informações de dados do processo de manutenção de equipamentos ecocardiográficos foram obtidas de arquivos eletrônicos do sistema de gestão de equipamentos de um laboratório de médio porte de um hospital público de nível terciário com características de ensino, no período de 2003 a 2018. Resultados: Foram identificados dez tipos de avarias mais comuns, como dano a programas (23,8%), peças (23,1%) e relacionadas à queda de energia e de acessórios (13,8%). Após a implementação do processo de manutenção preventiva, houve significativa redução dos custos de manutenções (US$ 44.472,10 versus US$ 25.807,59; p= 0,029). Mesmo após a manutenção preventiva, os custos de manutenção corretiva em equipamentos aplicados à ecocardiografia transesofágica (US$ 7.789,17) foram maiores que aqueles a equipamentos aplicados a outras modalidades (US$ 3.184,37 em ecocardiografia transtorácica e US$1.813,00 em estresse). Conclusão: O processo de manutenção de equipamentos ecocardiográficos foi descrito. Danos a equipamentos ecocardiográficos estão relacionados a altos custos, principalmente naqueles aplicados a modalidades especiais, como ecocardiografia transesofágica. As manutenções preventivas reduziram significativamente os custos de manutenção. (AU)

Introduction: Echocardiography is a diagnostic tool that is increasingly used in clinical practice in different medical scenarios; however, the preventive (PM) or corrective maintenance (CM) care and processes for this equipment are still poorly standardized. To describe the maintenance process currently implemented for echocardiographic equipment (ECHO) in a medium-sized laboratory in a tertiary-level public teaching hospital. The description of the process includes damage characterization and MP and MC implementation. Methods: This was a descriptive and exploratory single-center observational study. Data on the maintenance process of echocardiographic equipment were obtained from electronic files from the hospital's equipment management system between 2003 and 2018. Results: Together with the description of the equipment maintenance process, the ten most common types of malfunctions were identified, including software (23.8%), parts (23.1%), and power outage and accessory damage (13.8%). The implementation of the PM process significantly decreased the maintenance costs (USD 44,472.10 vs USD 25,807.59, p = 0.029). Even after the MP, the CM costs related to transesophageal echocardiography equipment (TEE) (USD 7,789.17) were higher than those with other equipment modalities (USD 3,184.37 for transthoracic echocardiography equipment (TTE) and USD 1,813.00 for stress testing). Conclusion: The maintenance process for ECHO equipment was described. ECHO equipment damage has high costs, especially in special modalities such as TEE. PM significantly reduced maintenance costs. (AU)