Clinical Implications of CT-detected Hypoattenuation Thickening on Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Devices.

Background At follow-up CT after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO), hypoattenuation thickening (HAT) on the atrial aspect of the device is a common finding but the clinical implications require further study. Purpose To assess the association of HAT grade at follow-up CT with clinical characteristics and outcomes in patients who underwent LAAO. Materials and Methods This prospective study included consecutive participants with atrial fibrillation and who were at high risk for stroke (CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥4) who underwent LAAO and were administered pacifier or nonpacifier devices at two French medical centers between January 2012 and November 2020. Postprocedure CT images were evaluated by two radiologists in consensus and device-specific interpretation algorithms were applied to classify HAT as low grade (low suspicion of thrombosis) or high grade (high suspicion of thrombosis). The association between HAT grade and clinical characteristics was assessed using multinomial logistic regression, and variables associated with risk of stroke were assessed using a Cox proportional hazard model. Results This study included 412 participants (mean age, 76 years ± 8 [SD]; 284 male participants) who underwent follow-up CT at a mean of 4.2 months ± 1.7 after LAAO. Low-grade and high-grade HAT were depicted in 98 of 412 (23.8%) and 21 of 412 (5.1%) participants, respectively. High-grade HAT was associated with higher odds of antithrombotic drug discontinuation during follow-up (odds ratio, 9.5; 95% CI: 3.1, 29.1; P < .001), whereas low-grade HAT was associated with lower odds of persisting left atrial appendage patency (odds ratio, 0.46; 95% CI: 0.27, 0.79; P = .005). During a median follow-up of 17 months (IQR, 11-41 months), stroke occurred in 24 of 412 (5.8%) participants. High-grade HAT was associated with stroke (hazard ratio, 4.6; 95% CI: 1.5, 14.0; P = .008) and low-grade HAT (P = .62) was not. Conclusion Low-grade HAT was a more common finding at CT performed after LAAO CT (24%) than was high-grade HAT (5%), but it was associated with more favorable outcomes than high-grade HAT, which was associated with higher stroke risk. © RSNA, 2023 Supplemental material is available for this article. See also the editorial by Choe in this issue.

Evaluating Serum Calcium and Magnesium Levels as Predictive Biomarkers for Tuberculosis and COVID-19 Severity: A Romanian Prospective Study.

In Romania, the highest incidence of tuberculosis (TB) within the European Union was reported in 2020, highlighting a significant health challenge. This is compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted healthcare services, including TB management. Both TB and COVID-19, diseases with considerable morbidity and mortality, have shown potential links to electrolyte imbalances. We conducted a prospective study at Victor Babes Hospital, Romania on 146 patients (74 with TB, 72 with COVID-19) between December 2021 and July 2023. This study assessed correlations between disease severity and serum calcium and magnesium levels, as well as pulmonary function. Adult patients with confirmed diagnoses and comprehensive medical records were included, excluding those with chronic respiratory diseases or unrelated electrolyte imbalances. Statistical analysis utilized the Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn's procedure for non-normally distributed data. Low serum calcium and magnesium levels were significantly correlated with severe forms of TB and COVID-19, suggesting their potential as biomarkers of disease progression. Patients with more severe TB (i.e., multiple cavities) exhibited significantly lower serum calcium (p = 0.0049) and magnesium levels (p = 0.0004). ROC analysis revealed high AUC values for serum calcium and serum magnesium in predicting COVID-19 severity, indicating their potential as biomarkers. This study demonstrates a significant association between lower serum calcium and magnesium levels and increased TB severity. Similarly, these electrolytes show promise as predictive markers for COVID-19 severity. These findings could serve as biomarkers for predicting the severity of TB and COVID-19, offering potential utility in clinical decision-making.

The Study of Clinical and Biochemical Parameters in Assessing the Response to the Antiviral Therapy in the Chronic Viral Hepatitis B.

Background and Objectives: Hepatitis B virus infection remains a major public health concern. The interaction between hepatitis B virus (HBV) hepatitis B virus and the host inflammatory response is an important contributing factor driving liver damage and diseases outcomes. The management of chronic hepatitis B virus infection is an area of massive unmet clinical need worldwide. Our primary aim for this study was to evaluate biological response rates and sustained virological response in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with Peg-IFN α-2a/b. The second aim of the study was the identification of metabolic changes and insulin resistance. Materials and Methods: We enrolled in this study 166 patients who fulfilled all inclusion and exclusion criteria. These treatment-naive patients with chronic HBV were treated with Pegylated Interferon α-2a/b. HBV infection was defined by the presence of HBV serological markers (HBsAg, anti-HBsAb, anti-HBcAb, HBeAg, anti HBeAb) by Enzyme-Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA) and serum HBV-DNA levels were estimated by a commercially available quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Results: Patients' recovery progress has been evaluated by determining the following: age, gender; biochemical tests; alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase; serological assays for HBV serological markers (HBsAg, anti-HBsAc/Ab, anti-HBcAc/Ab, HBeAg, anti HBeAc/Ab); molecular tests to detect viral particles, testing for HBV DNA (PCR) to confirm the diagnosis and quantify the number of viral copies in the blood (viremia); liver ultrasound-performed through epigastric and intercostal approach (transversal and longitudinal sections). Conclusions: Our results indicated that only HOMA index values, that of fasting insulin, together with baseline HBV DNA, alanine aminotransferase values, mean blood glucose at the beginning of treatment may be predictive of the early viral response in chronic hepatitis B.

Intelligent Diagnosis of Thyroid Ultrasound Imaging Using an Ensemble of Deep Learning Methods.

Background and Objectives: At present, thyroid disorders have a great incidence in the worldwide population, so the development of alternative methods for improving the diagnosis process is necessary. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, we developed an ensemble method that fused two deep learning models, one based on convolutional neural network and the other based on transfer learning. For the first model, called 5-CNN, we developed an efficient end-to-end trained model with five convolutional layers, while for the second model, the pre-trained VGG-19 architecture was repurposed, optimized and trained. We trained and validated our models using a dataset of ultrasound images consisting of four types of thyroidal images: autoimmune, nodular, micro-nodular, and normal. Results: Excellent results were obtained by the ensemble CNN-VGG method, which outperformed the 5-CNN and VGG-19 models: 97.35% for the overall test accuracy with an overall specificity of 98.43%, sensitivity of 95.75%, positive and negative predictive value of 95.41%, and 98.05%. The micro average areas under each receiver operating characteristic curves was 0.96. The results were also validated by two physicians: an endocrinologist and a pediatrician. Conclusions: We proposed a new deep learning study for classifying ultrasound thyroidal images to assist physicians in the diagnosis process.

Intermittent High-Dose Vitamin D3 Administration in Neonates with Multiple Comorbidities and Vitamin D Insufficiency.

BACKGROUND: Neonates have an increased risk of vitamin D insufficiency due to the inadequate supplementation of mothers and infants after birth. Insufficiency of vitamin D is frequently detected in critically ill patients and is associated with disease severity and mortality. There is yet to be a consensus on the appropriate regimen of vitamin D3 supplementation in high-risk infants. AIM: The main objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in neonates with severe comorbidities and to evaluate whether high-dose vitamin D3 oral administration leads to normal plasmatic concentrations without side effects. METHODS: The current study was a randomized, prospective trial of 150 patients admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Maria Sklodowska Curie Emergency Children's Hospital in Bucharest. Patients were divided into three subgroups based on the chronological order of their admission date. Each subgroup received a different pharmaceutical product of vitamin D3. We administered a dosage of 10,000 IU/kg of vitamin D3 orally in three steps, as follows: at admission, one week after admission, and one month from the first administration, targeting a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration of at least 40 ng/mL. RESULTS: Most neonates (68%) achieved an optimum vitamin D level after one month, even though only 15% of patients had an optimum concentration at admission. After the first high dose of vitamin D3, there was a 27% increase in the mean vitamin D plasmatic level compared to admission levels. However, after one month, the concentrations decreased in all subgroups due to the gap of three weeks between the last two administrations. CONCLUSIONS: An intermittent, weekly high-dose vitamin D3 oral administration leads to a steadier increase and normalization of vitamin D concentration in most critically ill neonates. However, high-dose vitamin D3 administered orally after three weeks decreases vitamin D levels in this high-risk population.

Cognitive biases in pediatric cardiac care.

Medical practitioners are entrusted with the pivotal task of making optimal decisions in healthcare delivery. Despite rigorous training, our confidence in reasoning can fail when faced with pressures, uncertainties, urgencies, difficulties, and occasional errors. Day-to-day decisions rely on swift, intuitive cognitive processes known as heuristic or type 1 decision-making, which, while efficient in most scenarios, harbor inherent vulnerabilities leading to systematic errors. Cognitive biases receive limited explicit discussion during our training as junior doctors in the domain of paediatric cardiology. As pediatric cardiologists, we frequently confront emergencies necessitating rapid decision-making, while contending with the pressures of stress, fatigue, an earnest interest in "doing the right thing" and the impact of parental involvement. This article aims to describe cognitive biases in pediatric cardiology, highlighting their influence on therapeutic interventions for congenital heart disease. Whether future pediatric cardiologists or experienced professionals, understanding and actively combating cognitive biases are essential components of our ongoing medical education. Furthermore, it is our responsibility to thoroughly examine our own practices in our unwavering commitment to providing high-quality care.

Can Artificial Intelligence Revolutionize the Diagnosis and Management of the Atrial Septal Defect in Children?

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) present a significant healthcare challenge, demanding accurate and timely diagnosis and precise management to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Artificial intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare are rapidly evolving, offering promise for enhanced medical decision-making and patient care. In the context of cardiology, the integration of AI promises to provide more efficient and accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies for ASD patients. In interventional cardiology, sometimes the lack of precise measurement of the cardiac rims evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography combined with the floppy aspect of the rims can mislead and result in complications. AI software can be created to generate responses for difficult tasks, like which device is the most suitable for different shapes and dimensions to prevent embolization or erosion. This paper reviews the current state of AI in healthcare and its applications in cardiology, emphasizing the specific opportunities and challenges in applying AI to ASD diagnosis and management. By exploring the capabilities and limitations of AI in ASD diagnosis and management. This paper highlights the evolution of medical practice towards a more AI-augmented future, demonstrating the capacity of AI to unlock new possibilities for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Nanotechnology Innovations in Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine: A Comprehensive Review.

(1) Background: Nanomedicine, incorporating various nanoparticles and nanomaterials, offers significant potential in medical practice. Its clinical adoption, however, faces challenges like safety concerns, regulatory hurdles, and biocompatibility issues. Despite these, recent advancements have led to the approval of many nanotechnology-based products, including those for pediatric use. (2) Methods: Our approach included reviewing clinical, preclinical, and animal studies, as well as literature reviews from the past two decades and ongoing trials. (3) Results: Nanotechnology has introduced innovative solutions in cardiovascular care, particularly in managing myocardial ischemia. Key developments include drug-eluting stents, nitric oxide-releasing coatings, and the use of magnetic nanoparticles in cardiomyocyte transplantation. These advancements are pivotal for early detection and treatment. In cardiovascular imaging, nanotechnology enables noninvasive assessments. In pediatric cardiology, it holds promise in assisting the development of biological conduits, synthetic valves, and bioartificial grafts for congenital heart defects, and offers new treatments for conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary hypertension. (4) Conclusions: Nanomedicine presents groundbreaking solutions for cardiovascular diseases in both adults and children. It has the potential to transform cardiac care, from enhancing myocardial ischemia treatment and imaging techniques to addressing congenital heart issues. Further research and guideline development are crucial for optimizing its clinical application and revolutionizing patient care.

Embracing AI: The Imperative Tool for Echo Labs to Stay Ahead of the Curve.

Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have rapidly transformed various sectors, and the field of echocardiography is no exception. AI-driven technologies hold immense potential to revolutionize echo labs' diagnostic capabilities and improve patient care. This paper explores the importance for echo labs to embrace AI and stay ahead of the curve in harnessing its power. Our manuscript provides an overview of the growing impact of AI on medical imaging, specifically echocardiography. It highlights how AI-driven algorithms can enhance image quality, automate measurements, and accurately diagnose cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of training echo lab professionals in AI implementation to optimize its integration into routine clinical practice. By embracing AI, echo labs can overcome challenges such as workload burden and diagnostic accuracy variability, improving efficiency and patient outcomes. This paper highlights the need for collaboration between echocardiography laboratory experts, AI researchers, and industry stakeholders to drive innovation and establish standardized protocols for implementing AI in echocardiography. In conclusion, this article emphasizes the importance of AI adoption in echocardiography labs, urging practitioners to proactively integrate AI technologies into their workflow and take advantage of their present opportunities. Embracing AI is not just a choice but an imperative for echo labs to maintain their leadership and excel in delivering state-of-the-art cardiac care in the era of advanced medical technologies.

COVID-19 and Tuberculosis: Unveiling the Dual Threat and Shared Solutions Perspective.

The year 2020 will likely be remembered as the year dominated by COVID-19, or coronavirus disease. The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for this pandemic, can be traced back to late 2019 in China. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the tuberculosis (TB) care system, reducing TB testing and reporting. This can be attributed to the disruption of TB services and restrictions on patient movement, consequently increasing TB-related deaths. This perspective review aims to highlight the intersection between COVID-19 and TB, highlighting their dual threat and identifying shared solutions to address these two infectious diseases effectively. There are several shared commonalities between COVID-19 and tuberculosis, particularly the transmission of their causative agents, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Both pathogens are transmitted via respiratory tract secretions. TB and COVID-19 are diseases that can be transmitted through droplets and airborne particles, and their primary target is typically the lungs. Regarding COVID-19 diagnostics, several methods are available for rapid and accurate detection. These include RT-PCR, which can provide results within two hours, and rapid antigen test kits that offer results in just a few minutes. The availability of point-of-care self-testing further enhances convenience. On the other hand, various approaches are employed for TB diagnostics to swiftly identify active TB. These include sputum microscopy, sputum for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and chest X-rays. These methods enable the rapid detection of active TB on the same day, while culture-based testing may take significantly longer, ranging from 2 to 8 weeks. The utilization of diverse diagnostic tools helps ensure the timely identification and management of COVID-19 and TB cases. The quality of life of patients affected by COVID-19 and tuberculosis (TB) can be significantly impacted due to the nature of these diseases and their associated challenges. In conclusion, it is crucial to emphasize the urgent need to address the dual threat of COVID-19 and TB. Both diseases have devastated global health, and their convergence poses an even greater challenge. Collaborative efforts, research investments, and policy reforms are essential to tackle this dual threat effectively.

Infective Endocarditis among Pediatric Patients with Prosthetic Valves and Cardiac Devices: A Review and Update of Recent Emerging Diagnostic and Management Strategies.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a disease of the endocardium, which leads to the appearance of vegetation on the valves, cardiac structures, or, potentially, vascular endothelium of the heart. The risk of IE can be increased more than 140 times by congenital heart disease (50-59% of all IE), particularly if cyanotic. An increase in mortality may result from IE in patients with a complex cardiac pathology or patients with an implanted prosthetic material, most frequently conduits in a pulmonary position. Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) infective endocarditis is a life-threatening complication representing 10% of all cases of endocarditis. Common signs of presentation are often fever and chills; redness and swelling at the pocket of the pacemaker, including the erosion and exteriorization of the device; and life-threatening sepsis. The use of intracardiac echocardiography for the diagnosis of IE is an innovative method. This may be needed, especially in older children undergoing complex cardiac surgery, when transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) failed to provide a reliable diagnosis. The 2018 European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) experts' consensus statement on transvenous lead extraction recommends complete device removal and antimicrobial therapy for any device-related infection, including CIED-IE. The most detected microorganism was Staphylococcus Aureus. In addition, cardiac surgery and interventional cardiology associated with the placement of prostheses or conduits may increase the risk of IE up to 1.6% for Melody valve implantation. Our manuscript presents a comprehensive review of infective endocarditis associated with cardiac devices and prostheses in the pediatric population, including recent advances in diagnosis and management.

Assessment of Sudden Cardiac Death Risk in Pediatric Primary Electrical Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview.

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in children is a devastating event, often linked to primary electrical diseases (PED) of the heart. PEDs, often referred to as channelopathies, are a group of genetic disorders that disrupt the normal ion channel function in cardiac cells, leading to arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. This paper investigates the unique challenges of risk assessment and stratification for channelopathy-related SCD in pediatric patients-Brugada syndrome, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, idiopathic ventricular fibrillation, long QT syndrome, Anderson-Tawil syndrome, short QT syndrome, and early repolarization syndrome. We explore the intricate interplay of genetic, clinical, and electrophysiological factors that contribute to the complex nature of these conditions. Recognizing the significance of early identification and tailored management, this paper underscores the need for a comprehensive risk stratification approach specifically designed for pediatric populations. By integrating genetic testing, family history, and advanced electrophysiological evaluation, clinicians can enhance their ability to identify children at the highest risk for SCD, ultimately paving the way for more effective preventive strategies and improved outcomes in this vulnerable patient group.

E-Health: A Game Changer in Fetal and Neonatal Cardiology?

Technological advancements have greatly impacted the healthcare industry, including the integration of e-health in pediatric cardiology. The use of telemedicine, mobile health applications, and electronic health records have demonstrated a significant potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the quality of care. Telemedicine provides a useful tool for remote clinics, follow-up visits, and monitoring for infants with congenital heart disease, while mobile health applications enhance patient and parents' education, medication compliance, and in some instances, remote monitoring of vital signs. Despite the benefits of e-health, there are potential limitations and challenges, such as issues related to availability, cost-effectiveness, data privacy and security, and the potential ethical, legal, and social implications of e-health interventions. In this review, we aim to highlight the current application and perspectives of e-health in the field of fetal and neonatal cardiology, including expert parents' opinions.

From Crafoord's End-to-End Anastomosis Approach to Percutaneous Interventions: Coarctation of the Aorta Management Strategies and Reinterventions.

First described in 1760 by the anatomist Morgagni, coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a congenital heart defect characterized by narrowing the aorta, typically distal to the left subclavian artery. It accounts for approximately 5-8% of all congenital heart diseases, with an incidence estimated at 4 per 10,000 live births. In 1944, the Swedish surgeon Clarence Crafoord achieved the first successful surgical CoA repair by performing an aortic end-to-end anastomosis on two patients aged 12 and 27 years old. Presently, the most prevalent techniques for surgical repair, particularly in infants and neonates with isolated coarctation, involve resection with end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) and the modified Crafoord technique (extended resection with end-to-end anastomosis (EEEA)). Subclavian flap aortoplasty (SCAP) is an alternative surgical option for CoA repair in patients under two years of age. In cases where the stenosis extends beyond resection and end-to-end anastomosis feasibility, patch aortoplasty (PP) employing a prosthetic patch can augment the stenotic region, especially for older patients. Despite advances in pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery, recoarctation remains a significant concern after surgical or interventional repair. This comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough analysis of coarctation management, covering the pioneering techniques introduced by Crafoord using end-to-end anastomosis and now extending to the contemporary era marked by percutaneous interventions as well as the recoarctation rate associated with each type.

Autoinflammatory Recurrent Pericarditis Associated with a New NLRP12 Mutation in a Male Adolescent.

Idiopathic recurrent pericarditis (IRP) can be the hallmark of an autoinflammatory syndrome with recurrent attacks of chest pain and symptom-free intervals following an acute episode. The recurrence rate may be 35% in the pediatric population, frequently with less severe manifestations than at the first episode. Pericarditis can be the sole clinical manifestation or may be part of a systemic autoinflammatory disease (SAID), especially in the case of a recurrence. Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS), Mevalonate-Kinase Deficiency (MKD), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2)-associated autoinflammatory syndrome, and others are closely related to IRP based on similar clinical manifestations and treatment responses to anti-interleukin 1 (IL-1) agents, such as anakinra, and should therefore be excluded in patients with IRP. A newly described SAID, an autosomal dominant disorder known as NLRP12-AID (nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat-containing receptor 12-related autoinflammatory disease) is caused by heterozygous mutations in the NLRP12 gene and most commonly affects children. Fewer than 40 pediatric patients with NLRP12-AID have been described in the medical literature, with none presenting with RP. We report a case of relapsing pericarditis responsive to anti-IL-1 therapy in a male adolescent who carried a missense mutation in the NLRP12 gene potentially causative of the excessive activation of inflammatory pathways. This is a unique case in the medical literature that associates recurrent pericarditis in an adolescent presumed to be related to the missense mutation in the NLRP12 gene. The role of the NLRP12 inflammasome in generating and maintaining recurrent pericardial inflammation should be considered.

Impact of Bedside Balloon Atrial Septostomy in Neonates with Transposition of the Great Arteries in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Romania.

(1) Background: Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is the most common congenital heart disease, accounting for 5-7% of all cardiac anomalies, with a prevalence of 0.2-0.3 per 1000 live births. (2) Aim: Our main objectives were to evaluate the clinical safety of balloon atrial septostomy in neonates and the possible complications. Furthermore, we tried to establish whether the procedure should be performed in all TGA patients with small atrial septal defects, regardless of oxygen saturation, within a center where corrective surgery cannot be performed on an emergency basis due to the lack of a permanent cardiac surgery team for arterial switch surgery. (2) Methods: We conducted an observational, retrospective, single tertiary-care center study between January 2008 and April 2022, which included 92 neonates with TGA transferred to our institution for specialized treatment. (3) Results: The median age at the time of the Rashkind procedure was four days. The rate of immediate complications after balloon atrial septostomy (BAS) was high (34.3%), but most were transient (metabolic acidosis and arterial hypotension-21.8%). Twenty patients with TGA managed in our hospital underwent definitive and corrective surgical intervention (arterial switch operation) at a median age of 13 days. Most patients (82.6%) were term neonates, but 16 were born preterm. (4) Conclusions: Urgent balloon atrial septostomy is often the only solution to restore adequate systemic perfusion. Bedside balloon atrial septostomy is a safe, effective, and initial palliative intervention in neonates with TGA, which can be performed in the neonatal unit.

Diagnosis and treatment of Watershed strokes: a narrative review.

Watershed strokes have been described previously as ischemic strokes located in vulnerable border zones between brain tissue supplied by the anterior, posterior, and middle cerebral arteries in the distal junction between two non-anastomotic arterial territories. Ischemic strokes in border zones are well-recognized entities and well-described in terms of imaging features, but the pathophysiological mechanism of brain injury production is not fully defined. Border zone ischemia is caused by cerebral hypoperfusion through decreased cerebral blood flow and arterial embolism in unstable atheroma plaque. It is often difficult to say which mechanisms are fully responsible for producing cerebral ischemic lesions. This review aimed to highlight the imaging aspect of watershed strokes and to correlate the clinical characteristics of this type of stroke with the diagnostic algorithm for optimal therapeutic management. Neurologists should promptly recognize this type of stroke and investigate its etiology in the shortest possible time.

The Increase in Childhood Obesity and Its Association with Hypertension during Pandemics.

There has been a major ongoing health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's lives, including lifestyle and overall health. Enforcement of prevention measures, such as school closures and social distancing, has significantly affected children's daily routines and activities. This perspective manuscript aims to explore the rise in childhood obesity and its association with hypertension during pandemics. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant disruptions in children's routines, including reduced physical activity, increased sedentary behavior, and changes in dietary patterns. These factors, coupled with the psychological impact of the pandemic, have contributed to an alarming increase in childhood obesity rates. This paper has highlighted the concerning increase in childhood obesity and hypertension during pandemics. The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced physical activity, increased sedentary behaviors, and changes in dietary patterns, have contributed to the rise in these health conditions. It is crucial to recognize the long-term consequences of childhood obesity and hypertension and the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address them.

Transvenous Lead Extraction of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: Reimplant Strategy and Outcomes in a Single-Center Experience.

Cardiac implantable electronic devices are now widely used worldwide and the numbers are increasing exponentially. Subsequently, long-term complications have increased. Transvenous lead-extraction (TLE) is the gold standard for removing infected devices, treating systemic device-related infections including endocarditis, and removing devices for other non-infectious complications. Most patients still require device therapy after TLE for several indications, including lifesaving defibrillation or pacing in pacemaker-dependent patients. The decision to reimplant is challenging, particularly when the primary cause for device removal includes device-related infections and patients frequently are pacemaker dependent. We aim to present our strategy for reimplanting after performing TLE in 88 consecutive patients. We performed transvenous removal of 150 pacemaker and defibrillator leads, of which 74% for local or systemic infection. We report a 99.3% clinical success after TLE. Out of 88 patients who had undergone TLE and after reanalysing the device indication, 67 patients (76%) still had indication for device removal, but three of them refused to undergo reimplant and 58 were re-implanted. Of the re-implanted patients, 58.6% were implanted on the contra-lateral side, 38% on the ipsilateral side and two patients who had been previously implanted with ICD were reimplanted with a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD). Up to 34.4% of patients were re-implanted during the same TLE procedure, which was performed for device up-grade in patients with venous occlusion, 24% were implanted during the same hospital admission for TLE but not during TLE, and 41.3% were discharged and reimplanted afterwards. With this strategy for reimplantation, we report no re-infections and no device-removal-related arrhythmic major events or deaths during one-year follow-up. In conclusion, most patients still require device therapy after TLE. In patients with previous infection of the device, the reimplantation strategy should be carefully analyzed to prevent infection relapse and limit the consequences of the absence of the device.

Exploring the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Pediatric Echocardiography-Preliminary Results from the First Pediatric Study Using AI Software Developed for Adults.

(1) Background: Transthoracic echocardiography is the first-line non-invasive investigation for assessing pediatric patients' cardiac anatomy, physiology, and hemodynamics, based on its accessibility and portability, but complete anatomic and hemodynamic assessment is time-consuming. (2) Aim: This study aimed to determine whether an automated software developed for adults could be effectively used for the analysis of pediatric echocardiography studies without prior training. (3) Materials and Methods: The study was conducted at the University Hospital of Bordeaux between August and September 2022 and included 45 patients with normal or near normal heart architecture who underwent a 2D TTE. We performed Spearman correlation and Bland-Altman analysis. (4) Results: The mean age of our patients at the time of evaluation was 8.2 years ± 5.7, and the main reason for referral to our service was the presence of a heart murmur. Bland-Altman analysis showed good agreement between AI and the senior physician for two parameters (aortic annulus and E wave) regardless of the age of the children included in the study. A good agreement between AI and physicians was also achieved for two other features (STJ and EF) but only for patients older than 9 years. For other features, either a good agreement was found between physicians but not with the AI, or a poor agreement was established. In the first case, maybe proper training of the AI could improve the measurement, but in the latter case, for now, it seems unrealistic to expect to reach a satisfactory accuracy. (5) Conclusion: Based on this preliminary study on a small cohort group of pediatric patients, the AI soft originally developed for the adult population, had provided promising results in the evaluation of aortic annulus, STJ, and E wave.