Modificaciones en la función ventricular izquierda y el electrocardiograma en ratones debidas a isquemia y reperfusión cerebral / Cerebral Ischemia and Reperfusion-Induced Changes in Left Ventricular Function and Electrocardiogram in Mice

RESUMEN Introducción: El accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) puede generar perturbaciones funcionales y eléctricas del corazón. Las características y mecanismos subyacentes no están completamente elucidados. Objetivo: Evaluar si la isquemia (I) y reperfusión (R) cerebral agudas ocasionan disfunción cardíaca y alteraciones electrocardiográficas en un modelo experimental en ratones. Material y Métodos: Ratones macho sometidos a isquemia y reperfusión cerebral (I/R) fueron evaluados mediante electrocardiografía (ECG) y ecocardiografía. Se analizó la frecuencia cardíaca, el intervalo QT corregido (QTc) y el intervalo entre el pico de la onda T - fin de la onda T (Tp-Te), la fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI), la fracción de acortamiento (FA) y el tiempo de relajación isovolumétrica (TRIV). Se cuantificó el tamaño del infarto cerebral (TI), y el déficit neurológico se evaluó con la escala de Longa (EL). Resultados: Encontramos una disminución estadísticamente significativa de la FEVI a las 24 horas de R (I/R: 66,5 ± 1,5% vs. sham: 74,3 ± 0,9%; p=0,002) y la FA (I/R: 42,9 ± 1,7% vs. sham: 52,3 ± 1,7%; p=0,004). Se observó una prolongación del QTc durante la I/R (basal: 125,1 ± 4,3 ms; 60 min I: 143,8 ± 5,2 ms; 24 horas R: 170,3 ± 5,8 ms; p=0,002), sin una prolongación del Tp-Te en la I (basal: 25,9 ± 1,3 ms vs. 60 min I: 23,8 ± 1,4 ms; p=0,999) pero sí en la R (24 horas R: 32,0 ± 2,3 ms; p=0,049. El tamaño del infarto cerebral fue de 34,9 ± 2,5% y la supervivencia del grupo I/R fue del 43,3%. Conclusión: La isquemia cerebral aguda induce una disfunción ventricular izquierda leve y trastornos en la repolarización ventricular que se intensifican en las primeras 24 horas de reperfusión.

ABSTRACT Background: Stroke may produce functional and electrical heart disturbances. The underlying characteristics and mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Objectives: To evaluate whether acute cerebral ischemia (I) and reperfusion (R) may cause cardiac dysfunction and electrocardiographic alterations in an experimental mice model. Methods: Male mice that underwent cerebral ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) were evaluated by electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiography. Heart rate, corrected QT (QTc) interval, T-wave peak to T-wave end (Tp-Te) interval, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), shortening fraction (SF) and isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT) were analyzed. Cerebral infarct size was calculated, and neurological deficit was assessed with the Longa scale. Results: Twenty-four hours after R, a statistically significant decrease in LVEF (I/R: 66.5±1.5% vs. sham: 74.3±0.9%; p=0.002) and in SF (I/R: 42.9±1.7% vs sham: 52.3±1.7%; p=0.004) was observed. QTc interval prolongation was observed during I/R (baseline: 125.1±4.3 ms; 60 min after I: 143.8±5.2 ms; 24 h after R: 170.3±5.8 ms; p=0.002). Tp-Te interval was not prolonged during I (baseline: 25.9±1.3 ms vs. 60 min after I: 23.8±1.4 ms; p=0.999) but it was prolonged during R (24 h after R: 32.0±2.3 ms; p=0.049). Cerebral infarct size was 34.9±2.5% and survival in the I/R group was 43.3%. Conclusion: Acute cerebral ischemia induces mild left ventricular dysfunction and disturbances in ventricular repolarization which intensify within the first 24 hours after reperfusion.

Infarto agudo de miocardio en el paciente con marcapasos / Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Patient with Pacemaker

Resumen El diagnóstico electrocardiográfico de infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM) en el paciente con marcapasos siempre ha sido un problema en la práctica clínica, provocando retrasos en el manejo y peores desenlaces clínicos. Aunque el bloqueo completo de rama izquierda (BCRI) y la estimulación del ventrículo derecho pueden producir anomalías en el electrocardiograma (ECG), cambios morfológicos específicos a menudo permiten el diagnóstico de IAM o un infarto antiguo. Reporte de caso: Paciente de 76 años con antecedente de implante de marcapasos definitivo por bloqueo auriculoventricular de 3° grado, que ingresó por dolor precordial. A su ingreso hemodinámicamente estable, pero con ECG que muestra ritmo de marcapasos con BCRI cumpliendo Sgarbossa 2 puntos (elevación discordante del segmento ST > 5 mm en derivaciones V1 a V3) y relación ST/S < -0.25 en derivaciones V3-V4. Laboratorios con elevación de troponinas, integrándose diagnóstico de IAM y pasando a angiografía coronaria urgente. Se documentó lesión en arteria coronaria descendente anterior y se implantó stent liberador de fármaco angiográficamente exitoso. Se egresó estable, asintomático y con manejo farmacológico para prevención secundaria. Conclusión: La identificación por ECG de un IAM en pacientes portadores de marcapasos es fundamental para iniciar terapia de reperfusión. Las recomendaciones de las guías cambian constantemente, pero un algoritmo que utiliza la inestabilidad hemodinámica y los criterios de Sgarbossa modificados (CSM) para decidir el manejo de estos pacientes pudiera ser una herramienta con una alta sensibilidad y permitirá a los médicos tener la mejor toma de decisiones sin esperar resultados de laboratorio. Los CSM, que son más sensibles que los criterios originales, continúan siendo útiles en el diagnóstico de IAM. Los médicos deben elegir cuidadosamente el límite de CSM apropiado (relación ST/T -0.20 y -0.25) de acuerdo con cada caso.

Abstract The electrocardiographic diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with pacemakers has always been a problem in clinical practice, causing delays in management and worse clinical outcomes. Although complete left bundle branch block (LBBB) and right ventricular pacing can produce electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities, specific morphological changes often allow the diagnosis of AMI or an old infarction. Case report: A 76-year-old patient with history of permanent pacemaker implantation due to a 3rd-degree atrioventricular block was admitted for chest pain. Upon admission, he was hemodynamically stable but with ECG showing pacemaker rhythm with LBBB fulfilling 2 points of Sgarbossa criteria (discordant elevation of the ST segment > 5 mm in leads V1 to V3) and ST/S ratio < -0.25 in leads V3-V4. Laboratories showed elevated troponins, integrating diagnosis of AMI, and moving on to urgent coronary angiography. A lesion on the anterior descending coronary artery was documented, and a drug-eluting stent was successfully implanted. The patient was discharged stable, asymptomatic, and with pharmacological management for secondary prevention. Conclusion: ECG identification of an AMI in patients with pacemakers is essential to initiate reperfusion therapy. Guideline recommendations are constantly changing, but an algorithm that uses hemodynamic instability and the modified Sgarbossa criteria (MSC) to decide these patients' management could be a high-sensitivity tool and allow physicians to make the best decisions without waiting for laboratory results. MSC, which are more sensitive than the original criteria, continue to be helpful in the diagnosis of AMI. Clinicians should carefully choose the appropriate MSC cut-off (ST/T Ratio -0.20 and -0.25) on a case-by-case basis.

Prevalence of cardiac complications in perinatally acquired human immunodeficiency virus infection in children in Southern India: an observational study

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a multisystemic illness that impacts most organ system, to investigate prevalence of cardiovascular abnormalities in children with perinatally acquired HIV infection.Methods: This observational study was conducted in a tertiary care centre in Southern India. HIV-positive children between the ages of 18 months and 15 years were included. Cardiac abnormalities were defined as abnormalities identified on 2D echocardiography and/or electrocardiogram.Results: The 73 children with HIV infection had their cardiac manifestations assessed. Median age of children was 8 years with 52% of female participants, 22 (30.13%) children had cardiac abnormalities, of which 5 (27.27%) were symptomatic. Overall, 21/22 (95.45%) children had abnormalities on their ECG, 16 (72.72%) had abnormalities on 2D echocardiography. Of these, we found that children with delayed diagnosis of HIV infection and with more advanced clinical and immunological staging in HIV are more prone to develop cardiac complications irrespective of antiretroviral therapy (ART).Conclusions: HIV-related heart involvement is not uncommon, rather occur subclinical. A decreasing CD4 count and worsening clinical status are associated with increased risk. Hence its crucial to screen the children, diagnose at the earliest and timely manage the complications appropriately for prevention of early mortality.

Analysis of electrocardiogram and echocardiography in key areas of unexplained sudden death in Yunnan Province / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To understand the electrocardiogram and echocardiography examination results of population in key areas of unexplained sudden death in Yunnan Province (referred to as Yunnan sudden death).Methods:From 2014 to 2022, electrocardiogram examination was performed on population (including same incident cases, relatives of the cases, villagers of the affected villages, and control individuals) in key areas of Yunnan sudden death from May to October each year. Echocardiography examination was performed on relatives of the cases and villagers of the affected villages, and the types of electrocardiogram and echocardiography changes were sorted out and analyzed.Results:Electrocardiogram examination was conducted on 1 same incident case, 241 relatives of the cases, 464 villagers of the affected villages, and 99 control individuals, respectively. The types of electrocardiogram changes in the same incident case were Q-T interval prolongation and sinus tachycardia. A total of 17 types of electrocardiogram changes were detected in the relatives of the cases, mainly including sinus arrhythmia (12.45%, 30/241), sinus bradycardia (11.20%, 27/241), and left axis deviation (8.30%, 20/241). A total of 21 types of electrocardiogram changes were detected in the villagers of the affected villages, mainly including left axis deviation (9.48%, 44/464), sinus bradycardia (8.19%, 38/464), and T-wave abnormalities (7.76%, 36/464). A total of 10 types of electrocardiogram changes were detected in the control individuals, mainly including sinus arrhythmia (12.12%, 12/99), T-wave abnormalities (9.09%, 9/99), and sinus bradycardia (7.07%, 7/99). Echocardiography examination was conducted on 49 relatives of the cases and 365 villagers of the affected villages, respectively. A total of 12 types of echocardiography changes were detected in the relatives of the cases, mainly including tricuspid regurgitation (18.37%, 9/49), decreased right ventricular diastolic function (8.16%, 4/49), aortic regurgitation (6.12%, 3/49), and atrial septal defect (6.12%, 3/49). A total of 15 types of echocardiography changes were detected in the villagers of the affected villages, mainly including tricuspid regurgitation (8.77%, 32/365), aortic regurgitation (6.85%, 25/365), and decreased left ventricular diastolic function (6.58%, 24/365).Conclusion:There are many types of changes in electrocardiogram and echocardiography in the population of key areas of Yunnan sudden death.

Value of cardiodynamicsgram in early diagnosis of patients with acute coronary syndrome / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To explore the value of cardiodynamicsgram (CDG) obtained from electrocardiogram (ECG) data by radial basis functionradial basis function (RBF) neural network in early diagnosis of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS).Methods:Retrospective analysis method was used. Patients with chest pain as the main initial symptom in the emergency department of Baoan District People's Hospital of Shenzhen from October 2021 to September 2022 were enrolled. Baseline data were collected, including gender, age, smoking history, family history of coronary heart disease and history of hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. The first 12-lead ECG was recorded after admission to the emergency department, and electrocardiodynamics analysis was performed to generate CDG. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) was plotted to analyze the value of CDG and ECG in the early diagnosis of ACS and non-ST segment elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS). Sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve (AUC), and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated. CDG and coronary angiography results of 3 patients with ACS with normal ECG were observed and analyzed. Non-ACS patients with normal ECG but positive CDG were followed for 30 days for adverse cardiovascular events. Results:A total of 384 patients with chest pain were included, including 169 patients with ACS and 215 patients without ACS. The proportion of male (87.0% vs. 53.0%), smoking history (37.9% vs. 12.1%), hypertension (46.2% vs. 22.3%), diabetes (24.3% vs. 7.9%), hyperlipidemia (55.0% vs. 14.0%) and history of atherosclerosis (22.5% vs. 2.3%) in ACS group were significantly higher than those in non-ACS group (all P < 0.05). The ROC curve showed that the AUC of CDG diagnosis of ACS was higher than that of ECG [AUC (95% CI): 0.88 (0.66-0.76) vs. 0.71 (0.84-0.92)], the sensitivity was 92.8%, 78.6%, and the specificity was 83.3%, 64.2%, respectively. The AUC of CDG diagnosis of NSTE-ACS was higher than that of ECG [AUC (95% CI): 0.85 (0.80-0.90) vs. 0.63 (0.56-0.69)], the sensitivity was 87.1%, 61.3%, and the specificity was 83.3%, 64.2%, respectively. CDG of 3 patients with ACS with normal ECG showed disordered state, and coronary angiography showed ≥70% stenosis of major coronary branches. Of 215 non-ACS patients, 20 had a normal ECG but positive CDG, and 3 developed ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) within 30 days, and 2 developed unstable angina (UA) within 30 days. Conclusion:CDG has high value in early diagnosis of ACS patients and is expected to become an important means of early diagnosis of ACS in emergency.

Correlations between image quality and radiation dose in prospective and retrospective ECG-gated CT coronary angiography in patients with different heart rates / 中国医学物理学杂志

Objective To explore the correlations between image quality of prospective and retrospective electrocardiogram(ECG)-gated CT coronary angiogram and radiation dose in patients with different heart rates.Methods A total of 135 patients undergoing 256-slice spiral CT coronary angiography were enrolled in the study.Among them,66 cases received prospective ECG-gated scanning(prospective ECG-gated group)and further divided into two subgroups with heart rate≤80 beats/min(prospective ECG-gated+low heart rate subgroup,n=39)and>80 beats/min(prospective ECG-gated+high heart rate subgroup,n=27).The other 69 cases underwent retrospective ECG-gated scanning(retrospective ECG-gated group),including 45 cases with heart rate≤80 beats/min(retrospective ECG-gated+low heart rate subgroup)and 24 with heart rate>80 beats/min(retrospective ECG-gated+high heart rate subgroup).The baseline data,image quality[mean CT value,image noise,signal-to-noise ratio(SNR),subjective image quality score]and radiation dos[CT volume dose index(CTDIvol),dose length product(DLP),effective dose(ED)]were compared among 4 subgroups.The correlations of image quality with heart rate and radiation dose in prospective and retrospective ECG-gated groups were analyzed.Results The heart rates in prospective and retrospective ECG-gated+low heart rate subgroups were lower than those in prospective and retrospective ECG-gated+high heart rate subgroups(P<0.05).When comparing the mean CT value,image noise,SNR and subjective image quality score among 4 subgroups,no statistically significant differences were observed(P>0.05).The CTDIvol,DLP and ED in prospective ECG-gated+low heart rate subgroup were significantly lower than those in the other 3 subgroups(P<0.05),and the indicators in prospective ECG-gated+high heart rate subgroup were lower than those in retrospective ECG-gated group(including low and high heart rate subgroups)(P<0.05).Pearson correlation coefficient analysis revealed that the mean CT value,image noise,SNR,subjective image quality score had no significant correlation with heart rate,CTDIvol,DLP and ED in prospective and retrospective ECG-gated groups(P>0.05).Conclusion The subjective and objective image quality of 256-slice spiral CT coronary angiography is not correlated with radiation dose.Prospective ECG-gated scanning can reduce the radiation dose and ensure the image quality as compared with retrospective ECG-gated scanning.This holds true for eligible patients with high heart rate,and the former can effectively reduce radiation exposure.Therefore,prospective ECG-gated scanning is worthy to be promoted in clinic.

Application of Acoustoelectric Imaging in Biological Current Detection / 生物化学与生物物理进展

The conventional noninvasive biological current detection such as electrocardiogram, electroencephalography and surface electromyography can provide electrical reference for diseases diagnosis. Because the bioelectrical signals are the mixed result of the common discharge of sell populations, the spatial resolution of the above bioelectrical detection is relatively limited. In recent years, the acoustoelectric imaging (AEI) has been introduced to spatially code biological current through noninvasive focused ultrasound. Then the electrical signal with precise focus position can be obtained. It can achieve noninvasive detection of biological electrical signals with millimeter-level spatial resolution and millisecond-level temporal resolution which is expected to develop into a new imaging technology for accurately detecting deep electrical activities of living organisms. We firstly describe AEI principle, including acoustoelectric effect and the derivation of acoustoelectric signal equation. Then we briefly introduce characteristics of acoustoelectric signal. It can be seen from the equation of acoustoelectric signal that the acoustoelectric signal depends on the current field and the ultrasonic field. Furtherly, the typical studies of AEI are introduced including acoustoelectric coupling mechanism, AEI methods, acoustoelectric brain imaging (ABI) and acoustoelectric cardiac imaging (ACI). In terms of the acoustoelectric coupling mechanism, the researchers found that the acoustoelectric effect of electrolyte solution is caused by the change of ion molar concentration, ion migration rate and ion viscosity with pressure and temperature, and the acoustoelectric effect coefficient of normal saline is accurate to (0.034±0.003)% MPa–1. In terms of AEI methods, researchers improved the detection sensitivity, spatial resolution, signal to noise ratio and other performance indicators by improving AEI methods and optimizing AEI systems. In terms of ABI, it can utilize the acoustoelectric coupling mechanism to endow the target area with spatial features of ultrasound, and achieve noninvasive high resolution EEG detection. We review the important research achievements and significance layer by layer from the perspectives of feasibility verification, method system optimization, and clinical application exploration in acoustoelectric imaging. In terms of ACI, it can be used to quantitatively evaluate the spatial distribution and dynamic changes of cardiac current field, providing a new idea for real-time monitoring of cardiac electrophysiological state before and after surgery. We summarize and review the important research achievements and significance of ACI at each stage: in phantom, in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we discuss the future research direction by focusing on the challenges faced by key technical links such as focused ultrasound targeting, ultrasonic spatial coding and decoding, acoustoelectric sensing detection, and imaging system integration, in order to provide basis and inspiration for AEI technology system and clinical transformation.

Complications related to peripherally inserted central catheters in covid-19 patients and the potential of insertion technologies / Complicaciones relacionadas con catéteres centrales de inserción periférica en pacientes con covid-19 y el potencial de las tecnologías de inserción / Complicações relacionadas ao cateter central de inserção periférica em pacientes com covid-19 e o potencial das tecnologias de inserção

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the incidence of complications related to peripherally inserted central catheters in hospitalized adult patients with Covid-19 and to discuss the potential benefits of employing insertion technologies to prevent complications. Method: a descriptive, exploratory and cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2020 to December 2021 at a high-complexity hospital. The study included patients over 18 years old with a positive diagnosis for Covid-19 who made use of peripherally inserted central catheters for venous infusion. Data collection included sociodemographic and clinical information regarding catheter insertion and use. The analysis involved Chi-square and Fisher's Exact tests, with a significance level of 0.05. Results: a total of 123 inserted catheters were analyzed. The patients' mean age was 50 years old (SD=16.37), most of them male and in the acute phase of infection (59.3%). The following significant complications related to the insertion process were identified: catheter material (p=0.01); use of Sherlock (p=0.03); need for traction (p<0.001); number of punctures (p<0.001); and difficulty in catheter progression (p<0.001). Conclusion: the study identified the main complications related to the insertion and use of PICCs and showed that employing vascular visualization technologies such as ultrasound and Sherlock 3CG® can mitigate complications, as well as maximize patient comfort, experience and safety. The research provides support for the implementation of protocols for insertion and management of peripherally inserted central catheters, thus avoiding the occurrence of adverse events.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la incidencia de complicaciones relacionadas a catéteres centrales de inserción periférica en pacientes adultos hospitalizados con Covid-19 y debatir el potencial de emplear tecnologías de inserción en la prevención de complicaciones. Método: estudio descriptivo, exploratorio y transversal, realizado entre marzo de 2020 y diciembre de 2021 en un hospital de alta complejidad. En el estudio se incluyó a pacientes mayores de 18 años con diagnóstico positivo de Covid-19 y que utilizaran catéteres centrales de inserción periférica para infusiones venosas. Se recolectaron datos sociodemográficos y clínicos sobre la inserción y el uso de los catéteres. El análisis implicó las pruebas de Chi-cuadrado y Exacta de Fischer, con 0,05 como nivel de significancia. Resultados: se analizó un total de 123 catéteres insertados. La media de edad de los pacientes fue de 50 años (DE=16,37), con mayoría del sexo masculino y en la fase aguda de la infección (59,3%). Se hicieron evidentes las siguientes complicaciones significativas vinculadas al proceso de inserción: material del catéter (p=0,01), uso de Sherlock (p=0,03), necesidad de tracción (p<0,001), cantidad de punciones (p<0,001) y dificultad de avance del catéter (p<0,001). Conclusión: el estudio identificó las principales complicaciones relacionadas a la inserción y el uso de catéteres PICC y demostró que utilizar tecnologías de visualización vascular como ultrasonido y Sherlock 3CG® puede mitigar las complicaciones, además de maximizar la comodidad, experiencia y seguridad del paciente. El trabajo de investigación presenta aportes para implementar protocolos de inserción y manejo de los catéteres centrales de inserción periférica, evitando así la incidencia de eventos adversos.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a incidência de complicações relacionadas ao cateter central de inserção periferica em pacientes adultos hospitalizados com Covid-19 e discutir o potencial do uso de tecnologias de inserção na prevenção de complicações. Método: estudo descritivo e exploratório, transversal, realizado no período de março de 2020 a dezembro de 2021, em um hospital de alta complexidade. Foram incluídos no estudo pacientes maiores de 18 anos com diagnóstico positivo para Covid-19 e que fizeram uso do cateter central de inserção periférica para infusão venosa. Fez-se coleta de dados sociodemográficos e clínicos sobre a inserção e uso do cateter. A análise envolveu os testes qui-quadrado e exato de Fischer, com nível de significância de 0,05. Resultados: analisou-se um total de 123 cateteres inseridos. A média de idade dos pacientes foi de 50 anos (DP=16,37 anos), sendo a maioria do sexo masculino e na fase aguda da infecção (59,3%). Foram evidenciadas as seguintes complicações significativas atreladas ao processo de inserção: material do cateter (p=0,01), uso de Sherlock (p=0,03), necessidade de tração (p<0,001), número de punções (p<0,001) e dificuldade de progressão do cateter (p<0,001). Conclusão: o estudo identificou as principais complicações relacionadas à inserção e uso do PICC e mostrou que o uso de tecnologias de visualização vascular como o ultrassom e Sherlock 3CG® pode mitigar complicações, além de maximizar conforto, experiência e segurança do paciente. A investigação apresenta subsídios para implementação de protocolos de inserção e manejo do cateter central de inserção periférica, evitando a ocorrência de eventos adversos.

La fragmentación del complejo QRS del electrocardiograma y su correlación con alteraciones cardiovasculares

La presencia de complejos QRS fragmentados (fQRS) en un electrocardiograma (ECG) de 12 derivaciones de rutina es un marcador interesante de anormalidad de la despolarización. El fQRS representa un retraso en la conducción debido a una activación no homogénea de los ventrículos debido a una cicatriz miocárdica. Sin embargo, la fQRS no es específica de la enfermedad de las arterias coronarias y además se encuentra en otras enfermedades del miocardio como la miocardiopatía y la cardiopatía congénita. fQRS también se há descrito en otras entidades como la miocardiopatía arritmogénica del ventrículo derecho y el síndrome de Brugada. La importancia y el valor predictivo del complejo fQRS como marcador ECG de eventos cardiovasculares parecen ser diferentes en diferentes entidades. En pacientes con enfermedad arterial coronaria estable y en pacientes con infarto de miocardio agudo, la fQRS parece ser un buen predictor de eventos cardíacos. En pacientes con miocardiopatía no isquémica, la fQRS estrecho parece correlacionarse con el grado de fibrosis y disincronía, y podría influir en la respuesta a la terapia de resincronización cardíaca. En pacientes con disfunción del VI, no hay evidencia clara de que la presencia de fQRS pueda predecir eventos arrítmicos. Por otro lado, hubo diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la mortalidad asociada a la presencia de fQRS en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo y necrosis miocárdica. La presencia de fQRS, posee una alta especificidad y un alto valor predictivo positivo debido a la existencia de trastornos segmentarios de la motilidad miocárdica en pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica.

The presence of fragmented QRS complexes (fQRS) on a routine 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is an interesting marker of depolarization abnormality. There is compelling data suggesting that fQRS represents a conduction delay from inhomogeneous activation of the ventricles due to myocardial scar. However, fQRS is not specific for coronary artery disease and it is also found in other myocardial diseases such as cardiomyopathy and congenital heart disease. fQRS has also been described in other entities such as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and Brugada syndrome. The importance and predictive value of the fQRS complex as an ECG marker of cardiovascular events appear to be different in different entities. In patients with stable coronary artery disease and in patients with acute myocardial infarction, fQRS appears to be a good predictor of cardiac events. In patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy, narrow fQRS appears to correlate with the degree of fibrosis and dyssynchrony, and could influence the response to cardiac resynchronization therapy. In patients with LV dysfunction, there is no clear evidence that the presence of fQRS can predict arrhythmic events. On the other hand, there was a statistically significant difference in mortality associated with the presence of fQRS in patients with acute coronary syndrome and myocardial necrosis. The presence of fQRS has a high specificity and a high positive predictive value for the existence of segmental disorders of myocardial motility in patients with ischemic heart disease.

COVID-19 en estudiantes de medicina de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Holguín

Introducción: La alta incidencia de enfermos originada por la COVID-19 ha afectado alrededor de 188 países, de los cuales Cuba no se encuentra exenta, con incremento de los casos a cifras alarmantes. Objetivo: Caracterizar clínico epidemiológicamente a estudiantes de ciencias médicas positivos al SARS-CoV-2 inicialmente asintomáticos en una residencia estudiantil. Métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de serie de casos, el universo estuvo compuesto por 26 pacientes positivos a la COVID-19 que cumplieron los criterios de selección, y se estudió a la totalidad. Se utilizaron las variables: edad, sexo, raza, antecedentes patológicos personales, variables hematológicas, síntomas presentes, resultado de reacción en cadena de polimerasa, tratamiento recibido, reacciones adversas al tratamiento. Se utilizó la estadística descriptiva. Se aplicó la prueba de Prueba de Kolmogórov-Smirnov y ji al cuadrado de Pearson, con un 95 % de confiabilidad. Resultados: El sexo masculino (76,9 %), color de piel negra (100 %) y una media de 25,2 años de edad caracterizaron el estudio. El antecedente infeccioso (76,32 %, p= 0,006) fue la comorbilidad de mayor frecuencia. Las disminuciones de la frecuencia de los síntomas presentes en los pacientes están asociadas con el tiempo al PCR 1 (p= 0,047), PCR 2 (p= 0,000) y PCR 3 (p= 0,013). El ser tratado con estos esquemas de tratamiento se tuvo una relación significativamente estadística con la aparición de reacciones adversa (X2= 4,33; p= 0,03) y alteraciones electrocardiográficas posCOVID-19. Conclusiones: La presencia de antecedentes infecciosos, la diminución de los síntomas según la evolución de los resultados de la PCR y el riesgo de reacciones adversas a los esquemas de tratamiento aplicados caracterizaron a los pacientes estudiados.

Introduction: The high incidence of sick people caused by COVID-19 has affected around 188 countries, of which Cuba is not exempt, with cases increasing to alarming figures. Objective: To characterize, clinically and epidemiologically, SARS-CoV-2-positive medical sciences students, initially asymptomatic, from a student residence. Methods: An observational, descriptive, case series study was carried out. The universe consisted of 26 COVID-19-positive patients who met the selection criteria, all of whom were studied. The following variables were used: age, sex, race, individual disease history, hematologic variables, present symptoms, polymerase chain reaction result, received treatment, adverse reactions to treatment. Descriptive statistics were used. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and Pearson's chi-squared test were applied, with 95 % reliability. Results: The male sex (76.9 %), black skin color (100 %) and a mean age of 25.2 years characterized the study. Infectious history (76.32 %, p = 0.006) was the most frequent comorbidity. Decreases in the frequency of symptoms present in patients were associated over time with CRP 1 (p = 0.047), CRP 2 (p = 0.000) and CRP 3 (p = 0.013). Being treated with these treatment schemes had a statistically significant relationship with the occurrence of adverse reactions (chi square = 4.33; p = 0.03) and post-COVID-19 electrocardiographic alterations. Conclusions: The presence of infectious history, decrease of symptoms according to the evolution of CRP results, and the risk of adverse reactions to the applied treatment schemes characterized the studied patients.

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome: the supreme master of camouflage

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a condition in which there is an aberrant conduction pathway between the atria and ventricles, resulting in tachycardia. Most of the patients remain asymptomatic throughout their lives; however, approximately half of the patients with WPW syndrome experience symptoms secondary to tachyarrhythmias, like paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and, rarely, ventricular fibrillation and sudden death. Patients with WPW syndrome may present with a multitude of symptoms such as unexplained anxiety, palpitations, fatigue, light-headedness or dizziness, loss of consciousness, and shortness of breath and rarely with ischemic chest pain. We report a case of a 38-year-old male presented with various vague symptoms like feelings of constipations and anxiety accompanied by psychosocial stressors, lack of sleep with episodes of palpitations which was attributed to underlying anxiety and depressive disorder and stated on various antidepressive medication, but without any relief of symptoms. He was later diagnosed with WPW syndrome. Keeping cardiac dysrhythmia within the differentials would help in early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

¿Pseudo Sindrome de Wellens?

Introducción: El síndrome de Wellens se caracteriza por un patrón electrocardiográfico con ondas T negativas en las derivaciones preocordiales derechas asociadas con una lesión severa de la arteria descendente anterior. Sin embargo, otras causas podrían provocar este patrón electrocardiográfico. Objetivo: Abordar consideraciones sobre la fisiopatología del Síndrome de Wellens en un caso particular. Presentación de caso: Paciente de 66 años de edad con antecedentes personales de ser fumador que acude por episodio de dolor torácico a los servicios de urgencias de nuestro hospital. En electrocardiograma se evidencia un patrón de Wellen tipo 1; se le realiza coronariografía constantándose una lesión severa en la arteria primera diagonal. Conclusiones: A pesar de los numerosos avances en la identificación de factores de riesgo, diagnóstico y tratamiento de la cardiopatía isquémica, el manejo de los pacientes con este síndrome no ha sido estandarizado. Un grupo de paciente reciben tratamiento farmacológico solamente, mientras que otros otros son revascularizados a través del intervencionismo percutáneo.

Introduction: Wellens syndrome is characterized by an electrocardiographic pattern with negative T waves in the right preocordial leads associated with a severe lesion of the anterior descending artery. However, other causes could provoke this electrocardiographic pattern. Objective: to provide considerations on the pathophysiology of Wellens syndrome in a particular case. Case Report: A 66-year-old patient with a personal history of being a smoker came to the emergency department of our hospital with an episode of chest pain. The electrocardiogram showed a Wellen´s type 1 pattern; coronary angiography was performed, showing a severe lesion in the first diagonal artery. Conclusions: Regardless of the numerous advances in the identification of risk factors, diagnosis and treatment of ischemic heart disease, the management of patients with this syndrome has not been standardized. A group of patients only receive pharmacological treatment while others are revascularized by percutaneous intervention.

Protocolo anestésico para periquito australiano (Melopsittacus undulatus) / Anesthetic protocol for budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus)

RESUMEN La anestesia aviar constituye un área de estudio controvertida debido a la morfofisiología diferente entre aves y mamíferos. Lo anterior hace necesario desarrollar protocolos confiables que contribuyan al bienestar de las aves en cautiverio. La anestesiología en aves representa una actividad clínica que demanda especial cuidado de los pacientes que requieren procedimientos quirúrgicos. Este estudio describe los parámetros de SpO2, frecuencias cardiaca y respiratoria durante la anestesia con isoflurano de Melopsittacus undulatus. Se monitorearon 12 machos y 7 hembras durante las etapas anestésicas. La inducción anestésica duró 1:30 ± 0:31 min en machos y 2:19 ± 0:16 min en hembras, con promedio de mantenimiento de 7:00 ± 1:39 min. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en los tiempos anestésicos entre hembras y machos (p>0,05). Se presentó una variación estadísticamente significativa (p<0,05) de la SpO2 en el periodo de recuperación, las hembras presentaron mayor saturación de oxígeno (71±4 %) en comparación con los machos (89±2 %). En la valoración de la función cardiaca durante la anestesia, no se detectaron diferencias significativas entre machos y hembras (p>0,05). Se concluye como un protocolo anestésico seguro para procedimientos clínicos de corta duración para aves pequeñas como M. undulatus.

ABSTRACT Avian anesthesia is a controversial area of study due to the differences between birds and mammals morpho physiology. This makes necessary to develop reliable protocols for birds in captivity, which contributes to their welfare under human care. Bird anesthesiology today represents a veterinary clinical activity that demands special care for patients requiring surgical procedures. This study describes the parameters of SpO2, cardiac activity, heart and respiratory rate during anesthesia with isoflurane for Melopsittacus undulatus. 12 males and 7 females were monitored during the anesthetic stages. Anesthetic induction lasted 1:30 ± 0:31 min in males and 2:19 ± 0:16 min in females, with an average maintenance time of 7:00 ± 1:39 min. No significant differences were found in anesthetic times between females and males (p>0.05). There was a statistically significant variation (p<0.05) of SpO2 in the recovery period, females had higher oxygen saturation (71±4%) compared to males (89±2%). In the assessment of cardiac function during anesthesia, no significant differences were detected between males and females (p>0.05). It is concluded as a safe anesthetic protocol for clinical procedures of short duration for small birds such as M. undulates.

Validation of the detection of ischemia using 12 lead smartphone based electrocardiography -a non-randomized, single blinded, cross-sectional, multicenter study

Background:Reliable and early detection of myocardial ischemia using computer-aided analysis of electrocardiograms (ECG) provides an important reference for early diagnosis of CVD. We developed a 12-lead smartphone-based electrocardiogram (ECG) acquisition and monitoring system (called “Spandan”), and an application to assess underlying ischemia from analysis of electrocardiographic (ECG) signals only. Objectives ofthis study were to validate the Spandan 12 lead ECG interpretation for accuracy in the detection of Ischemia in comparison to cardiologists’ diagnosis and to evaluate the accuracy of ischemia in comparison to the interpretation of standard 12 lead ECG.Methods:In this multi-center study all patients (n=597) visiting the ECGroom at the department of cardiology were enrolled in the study by taking their written consent and explaining the purpose of the study.Results:Mean age was 52.85 years. The male gender (n=344,57.62%) shows the maximum frequency than female gender. 12 lead Spandan smartphone ECG recorded fewer false positive cases (8 versus 230) and identified greater true negative cases (310 versus 115). Spandan smartphone ECG recorded better specificity (97.4% versus 33.3%) and positive predictive value (87.4% versus 51.4%) as compared to goldstandard ECG. The accuracy of interpretation of Ischemia by cardiologists diagnosis through 12 lead Spandan smartphone ECG was better (100%) as compared gold standard (95.3%). Conclusions: Our study highlights the potential of Spandan smartphone ECG in the detection of myocardial ischemia. This may improve patient satisfaction and reduce healthcare costs.

Elaboração de algoritmo para interpretação rápidadas principais arritmias cardíacas no eletrocardiograma / Algorithm Elaboration For Quick Interpretation Of The Main Heart Arrythmias In The Electrocardiogram

Objetivo: relatar a elaboração de um algoritmo para facilitar a interpretação rápida das principais arritmias cardíacas no eletrocardiograma. Método: estudo descritivo, exploratório, com abordagem qualitativa, do tipo relato de experiência, realizado mediante um projeto de intervenção em educação em saúde durante o ano de 2021. Resultados: a elaboração do algoritmo denominado Scaritmo contribuiu para sistematizar as etapas de identificação de arritmias cardíacas, favorecendo o processo didático e aprendizado dos estudantes e otimizando a interpretação rápida do eletrocardiograma. Conclusão: o uso do algoritmo Scaritmo permite a sistematização teórico-prática das etapas necessárias para a interpretação do eletrocardiograma tornando sua avaliação mais didática e assertiva pelo examinador em treinamento.(AU)

Objective: to report the development of an algorithm to facilitate the rapid interpretation of the main cardiac arrhythmias in electrocardiogram. Method: a descriptive, exploratory study with qualitative approach, of experience report type, conducted through an intervention project in health education during the year 2021. Results: The development of the algorithm called Scaritmo contributed to systematize the steps of cardiac arrhythmia identification, favoring the didactic process and student learning, and optimizing the rapid interpretation of the electrocardiogram. Conclusion: The use of the Scaritm algorithm allows the theoretical and practical systematization of the steps necessary for the interpretation of electrocardiograms, making its evaluation more didactic and assertive by the examiner in training.(AU)

Objetivo: relatar el desarrollo de un algoritmo para facilitar la interpretación rápida de las principales arritmias cardíacas en electrocardiograma. Método: estudio descriptivo, exploratorio, con abordaje cualitativo, de tipo relato de experiencia, realizado a través de un proyecto de intervención en educación para la salud durante el año 2021. Resultados: el desarrollo del algoritmo denominado Scaritmo contribuyó para sistematizar los pasos de identificación de arritmias cardíacas, favoreciendo el proceso didáctico y el aprendizaje de los alumnos y optimizando la rápida interpretación del electrocardiograma. Conclusión: El uso del algoritmo Scaritmo permite la sistematización teórica y práctica de los pasos necesarios para la interpretación del electrocardiograma, tornando su evaluación más didáctica y asertiva por el examinador en formación.(AU)

Electrocardiogram changes due to sodium stibogluconate treatment of kala-azar

Background: Kala-azar [visceral leishmaniasis (VL)] is caused by the protozoon Leishmania donovani complex. Without adequate treatment, most patients with clinical VL die due to secondary infections. Pentavalent antimonial compounds are commercially available as sodium stibogluconate and meglumine antimoniate. Sodium stibogluconate remains the mainstay of treatment in most parts of the world. The aim of the study was to evaluate the serious adverse effects of sodium stibogluconate in the treatment of kala-azar (VL). Methods: The study was carried out in the medicine department of North Bengal Medical College Hospital, Sirajganj during the period of June 2021 to December 2021. It was a descriptive cross-sectional study with a sample size of 30. Complete history taking and physical examination were done and recorded in a case record form. At least 7 electrocardiograms (ECGs) were done (1 before treatment, 5 during treatment weekly intervals, and 1 after completion of treatment). Results: In ECG, the following changes were noted (the rhythm, T wave amplitude, ST segment, and QTc interval). Out of 30 patients, 19 patients (63.33%) developed abnormalities in ECG. Among them, 14 patients (46.67%) developed prolongation of QTc interval, 6 patients developed T wave inversion, and 1 patient developed transient 1st-degree heart block. No patients developed symptomatic arrhythmia. Conclusions: Kala-azar is prevalent among the poor in Bangladesh and can be fatal without treatment. Sodium stibogluconate has been associated with cardiological adverse effects, but it can be used safely with proper monitoring.

Electrocardiogram abnormalities detected during a routine medical examination of healthy members of the armed forces: An observational study

Background and objective: Only few studies addressed ECG findings in healthy members of the Indian armed forces or the general population of India. The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) detected during a routine medical examination of healthy members of the Indian armed forces. Method: The ECG of all the healthy members performed during a routine medical examination was initially reported by physicians at various armed forces service hospitals in the Eastern Command (EC) and later perused by the cardiologist at Command Hospital Eastern Command (CHEC). Individuals with abnormal ECG underwent relevant cardiac evaluation at CHEC to determine the underlying pathology. Results: A total of 1,045 members of the Indian armed forces were included in the study and were categorised as follows: 244 in Group-1 (aged < 25years), 478 in Group-2 (aged between 25 to 40 years) and 323 in Group-3 (aged > 40years). Abnormal ECG was found in 108 (10.3%) individuals. Left axis deviation was the most common abnormality detected in 18 (1.2%) individuals, followed by incomplete RBBB and T wave inversion which were each found in 15 subjects (1.43% of all individuals and 13.9% of the subjects with abnormal ECG). The prevalence of ECG abnormalities detected in our study was similar to that reported in previous studies. Only five (0.47%) of the 108 individuals with abnormal ECG were found to have underlying cardiovascular disease. Conclusion: Morphological ECG abnormalities were common in the subjects but did not vary significantly from the general population, and only a minority had underlying pathology. While most of the abnormalities may only represent normal variations and their occurrence in healthy individuals during routine health check-ups should not be alarming. Evaluation of structural heart disease should be done for ECG abnormalities with prognostic significance that has been well-characterised.

Fetal electrocardiogram signal extraction and analysis method combining fast independent component analysis algorithm and convolutional neural network / 生物医学工程学杂志

Fetal electrocardiogram (ECG) signals provide important clinical information for early diagnosis and intervention of fetal abnormalities. In this paper, we propose a new method for fetal ECG signal extraction and analysis. Firstly, an improved fast independent component analysis method and singular value decomposition algorithm are combined to extract high-quality fetal ECG signals and solve the waveform missing problem. Secondly, a novel convolutional neural network model is applied to identify the QRS complex waves of fetal ECG signals and effectively solve the waveform overlap problem. Finally, high quality extraction of fetal ECG signals and intelligent recognition of fetal QRS complex waves are achieved. The method proposed in this paper was validated with the data from the PhysioNet computing in cardiology challenge 2013 database of the Complex Physiological Signals Research Resource Network. The results show that the average sensitivity and positive prediction values of the extraction algorithm are 98.21% and 99.52%, respectively, and the average sensitivity and positive prediction values of the QRS complex waves recognition algorithm are 94.14% and 95.80%, respectively, which are better than those of other research results. In conclusion, the algorithm and model proposed in this paper have some practical significance and may provide a theoretical basis for clinical medical decision making in the future.

Electrocardiogram signal classification based on fusion method of residual network and self-attention mechanism / 生物医学工程学杂志

In the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases, the analysis of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals has always played a crucial role. At present, how to effectively identify abnormal heart beats by algorithms is still a difficult task in the field of ECG signal analysis. Based on this, a classification model that automatically identifies abnormal heartbeats based on deep residual network (ResNet) and self-attention mechanism was proposed. Firstly, this paper designed an 18-layer convolutional neural network (CNN) based on the residual structure, which helped model fully extract the local features. Then, the bi-directional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) was used to explore the temporal correlation for further obtaining the temporal features. Finally, the self-attention mechanism was built to weight important information and enhance model's ability to extract important features, which helped model achieve higher classification accuracy. In addition, in order to mitigate the interference on classification performance due to data imbalance, the study utilized multiple approaches for data augmentation. The experimental data in this study came from the arrhythmia database constructed by MIT and Beth Israel Hospital (MIT-BIH), and the final results showed that the proposed model achieved an overall accuracy of 98.33% on the original dataset and 99.12% on the optimized dataset, which demonstrated that the proposed model can achieve good performance in ECG signal classification, and possessed potential value for application to portable ECG detection devices.