Cardiology Today

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 19, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like functional mitral regurgitation and quality of care. Key takeaway: New Echo Criteria Tested for H. F. pEF. Article Links: Article 1: Left Atrial Appendage Closure or Medical Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation. (The New England journal of medicine) Article 2: Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation: Effect of Phenotype Definition on Classification, Valve Features, and Prognosis. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 3: Ethnicity and Heart Failure Outcomes in England: Role of Specialist Care in a Universal Health System. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 4: Cardiomyopathy Gene Variants and Polygenic Risk Scores in Atrial Fibrillation: Evidence for an Atrial-First Phenotype. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 5: Echocardiographic Diastolic Function Grading in HFpEF: Testing the Updated 2025 ASE Criteria. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/new-echo-criteria-tested-for-h-f-pef-03-19-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Left Atrial Appendage Closure or Medical Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation. Journal: The New England journal of medicine PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41849741 Summary: The clinical question concerns the effectiveness of catheter-based Left Atrial Appendage Closure as an alternative to oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation patients. This study investigated its efficacy compared to physician-directed best medical care in those at high risk for both stroke and bleeding. A multicenter randomized trial in Germany examined this critical comparison. The research addresses the optimal therapeutic strategy for this complex patient population. Article 2: Atrial Functional Mitral Regurgitation: Effect of Phenotype Definition on Classification, Valve Features, and Prognosis. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41848471 Summary: This article highlights Atrial functional Mitral Regurgitation (AfMR) as a distinct and clinically significant form of functional mitral regurgitation. It found that disparate published definitions create significant uncertainty regarding its prevalence, specific morphology, and associated mortality. This definitional inconsistency was shown to impede consistent clinical decision making and patient classification. The analysis underscores the critical need for a unified and broadly applicable definition to improve management. Article 3: Ethnicity and Heart Failure Outcomes in England: Role of Specialist Care in a Universal Health System. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41848357 Summary: Reports indicated poorer cardiovascular outcomes among ethnic minorities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis investigated the relationship between ethnicity, quality of care after heart failure hospitalization, and long-term outcomes in England. The study utilized routinely collected national audit data to examine these disparities within a universal health system. It focused on understanding how ethnicity influences care quality and subsequent long-term outcomes for patients hospitalized with acute heart failure. Article 4: Cardiomyopathy Gene Variants and Polygenic Risk Scores in Atrial Fibrillation: Evidence for an Atrial-First Phenotype. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706057 Summary: The genetic substrate of atrial fibrillation (A. F.) is heritable and complex. This study explored the impact of disease-causing cardiomyopathy variants on the risk of A. F., even after accounting for incident ventricular cardiomyopathy and clinical heart failure. Researchers evaluated the utility of polygenic risk scores (P. R. S.) to further differentiate between atrial and ventricular phenotypes in gene variant carriers. The findings provided evidence supporting an “atrial-first phenotype” in the context of cardiomyopathy gene variants and A. F. risk. Article 5: Echocardiographic Diastolic Function Grading in HFpEF: Testing the Updated 2025 ASE Criteria. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41532943 Summary: F. pEF: Testing the Updated 2025 A. S. E. Criteria. The American Society of Echocardiography (A. S. E.) recently proposed an updated 2025 algorithm for echocardiographic grading of left ventricular diastolic function. This study systematically evaluated the new A. S. E. algorithm specifically in patients with invasively confirmed ambulatory Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (H. F. pEF). The investigation determined the false-negative rate of this algorithm within this patient population. It assessed the diagnostic accuracy of th

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 18, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like cDPP3 and endovascular revascularization. Key takeaway: Simtuzumab Preserves Cardiac Function in LMNA DCM. Article Links: Article 1: cDPP3 and Outcomes in Acute Heart Failure: An Analysis of the STRONG-HF and CORTAHF Studies. (ESC heart failure) Article 2: Long-term Safety and Performance of an Implantable IVC Sensor for Congestion-Guided Management in Heart Failure: 12-Month Results from the FUTURE-HF Trial Portfolio. (European journal of heart failure) Article 3: Simtuzumab Attenuates Loxl2-Mediated Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Preserves Cardiac Function in LMNA Mutation-Induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy. (Circulation. Heart failure) Article 4: Safety and Effectiveness of the Santreva-ATK Endovascular Revascularization Catheter in the RESTOR-1 Peripheral CTO Crossing Pivotal Study. (The American journal of cardiology) Article 5: Procedural Complexity and Bleeding Risk in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. (The American journal of cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/simtuzumab-preserves-cardiac-function-in-lmna-dcm-03-18-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: cDPP3 and Outcomes in Acute Heart Failure: An Analysis of the STRONG-HF and CORTAHF Studies. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41834515 Summary: Circulating dipeptidyl peptidase 3 (cDPP3) is an established biomarker for cardiocirculatory failure, with elevated concentrations predicting poor patient outcomes in shock states. Researchers analyzed cDPP3 levels at baseline and follow-up in patients with acute heart failure enrolled in the STRONG-HF and CORTAHF trials. This investigation centered on the associations of cDPP3 with 180-day and 90-day outcomes, respectively. The evaluation of cDPP3 in acute heart failure provides crucial insights into the identification of prognostic indicators for improved risk stratification in this patient population. Article 2: Long-term Safety and Performance of an Implantable IVC Sensor for Congestion-Guided Management in Heart Failure: 12-Month Results from the FUTURE-HF Trial Portfolio. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41841702 Summary: V. C. Sensor for Congestion-Guided Management in Heart Failure: 12-Month Results from the FUTURE-HF Trial Portfolio. An implantable inferior vena cava (I. V. C.) sensor was utilized for 12 months in a congestion-guided management strategy for heart failure patients. Data from 65 patients in the FUTURE-HF and FUTURE-HF two trials, predominantly with New York Heart Association class three symptoms and Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction, were analyzed. Daily I. V. C. parameters were recorded, and adjudicated safety outcomes were assessed. This study demonstrates the application of continuous physiological monitoring to address the critical challenge of congestion in heart failure. Article 3: Simtuzumab Attenuates Loxl2-Mediated Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Preserves Cardiac Function in LMNA Mutation-Induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Journal: Circulation. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41841259 Summary: Simtuzumab attenuated Loxl2-mediated extracellular matrix remodeling and preserved cardiac function in dilated cardiomyopathy caused by LMNA mutations. This severe cardiac condition is marked by arrhythmias, contractile dysfunction, and excessive myocardial fibrosis, impairing left ventricular function and increasing heart failure risk. The findings identify simtuzumab as a therapeutic agent that addresses the pathogenesis of LMNA mutation-induced dilated cardiomyopathy. This represents a significant step towards developing targeted therapies for this specific genetic heart disease. Article 4: Safety and Effectiveness of the Santreva-ATK Endovascular Revascularization Catheter in the RESTOR-1 Peripheral CTO Crossing Pivotal Study. Journal: The American journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41571040 Summary: T. K. Endovascular Revascularization Catheter in the RESTOR-1 Peripheral C. T. O. Crossing Pivotal Study. The Santreva-A. T. K. Endovascular Revascularization Catheter demonstrated its safety and effectiveness in the RESTOR-1 Peripheral Chronic Total Occlusion Crossing Pivotal Study. This prospective, multicenter trial included adult patients with Rutherford class two to five peripheral arterial disease and de novo femoropopliteal chronic total occlusions. The catheter successfully provided a mechanism for recanalization, addressing the challenges of traversing chronic total occlusions. This study establishes a new option for endovascular revascularization in complex peripheral arterial disease patients. Article 5: Procedural Complexity and Bleeding Risk in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. Journal: The American journal of cardiology

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 18, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like acute hypoxemic respiratory failure and dose reduction. Key takeaway: P. C. S. K. 9 Inhibitors Slash Cardiovascular Risk. Article Links: Article 1: High-Flow or Standard Oxygen in Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure. (The New England journal of medicine) Article 2: Prehospital Whole Blood in Traumatic Hemorrhage – a Randomized Controlled Trial. (The New England journal of medicine) Article 3: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin Type 9 inhibitors: past, present, and future. (European heart journal) Article 4: Senescence-associated metabolic alterations aggravate calcific aortic valve disease. (European heart journal) Article 5: Long-term outcomes following Sacubitril/Valsartan therapy for chronic HFrEF. Italian Real-World Multicenter Study. (ESC heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/p-c-s-k-9-inhibitors-slash-cardiovascular-risk-03-18-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: High-Flow or Standard Oxygen in Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure. Journal: The New England journal of medicine PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41841715 Summary: A multicenter trial established a direct comparison of high-flow oxygen and standard oxygen therapy for patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, defined by a partial pressure of arterial oxygen to fraction of inspired oxygen ratio of 200 or less. This research directly evaluated the clinical impact of these oxygen delivery methods on intubation rates and patient mortality. The findings from this investigation provide crucial guidance for optimizing oxygen delivery strategies in critical respiratory care. Article 2: Prehospital Whole Blood in Traumatic Hemorrhage – a Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal: The New England journal of medicine PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41841706 Summary: A pragmatic phase three randomized controlled trial directly evaluated the clinical effectiveness and safety of prehospital whole blood transfusion in patients with major traumatic hemorrhage. This multicenter study specifically compared whole blood transfusion with standard care in a prehospital setting provided by air ambulance services. The findings from this investigation establish crucial evidence regarding optimal transfusion strategies for severe hemorrhage prior to hospital arrival. This research offers definitive insights into improving early trauma care and patient outcomes. Article 3: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin Type 9 inhibitors: past, present, and future. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41841775 Summary: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type nine (P. C. S. K. 9) inhibitors have been established as a potent new class of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-lowering drugs. These inhibitors demonstrate efficacy comparable to and additive with high-intensity statins, alongside an excellent safety profile. Extensive cardiovascular outcomes trials confirmed that monoclonal antibody P. C. S. K. 9 inhibitors significantly reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular outcomes across a wide spectrum of patients. This represents a substantial therapeutic advancement for cardiovascular risk management. Article 4: Senescence-associated metabolic alterations aggravate calcific aortic valve disease. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41841768 Summary: This study demonstrated that senescence-associated metabolic alterations aggravate calcific aortic valve disease, a condition currently without effective pharmacotherapy. Researchers identified a tight link between declining nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels with age and the progression of valvular inflammation and calcification. Disruption of specific nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide salvage metabolism was found to drive these detrimental processes within the aortic valve. These findings provide critical mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of calcific aortic valve disease, highlighting novel therapeutic targets. Article 5: Long-term outcomes following Sacubitril/Valsartan therapy for chronic HFrEF. Italian Real-World Multicenter Study. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41843757 Summary: Italian Real-World Multicenter Study. This Italian real-world multicenter study provided long-term outcomes following sacubitril/valsartan therapy for chronic Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction. The study established longitudinal changes after sacubitril/valsartan initiation and the association between dose changes and major adverse cardiovascular events. Data were collected from 592 outpatients, revealing insights into the real-world effectiveness and optimal dosing strategies of sacubitril/valsartan. This research illuminates the critical impact of treatment adherence and dose management on patient pro

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 17, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like preventive cardiology and sudden cardiac death. Key takeaway: Left Ventricular Remodeling Post Mitral Repair. Article Links: Article 1: Use of Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring in Individuals With Elevated Lipoprotein(a): A Multicohort Study. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: CRLF1 Secreted by Cardiac Fibroblasts Promotes Human Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. (Circulation) Article 3: Sports cardiology for the general cardiologist. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 4: Left Ventricular Reverse Remodeling after Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair: Results from the EXPANDed Studies. (ESC heart failure) Article 5: Cardiac Biomarkers Response Under Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor: A Sub-Analysis of the Natrium-HF Study. (ESC heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/left-ventricular-remodeling-post-mitral-repair-03-17-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Use of Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring in Individuals With Elevated Lipoprotein(a): A Multicohort Study. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41837904 Summary: The current understanding in cardiology indicates that the utility of coronary artery calcium scoring for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk assessment in individuals with elevated lipoprotein(a) is unclear. This ambiguity exists because lipoprotein(a) has a propensity toward non-calcified plaque, complicating traditional calcification-based risk evaluations. This uncertainty highlights a critical gap in refining cardiovascular disease prevention strategies for this specific patient population. Resolving this clinical question is essential for optimizing targeted interventions and improving patient outcomes. Article 2: CRLF1 Secreted by Cardiac Fibroblasts Promotes Human Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41838796 Summary: R. L. F. 1 Secreted by Cardiac Fibroblasts Promotes Human Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Nearly half of patients diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the most common inherited cardiac disorder, currently lack identifiable sarcomere gene sequence variations. This significant proportion suggests the presence of undiscovered mechanisms driving the disease’s pathogenesis, highlighting its substantial genetic and clinical heterogeneity. A unified molecular basis underlying hypertrophic cardiomyopathy pathology remains to be fully elucidated. Identifying these unknown pathways is crucial for developing new diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic interventions. Article 3: Sports cardiology for the general cardiologist. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41839544 Summary: Sports cardiology has emerged as a distinct subspecialty, integrating preventive cardiology with athlete care. While regular exercise provides substantial cardiovascular benefits, vigorous exertion can unmask latent disease and precipitate sudden cardiac death in predisposed individuals. This primer emphasizes the importance of early detection, comprehensive risk stratification, and tailored management strategies for athletes. Such events, though uncommon, carry profound societal impact and necessitate specialized attention from cardiologists. Article 4: Left Ventricular Reverse Remodeling after Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair: Results from the EXPANDed Studies. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41839533 Summary: Left ventricular reverse remodeling stands as a critical therapeutic objective for contemporary heart failure management, aiming to reverse left ventricular dilation and dysfunction. Achieving this remodeling after mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair is a key indicator of successful treatment for both primary and secondary mitral regurgitation. Early indicators of left ventricular reverse remodeling within 30 days are crucial for assessing treatment efficacy and guiding patient prognosis. Understanding specific factors associated with this early remodeling can optimize future clinical decision-making and patient selection. Article 5: Cardiac Biomarkers Response Under Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor: A Sub-Analysis of the Natrium-HF Study. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41834516 Summary: F. Study. Natriuretic peptides are recognized as central biomarkers in the diagnostic and therapeutic management of heart failure. However, current understanding of their short-term dynamics during sacubitril/valsartan therapy and in response to acute volume changes remains incomplete. Characterizing these cardiac biomarker responses to angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor treatment is essential for optimizing patient monitoring and treatment adjustme

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 16, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Donor-specific antibody and Heart transplant rejection. Key takeaway: Kidney Injury Drives Diuretic Resistance in A. H. F.. Article Links: Article 1: Net Prolongation of Life in Advanced Heart Failure: An Intentional Strategy of Durable LVAD Therapy Followed by Heart Transplantation. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 2: Comparing DSA-negative and DSA-positive antibody-mediated rejection in heart transplants: results from the Trifecta-Heart study. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 3: Kidney tubule injury is associated with sodium avidity and diuretic responsiveness in acute heart failure. (ESC heart failure) Article 4: Effect of Hypertension Duration on the Associations Between Intensive Blood Pressure Control and Cardiac, Vascular, and Kidney Organ Damage. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Hyaluronan and Syndecan-1: Linking Glycocalyx Degradation to Development and Progression of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/kidney-injury-drives-diuretic-resistance-in-a-h-f-03-16-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Net Prolongation of Life in Advanced Heart Failure: An Intentional Strategy of Durable LVAD Therapy Followed by Heart Transplantation. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41833594 Summary: Heart transplantation is an established gold standard therapy for end-stage systolic heart failure, showing a median survival of approximately 10 to 13 years. For younger patients under 50 years of age, the utility of heart transplantation for lifetime management is limited by low re-transplantation rates. Durable left ventricular assist device support is also an established surgical option for these patients. The article identifies an intentional strategy of utilizing durable left ventricular assist device therapy followed by heart transplantation to achieve net prolongation of life in advanced heart failure. Article 2: Comparing DSA-negative and DSA-positive antibody-mediated rejection in heart transplants: results from the Trifecta-Heart study. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41833593 Summary: Antibody-mediated rejection in heart transplants frequently presents without donor-specific antibodies, posing a diagnostic challenge. The Trifecta-Heart study provided characterization of rejection in 212 heart endomyocardial biopsies through the Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System and histology. This research distinguished molecular differences between donor-specific antibody-negative and donor-specific antibody-positive antibody-mediated rejection. Donor-derived cell-free D. N. A., a biomarker for transplant injury, was concurrently measured at the time of biopsy to enhance the understanding of these distinct rejection phenotypes. Article 3: Kidney tubule injury is associated with sodium avidity and diuretic responsiveness in acute heart failure. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41832743 Summary: Greater sodium avidity in patients with acute heart failure is a known indicator of worse clinical outcomes. This study evaluated 339 participants from the R. O. S. E. hyphen A. H. F. trial, which included patients hospitalized for acute heart failure with kidney dysfunction. The study found that kidney tubule injury, as assessed by urinary biomarkers such as kidney injury molecule-1, N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, is associated with both increased sodium avidity and impaired diuretic responsiveness. This association provides insight into the underlying mechanisms contributing to poor outcomes in acute heart failure. Article 4: Effect of Hypertension Duration on the Associations Between Intensive Blood Pressure Control and Cardiac, Vascular, and Kidney Organ Damage. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823241 Summary: Intensive systolic blood pressure treatment is a crucial strategy to mitigate cardiovascular disease risk in long-standing hypertension, with target organ damage being a critical intermediate phenotype. This study utilized data from 8442 participants in the S. T. E. P. trial (Strategy of Blood Pressure Intervention in the Elderly Hypertensive Patients). The research precisely evaluated the impact of hypertension duration on the

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 15, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like psychological distress and non-pharmacological therapy. Key takeaway: Chemotherapy Cardiotoxicity Mechanisms Found. Article Links: Article 1: The effect of empagliflozin on left ventricular mass and volumes in elderly individuals with overweight and high risk of heart failure: The Empire Prevent Cardiac Trial. (Journal of cardiac failure) Article 2: Effects of Sauna bathing on Exercise Capacity and Muscle Function in HFpEF. (European journal of heart failure) Article 3: Development and Validation of a Measure of Psychological Distress After Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: The Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Distress Inventory. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Sympathetic Neural Overactivation, Vascular Dysfunction, and Exercise Intolerance in Long-Term Survivors of Breast Cancer Treated With Doxorubicin and Trastuzumab-Based Chemotherapy. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Factors Associated With Telemedicine Use by Cardiologists for Medicare Beneficiaries in 2022 to 2023: An Observational Study. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/chemotherapy-cardiotoxicity-mechanisms-found-03-15-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: The effect of empagliflozin on left ventricular mass and volumes in elderly individuals with overweight and high risk of heart failure: The Empire Prevent Cardiac Trial. Journal: Journal of cardiac failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41831639 Summary: Increased left ventricular mass predicts heart failure, creating a significant focus on preventive strategies. Empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter two inhibitor, is being evaluated for its effects on left ventricular mass index and left ventricular volumes. This evaluation targets elderly, overweight individuals who are considered at high risk of developing heart failure. The clinical investigation specifically examines empagliflozin’s role in this at-risk population where the preventive effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter two inhibitors is an area of active research. Article 2: Effects of Sauna bathing on Exercise Capacity and Muscle Function in HFpEF. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41831305 Summary: F. pEF. Treatment options to improve exercise capacity in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction remain limited. Investigating new approaches, sauna bathing is undergoing study for its potential to enhance exercise performance, skeletal muscle function, body composition, and patient quality of life in this population. The SAUNA-H. F. pEF study represents the first prospective mechanistic pilot study to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of supervised sauna bathing. This research provides a novel therapeutic avenue for stable outpatients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. Article 3: Development and Validation of a Measure of Psychological Distress After Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: The Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Distress Inventory. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823248 Summary: Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection is a highly distressing cause of acute myocardial infarction, for which no specific distress measure existed. Researchers developed and validated the Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Distress Inventory (S. D. I.). This new tool provides a condition-specific measure designed to accurately capture the unique psychological impacts of Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection. The S. D. I. addresses the previous reliance on generic anxiety and depression measures, offering a more precise assessment for affected patients. Article 4: Sympathetic Neural Overactivation, Vascular Dysfunction, and Exercise Intolerance in Long-Term Survivors of Breast Cancer Treated With Doxorubicin and Trastuzumab-Based Chemotherapy. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823245 Summary: Long-term survivors of breast cancer treated with doxorubicin and trastuzumab-based chemotherapy show sympathetic neural overactivation, vascular dysfunction, and exercise intolerance. These physiological changes contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease observed in this patient population. The study established these mechanisms as key factors in cardiovascular disease development following specific breast cancer treatments. These findings illuminate the previously unknown physiological underpinnings of cardiotoxicity in these survivors. Article 5: Factors Associated With Telemedicine Use by Cardiologists for Medicare Beneficiaries in 2022 to 2023: An Observational Study. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.nc

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 14, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Pressure microcatheter and Fractional flow reserve. Key takeaway: Finerenone Boosts HFpEF Quality of Life. Article Links: Article 1: Heart failure patients with reduced or mildly reduced ejection fraction: baseline characteristics of the low-dose digoxin outcome DECISION trial. (European journal of heart failure) Article 2: Finerenone and Quality of Life in Heart Failure: Component-Level Analyses and Clinical Relevance of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. (European journal of heart failure) Article 3: Infective Endocarditis After Arrythmia Device Implantation in Cardiac Surgery Patients. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Impact of Combined Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapy in Older Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: ANAFIE Subanalysis. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Clinical Validation of a Novel Pressure Microcatheter-Based Nonhyperemic Pressure Ratio (SUPREME II Study). (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/finerenone-boosts-hfpef-quality-of-life-03-14-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Heart failure patients with reduced or mildly reduced ejection fraction: baseline characteristics of the low-dose digoxin outcome DECISION trial. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823368 Summary: This report provided the detailed baseline characteristics of patients enrolled in the D.E.C.I.S.I.O.N. trial. It established the specific clinical profile of contemporary heart failure patients with reduced or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction who are receiving low-dose digoxin or placebo. The report positioned these patient characteristics against those observed in previous cardiac glycoside trials such as D.I.G. and D.I.G.I.T. minus H. F., providing a comparative context for future outcome data. The study design, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled outcome trial, demonstrated its focus on evaluating digoxin’s effects in this defined population. Article 2: Finerenone and Quality of Life in Heart Failure: Component-Level Analyses and Clinical Relevance of the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41817207 Summary: Finerenone improved the overall health status of patients with heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction, as measured by the aggregate 23-item Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire score. This prespecified analysis from the F.I.N.E.A.R.T.S. minus H. F. trial contextualized these improvements, demonstrating the clinical relevance of K.C.C.Q. changes for both patients and clinicians. The findings enhance the understanding of how finerenone impacts patient quality of life in this specific heart failure population. Article 3: Infective Endocarditis After Arrythmia Device Implantation in Cardiac Surgery Patients. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823269 Summary: This nationwide registry-based study identified the risk of infective endocarditis after cardiac implantable electronic device implantation within 30 days of cardiac surgery. The study established specific risk factors associated with this complication in patients undergoing first-time cardiac surgery in Sweden. Findings demonstrated that patients in this cohort, without previous cardiac implantable electronic devices, experience an increased risk of infective endocarditis. These results highlight the need for vigilance and targeted strategies in this vulnerable patient population. Article 4: Impact of Combined Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapy in Older Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: ANAFIE Subanalysis. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823252 Summary: This A.N.A.F.I.E. subanalysis evaluated the clinical outcomes of combined oral anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapy versus oral anticoagulant monotherapy in patients aged 75 years or older with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. The study established the differential impact of these two treatment approaches on clinical endpoints in an elderly Japanese cohort. The findings provided crucial comparative data for managing older atrial fibrillation patients, informing decisions about optimal antithrombotic strategies. This prospective multicenter observational study contributes to understanding medication effects in a high-risk population. Article 5: Clinical Validation of a Novel Pressure Microcatheter-Based Nonhyperemic Pressure Ratio (SUPREME II Study). Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823250 Summary: This S.U.P.R.E.M.E. two study introduced and described the constant resistance

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 14, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like risk stratification and mortality. Key takeaway: Genetic Evidence for GLP1R in Heart Failure. Article Links: Article 1: Great debate: the new risk factor-weighted clinical likelihood model is useful to estimate the initial pre-test probability of obstructive coronary artery disease in individuals with suspected chronic coronary syndromes. (European heart journal) Article 2: Cardiac amyloidosis across the spectrum of left ventricular function: multimodal functional and prognostic insights. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 3: Genetic Evidence for GLP1R Agonists in Non-Ischaemic Heart Failure. (ESC heart failure) Article 4: Left-sided heart failure determines outcomes in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation undergoing percutaneous repair. (European journal of heart failure) Article 5: Prevalence and influence of cardiovascular kidney metabolic syndrome on outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. (European journal of heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/genetic-evidence-for-glp1r-in-heart-failure-03-14-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Great debate: the new risk factor-weighted clinical likelihood model is useful to estimate the initial pre-test probability of obstructive coronary artery disease in individuals with suspected chronic coronary syndromes. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823519 Summary: The article presents the utility of the new risk factor-weighted clinical likelihood model for estimating the initial pre-test probability of obstructive coronary artery disease. The 2024 European Society of Cardiology guidelines recommend this risk factor-weighted clinical likelihood model as the initial step for individuals with suspected chronic coronary syndromes. This model combines age, sex, symptom characteristics, five clinical risk factors, and coronary calcification data, when available, to provide a numerical estimate of pre-test probability. Article 2: Cardiac amyloidosis across the spectrum of left ventricular function: multimodal functional and prognostic insights. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41825942 Summary: A study of 2244 patients with cardiac amyloidosis demonstrated that many present with mildly reduced or reduced ejection fraction, not solely preserved ejection fraction as commonly perceived. The cohort included 557 patients with light chain amyloidosis, 392 with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis, and 1137 with wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis. Recognizing cardiac amyloidosis across this full spectrum of left ventricular function, from preserved to reduced ejection fraction, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective risk stratification. Article 3: Genetic Evidence for GLP1R Agonists in Non-Ischaemic Heart Failure. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41825483 Summary: L. P. 1 R Agonists in Non-Ischaemic Heart Failure. Glucagon-like peptide-one receptor agonists demonstrate existing cardiovascular event reduction in patients with obesity and diabetes, alongside symptomatic and functional benefits in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. This study employed drug-target Mendelian randomization using genetic variants in the glucagon-like peptide-one receptor locus. The research revealed genetic evidence supporting the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-one receptor activation in non-ischaemic heart failure. This genetic approach offers insights into mechanisms beyond glycaemic control or weight reduction. Article 4: Left-sided heart failure determines outcomes in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation undergoing percutaneous repair. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41825486 Summary: This study, using data from the EuroTR registry, found that coexisting left-sided heart failure phenotypes significantly determine outcomes in patients undergoing tricuspid valve transcatheter edge-to-edge repair for severe tricuspid regurgitation. The research stratified patients based on left ventricular ejection fraction into reduced or mildly reduced heart failure (below 50 percent) and preserved ejection fraction (50 percent or greater). This analysis demonstrated the specific impact of these heart failure subtypes on 2-year all-cause mortality following the repair procedure. Article 5: Prevalence and influence of cardiovascular kidney metabolic syndrome on outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41823981 Summary: This study investigated the cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation. A retrospective analysis of patients from 2011 to 2024 diagnosed and

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 13, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like left atrial pressure and left atrial shunting. Key takeaway: H. F. pEF Shunt System: 3-Year Safety & Function. Article Links: Article 1: Off-label underdosing of edoxaban antithrombotic therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation and stable coronary artery disease: findings from the EPIC-CAD trial. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 2: Analysis and prediction of cardiovascular research hotspots, trends and interdisciplinarity. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 3: Electrocardiogram abnormalities and cardiovascular risk prediction in older Chinese: the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 4: Atrial fibrillation and the risk of sudden cardiac death: incidence, impact and implications. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 5: The ALT FLOW Early Feasibility Study 3-year Results Assessing Left Atrial to Coronary Sinus Shunting in HFpEF. (ESC heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/h-f-pef-shunt-system-3-year-safety-function-03-13-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Off-label underdosing of edoxaban antithrombotic therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation and stable coronary artery disease: findings from the EPIC-CAD trial. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40930594 Summary: The EPIC-CAD trial defined specific patient populations with atrial fibrillation and stable coronary artery disease receiving edoxaban antithrombotic therapy. This study investigated the clinical outcomes associated with off-label underdosing of direct oral anticoagulants in this patient cohort. Participants were randomized to either edoxaban monotherapy or a dual antithrombotic therapy regimen combining edoxaban with a single antiplatelet agent. This research therefore characterizes the comparative safety and efficacy of these two distinct antithrombotic strategies. Article 2: Analysis and prediction of cardiovascular research hotspots, trends and interdisciplinarity. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40877031 Summary: This study systematically analyzed over 2 million 512 445 cardiovascular publications to characterize research topics, trends, and interdisciplinarity. Artificial intelligence techniques, including natural language processing, were extensively utilized to extract and cluster text fragments from titles and abstracts. This comprehensive data processing approach provides a foundation for clarifying recent cardiovascular research directions and informs policy development for the academic community. Article 3: Electrocardiogram abnormalities and cardiovascular risk prediction in older Chinese: the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40866119 Summary: This study characterized electrocardiogram abnormalities in 26846 Chinese individuals aged 50 and older from the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study. Participants had no cardiovascular disease at baseline. Minor and major electrocardiogram abnormalities were classified based on the Minnesota Code Manual, allowing for definitive categorization of severity. Severity was specifically defined as normal, one minor, two or more minor, or major. Article 4: Atrial fibrillation and the risk of sudden cardiac death: incidence, impact and implications. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40664496 Summary: This study performed a retrospective assessment of sudden cardiac death incidence in patients with atrial fibrillation over an 11-year period, from 2007 to 2018. The analysis included individuals undergoing coronary angiography, specifically those with suspected or known coronary artery disease referred for elective angiography. The study also encompassed patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, characterizing the long-term sudden cardiac death risk within these specific patient cohorts. Article 5: The ALT FLOW Early Feasibility Study 3-year Results Assessing Left Atrial to Coronary Sinus Shunting in HFpEF. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41814577 Summary: The ALT-FLOW Early Feasibility Study assessed device safety, patency, and echocardiographic parameters over three years in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The study specifically evaluated symptoms, health status, and exercise capacity in 95 patients who had a left ventricular ejection fraction greater than 40 percent. This research therefore characterizes the long-term performance of the A. P. T. U. R. E. transcatheter shunt system for left atrial to coronary sinus shunting. Transcript Today’s date is March 13, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. Off-label underdo

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 12, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like advanced heart failure and implanted defibrillators. Key takeaway: Target-Dose A. C. E. I. s Cut Kidney Failure in H. F. rEF.. Article Links: Article 1: Long-term outcomes of patients implanted with a HeartMate 3 left ventricular assist device – a real-world, single center, observational study. (ESC heart failure) Article 2: Effects of Metabolic Syndrome on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Non-Obese Heart Failure Patients. (ESC heart failure) Article 3: Optimised murine HFpEF models for translational pre-clinical studies. (ESC heart failure) Article 4: Are β-Blockers Necessary for Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction? : PurSuit-HFpEF Registry. (European journal of heart failure) Article 5: Target-Dose Versus Below-Target-Dose ACE Inhibitors and Lower Risk of Kidney Failure in U.S. Veterans with HFrEF. (European journal of heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/target-dose-a-c-e-i-s-cut-kidney-failure-in-h-f-ref-03-12-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Long-term outcomes of patients implanted with a HeartMate 3 left ventricular assist device – a real-world, single center, observational study. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41812231 Summary: Left ventricular assist device therapy, particularly with the HeartMate 3, is an established treatment for advanced heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. This real-world study characterized the long-term outcomes of 176 patients receiving a HeartMate 3 device at a single center. The research provided specific findings regarding device survival and major adverse events over time in this patient population. These outcomes are crucial for understanding the durable support offered by the HeartMate 3 in clinical practice. Article 2: Effects of Metabolic Syndrome on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Non-Obese Heart Failure Patients. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41812230 Summary: Previous research established an association between metabolic syndrome and adverse heart failure outcomes in patients with implanted defibrillators or cardiac resynchronization therapy. This study investigated the specific role of metabolic syndrome and its components in predicting the risk of heart failure or death in non-obese patients with these devices. It included both obese and non-obese patients from a multicenter registry to analyze these predictive relationships. The findings clarified the impact of metabolic syndrome on cardiovascular outcomes in a previously understudied non-obese heart failure population. Article 3: Optimised murine HFpEF models for translational pre-clinical studies. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41812219 Summary: F. pEF models for translational pre-clinical studies. The study successfully optimized murine models for Heart Failure with preserved Ejection Fraction, or H. F. pEF, for improved translational pre-clinical studies. Researchers modified the two-hit model protocol by increasing L-NAME doses from 0.5 grams per liter to 1.75 grams per liter and extending protocol lengths from seven weeks to thirteen weeks. These changes reproduced H. F. pEF in both C57BL/6N and 6J mice, addressing previous limitations regarding sub-strain and sex. The refined three-hit model also included specific modifications, yielding more clinically representative models for H. F. pEF research. Article 4: Are β-Blockers Necessary for Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction? : PurSuit-HFpEF Registry. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41810505 Summary: F. pEF Registry. The clinical effect of beta-blockers in patients with Heart Failure with preserved Ejection Fraction, or H. F. pEF, has been a subject of controversy. This study investigated how common comorbidities, specifically atrial fibrillation and ischemic heart disease, influence beta-blocker effects on H. F. pEF outcomes. Utilizing the PURSUIT-H. F. pEF registry, patients were divided into groups with or without these comorbidities. The research demonstrated how prognosis differed between beta-blocker users and non-users within these stratified patient populations, offering specific insights into treatment efficacy. Article 5: Target-Dose Versus Below-Target-Dose ACE Inhibitors and Lower Risk of Kidney Failure in U.S. Veterans with HFrEF. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41797492 Summary: C. E. Inhibitors and Lower Risk of Kidney Failure in U.S. Veterans with H. F. rEF. This study found that target-dose angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or A. C. E. I. s, were associated with a lower risk of kidney failure compared to below-target-dose in U.S. Veterans with Heart Failure with reduced Ejection Fraction.

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 12, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and Conduction system pacing. Key takeaway: Polyamine Inhibition Boosts Heart Transplant Acceptance. Article Links: Article 1: Inhibition of T cell polyamine metabolism promotes transplant acceptance by modulating cytotoxic CD8+ T cell differentiation. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 2: Association of tricuspid regurgitation severity with activities of daily living and dementia in patients with heart failure: Insight from the KUNIUMI Registry Chronic Cohort. (Journal of cardiac failure) Article 3: Identifying High-Risk Subgroups for Heart Failure Among People with Diabetes: The Impact of Cancer. (Journal of cardiac failure) Article 4: Conduction System vs Biventricular Pacing in Heart Failure: The PhysioSync-HF Randomized Clinical Trial. (JAMA cardiology) Article 5: Model-based cost-effectiveness analysis of first-line pharmacotherapy combinations in adults with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/polyamine-inhibition-boosts-heart-transplant-acceptance-03-12-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Inhibition of T cell polyamine metabolism promotes transplant acceptance by modulating cytotoxic CD8+ T cell differentiation. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41812731 Summary: D. 8 positive T cell differentiation. This study found polyamine metabolism was significantly upregulated in T cells during acute rejection in murine models. Inhibition of T cell polyamine metabolism promoted transplant acceptance by modulating cytotoxic C. D. 8 positive T cell differentiation. The findings demonstrated a critical role for T cell polyamine metabolism in transplant rejection and identified a potential therapeutic target. Article 2: Association of tricuspid regurgitation severity with activities of daily living and dementia in patients with heart failure: Insight from the KUNIUMI Registry Chronic Cohort. Journal: Journal of cardiac failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41812968 Summary: This study investigated the association of tricuspid regurgitation severity with longitudinal changes in activities of daily living and cognitive function. Researchers analyzed 1269 heart failure patients, 67.5 percent with Heart Failure with preserved ejection fraction, over a 1-year follow-up period. The investigation highlights the critical need to understand how tricuspid regurgitation impacts functional and cognitive decline in elderly heart failure patients. Article 3: Identifying High-Risk Subgroups for Heart Failure Among People with Diabetes: The Impact of Cancer. Journal: Journal of cardiac failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41812967 Summary: This study examined the incidence of heart failure in individuals with diabetes mellitus and cancer compared with those having diabetes mellitus alone. Researchers established a national cohort by linking 792742 individuals aged 50 years or older from the Australian National Diabetes Services Scheme with hospital admissions and death records. The study provides important insights into identifying high-risk subgroups for heart failure among people with diabetes, specifically highlighting the impact of cancer. Article 4: Conduction System vs Biventricular Pacing in Heart Failure: The PhysioSync-HF Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41811324 Summary: F. Randomized Clinical Trial. The PhysioSync-H. F. randomized clinical trial compared conduction system pacing versus biventricular pacing for heart failure-related outcomes. This study focused on patients with Heart Failure with reduced ejection fraction and left bundle-branch block, a population where alternative pacing strategies are critical. The trial provides a direct comparison of these two pacing modalities, addressing uncertainty regarding their impact on heart failure outcomes. Article 5: Model-based cost-effectiveness analysis of first-line pharmacotherapy combinations in adults with chronic heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41813099 Summary: This study presented a model-based cost-effectiveness analysis of five first-line pharmacotherapy combinations for adults with chronic Heart Failure with reduced ejection fraction. The lifetime cohort Markov model, developed from the National Health Service in England’s perspective, evaluated combinations including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or an

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 11, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like morbidity and Incident heart failure. Key takeaway: New Risk Models Pinpoint Future Heart Failure. Article Links: Article 1: Cardiovascular Statistics in the United States, 2026: JACC Stats. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Prediction of incident heart failure in established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: the SMART2-HF model. (European heart journal) Article 3: Prediction of incident heart failure in individuals without prior cardiovascular disease: the SCORE2-HF risk model. (European heart journal) Article 4: Risk prediction in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the LIFE-Preserved model. (European heart journal) Article 5: Long-Term Outcomes of Left Bundle-Branch Pacing vs Biventricular Pacing in Heart Failure: The HeartSync-LBBP Randomized Clinical Trial. (JAMA cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/new-risk-models-pinpoint-future-heart-failure-03-11-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Cardiovascular Statistics in the United States, 2026: JACC Stats. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41524687 Summary: The JACC Cardiovascular Statistics 2026 report found that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. It provides the most up-to-date data on cardiovascular health, covering major risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and cigarette smoking. The report details conditions such as coronary heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease, which collectively cause most cardiovascular deaths and disability. Article 2: Prediction of incident heart failure in established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: the SMART2-HF model. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41810961 Summary: The SMART2-HF model was developed and externally validated for the prediction of incident heart failure in patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This model addresses a critical gap, as current guideline-recommended risk assessment models do not include incident heart failure. The SMART2-HF model provides a new tool to identify patients at high risk of developing heart failure, thus informing preventive strategies. Article 3: Prediction of incident heart failure in individuals without prior cardiovascular disease: the SCORE2-HF risk model. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41810943 Summary: The SCORE2-HF risk model was developed and validated for heart failure risk estimation in European adults over 40 years of age without prior cardiovascular disease. This sex-specific, competing risk-adjusted model was derived using data from 25 prospective cohorts, involving 611778 individuals and observing 21818 incident heart failure events. The SCORE2-HF models incorporate age, smoking status, systolic blood pressure, and antihypertensive treatment status to assess risk. Article 4: Risk prediction in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the LIFE-Preserved model. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41810940 Summary: The LIFE-Preserved model was developed and validated for predicting individual short-term and lifetime risk of heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death. This model specifically addresses risk in patients diagnosed with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. It provides a tool for identifying high-risk individuals who could benefit most from targeted preventive treatments, given the rising incidence and varying prognosis of this heterogeneous disease. Article 5: Long-Term Outcomes of Left Bundle-Branch Pacing vs Biventricular Pacing in Heart Failure: The HeartSync-LBBP Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41811342 Summary: The HeartSync-Left Bundle-Branch Pacing Randomized Clinical Trial established a multicenter, prospective, randomized comparison of left bundle-branch pacing versus biventricular pacing for heart failure. The trial enrolled 200 patients across 6 centers in China. These patients had a left ventricular ejection fraction of 35 percent or less and a left bundle-branch block, reflecting a specific population requiring robust long-term clinical outcome data for pacing strategies. Transcript Today’s date is March 11, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. Cardiovascular Statistics in the United States, 2026: JACC Stats. The JACC Cardiovascular Statistics 2026 report found that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. It provides the most up-to-date data on cardi

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 11, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like UCP2 single nucleotide polymorphisms and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Key takeaway: New P. A. H. -C. H. D. Risk Model for Adults. Article Links: Article 1: A Critical Contribution of Cardiac Myofibroblasts in Right Ventricular Failure and the Role of UCP2 SNPs in the Predisposition to RV Decompensation in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. (Circulation) Article 2: TRIM28 Is an E3 Ligase of IRP2 Suppressing Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Myocardial Ferroptosis. (Circulation) Article 3: Proteomic insights into troponin elevation following COVID-19 infection. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 4: Comparative Value of HFpEF Scores for Risk Stratification in Patients with Unexplained Dyspnea. (European journal of heart failure) Article 5: Risk stratification for adult patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease. A scientific statement of the ESC Working Group on Pulmonary Circulation and Right Ventricular Function, the ESC Working Group on Adult Congenital Heart Disease, and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions of the ESC. (European journal of heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/new-p-a-h-c-h-d-risk-model-for-adults-03-11-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: A Critical Contribution of Cardiac Myofibroblasts in Right Ventricular Failure and the Role of UCP2 SNPs in the Predisposition to RV Decompensation in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41797703 Summary: This study identified that cardiac myofibroblasts contribute critically to right ventricular failure in pulmonary arterial hypertension. It also found that U. C. P. 2 single nucleotide polymorphisms predispose patients to right ventricular decompensation. The transition from a compensated to a decompensated right ventricle is a major driver of morbidity and mortality in this condition. These findings highlight a specific cellular mechanism and genetic factor that influence right ventricular failure progression. Article 2: TRIM28 Is an E3 Ligase of IRP2 Suppressing Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Myocardial Ferroptosis. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41797698 Summary: This study found that T. R. I. M. 28 functions as an E3 ligase for Iron Regulatory Protein 2, or I. R. P. 2. The data showed that T. R. I. M. 28 suppresses myocardial ferroptosis induced by ischemia reperfusion injury. This mechanism suggests a novel pathway in preventing regulated cell death in ischemic heart disease. These findings could inform the development of new therapeutic strategies for myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury. Article 3: Proteomic insights into troponin elevation following COVID-19 infection. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41802850 Summary: This study provided significant proteomic insights into the mechanisms of cardiac troponin-I elevation in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. It clarified that elevated troponin-I often occurs even without overt myocardial injury in these patients. The findings advanced the understanding of how acute viral infections, specifically COVID-19, lead to troponin elevation. This information offers crucial interpretive guidance for clinicians managing COVID-19 patients with elevated cardiac biomarkers. Article 4: Comparative Value of HFpEF Scores for Risk Stratification in Patients with Unexplained Dyspnea. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41802264 Summary: This study established the comparative value of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction scores for risk stratification in patients presenting with unexplained dyspnea. The findings demonstrated how these scores associate with structural remodeling, functional limitation, and clinical outcomes in this specific patient population. The data clarified the prognostic utility and clinical applicability of various H. F. pEF diagnostic scores. This comprehensive evaluation provides essential guidance for managing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in unexplained dyspnea. Article 5: Risk stratification for adult patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with congenital heart disease. A scientific statement of the ESC Working Group on Pulmonary Circulation and Right Ventricular Function, the ESC Working Group on Adult Congenital Heart Disease, and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions of the ESC. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41800797 Summary: A scientific statement of the ESC Working Group on Pulmonary Circulation and Right Ventricular Function, the ESC Working Group on Adult Congenital Heart Disease, and the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 10, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like comorbidities and acute myocarditis. Key takeaway: YAP Boosts Cardiomyocyte Renewal for Repair. Article Links: Article 1: GRSF1 Protects Against Heart Failure by Maintaining BCAA Homeostasis. (Circulation) Article 2: Clinical Spectrum of Children With Parvovirus B19-Associated Acute Myocarditis. (Circulation) Article 3: Differences in Disease Trajectory, Comorbidities, and Mortality in Sarcomeric and Nonsarcomeric Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. (Circulation) Article 4: YAP Induces a Prorenewal Metabolic State in Cardiomyocytes. (Circulation) Article 5: PRMT3-Mediated Arginine Methylation Stabilizes PCSK9 to Promote Aortic Valve Calcification. (Circulation) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/yap-boosts-cardiomyocyte-renewal-for-repair-03-10-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: GRSF1 Protects Against Heart Failure by Maintaining BCAA Homeostasis. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487100 Summary: The study identified guanine-rich RNA sequence binding factor one, or GRSF1, as a regulator of cell-intrinsic branched-chain amino acid, or B. C. A. A., metabolic pathways. This post-transcriptional regulation by GRSF1 was found to contribute to the pathogenesis of heart failure. The data demonstrated that GRSF1 protects against heart failure by maintaining B. C. A. A. homeostasis. This mechanism provides a novel understanding of metabolic imbalances in cardiac dysfunction. Article 2: Clinical Spectrum of Children With Parvovirus B19-Associated Acute Myocarditis. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487093 Summary: This multicenter retrospective observational study characterized the clinical features and outcomes of children with parvovirus B19-associated acute myocarditis. The research provided specific data on the clinical spectrum observed in pediatric patients with this condition following an outbreak of parvovirus B19 infections in 2024. The study identified patterns of disease presentation and progression in this vulnerable population. This data clarifies the understanding of a critical cardiac complication in children. Article 3: Differences in Disease Trajectory, Comorbidities, and Mortality in Sarcomeric and Nonsarcomeric Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41800474 Summary: Sarcomere gene variants were found to be a key cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or H. C. M., and were associated with a worse prognosis. This multicenter longitudinal cohort study in the Sarcomeric Human Cardiomyopathy registry demonstrated significant differences in disease trajectory, comorbidities, and mortality between patients with sarcomeric and nonsarcomeric H. C. M. The data revealed how comorbidities specifically influence clinical courses and causes of death in these distinct patient groups. This finding provides crucial insights for risk stratification and personalized management strategies in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Article 4: YAP Induces a Prorenewal Metabolic State in Cardiomyocytes. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41797725 Summary: The study found that YAP induces a prorenewal metabolic state in cardiomyocytes. This mechanism was identified as a key factor contributing to the regenerative capacity observed in neonatal rodents. The data demonstrated that YAP helps counteract the decline in cardiomyocyte regeneration that occurs with cellular maturation. This finding provides critical insights into potential therapeutic targets for promoting cardiac repair and regeneration. Article 5: PRMT3-Mediated Arginine Methylation Stabilizes PCSK9 to Promote Aortic Valve Calcification. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41797709 Summary: The study found that protein arginine methyltransferase three, or PRMT3, promotes aortic valve calcification. This occurs through PRMT3-mediated arginine methylation, which stabilizes proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type nine, or P. C. S. K. 9. The data demonstrated that this specific molecular mechanism contributes to increased leaflet stiffness and the progression of calcific aortic valve disease. This finding provides a crucial understanding of the underlying pathogenesis and offers new therapeutic targets for this condition. Transcript Today’s date is March 10, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. GRSF1 Protects Against Heart Failure by Maintaining BCAA Homeostasis. The study identified guanine-rich RNA sequence binding factor one, or GRSF1, as a regulator of cell-intrinsic branched-chain amino acid, or B. C. A. A., metabolic pathways. This post-transcriptional regulation by GRSF1 was found to contribute to the pathogenesis of heart failure. The data demonstrated that GRSF1 protects against heart fai

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 09, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like cardiac aging and empagliflozin. Key takeaway: A. I. Mammograms Predict Heart Disease in Women. Article Links: Article 1: Silent plaque ruptures in non-obstructive lesions of non-infarct-related arteries: a multimodality, serial intracoronary imaging study. (European heart journal) Article 2: Artificial intelligence-based quantification of breast arterial calcifications to predict cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. (European heart journal) Article 3: Endothelial ZBTB16: a molecular shield against cardiac aging. (European heart journal) Article 4: Empagliflozin in De Novo vs Acute Decompensated Chronic Heart Failure: A Prespecified Analysis From EMPULSE. (JACC. Heart failure) Article 5: BRISC Deficiency Drives Heart Failure by Regulating β-Catenin K63 Ubiquitination. (Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/a-i-mammograms-predict-heart-disease-in-women-03-09-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Silent plaque ruptures in non-obstructive lesions of non-infarct-related arteries: a multimodality, serial intracoronary imaging study. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41795942 Summary: This study revealed that silent plaque ruptures frequently occur in non-obstructive lesions within non-infarct-related coronary arteries of acute myocardial infarction patients. Researchers characterized the specific morphological features of these ruptures. The study tracked changes in rupture sites over 52 weeks, demonstrating their dynamic nature. It also identified the baseline morphology associated with new-onset ruptures, advancing understanding of coronary artery disease progression beyond the infarct-related artery. Article 2: Artificial intelligence-based quantification of breast arterial calcifications to predict cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41795899 Summary: Artificial intelligence-based automatic quantification of breast arterial calcification from screening mammograms significantly predicted cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality. This A. I. methodology demonstrated superior predictive value beyond existing PREVENT scores in a large, racially diverse cohort of 123762 women. The results establish breast arterial calcification as a robust and automatically quantifiable biomarker for cardiovascular risk. These findings support integrating A. I. assessment of mammograms into cardiovascular risk stratification for women. Article 3: Endothelial ZBTB16: a molecular shield against cardiac aging. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41493057 Summary: This study identified zinc finger and B. T. B. domain-containing protein 16, or ZBTB16, as playing a critical protective role against cardiac aging. Researchers found that endothelial ZBTB16 functions as a molecular shield, counteracting age-related cardiac dysfunction. The data revealed specific epigenetically regulated mechanisms underlying endothelial cell impairment during aging. These findings provide novel insights into the molecular processes of cardiac aging and suggest potential therapeutic targets. Article 4: Empagliflozin in De Novo vs Acute Decompensated Chronic Heart Failure: A Prespecified Analysis From EMPULSE. Journal: JACC. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41793401 Summary: This prespecified analysis from the EMPULSE trial found that empagliflozin significantly improved clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized for heart failure. The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor demonstrated consistent efficacy, safety, and tolerability in both de novo heart failure and acute decompensated heart failure subgroups. The benefits of empagliflozin were observed early, providing critical support for initiating this therapy during hospitalization for heart failure regardless of its onset. These findings broaden the evidence base for empagliflozin in a diverse heart failure population. Article 5: BRISC Deficiency Drives Heart Failure by Regulating β-Catenin K63 Ubiquitination. Journal: Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41789465 Summary: This study revealed that deficiency in BRISC, a B. R. C. C. 3 isopeptidase complex, drives heart failure by regulating beta-catenin K63 ubiquitination. Researchers found that BRISC functions as a K63-specific deubiquitinase crucial for preventing adverse cardiac remodeling. Analysis showed altered BRISC subunit expression in hypertrophic human and murine hearts, directly linking its dysregulation to cardiac dysfunction. These findings offer a novel molecular mechanism underlying hypertensive heart failure and potential therapeutic targets. Transcript Today’s date is March 09, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are t

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 07, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like point-of-care devices and artificial intelligence. Key takeaway: AI Point-of-Care Cuts Heart Failure Costs. Article Links: Article 1: Management and Consequences of Genotype-Positive Familial Hypercholesterolemia. (JAMA cardiology) Article 2: Spectrum of Primary Aldosteronism and Risk of Cardiovascular Outcomes: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. (JAMA cardiology) Article 3: AI task-shifting for echocardiographic LVEF assessment in Singapore: an economic evaluation. (ESC heart failure) Article 4: Characterising the heterogeneity of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: moving beyond subgroups and distinguishing disease from risk. (European journal of heart failure) Article 5: Head Down Position Before Endovascular Treatment for Large Vessel Occlusion: Clinical Trial Design. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/ai-point-of-care-cuts-heart-failure-costs-03-07-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Management and Consequences of Genotype-Positive Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41779414 Summary: Familial hypercholesterolemia is established as a common genetic condition that causes hypercholesterolemia and significantly increases the risk for premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Current understanding of the precise prevalence, optimal management strategies, and long-term consequences of genetically confirmed familial hypercholesterolemia across the United States remains limited. This existing knowledge gap underscores the urgent requirement for comprehensive data to accurately characterize this condition. Such characterization is crucial for defining the true burden of disease and developing evidence-based lipid-lowering management strategies. Article 2: Spectrum of Primary Aldosteronism and Risk of Cardiovascular Outcomes: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41779388 Summary: Mounting evidence demonstrates that renin-independent aldosteronism is a common condition that is frequently underrecognized in clinical practice. The full spectrum of aldosteronism, specifically its association with incident cardiovascular disease events, has not been comprehensively evaluated in community-dwelling older adults. A more thorough understanding of how aldosterone measures correlate with cardiovascular outcomes is essential. This information would improve risk stratification and guide preventative strategies for an underdiagnosed patient population. Article 3: AI task-shifting for echocardiographic LVEF assessment in Singapore: an economic evaluation. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41784150 Summary: Accurate assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction is crucial for heart failure diagnosis, typically requiring skilled sonographers. Artificial intelligence-enabled point-of-care devices are capable of enabling novice operators to accurately assess left ventricular ejection fraction, which leads to reduced healthcare costs. An economic evaluation conducted a cost-minimization analysis, directly comparing conventional sonographer-performed echocardiography to novice-operated artificial intelligence-enabled point-of-care devices. This analysis confirmed the economic benefits of task-shifting using artificial intelligence-enabled platforms for diagnosing left ventricular ejection fraction below 50 percent, offering a cost-effective solution. Article 4: Characterising the heterogeneity of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: moving beyond subgroups and distinguishing disease from risk. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41782360 Summary: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction is recognized as a heterogeneous syndrome, often hypothesized to consist of discrete subtypes. Advanced data science techniques, applied to deeply phenotyped multi-modal cohorts of 902 prospectively recruited patients, effectively characterized this intrinsic heterogeneity. The rigorous profiling included detailed clinical, imaging, and genetic assessments for each patient. These methods provided a comprehensive understanding of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, enabling a clearer distinction between actual disease and risk factors. Article 5: Head Down Position Before Endovascular Treatment for Large Vessel Occlusion: Clinical Trial Design. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41778610 Summary: The head down position demonstrates existing potential benefits in the management of acute ischemic stroke. Specifically, a negative 20-degree head down position has been shown to appear safe, feasible, and potentially bene

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 07, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like risk prediction model and aficamten. Key takeaway: Preventive PCI for Vulnerable Plaques. Article Links: Article 1: Novel cardiovascular metabolic risk factor mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. (European heart journal) Article 2: Great debate: preventive percutaneous coronary intervention added to optimal medical treatment should be the default treatment for non-flow-limiting vulnerable plaques. (European heart journal) Article 3: Laminopathies: natural history and risk prediction of heart failure. (European heart journal) Article 4: Senescence-related myocardial dysfunction: keeping a young heart. (European heart journal) Article 5: Aficamten in symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: the FOREST-HCM long-term study. (European heart journal) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/preventive-pci-for-vulnerable-plaques-03-07-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Novel cardiovascular metabolic risk factor mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41790457 Summary: Advances in clinical research revealed beneficial effects of pharmacological classes of metabolic drugs on cardiovascular outcomes. These findings demonstrate complex interactions between metabolism and cardiac pathology. Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of these agents identifies new therapeutic opportunities for cardiovascular risk reduction. This suggests a paradigm shift in managing cardiovascular risk linked to metabolic disorders. Article 2: Great debate: preventive percutaneous coronary intervention added to optimal medical treatment should be the default treatment for non-flow-limiting vulnerable plaques. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41790132 Summary: Acute myocardial ischemic syndromes frequently arise from rupture or erosion of non-flow-limiting vulnerable plaques. Optimal medical therapy leaves substantial residual cardiovascular risk, prompting consideration of preventive percutaneous coronary intervention to stabilize these high-risk lesions. Contemporary intracoronary imaging techniques, including intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography, effectively identify these vulnerable plaques. The clinical argument supports preventive percutaneous coronary intervention as a default treatment strategy for these lesions, aiming to reduce future major adverse cardiovascular events. Article 3: Laminopathies: natural history and risk prediction of heart failure. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41790128 Summary: This study developed a prediction model for severe heart failure events in adult-onset laminopathies, addressing the high risk faced by patients with L. M. N. A. gene variants. Researchers included 470 adults from the French L. M. N. A. nationwide registry for derivation and an independent international cohort for validation. The model provides a tool for predicting the incidence of severe heart failure events in this patient population. This advances risk stratification for laminopathy patients. Article 4: Senescence-related myocardial dysfunction: keeping a young heart. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41790041 Summary: The myocardium undergoes significant changes with aging, impacting the heart’s pumping action. These senescence-related alterations contribute to myocardial dysfunction, a process that is not yet fully understood. Identifying the mechanisms of these age-related changes is crucial for understanding pathological processes and developing targeted therapeutic strategies. These insights hold long-term implications for maintaining cardiovascular health in an aging population. Article 5: Aficamten in symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: the FOREST-HCM long-term study. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41780565 Summary: The F. O. R. E. S. T. hyphen H. C. M. study assessed the safety and efficacy of extended aficamten treatment in symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This next-in-class, oral selective cardiac myosin inhibitor ameliorates hypercontractility in patients. The open-label study enrolled 296 patients, with a mean age of 61 years, who had completed a parent aficamten study. Results from this long-term evaluation provide crucial information on the sustained clinical profile of aficamten for this patient population. Transcript Today’s date is March 07, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. Novel cardiovascular metabolic risk factor mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities. Advances in clinical research revealed beneficial effects of pharmacological classes of metabolic drugs on cardiovascu

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 06, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like breast cancer and cardiac myosin inhibitor. Key takeaway: AI Predicts Heart Failure from ECGs. Article Links: Article 1: Effect of Aficamten vs Metoprolol on Patient-Reported Health Status in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Predicting Heart Failure From 12-Lead ECGs Using AI: A HeartShare/AMP-HF Pooled Cohort Analysis. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 3: Aficamten in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Multidomain, Patient-Level Analysis of the MAPLE-HCM Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 4: Nuclear AGO2 exacerbates heart failure with preserved ejection fraction through myocardial ketogenesis. (European heart journal) Article 5: Breast tumour-secreted ADAM10 mediates atrial fibrogenesis and fibrillation. (European heart journal) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/ai-predicts-heart-failure-from-ecgs-03-06-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Effect of Aficamten vs Metoprolol on Patient-Reported Health Status in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41493295 Summary: Aficamten, a cardiac myosin inhibitor, was significantly more effective than metoprolol at improving exercise tolerance in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The MAPLE-HCM trial, a head-to-head, international, double-blind, randomized study, demonstrated this definitive finding. Aficamten showed clear superiority over metoprolol in this patient population. Article 2: Predicting Heart Failure From 12-Lead ECGs Using AI: A HeartShare/AMP-HF Pooled Cohort Analysis. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41493294 Summary: Artificial intelligence applied to electrocardiograms enhances the prediction of incident heart failure beyond clinical risk estimation using the PREVENT-Heart Failure equation. This electrocardiogram-artificial intelligence was specifically designed to detect both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. The pooled cohort analysis found that this scalable approach improves identification of individuals at risk for heart failure. Article 3: Aficamten in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Multidomain, Patient-Level Analysis of the MAPLE-HCM Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41348072 Summary: The MAPLE-HCM trial demonstrated that aficamten monotherapy provided greater improvement in exercise capacity and multiple secondary endpoints compared to metoprolol monotherapy. This multidomain, patient-level analysis further evaluated aficamten’s effects across various clinically relevant and patient-centric measures of disease burden in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Aficamten definitively improved outcomes compared to the traditional beta-blocker therapy. Article 4: Nuclear AGO2 exacerbates heart failure with preserved ejection fraction through myocardial ketogenesis. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41784225 Summary: This study found that nuclear argonaute two exacerbates heart failure with preserved ejection fraction through myocardial ketogenesis. This mechanism contributes to cardiac dysfunction, particularly in contexts of high-fat diet. The research demonstrated a causal role for nuclear argonaute two in inducing this specific type of heart failure. These findings offer a novel understanding of disease progression for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Article 5: Breast tumour-secreted ADAM10 mediates atrial fibrogenesis and fibrillation. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41780910 Summary: Breast tumor-secreted A. D. A. M. ten mediates atrial fibrogenesis and fibrillation. This study found that breast cancer itself, independent of treatment-related cardiotoxicity, directly induces atrial fibrillation through this specific molecular mechanism. A retrospective analysis of 1224 female breast cancer patients before therapy and 18159 healthy female participants established this link. This research identifies a direct pathological connection between breast tumors and the development of atrial fibrillation. Transcript Today’s date is March 06, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. Effect of Aficamten vs Metoprolol on Patient-Reported Health Status in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Aficamten, a cardiac myosin inhibitor, was significantly more effective than metoprolol at improving exercise tolerance in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The MAPLE-HCM trial, a head-to-head, international, double-blind, randomized study, demo

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 05, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Computed tomography angiography and Verapamil. Key takeaway: Nonobstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Bisoprolol vs Verapamil. Article Links: Article 1: Finerenone in Type 1 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease. (The New England journal of medicine) Article 2: Coronary Atherosclerosis in Liver Transplant Recipients and Population Controls: A Nationwide Study Using Protocolized CT Angiography. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 3: Intravascular Imaging- vs Angiography-Guided Complex PCI: 5-Year Outcomes From a Randomized Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 4: Beta-Blocker (Bisoprolol) vs Calcium-Channel Blocker (Verapamil) in Nonobstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Randomized Triple-Crossover Physiologic Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 5: Heart Failure Quality of Care Among Asian Patients in the United States. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/nonobstructive-hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy-bisoprolol-vs-verapamil-03-05-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Finerenone in Type 1 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease. Journal: The New England journal of medicine PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41780000 Summary: Finerenone, a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, has demonstrated improvements in kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type two diabetes and chronic kidney disease. This established benefit prompted a phase three trial evaluating finerenone’s efficacy and safety in adults with type one diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The study included patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate between 25 and less than 90 milliliters per minute per 1.73 meters squared, who also presented with albuminuria. This research directly addresses the potential therapeutic application of finerenone for improving outcomes in a distinct diabetic population. Article 2: Coronary Atherosclerosis in Liver Transplant Recipients and Population Controls: A Nationwide Study Using Protocolized CT Angiography. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41778959 Summary: This nationwide cross-sectional study definitively characterized the prevalence and severity of coronary atherosclerosis in liver transplant recipients compared to control subjects. Researchers utilized protocolized research-coronary computed tomography angiography in both groups to overcome previous limitations of clinically indicated imaging or retrospective studies. This standardized approach provided a more robust assessment of coronary atherosclerotic burden. The study established a comprehensive profile of atherosclerotic disease in liver transplant patients. Article 3: Intravascular Imaging- vs Angiography-Guided Complex PCI: 5-Year Outcomes From a Randomized Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41778943 Summary: This randomized trial provided crucial long-term clinical outcomes comparing intravascular imaging-guided percutaneous coronary intervention with angiography-guided percutaneous coronary intervention for complex coronary artery lesions. The study definitively evaluated two distinct approaches for revascularization, assigning eligible patients in a two to one ratio to receive either imaging guidance or angiography guidance. This robust comparison established a clearer understanding of the relative long-term efficacy of each technique. The findings inform optimal strategies for percutaneous coronary intervention in challenging cases. Article 4: Beta-Blocker (Bisoprolol) vs Calcium-Channel Blocker (Verapamil) in Nonobstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Randomized Triple-Crossover Physiologic Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41778690 Summary: This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled triple-crossover trial directly compared the effects of bisoprolol and verapamil in patients with nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The study rigorously evaluated the therapeutic impact of these two distinct drug classes, beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers. Patients included presented with at least one marker of disease severity, such as New York Heart Association functional class two or greater or N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels exceeding 300 nanograms per liter. This trial provided critical evidence regarding optimal pharmacologic management for this specific hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype. Article 5: Heart Failure Quality of Care Among Asian Patients in the United States. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41532945 Summary: This study i

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 04, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like risk stratification and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Key takeaway: Atrial Cardiomyopathy Imaging Improves Risk Stratification. Article Links: Article 1: Burden of chronic kidney disease and outcomes following hospitalisation for heart failure. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 2: Role of Imaging Techniques in Monitoring Atrial Cardiomyopathy and Atrial Failure: A Scientific Statement. (ESC heart failure) Article 3: MUTTON-HF: Rationale and Design of a Study of an Indigenous Food is Medicine Intervention. (Circulation. Heart failure) Article 4: Sex Differences in Outcomes of Young Adults Hospitalized With First Myocardial Infarction From 2011 to 2022. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Associations Between Sustained Methamphetamine/Amphetamine Use and Left Ventricular Dysfunction in a Cohort of Women Living With and Without HIV. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/atrial-cardiomyopathy-imaging-improves-risk-stratification-03-04-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Burden of chronic kidney disease and outcomes following hospitalisation for heart failure. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41775525 Summary: This five-year longitudinal cohort analysis established chronic kidney disease as a significant comorbidity influencing outcomes following heart failure hospitalization. The study demonstrated a framework for comparing clinical events, healthcare resource utilization, and direct costs between heart failure patients with and without a chronic kidney disease diagnosis. This investigation highlights the critical impact of chronic kidney disease on patient management and economic burden within this population. Article 2: Role of Imaging Techniques in Monitoring Atrial Cardiomyopathy and Atrial Failure: A Scientific Statement. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41774767 Summary: This scientific statement established atrial cardiomyopathy as a distinct pathological entity characterized by structural, functional, and electrical abnormalities. It demonstrated that early identification and longitudinal monitoring of atrial remodeling are crucial for improving risk stratification, guiding therapeutic decisions, and assessing treatment response. The statement concluded that clinical evaluation alone is insufficient, thereby highlighting the essential role of advanced imaging techniques in detecting and monitoring these abnormalities to improve patient outcomes. Article 3: MUTTON-HF: Rationale and Design of a Study of an Indigenous Food is Medicine Intervention. Journal: Circulation. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41766529 Summary: This study established nutrition insecurity as a major driver of poor cardiovascular health within Indigenous communities. It designed MUTTON-HF (Medically Utilized Tailored Traditional Foods to Optimize Nutrition in Heart Failure), an Indigenous culturally tailored “food is medicine” intervention. The design demonstrated a community-based-participatory method for utilizing traditional precontact foods to improve heart failure outcomes and quality of life in these populations. Article 4: Sex Differences in Outcomes of Young Adults Hospitalized With First Myocardial Infarction From 2011 to 2022. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41744115 Summary: This analysis found that acute myocardial infarction hospitalizations are increasing in young adults aged 18 to 54 years in the United States between 2011 and 2022. The study identified sex-based differences in outcomes for young adults hospitalized with their first myocardial infarction. It established in-hospital mortality as the primary endpoint, specifically stratified by S. T. segment elevation myocardial infarction and non-S. T. segment elevation myocardial infarction subtypes and sex, underscoring the critical need to understand these disparities. Article 5: Associations Between Sustained Methamphetamine/Amphetamine Use and Left Ventricular Dysfunction in a Cohort of Women Living With and Without HIV. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41744114 Summary: This study identified that women with H. I. V. experience a disproportionately high prevalence of substance use, which is associated with cardiac disease. Researchers measured left ventricular systolic dysfunction and diastolic dysfunction, conditions preceding clinical heart failure, in a cohort of 1651 women. This investigation established a framework for examining the associations between sustained methamphetamine and amphetamine use and these specific cardiac dysfunctions in women living with and without H. I. V. Transcript To

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 03, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like P16 positive cells and adiponectin. Key takeaway: P16 Cells Drive Post-MI Cardiac Remodeling. Article Links: Article 1: Myocardial Recovery With Mechanical Circulatory Support Is Linked to Alternative Splicing and Subcellular Localization of CAMK2D. (Circulation) Article 2: Aortic and Iliac Calcifications as Predictors of Aortic Dissection, Aneurysm Rupture, and Peripheral Vascular Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study from the DANCAVAS Trials. (Circulation) Article 3: PAM-VT 2 Study: Long-Term Scar Evolution and Ablation Lesion Assessment by Late Gadolinium Enhancement Cardiac Magnetic Resonance After Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation. (Circulation) Article 4: Small Extracellular Vesicle External Surface Adiponectin-Mediated Adipocytes/Cardiomyocytes Communication in Diabetic Ischemic Heart Failure. (Circulation) Article 5: P16+ Cells Drive Adverse Postischemic Cardiac Remodeling Through CCL8-Mediated Recruitment of Cytotoxic Lymphocytes. (Circulation) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/p16-cells-drive-post-mi-cardiac-remodeling-03-03-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Myocardial Recovery With Mechanical Circulatory Support Is Linked to Alternative Splicing and Subcellular Localization of CAMK2D. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487088 Summary: Myocardial recovery, characterized by reduced ventricular dilatation and improved systolic function, occurs in a subset of patients with heart failure. This phenomenon is most common in patients receiving left ventricular assist device therapy, with these patients experiencing improved outcomes and quality of life. The study found that myocardial recovery with mechanical circulatory support is directly linked to alternative splicing and subcellular localization of C. A. M. K. two D. This discovery identifies specific molecular mechanisms for initiating cardiac reverse remodeling. Article 2: Aortic and Iliac Calcifications as Predictors of Aortic Dissection, Aneurysm Rupture, and Peripheral Vascular Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study from the DANCAVAS Trials. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41766556 Summary: This prospective cohort study from the Danish Cardiovascular Screening trials established that aortic and iliac calcifications serve as predictors of serious aortic events. The study found a direct association between these calcifications and outcomes such as aortic dissection and aneurysm rupture. Additionally, the data demonstrated that aortic and iliac calcifications predict major adverse limb events, including peripheral revascularization and lower limb amputation. These findings highlight the clinical significance of calcification burden in forecasting severe cardiovascular and peripheral vascular outcomes. Article 3: PAM-VT 2 Study: Long-Term Scar Evolution and Ablation Lesion Assessment by Late Gadolinium Enhancement Cardiac Magnetic Resonance After Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41766535 Summary: Late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance, or LGE-C. M. R., is a useful tool for identifying ventricular tachycardia, or V. T., substrate in patients with structural heart disease. The P. A. M. V. T. two study systematically assessed the long-term evolution of scar and ablation lesions using serial post-ablation LGE-C. M. R. This assessment revealed how ventricular scar tissue and ablation lesions evolve over extended periods following ventricular tachycardia ablation. The findings support the crucial role of post-procedural LGE-C. M. R. in evaluating ablation success and understanding long-term myocardial changes. Article 4: Small Extracellular Vesicle External Surface Adiponectin-Mediated Adipocytes/Cardiomyocytes Communication in Diabetic Ischemic Heart Failure. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41766527 Summary: Mortality from acute myocardial infarction has significantly declined in non-diabetic patients, though morbidity and mortality of ischemic heart failure persistently escalate in the diabetic population. This study found that small extracellular vesicle external surface adiponectin mediates crucial communication between adipocytes and cardiomyocytes in diabetic ischemic heart failure. The research identified this specific adiponectin-mediated pathway as a key mechanism contributing to the pathophysiology observed in diabetic patients with ischemic heart failure. This discovery offers a novel understanding of the molecular communication impacting cardiac health in diabetic individuals. Article 5: P16+ Cells Drive Adverse Postischemic Cardiac Remodeling Through CCL8-Mediated Recruitment of Cytotoxic Lymphocytes. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41766526 Summary: Ischemic heart disease, with adverse remode

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 02, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like loop diuretics and retrospective cohort study. Key takeaway: Tricuspid Regurgitation Etiologies Defined. Article Links: Article 1: Hybrid durable Biventricular Assist Device Implantation with Berlin Heart EXCOR Pulsatile RVAD and a Continuous Flow LVAD. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 2: SGLT2 inhibition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and CKD Experiencing a Deterioration in Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate to 2. (Journal of cardiac failure) Article 3: Survival and Risk Profile of Patients With Significant Tricuspid Regurgitation by Etiology. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Impact of Sociodemographic Characteristics on Outcomes in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Cohort Study of Initial Diuretic Dosing and Outcomes Among Patients Hospitalized for Congestive Heart Failure: Insights From the Cardiovascular Quality Improvement and Care Innovation Consortium. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/tricuspid-regurgitation-etiologies-defined-03-02-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Hybrid durable Biventricular Assist Device Implantation with Berlin Heart EXCOR Pulsatile RVAD and a Continuous Flow LVAD. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41765060 Summary: Patients experiencing biventricular failure or right ventricular failure after continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation face high mortality due to limited durable right ventricular assist device options. This study describes a hybrid ventricular assist device approach, combining a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device with a Berlin Heart EXCOR pulsatile right ventricular assist device. This therapeutic strategy addresses critical cardiogenic shock and late-onset right ventricular failure. The hybrid approach offers a novel option where conventional right-sided continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices are costly, complex, or off-label. Article 2: SGLT2 inhibition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and CKD Experiencing a Deterioration in Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate to 2. Journal: Journal of cardiac failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41765341 Summary: This post-hoc analysis from the CREDENCE trial investigated the efficacy and safety of S. G. L. T. two inhibitors in patients with type two diabetes and chronic kidney disease experiencing an estimated glomerular filtration rate deterioration to less than 20 milliliters per minute per 1.73 meters squared. The analysis provided crucial data to address current limitations in understanding S. G. L. T. two inhibitor use for this specific patient population. It specifically evaluated the association between decreasing estimated glomerular filtration rate and both efficacy and safety outcomes. Article 3: Survival and Risk Profile of Patients With Significant Tricuspid Regurgitation by Etiology. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41757445 Summary: This multisite retrospective study provided a comprehensive classification of significant tricuspid regurgitation by its etiology, an area previously not well studied regarding survival impact. The investigation defined three distinct etiologies for tricuspid regurgitation of moderate or greater severity: primary tricuspid regurgitation due to primary valvular pathology, lead-associated tricuspid regurgitation from lead interactions, and secondary tricuspid regurgitation stemming from other causes such as right ventricular dilation. This detailed etiological categorization provides a critical framework for understanding varying survival and risk profiles among patients with this common valvular disorder. Article 4: Impact of Sociodemographic Characteristics on Outcomes in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41757436 Summary: Patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy are known to experience adverse clinical outcomes. This retrospective cohort study systematically evaluated real-world clinical outcomes, health care resource use, and associated costs in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, specifically stratified by their sociodemographic characteristics. The research utilized a comprehensive database of U. S. adults with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, collected between 2013 and 2021. The study demonstrated the importance of considering sociodemographic factors when assessing patient outcomes and resource utiliza

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 01, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like mycotic genitourinary infections and sodium glucose co-transporter two inhibitors. Key takeaway: Rivaroxaban Extends Cancer P. E. Benefit Across P. S.. Article Links: Article 1: Long-term prognosis in Takotsubo Syndrome compared to Heart Failure: Observations from a global federated research network. (ESC heart failure) Article 2: Genitourinary tract infections and SGLT2 inhibitors in heart failure: an EMPEROR-Pooled analysis. (European journal of heart failure) Article 3: Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction Based on Institutional Experience With IVUS. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Extended Anticoagulation Therapy With Rivaroxaban for Cancer-Associated Low-Risk Pulmonary Embolism According to Different Performance Status Scores: Insights From the ONCO PE Randomized Trial. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Effects of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy on Cardiovascular and Noncardiovascular Hospitalization: A MADIT-CRT Long-Term Follow-Up. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/rivaroxaban-extends-cancer-p-e-benefit-across-p-s-03-01-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Long-term prognosis in Takotsubo Syndrome compared to Heart Failure: Observations from a global federated research network. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41761829 Summary: This retrospective observational study established a cohort of adult patients with Takotsubo syndrome and heart failure discharged between 2018 and 2022 to directly compare their long-term clinical outcomes. It characterized the three-year risks for all-cause death, major adverse cardiovascular events, and acute heart failure in these distinct patient populations. The findings provide a direct comparative analysis of long-term prognosis, which is crucial for differentiating patient management strategies. This data clarifies differential clinical trajectories and informs targeted therapeutic approaches for Takotsubo syndrome versus heart failure. Article 2: Genitourinary tract infections and SGLT2 inhibitors in heart failure: an EMPEROR-Pooled analysis. Journal: European journal of heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41762689 Summary: The EMPEROR-Pooled analysis found a significant impact of genitourinary tract infections and mycotic genitourinary infections on outcomes in heart failure patients, known to be associated with increased mortality risk. Results showed that sodium glucose co-transporter two inhibitors are associated with these types of infections, which often lead to treatment discontinuation. The analysis delineated the occurrence of genitourinary infections in both men and women with heart failure receiving sodium glucose co-transporter two inhibitors. This work provides essential evidence for clinicians to weigh the benefits and risks of sodium glucose co-transporter two inhibitors, guiding strategies to maintain treatment adherence. Article 3: Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction Based on Institutional Experience With IVUS. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41757462 Summary: This retrospective analysis of 9752 patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with second-generation drug-eluting stents established that intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous coronary intervention improves patient outcomes. The study found that the prognostic association of intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous coronary intervention in acute myocardial infarction patients does differ based on a center’s level of intravascular ultrasound use. This outcome indicates that institutional experience with intravascular ultrasound is a critical factor influencing the long-term clinical benefits of this interventional approach. The data underscores the importance of high-volume centers or specialized training to maximize patient benefits from intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous coronary intervention. Article 4: Extended Anticoagulation Therapy With Rivaroxaban for Cancer-Associated Low-Risk Pulmonary Embolism According to Different Performance Status Scores: Insights From the ONCO PE Randomized Trial. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41757461 Summary: The ONCO P. E. randomized trial definitively showed that 18-month rivaroxaban treatment was superior to 6-month treatment for reducing recurrent venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer-associated low-risk pulmonary embolism. This study analyzed the ONCO P. E. trial data and found that the benefits of extended 18-month rivaroxaban therapy for cancer-associated low-risk pulmonary embolism apply across patients with different performance status scores. The re

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded March 01, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Organ transplantation outcomes and Warm ischemia. Key takeaway: H. I. V. Donor Hearts Safely Used in Transplant.. Article Links: Article 1: Sex-biased immune rewiring may underlie reduced risk for cardiac allograft vasculopathy in females following heart transplantation. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 2: Early experience in heart transplantation utilizing donors with HIV. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 3: Cardiac function recovery after 20-min hands-off using thoracoabdominal-normothermic regional perfusion. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 4: The Time is Upon Us-The Beginning of the End of Donor Heart Reanimation In Donation After Circulatory Death Transplantation. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 5: Improved DCD Heart Transplant Function Through Ferroptosis Blockade in a Model of Experimental Normothermic Ex Vivo Perfusion. (Transplantation) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/h-i-v-donor-hearts-safely-used-in-transplant-03-01-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Sex-biased immune rewiring may underlie reduced risk for cardiac allograft vasculopathy in females following heart transplantation. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41297731 Summary: Females who undergo heart transplantation exhibit a reduced risk for cardiac allograft vasculopathy. This study found sex-biased immune rewiring as a potential underlying mechanism contributing to this differential risk. Understanding these sex-specific molecular patterns provides insight for improved risk stratification and precision immunosuppressive strategies in both adult and pediatric transplant recipients. This suggests sex-specific immunologic outcomes are significant after heart transplantation. Article 2: Early experience in heart transplantation utilizing donors with HIV. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40998274 Summary: I. V. A single-center observational study investigated early outcomes of heart transplantation in 10 H. I. V.-positive recipients. Of these, 4 received organs from Human Immunodeficiency Virus positive donors and 6 from H. I. V.-negative donors. At 6 months, survival rates were similar, with 100 percent for recipients of H. I. V.-positive organs and 83 percent for recipients of H. I. V.-negative organs. Crucially, the study reported no Human Immunodeficiency Virus transmission from H. I. V.-positive donors to their recipients. Article 3: Cardiac function recovery after 20-min hands-off using thoracoabdominal-normothermic regional perfusion. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40947079 Summary: An Italian center performed heart transplantation from donation after circulatory death, utilizing thoracoabdominal-normothermic regional perfusion. The study demonstrated successful cardiac function recovery in donor hearts. This recovery was achieved despite a 20-minute period of functional warm ischemia, a duration relevant to legal mandates for death declaration. The findings highlight the feasibility of this technique for expanding the donor pool while adhering to preservation concerns. Article 4: The Time is Upon Us-The Beginning of the End of Donor Heart Reanimation In Donation After Circulatory Death Transplantation. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41763375 Summary: Donation after circulatory death heart transplantation has re-emerged as a transformative strategy to expand the donor pool. Contemporary techniques such as thoracoabdominal-normothermic regional perfusion and direct procurement and perfusion have enabled successful heart transplantation from donation after circulatory death. These methods effectively mitigate ischemic injury and demonstrate post-transplant allograft function. Critically, this function is achieved without requiring pre-transplant assessment of viability or reanimation, marking a significant shift in historical practice. Article 5: Improved DCD Heart Transplant Function Through F

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 28, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like myocardial infarction and ventricular contractility. Key takeaway: Macrophage Burden Predicts MACE Post-Endarterectomy. Article Links: Article 1: Heart failure in the elderly: epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. (European heart journal) Article 2: Switching from warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants in frail elderly Asian patients with atrial fibrillation: a Korean nationwide study. (European heart journal) Article 3: Carotid plaque macrophage burden and inflammatory lipid-associated macrophage markers predict secondary major adverse cardiovascular events after endarterectomy. (European heart journal) Article 4: Myocardial Microcirculation Combined With Lactate Measurements Predicts Ventricular Contractility in a Canine DCD Orthotopic Heart Transplantation During Ex Situ Machine Perfusion. (Transplantation) Article 5: Long Troponin T to Separate Troponin Elevations Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Versus Myocardial Infarction. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/macrophage-burden-predicts-mace-post-endarterectomy-02-28-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Heart failure in the elderly: epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41760079 Summary: The majority of patients with heart failure (H. F.) are of advanced age. The lifetime risk for developing H. F. is approximately 25 percent, with a sharp increase in incidence observed after the age of 70. While the lifetime risk is nearly equal for men and women, women show a higher propensity to develop heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (H. F. pEF), whereas men are more prone to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (H. F. rEF). Article 2: Switching from warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants in frail elderly Asian patients with atrial fibrillation: a Korean nationwide study. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758696 Summary: A previous European trial found that switching from well-managed warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in frail elderly patients with atrial fibrillation was associated with a higher bleeding risk. This underscores the clinical importance of evaluating the safety and effectiveness of such switches in diverse populations. Understanding outcomes in frail elderly Asian patients is particularly crucial due to potential demographic and clinical differences impacting anticoagulant management. This research addresses a significant therapeutic challenge in optimizing anticoagulation for a vulnerable patient group. Article 3: Carotid plaque macrophage burden and inflammatory lipid-associated macrophage markers predict secondary major adverse cardiovascular events after endarterectomy. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41758068 Summary: This study found that the burden of macrophages within carotid plaques and specific inflammatory lipid-associated macrophage markers serve as predictors for secondary major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) following endarterectomy. The data establishes a direct link between the cellular content of atherosclerotic lesions and future cardiovascular outcomes. These findings indicate that detailed characterization of macrophage populations in carotid plaques provides crucial prognostic information. This information can guide risk stratification for patients after carotid endarterectomy. Article 4: Myocardial Microcirculation Combined With Lactate Measurements Predicts Ventricular Contractility in a Canine DCD Orthotopic Heart Transplantation During Ex Situ Machine Perfusion. Journal: Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41757830 Summary: This canine orthotopic heart transplantation study demonstrated that combining myocardial microcirculation data with lactate measurements accurately predicts ventricular contractility in donation after circulatory death (DCD) hearts during ex situ machine perfusion. The research verified novel prediction parameters for heart transplant viability that were previously developed in porcine models. These findings indicate that integrating microcirculation assessment improves the evaluation of transplantable hearts. This provides a more robust method beyond relying solely on lactate levels. Article 5: Long Troponin T to Separate Troponin Elevations Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Versus Myocardial Infarction. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41757465 Summary: Patients presenting to the emergency department with atrial fibrillation often show elevated troponin levels, which are rarely due to myocardial infarction. However, current high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T assays measure both intact and fragmented forms, f

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 27, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like left ventricular ejection fraction and clinical outcomes. Key takeaway: LVEF Not Enough: Heart Failure Phenotyping Shift. Article Links: Article 1: Cardiogenic shock in the course of myocardial infarction: the results of the Shock-POL registry. (ESC heart failure) Article 2: Costs and outcomes in Finnish heart failure patients treated with left ventricular assist device or heart transplant. (ESC heart failure) Article 3: Sex-Difference of Associations Between Cigarette Smoking and Myocardial Fibrosis: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Multimodality Approach to Coronary Ischemic Testing in Pediatric Patients: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Misperception in Heart Failure Phenotyping: Moving Beyond the Chamber to the Myocardium. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/lvef-not-enough-heart-failure-phenotyping-shift-02-27-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Cardiogenic shock in the course of myocardial infarction: the results of the Shock-POL registry. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41746839 Summary: The Shock-POL registry, encompassing data from nine Polish cardiology centers, characterized the current management and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock. This registry evaluated patients hospitalized throughout 2023, identifying parameters of current care for this critical condition. Findings reveal that acute myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock carries an overall mortality rate exceeding 50 percent. The study documented clinical practices and patient outcomes in a real-world setting. Article 2: Costs and outcomes in Finnish heart failure patients treated with left ventricular assist device or heart transplant. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41739853 Summary: This retrospective study provided a real-world comparative analysis of clinical outcomes and healthcare costs for Finnish advanced heart failure patients treated with heart transplantation or left ventricular assist device therapy. The study evaluated 78 patients across three categories: those receiving heart transplantation as a first procedure, and patients undergoing elective or urgent left ventricular assist device implantation. The data characterized the three-year outcomes and associated healthcare expenditures for these significant interventions at Helsinki University Hospital. It established patterns in resource utilization and patient trajectories for these advanced heart failure treatment options. Article 3: Sex-Difference of Associations Between Cigarette Smoking and Myocardial Fibrosis: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41744134 Summary: This cross-sectional analysis from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis cohort established the relationship between cigarette smoking and interstitial myocardial fibrosis. The study utilized extracellular volume and native T1 time, measured by cardiac magnetic resonance, as markers for myocardial fibrosis. It characterized sex-specific differences in these associations at a population level. The findings illuminate how smoking impacts myocardial fibrosis, which is critical given its known association with cardiovascular events, heart failure, and death. Article 4: Multimodality Approach to Coronary Ischemic Testing in Pediatric Patients: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41744120 Summary: This Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association establishes a multimodality approach to coronary ischemic testing in pediatric patients. It provides updated recommendations for targeted provocative ischemic testing in children with acquired and congenital coronary issues. The statement synthesizes evidence-based guidelines for conditions such as Kawasaki disease, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children with coronary aneurysms, and anomalous aortic origin of the coronary arteries. It details the value and application of various ischemic testing modalities to guide clinical practice in pediatric cardiology. Article 5: Misperception in Heart Failure Phenotyping: Moving Beyond the Chamber to the Myocardium. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41744116 Summary: This study evaluated the limitations of conventional left ventricular ejection fraction-based heart failure phenotyping, highlighting its weak correlation with outcomes and potential overestimation of systolic function, par

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 26, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis and left ventricular ejection fraction. Key takeaway: AI Predicts Heart Failure From E. C. G.. Article Links: Article 1: Colchicine in patients with chronic inflammatory cardiomyopathy: Rationale and design of the CMP-MYTHiC. (ESC heart failure) Article 2: Prevalence and Prognostic Significance of Restriction Versus Systolic Dysfunction in Patients With Transthyretin and Light Chain Cardiac Amyloidosis. (Circulation. Heart failure) Article 3: Artificial Intelligence-Enabled ECG Analysis to Predict Incident Heart Failure. (Circulation. Heart failure) Article 4: Invasive Hemodynamic Exercise Response in Hemodynamically Significant Aortic Stenosis With Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction. (Circulation. Heart failure) Article 5: Multimorbidity in Atrial Fibrillation: Impact on Outcomes. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/ai-predicts-heart-failure-from-e-c-g-02-26-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Colchicine in patients with chronic inflammatory cardiomyopathy: Rationale and design of the CMP-MYTHiC. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41730291 Summary: Chronic inflammatory cardiomyopathy, a sequela of acute myocarditis, is characterized by increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, and heart failure. For this condition, when diagnosed non-invasively by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging or fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography, immunosuppressive therapy is not generally recommended. This highlights an important gap in therapeutic options for these patients. Article 2: Prevalence and Prognostic Significance of Restriction Versus Systolic Dysfunction in Patients With Transthyretin and Light Chain Cardiac Amyloidosis. Journal: Circulation. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41732853 Summary: A study analyzed 540 transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis and 280 light chain cardiac amyloidosis patients, challenging the traditional view of cardiac amyloidosis as solely a restrictive ventricular physiology with preserved systolic function. Results showed varied left ventricular phenotypes at diagnosis. These findings clarify the prevalence and clinical significance of left ventricular systolic dysfunction versus restrictive physiology, refining the understanding of cardiac amyloidosis. Article 3: Artificial Intelligence-Enabled ECG Analysis to Predict Incident Heart Failure. Journal: Circulation. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41730522 Summary: Researchers developed an artificial intelligence model, electrocardiogram-to-heart failure (ECG2HF), in 94636 patients to predict incident heart failure. The model demonstrated robust performance, achieving an area under the curve ranging from 0.81 to 0.84 for predicting heart failure within one year. When deployed, a positive ECG2HF result predicted one-year incident heart failure with 81 percent sensitivity and 80 percent specificity, and was independently associated with a two point two-fold increased risk of heart failure. Article 4: Invasive Hemodynamic Exercise Response in Hemodynamically Significant Aortic Stenosis With Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction. Journal: Circulation. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41730521 Summary: An observational study of 118 patients with asymptomatic discordant low-gradient aortic stenosis and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction described exercise hemodynamics. During exercise, these patients showed significant increases in mean aortic valve gradient from 35 plus or minus 14 mmHg at rest to 50 plus or minus 18 mmHg at peak exercise (P value less than 0.001). Pulmonary artery systolic pressure also significantly increased from 38 plus or minus 10 mmHg to 64 plus or minus 18 mmHg (P value less than 0.001), confirming severe aortic stenosis and exercise-induced pulmonary hypertension. Article 5: Multimorbidity in Atrial Fibrillation: Impact on Outcomes. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41733064 Summary: A cohort study of 19280 new-onset atrial fibrillation patients found 96 percent had at least one comorbidity. Each additional cardiometabolic condition increased the hazard ratio for death by 1.15, for ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack by 1.13, and for heart failure hospitalization by 1.25. Other somatic conditions also raised the risk of death and heart failure hospitalization, while mental health conditions specifically increased the risk of death and heart failure hospitalization. These findings quantitatively demonstrate the significant negative impact of multimorbidity on outcomes in atrial fibrillation patients. Transcript Today’s date is February 26, 2026.

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 25, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death. Key takeaway: 20-Year P. F. O. Closure Confirms Long-Term Efficacy. Article Links: Article 1: Cardiac Screening for Conditions Associated With Sudden Cardiac Death: Yield, Interventions, and SCA/SCD Incidence in 104,369 Young Individuals. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Risk of Hyperkalemia With Empagliflozin, Finerenone, or Both: Secondary Analysis of the CONFIDENCE Randomized Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 3: Outcomes of heart failure with reduced, mildly reduced, or preserved ejection fraction: the ESC HF III registry. (European heart journal) Article 4: Twenty-Year Follow-Up After Patent Foramen Ovale Closure in Patients With Paradoxical Embolism. (JAMA cardiology) Article 5: Low-Dose Rivaroxaban to Prevent Left Ventricular Thrombosis After Anterior Myocardial Infarction: The APERITIF Randomized Clinical Trial. (JAMA cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/20-year-p-f-o-closure-confirms-long-term-efficacy-02-25-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Cardiac Screening for Conditions Associated With Sudden Cardiac Death: Yield, Interventions, and SCA/SCD Incidence in 104,369 Young Individuals. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41738673 Summary: C. A. /S. C. D. Incidence in 104369 Young Individuals. This study documented cardiac screening outcomes for conditions associated with sudden cardiac death in 104369 young individuals between 2008 and 2018. The screening program established the diagnostic yield for cardiac conditions and identified subsequent cardiac diagnoses after initial clearance. It also quantified the incidence of sudden cardiac arrest and sudden cardiac death in this young general population after a single screening event. The study provided foundational data on population-based cardiac screening in young individuals. Article 2: Risk of Hyperkalemia With Empagliflozin, Finerenone, or Both: Secondary Analysis of the CONFIDENCE Randomized Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41493296 Summary: O. N. F. I. D. E. N. C. E. Randomized Trial. This secondary analysis of the C. O. N. F. I. D. E. N. C. E. randomized trial investigated the risk of hyperkalemia with empagliflozin, finerenone, and their combination. The analysis provided specific data on how empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter two inhibitor, influenced hyperkalemia risk when co-administered with renin-angiotensin system inhibitors. It further clarified the hyperkalemia profile of finerenone, a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, both alone and in combination, informing treatment decisions for managing hyperkalemia. Article 3: Outcomes of heart failure with reduced, mildly reduced, or preserved ejection fraction: the ESC HF III registry. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41736503 Summary: S. C. H. F. three registry. The European Society of Cardiology Heart Failure three registry documented in-hospital and one-year cause-specific outcomes across different heart failure phenotypes. It enrolled 10162 patients from 220 centers in 41 countries between November 2018 and December 2020. The registry found that 39 percent of patients presented with acute heart failure, with a median age of 70 years and 36 percent women, while 61 percent had outpatient heart failure. This study provides contemporary data on the outcomes and characteristics of various heart failure populations in Europe. Article 4: Twenty-Year Follow-Up After Patent Foramen Ovale Closure in Patients With Paradoxical Embolism. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41739488 Summary: This single-center cohort study documented 20-year clinical outcomes following transcatheter patent foramen ovale closure in patients with paradoxical embolism. The long-term follow-up established the enduring safety and efficacy of this therapy for preventing recurrent ischemic events over two decades. The study provided crucial very long-term data, reinforcing patent foramen ovale closure as a definitive therapy and clarifying its extended therapeutic impact. Article 5: Low-Dose Rivaroxaban to Prevent Left Ventricular Thrombosis After Anterior Myocardial Infarction: The APERITIF Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41739450 Summary: P. E. R. I. T. I. F. Randomized Clinical Trial. The A. P. E. R. I. T. I. F. randomized clinical trial determined the effect of low-dose rivaroxaban, added to dual antiplatelet therapy, on the incidence of left ventricular thrombus. The trial found how this combination therapy influenced the risk of left ventricular thrombus formation a

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 25, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like biological prosthesis and mechanical prosthesis. Key takeaway: Updating Heart Failure & Valve Choices. Article Links: Article 1: Risk of Heart Failure Hospitalization for GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Versus DPP-4 Inhibitors or SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Target Trial Emulation. (Circulation) Article 2: Uncontrolled donation after circulatory death lung transplantation program: Clinical outcomes and perspectives for implementation. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 3: Cardiopulmonary exercise test criteria for heart transplantation referral of patients with ambulatory heart failure in the current era. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 4: Comparative evaluation of biological and mechanical prostheses for aortic valve replacement in a middle-aged population: a population-based cohort study. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 5: Impact of air pollution and multimorbidity on the risk of incident atrial fibrillation. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/updating-heart-failure-valve-choices-02-25-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Risk of Heart Failure Hospitalization for GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Versus DPP-4 Inhibitors or SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Target Trial Emulation. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41732861 Summary: Novel treatments are needed for the primary and secondary prevention of heart failure in patients with type two diabetes. Conflicting trial evidence exists regarding whether glucagon-like peptide-one receptor agonists reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in this broad population. It is unclear whether this is a class effect or varies by specific agent, and their comparative effectiveness against sodium-glucose cotransporter-two inhibitors remains to be fully understood. This highlights a critical knowledge gap in guiding therapeutic choices for this patient group. Article 2: Uncontrolled donation after circulatory death lung transplantation program: Clinical outcomes and perspectives for implementation. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41735096 Summary: Lung transplantation remains limited by the scarcity of suitable donor organs, making uncontrolled donation after circulatory death a promising yet underutilized source. One center’s prospective experience demonstrated a specific approach to uncontrolled donation after circulatory death lung transplantation. This involved assessing all lung referrals, preserving lungs via open-lung ventilation without in situ cooling, and subsequently evaluating them with ex vivo lung perfusion. This methodology establishes a comprehensive framework for addressing donor organ scarcity and expanding lung transplantation opportunities. Article 3: Cardiopulmonary exercise test criteria for heart transplantation referral of patients with ambulatory heart failure in the current era. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41672767 Summary: Current guidelines recommend evaluating patients with ambulatory heart failure for heart transplantation if their peak oxygen consumption is less than 12 milliliters per kilogram per minute. These recommendations are based on decades-old data, indicating a need for contemporary re-evaluation. A large retrospective analysis of 8060 patients with ambulatory heart failure with cardiopulmonary exercise testing data was conducted to address this. The primary analysis specifically focused on 1218 patients with left ventricular ejection fraction less than 40 percent and peak oxygen consumption less than 12 milliliters per kilogram per minute. Article 4: Comparative evaluation of biological and mechanical prostheses for aortic valve replacement in a middle-aged population: a population-based cohort study. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40670147 Summary: Current guidelines for aortic valve replacement lack consensus regarding prosthesis selection for middle-aged patients. A population-based cohort study specifically compared long-term outcomes following aortic valve replacement with mechanical versus biological prostheses among middle-aged patients in an Asian population. The study included patients aged 45 to 64 years who underwent aortic valve replacement across 46 hospitals between 2006 and 2021. This investigation utilized Taiwan’s national claims database to provide crucial data for informing prosthesis selection decisions. Article 5: Impact of air pollut

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 24, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Healthcare disparities and Heart failure. Key takeaway: Name Bias Delays STEMI Diagnosis. Article Links: Article 1: Benefit of early initiation of disease-modifying therapy in community-based patients with suspected heart failure. (European heart journal) Article 2: Aortic Insufficiency Progression in Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices and Prior Impella Support. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 3: Longitudinal Trends and Contemporary Outcomes of Combined Heart-Lung Transplantation. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 4: Identification of a Highly Functional Effector CD8+ T Cell Program after Transplantation in Mice and Humans. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 5: Impact of name-based implicit bias on time to diagnosis and outcomes in ST-elevation myocardial infarction. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/name-bias-delays-stemi-diagnosis-02-24-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Benefit of early initiation of disease-modifying therapy in community-based patients with suspected heart failure. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40879671 Summary: The study concluded that initiating heart failure therapies when an elevated N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide level is detected in community-based patients with suspected heart failure may reduce the risk of early adverse outcomes. The analysis suggested a potential benefit from the early initiation of a sodium-glucose cotransporter two inhibitor and/or a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist in these patients. This therapeutic approach applies to individuals with suspected heart failure who also have pre-existing non-heart failure related indications. The findings underscore the importance of prompt pharmacological intervention in managing early stages of heart failure. Article 2: Aortic Insufficiency Progression in Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices and Prior Impella Support. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41730484 Summary: The study addressed a critical clinical concern regarding the incidence and risk factors for aortic insufficiency in patients receiving mechanical circulatory support. It focused on individuals who received Impella percutaneous temporary left ventricular assist devices, those with Impella followed by durable left ventricular assist devices, and those with durable left ventricular assist devices alone. Understanding aortic insufficiency progression is crucial for managing patients supported by these devices, as its incidence and specific risk factors have remained unclear in this population. This research highlighted the need for clarity regarding distinct clinical pathways and outcomes in these complex patient groups. Article 3: Longitudinal Trends and Contemporary Outcomes of Combined Heart-Lung Transplantation. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41730483 Summary: The study found that combined heart-lung transplants in the United States experienced a gradual decline, but then showed a significant rise in procedures since 2014, particularly among adults. This shift represents an important change in the landscape of thoracic organ transplantation. Understanding these evolving longitudinal trends is critical for clinicians managing patients awaiting or undergoing this complex procedure. The research provides key insights into the contemporary patterns of combined heart-lung transplantation. Article 4: Identification of a Highly Functional Effector CD8+ T Cell Program after Transplantation in Mice and Humans. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41730451 Summary: The study identified a highly functional effector C.D.8 positive T cell program crucial for post-transplantation immune responses in both mice and humans. Researchers found that agonism of the C.D.43 1B11 receptor in vitro induced C.D.8 positive T cell proliferation even with sub-threshold antigen stimulation. In vivo, C.D.43 1B11 agonism successfully overcame costimulation-blockade induced tolerance and significantly enhanced C.D.8 positive T cell cytokine production. Th

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 23, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like antiplatelet therapy and longitudinal study. Key takeaway: Diabetes Ups Myocarditis Heart Failure Risk. Article Links: Article 1: Elevated Activin-A serum levels in patients with acute peripartum cardiomyopathy and during left ventricular recovery. (ESC heart failure) Article 2: Diabetes Increases the Risk of Heart Failure in Myocarditis: A Propensity-Matched Nationwide Database Analysis. (ESC heart failure) Article 3: Nomogram Model for Predicting 90-Day Excellent Outcome in Patients With Acute Vertebrobasilar Artery Occlusion Undergoing Endovascular Thrombectomy. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Insomnia and Incident Cardiovascular Disease in US Hispanic/Latino Adults: Results From HCHS/SOL. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Safety and Efficacy of Early Aspirin Administration After Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke (TREND-IVT): Rationale and Design of a Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/diabetes-ups-myocarditis-heart-failure-risk-02-23-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Elevated Activin-A serum levels in patients with acute peripartum cardiomyopathy and during left ventricular recovery. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41728898 Summary: This study analyzed Activin-A serum levels in patients from the German Peripartum Cardiomyopathy registry both at acute diagnosis and during Left Ventricular recovery. It found that elevated circulating levels of Activin-A, a senescence-associated secretory phenotype factor, correlated with heart failure severity in acute Peripartum Cardiomyopathy patients at baseline. The investigation detailed the trajectory of Activin-A serum levels throughout the course of Left Ventricular functional recovery. This analysis highlights Activin-A as a potential biomarker relevant to the pathophysiology and recovery assessment in Peripartum Cardiomyopathy. Article 2: Diabetes Increases the Risk of Heart Failure in Myocarditis: A Propensity-Matched Nationwide Database Analysis. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41728893 Summary: This propensity-matched nationwide database analysis found that diabetes significantly increased the risk of heart failure in patients hospitalized for myocarditis. The study reported that diabetes impacted both in-hospital and long-term outcomes in this patient group. Patients discharged alive were followed for a calendar year, demonstrating the sustained effect of diabetes on subsequent cardiac events. This analysis establishes diabetes as a critical comorbidity that exacerbates adverse outcomes in myocarditis. Article 3: Nomogram Model for Predicting 90-Day Excellent Outcome in Patients With Acute Vertebrobasilar Artery Occlusion Undergoing Endovascular Thrombectomy. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717945 Summary: This study developed and externally validated a nomogram model designed to predict 90-day excellent functional outcomes in patients with acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion. The nomogram provides a crucial tool for patient selection in endovascular thrombectomy, a procedure proven effective for this condition which typically has mortality rates up to 80 percent. The model offers enhanced precision in identifying patients most likely to achieve a modified Rankin Scale score of 0-1 at 90 days. This predictive model addresses the significant challenge of patient selection in managing acute vertebrobasilar artery occlusion. Article 4: Insomnia and Incident Cardiovascular Disease in US Hispanic/Latino Adults: Results From HCHS/SOL. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717941 Summary: This study analyzed data from 3635 Hispanic/Latino adults and found a significant association between insomnia and incident cardiovascular disease. Insomnia was assessed using the Women’s Health Initiative Insomnia Rating Scale, evaluating group status, symptom severity, specific symptom dimensions, and sleep duration at baseline. The results demonstrated that insomnia is an independent cardiovascular risk factor in this specific demographic. This highlights the importance of screening for and managing insomnia to potentially mitigate cardiovascular risk in Hispanic/Latino populations. Article 5: Safety and Efficacy of Early Aspirin Administration After Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke (TREND-IVT): Rationale and Design of a Multicenter, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717940 Summary: The TREND-IVT trial is a multicenter, randomized, pla

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 23, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like electrocardiography and adverse outcomes. Key takeaway: AI Links Dental Care to Higher Heart Risk. Article Links: Article 1: Interferon-γ-Responsive Microglia-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Inhibited Neurogenesis After Stroke via MicroRNA-199a-5p/SIRT1 Axis. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 2: Annual Trends in Risk Factor Control Status at the Time of Ischemic Stroke in South Korea. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 3: Short-Term Exposure to Ambient Ozone and Fine Particulate Matter and Its Components Increases the Risk of In-Hospital Adverse Outcomes in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Time-Stratified Case-Crossover Study. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 4: Cold Waves and Elevation Strengthen the Association of Particulate Matter Exposure With Hypertension Prevalence: A Large Multiregional Study in China. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Inadequate Preventive Dental Care Is Associated With Higher Cardiovascular Risk Identified by ECG-Based Artificial Intelligence Algorithms. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/ai-links-dental-care-to-higher-heart-risk-02-23-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Interferon-γ-Responsive Microglia-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Inhibited Neurogenesis After Stroke via MicroRNA-199a-5p/SIRT1 Axis. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717953 Summary: This study found that interferon-gamma-responsive microglia-derived extracellular vesicles inhibited neurogenesis after stroke. This inhibition occurred via the microRNA-199a-5p/SIRT1 axis, revealing a specific molecular mechanism. The data demonstrated a pathway contributing to impaired neurological function recovery following cerebral ischemia. This new understanding identifies a potential therapeutic target to enhance neurogenesis and improve patient outcomes after stroke. Article 2: Annual Trends in Risk Factor Control Status at the Time of Ischemic Stroke in South Korea. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717952 Summary: This study evaluated annual trends in the control of major risk factors at the time of ischemic stroke in South Korea from 2011 to 2022. Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide registry, focusing on hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. The findings from this real-world assessment identified specific areas where current prevention guidelines for ischemic stroke need greater clinical attention. This work helps improve early stroke outcomes by highlighting gaps in risk factor management. Article 3: Short-Term Exposure to Ambient Ozone and Fine Particulate Matter and Its Components Increases the Risk of In-Hospital Adverse Outcomes in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Time-Stratified Case-Crossover Study. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717950 Summary: This study found that short-term exposure to ambient ozone and fine particulate matter with a diameter of less than or equal to 2.5 micrometers increased the risk of in-hospital adverse outcomes for patients with acute myocardial infarction. The time-stratified case-crossover study, conducted in Beijing, demonstrated this association between air pollutants and patient morbidity. This data highlights the critical impact of environmental factors on immediate post-infarction prognosis. Clinicians should consider air quality in managing acute myocardial infarction patients. Article 4: Cold Waves and Elevation Strengthen the Association of Particulate Matter Exposure With Hypertension Prevalence: A Large Multiregional Study in China. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717949 Summary: This large multiregional study in China found that cold waves and geographic elevation strengthened the association of particulate matter exposure with hypertension prevalence. Researchers analyzed data from 27000 adults, demonstrating that these co-occurring environmental stressors exacerbate the known risk of air pollution for hypertension. The data revealed significant interactive effects between long-term particulate matter exposure, cold weather, and altitude. This understanding is crucial for public health strategies addressing hypertension in varied geographical and climatic conditions. Article 5: Inadequate Preventive Dental Care Is Associated With Higher Cardiovascular Risk Identified by ECG-Based Artificial Intelligence Algorithms. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717947 Summary: This study found that inadequate preventive dental care was associated with a higher cardiovascular ri

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 22, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like hypotension and Coronary embolism. Key takeaway: Empagliflozin Cuts Brain Injury After Cardiac Arrest. Article Links: Article 1: Pelacarsen and lipoprotein(a) apheresis in secondary prevention: the Lp(a)FRONTIERS APHERESIS trial. (European heart journal) Article 2: Three-dimensional echocardiography for valvular heart disease: clinical implications. (European heart journal) Article 3: Etiology, Management, and Outcomes of Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions Stage B Cardiogenic Shock. (Circulation. Heart failure) Article 4: Atrial Fibrillation Versus Nonatrial Fibrillation Coronary Embolism: A Multicenter Study. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Article 5: Empagliflozin Attenuates Global Cerebral Ischemic Injury After Cardiac Arrest Through Enhancing Ketone Body Oxidative Metabolism in Rats. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/empagliflozin-cuts-brain-injury-after-cardiac-arrest-02-22-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Pelacarsen and lipoprotein(a) apheresis in secondary prevention: the Lp(a)FRONTIERS APHERESIS trial. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41721795 Summary: Lipoprotein apheresis (L. A.) is the only approved treatment for patients with elevated lipoprotein(a). The Lp(a)FRONTIERS APHERESIS trial established a treatment protocol where adult patients with lipoprotein(a) levels greater than 60 milligrams per deciliter and established cardiovascular disease were randomized. These patients had previously undergone frequent lipoprotein apheresis sessions. Participants received either 80 milligrams of pelacarsen or placebo every 4 weeks for 52 weeks, continuing weekly lipoprotein apheresis sessions. Article 2: Three-dimensional echocardiography for valvular heart disease: clinical implications. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41721505 Summary: Three-dimensional echocardiography has emerged as an essential tool in evaluating and managing valvular heart disease. This imaging modality offers superior accuracy and detailed visualization when used with both transthoracic and transesophageal approaches. Its importance has been particularly underscored in guiding transcatheter valve interventions for high-risk or inoperable patients. The technology enables precise assessment of valvular anatomy, directly improving patient management. Article 3: Etiology, Management, and Outcomes of Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions Stage B Cardiogenic Shock. Journal: Circulation. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41711037 Summary: This study evaluated adult patients with Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (S. C. A. I.) stage B cardiogenic shock from 2017 to 2022 across a six-hospital system. The definition for S. C. A. I. B cardiogenic shock included hypotension, specifically systolic blood pressure less than or equal to 90 mmHg or mean blood pressure less than or equal to 65 mmHg, or hypoperfusion indicated by lactate levels between 2 to 5 milliequivalents per liter. Cardiac arrest, use of circulatory support, and noncardiac etiologies were explicitly excluded from this definition. This framework provides a basis for understanding and studying this patient population. Article 4: Atrial Fibrillation Versus Nonatrial Fibrillation Coronary Embolism: A Multicenter Study. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717963 Summary: This multicenter study included 489 patients diagnosed with coronary embolism across 10 hospitals, using Shibata criteria for diagnosis. The study found that 241 patients, representing 49 percent of the cohort, had atrial fibrillation-related coronary embolism. Researchers identified distinct characteristics between atrial fibrillation-related and non-atrial fibrillation coronary embolism patient groups. This research provides initial comparative data on this underrecognized cause of acute myocardial infarction. Article 5: Empagliflozin Attenuates Global Cerebral Ischemic Injury After Cardiac Arrest Through Enhancing Ketone Body Oxidative Metabolism in Rats. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717961 Summary: This study demonstrated that empagliflozin attenuates global cerebral ischemic injury following cardiac arrest in rats. The observed neuroprotective effects were achieved through the enhancement of ketone body oxidative metabolism. Researchers utilized a model where 206 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to cardiac arrest via ventricular fibrillation and subsequent cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This finding positions empagliflozin as a potential therapeutic agent for reducing neurological deficits after ca

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 21, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and calcific aortic valve disease. Key takeaway: Prolonged QT Elevates Recurrent Stroke Risk by 73%. Article Links: Article 1: HEV-Targeted Antibody-Drug Conjugate Promotes Long-Term Cardiac Allograft Acceptance. (Circulation) Article 2: Aspirin use, lipoprotein(a), and calcific aortic valve disease: the Multi-ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. (European heart journal) Article 3: Temporal Hemodynamic Patterns in Cardiogenic Shock Treated with Isolated PVAD and Combined Therapy with VA-ECMO. (Journal of cardiac failure) Article 4: Prolonged QT interval and risk of recurrent stroke in the Atrial Cardiopathy and Antithrombotic Drugs in Prevention After Cryptogenic Stroke (ARCADIA) trial. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 5: Predictors of Stroke Volume Improvement with AV-Optimised Conduction System Pacing in Patients with AV Dromotropathy. (ESC heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/prolonged-qt-elevates-recurrent-stroke-risk-by-73-02-21-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: HEV-Targeted Antibody-Drug Conjugate Promotes Long-Term Cardiac Allograft Acceptance. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41717681 Summary: An antibody-drug conjugate targeting high endothelial venules in lymph nodes has been shown to promote long-term cardiac allograft acceptance. This therapeutic strategy leverages the crucial role of high endothelial venules in mediating naive T cell entry into lymph nodes, a vital step for transplant acceptance under costimulatory blockade. The conjugate specifically targets a glycoprotein containing 6-sulfo sialyl Lewis X on these venules, which forms the binding site for L-selectin on naive T cells. This approach offers a novel mechanism to prevent immune rejection in heart transplant recipients. Article 2: Aspirin use, lipoprotein(a), and calcific aortic valve disease: the Multi-ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41721439 Summary: In this observational study of up to 6598 participants, lipoprotein(a) and L. D. L. cholesterol were confirmed as causally linked to aortic valve calcium and aortic stenosis. The analysis found that aspirin use was not associated with incident aortic valve calcium or aortic stenosis. This lack of association held true regardless of baseline lipoprotein(a) or L. D. L. cholesterol levels. The data suggests that aspirin does not mitigate the risk of calcific aortic valve disease in individuals with high lipoprotein(a). Article 3: Temporal Hemodynamic Patterns in Cardiogenic Shock Treated with Isolated PVAD and Combined Therapy with VA-ECMO. Journal: Journal of cardiac failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41720453 Summary: This study described the temporal hemodynamic patterns observed in cardiogenic shock patients receiving either an isolated microaxial flow pump or combined therapy with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Hemodynamic indices were analyzed from pre-device installation, post-installation, and 24 hours after, up to device explantation, using data from the U. N. L. O. A. D. E. R. S.-P. VAD Registry. The study characterized these hemodynamic trends for both treatment groups. Hospital survival was also analyzed in relation to these patterns, providing comparative data on mechanical circulatory support strategies in cardiogenic shock. Article 4: Prolonged QT interval and risk of recurrent stroke in the Atrial Cardiopathy and Antithrombotic Drugs in Prevention After Cryptogenic Stroke (ARCADIA) trial. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41720625 Summary: A secondary analysis of the A. R. C. A. D. I. A. trial found that a prolonged Q. T. interval independently predicted an increased risk of recurrent stroke or systemic embolism in patients with cryptogenic stroke and atrial cardiopathy. This association held true for both the apixaban arm, with a hazard ratio of 1.70 (95 percent confidence interval 1.05-2.75), and the aspirin arm, showing a hazard ratio of 1.76 (95 percent confidence interval 1.05-2.95). The overall adjusted hazard ratio for this risk was 1.73 (95 percent confidence interval 1.25-2.38), with no significant interaction between Q. T. interval prolongation and treatment assignment (P value 0.95). This data demonstrates that prolonged Q. T. interval is an independent predictor of recurrent stroke regardless of antithrombotic treatment. Article 5: Predictors of Stroke Volume Improvement with AV-Optimised Conduction System Pacing in Patients with AV Dromotropathy. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41711207 Summary: This study identified electrocardiographic and echocardiographic predictors of acute stroke volume improvement with A. V

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 20, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like acute decompensated heart failure and prostate cancer. Key takeaway: N. L. R. Trajectory Guides Heart Failure Risk. Article Links: Article 1: Tropical cyclones and acute coronary syndromes: a Chinese nationwide study. (European heart journal) Article 2: Wisdom of the Crowd: Ensuring the Justness and Validity of Group Decision-Making in Solid Organ Transplant. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 3: Coronary Plaque Progression After Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Men With Prostate Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. (JAMA cardiology) Article 4: Clinical Factors and Biomarkers During Pregnancy and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease. (JAMA cardiology) Article 5: Discharge Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Its Trajectory as Predictors of 30-Day Outcomes in Acute Heart Failure. (ESC heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/n-l-r-trajectory-guides-heart-failure-risk-02-20-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Tropical cyclones and acute coronary syndromes: a Chinese nationwide study. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41705661 Summary: The association between tropical cyclone exposure and acute coronary syndrome incidence is a critical area of cardiovascular research, particularly within developing nations such as China. This line of inquiry demonstrates that environmental stressors are important, albeit understudied, contributors to acute coronary syndromes. Understanding these links provides a framework for developing targeted public health interventions and early warning systems in vulnerable regions. This research highlights the clinical importance of considering environmental factors in cardiovascular event prediction. Article 2: Wisdom of the Crowd: Ensuring the Justness and Validity of Group Decision-Making in Solid Organ Transplant. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41713791 Summary: Group decision-making in solid organ transplant is critical for complex, high-stakes decisions, improving quality by pooling information and minimizing individual cognitive biases. However, this process can lead to poor outcomes if not properly implemented, especially given that many health professionals lack formal training in such methodologies. Effective group decision-making requires structured approaches to ensure justness and validity, thereby enhancing patient and societal outcomes. This underscores the need for formalized training in transplant decision protocols. Article 3: Coronary Plaque Progression After Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Men With Prostate Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706486 Summary: Androgen deprivation therapy for men with prostate cancer carries a significant association with cardiovascular morbidity. A key clinical question revolves around whether gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists or antagonists differ in their impact on coronary atherosclerosis progression. This area of research demonstrates concerns about accelerated coronary atherosclerosis in patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy. Understanding these differential effects is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies and mitigating cardiovascular risks in this patient population. Article 4: Clinical Factors and Biomarkers During Pregnancy and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease. Journal: JAMA cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706460 Summary: Pregnancy serves as a natural and informative cardiovascular stress test, offering a crucial window to assess a woman’s long-term cardiovascular disease risk. Clinical measures and biomarkers obtained during pregnancy have demonstrated potential in identifying women at elevated risk for future cardiovascular disease. Leveraging these insights from pregnancy encounters can inform tailored risk stratification and preventive strategies for women globally. This approach offers a novel pathway for early identification and intervention to mitigate the leading cause of death among women. Article 5: Discharge Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Its Trajectory as Predictors of 30-Day Outcomes in Acute Heart Failure. Journal: ESC heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41711242 Summary: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, or N. L. R., and its in-hospital trajectory were comprehensively assessed as predictors of 30-day outcomes after acute decompensated heart failure hospitalization. This retrospective cohort study of 6784 discharges confirmed the prognostic value of discharge N. L. R., classified as less than 5

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 19, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like interventricular septum and right bundle branch block. Key takeaway: Sex Impacts Microaxial Pump Outcomes in Shock. Article Links: Article 1: Sex-Specific Microaxial Flow Pump Use and Outcomes in Infarct-Related Cardiogenic Shock in the DanGer Shock Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Post-certification competencies and cardiovascular care delivery. (European heart journal) Article 3: Conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. (European heart journal) Article 4: Delirium in cardiovascular medicine. (European heart journal) Article 5: Great debate: drug-coated balloons are preferable to drug-eluting stents for coronary in-stent restenosis. (European heart journal) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/sex-impacts-microaxial-pump-outcomes-in-shock-02-19-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Sex-Specific Microaxial Flow Pump Use and Outcomes in Infarct-Related Cardiogenic Shock in the DanGer Shock Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41222528 Summary: The DanGer Shock trial found that microaxial flow pump use improved outcomes in selected patients with S. T. elevation myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock. However, the beneficial effect of the microaxial flow pump was observed to be less evident in women compared with men. This secondary analysis determined significant sex differences in baseline characteristics, in-hospital course, and the effectiveness of the microaxial flow pump in S. T. elevation myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock. This highlights a critical disparity in treatment efficacy based on patient sex. Article 2: Post-certification competencies and cardiovascular care delivery. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41712366 Summary: This analysis emphasizes that while cardiologists achieve core cardiovascular competencies, ongoing training, assessment, and maintenance of post-certification competencies are crucial for effective practice. It shows cardiologists must function as part of a comprehensive multidisciplinary Heart Team across the full spectrum of cardiovascular care. This continuous professional development ensures optimal patient outcomes in the dynamic field of cardiology. These findings reinforce the necessity of lifelong learning beyond initial certification. Article 3: Conduction disturbances after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41712363 Summary: Conduction disturbances and permanent pacemaker implantation are among the most common complications observed after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Studies show that the strongest predictors of these conduction abnormalities include pre-existing right bundle branch block, a short membranous interventricular septum, deep transcatheter heart valve implantation, and the specific transcatheter heart valve type. These findings highlight critical patient and procedural characteristics that significantly influence post-procedural electrical outcomes. Article 4: Delirium in cardiovascular medicine. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41711546 Summary: Delirium is a common neuropsychiatric syndrome frequently observed in cardiovascular medicine, which studies show is associated with prolonged hospitalization, increased mortality, and long-term cognitive decline. Patients undergoing interventional or surgical cardiovascular procedures, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement, surgical aortic valve replacement, coronary artery bypass grafting, or percutaneous coronary interventions, are particularly vulnerable to its development. These findings underscore the significant impact of delirium on patient outcomes and identify high-risk populations. Article 5: Great debate: drug-coated balloons are preferable to drug-eluting stents for coronary in-stent restenosis. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41711522 Summary: Drug-coated balloons have demonstrated efficacy as an alternative to drug-eluting stents in percutaneous coronary interventions, particularly favored for their “leave nothing behind” approach. Recent clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of drug-coated balloons in treating both small vessel disease and bifurcation lesions. This indicates that drug-coated balloons provide a significant therapeutic option for specific coronary artery disease subsets. Transcript Today’s date is February 19, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. Sex-Specific Microaxial Flow Pump Use and Outcomes in Infarct-Related Cardiogenic Shock in the DanGer Shock Trial. The DanGer Shock trial found

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 19, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like mind-body exercise and older adults. Key takeaway: Sirolimus Balloon Challenges Paclitaxel Mortality. Article Links: Article 1: Comparison of Sirolimus- vs Paclitaxel-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for Femoropopliteal Artery Disease: The SIRONA Randomized Noninferiority Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Effect of Baduanjin on Blood Pressure Among Individuals With High-Normal Blood Pressure: A Multicenter, Open-Label, Blinded-Outcome Randomized Controlled Trial. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 3: Impact of Long-Term Cumulative Exposure to Wildfire Smoke PM2.5 on Cardiovascular Hospital Admissions Among Older Adults in the United States: A Population-Based Cohort Study. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 4: Mitral Valve Repair for Degenerative MR With Moderate or Less Tricuspid Regurgitation: 2-Year Outcomes From a Multicenter Echocardiographic Core Laboratory-Adjudicated Cohort. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 5: Menopausal Status Associated With Docetaxel-Induced Vascular Dysfunction in Breast Cancer Patients. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/sirolimus-balloon-challenges-paclitaxel-mortality-02-19-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Comparison of Sirolimus- vs Paclitaxel-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for Femoropopliteal Artery Disease: The SIRONA Randomized Noninferiority Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706076 Summary: Paclitaxel-coated balloon angioplasty effectively treats femoropopliteal artery disease; however, an increased mortality risk associated with it remains unresolved. Sirolimus-coated balloon angioplasty offers an alternative antiproliferative drug approach for these interventions. The SIRONA randomized noninferiority trial evaluated sirolimus-coated balloon angioplasty against paclitaxel-coated balloon angioplasty. This comparison determines if sirolimus-coated balloons achieve noninferior primary vessel patency and clinical efficacy with an improved safety profile. Article 2: Effect of Baduanjin on Blood Pressure Among Individuals With High-Normal Blood Pressure: A Multicenter, Open-Label, Blinded-Outcome Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706075 Summary: Achieving sustained blood pressure lowering with traditional lifestyle guidance and exercise presents a challenge for individuals with high-normal blood pressure. Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese mind-body exercise, serves as a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach under investigation for this population. A multicenter, open-label, blinded-outcome randomized controlled trial assessed Baduanjin’s short-term impact on ambulatory blood pressure and its long-term effects. This study evaluated participants aged 40 years or older who presented with systolic blood pressure of 130 to 139 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of 85 mmHg or higher. Article 3: Impact of Long-Term Cumulative Exposure to Wildfire Smoke PM2.5 on Cardiovascular Hospital Admissions Among Older Adults in the United States: A Population-Based Cohort Study. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706074 Summary: M. 2.5 on Cardiovascular Hospital Admissions Among Older Adults in the United States: A Population-Based Cohort Study. Intensifying wildfires in a warming climate result in prolonged exposure to smoke-derived fine particulate matter (P. M. 2.5), which poses significant health risks. The cardiovascular impacts of long-term cumulative exposure to wildfire smoke P. M. 2.5, particularly in older adults, represent an area of critical clinical investigation. This population-based cohort study analyzed associations between long-term cumulative exposure to wildfire smoke P. M. 2.5 and first cardiovascular disease hospitalizations. The research focused on U.S. Medicare beneficiaries, examining the effects on cardiovascular health in this vulnerable population. Article 4: Mitral Valve Repair for Degenerative MR With Moderate or Less Tricuspid Regurgitation: 2-Year Outcomes From a Multicenter Echocardiographic Core Laboratory-Adjudicated Cohort. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41706073 Summary: R. With Moderate or Less Tricuspid Regurgitation: 2-Year Outcomes From a Multicenter Echocardiographic Core Laboratory-Adjudicated Cohort. Recurrent mitral regurgitation degree serves as a key indicator for the quality of mitral valve repair for degenerative mitral regurgitation. This multicenter study evaluated 2-year survival and mitral regurgitation recurrence following mitral valve repair in patients w

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 18, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries and complex congenital heart disease. Key takeaway: Xenotransplant: Genetic Editing for Success. Article Links: Article 1: Arrhythmias in congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries: an international study. (European heart journal) Article 2: Catheter ablation in congenital heart diseases: a French nationwide study. (European heart journal) Article 3: Residual lipid risk in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. (European heart journal) Article 4: Advancing Hope Through Science: The Inaugural Richard Slayman International Workshop on Xenotransplantation. (Transplantation) Article 5: Echocardiographic morpho-functional parameters predictors of maximal oxygen uptake and oxygen pulse in a large cohort of elite athletes practicing different sporting disciplines. (International journal of cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/xenotransplant-genetic-editing-for-success-02-18-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Arrhythmias in congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries: an international study. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40679844 Summary: An international multicenter retrospective cohort study quantified the incidence of atrial arrhythmia, ventricular arrhythmia, and complete atrioventricular block in patients with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries. This extensive study, conducted across 29 tertiary hospitals in six countries, identified factors associated with these significant cardiac rhythm disturbances. The research found specific prevalence rates for atrial arrhythmia, ventricular arrhythmia, and complete atrioventricular block within this complex patient population. These findings provide definitive data on the arrhythmia burden and associated risk factors for improved clinical management. Article 2: Catheter ablation in congenital heart diseases: a French nationwide study. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40396276 Summary: A French nationwide prospective study documented the outcomes of catheter ablation in patients with congenital heart disease across 28 centers from 2020 to 2024. The study found the per-procedural acute success rate for catheter ablation in this complex patient population. It also meticulously recorded associated complications and evaluated long-term freedom from arrhythmia recurrence. These comprehensive findings provide definitive national data on the effectiveness and safety of catheter ablation in congenital heart disease. Article 3: Residual lipid risk in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41701506 Summary: Residual lipid risk persists in patients with or at risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, even after optimizing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Evidence highlights that non-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol fractions, including remnant cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), and apolipoprotein B, are key contributors to this residual risk. These non-low-density lipoprotein components definitively demonstrate their independent role in driving the progression of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The identification of these persistent risk factors provides critical insights for developing therapeutic strategies beyond traditional low-density lipoprotein lowering. Article 4: Advancing Hope Through Science: The Inaugural Richard Slayman International Workshop on Xenotransplantation. Journal: Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41700849 Summary: The inaugural Richard Slayman Clinical Xenotransplantation Workshop, attended by over 140 international participants, identified significant advances and challenges in xenotransplantation. Discussions highlighted the increasing clinical readiness of kidney, heart, and liver xenotransplantation. Key findings from the workshop emphasized the crucial importance of meticulous patient selection and the pivotal role of genetic editing in reducing immune incompatibility. These consensuses establish current best practices and future directions for successfully translating xenotransplantation into wider clinical application. Article 5: Echocardiographic morpho-functional parameters predictors of maximal oxygen uptake and oxygen pulse in a large cohort of elite athletes practicing different sporting disciplines. Journal: International journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41702446 Summary: A study of 1033 Olympic-level athletes identified specific echocardiographic morpho-functional parameters that predict maximal oxygen uptake and oxygen pulse. The research established direct correlations between structural cardiac adaptations, commonly known as the athle

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 17, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Endothelial function and Venous thromboembolism. Key takeaway: Cell-free DNA Reveals Heart Transplant Recipient Injury. Article Links: Article 1: Six-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and Premature Cardiovascular Disease in a Diverse Cohort of Young US Women. (Circulation) Article 3: Novel Plasma Proteomic Markers and Risk of Venous Thromboembolism. (Circulation) Article 4: Allograft and Recipient Tissue Injury during Cardiac Allograft Rejection: Evidence from Cell-free DNA. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 5: Effects of Increasing Total Fruit Intake With Avocado and Mango on Endothelial Function and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Adults With Prediabetes. (Journal of the American Heart Association) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/cell-free-dna-reveals-heart-transplant-recipient-injury-02-17-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Six-Year Outcomes After Transcatheter vs Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement in Low-Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41697183 Summary: The Evolut Low Risk trial provided 6-year clinical outcomes comparing transcatheter aortic valve replacement and surgical aortic valve replacement in patients with severe aortic stenosis at low surgical risk. Researchers observed an increase in reintervention rates at 6 years, prompting additional analyses using available 7-year data to further characterize these trends. This long-term follow-up is crucial for understanding the durability and reintervention needs of both treatment modalities in this patient population, especially concerning long-term structural valve deterioration. Article 2: Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and Premature Cardiovascular Disease in a Diverse Cohort of Young US Women. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41697979 Summary: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were identified as early indicators of cardiovascular risk in a diverse cohort of young United States women. The study specifically found a quantifiable association between these disorders and incident cardiovascular disease in a real-world population. These findings, replicated across multiple health systems, underscore that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy independently increase the risk for premature cardiovascular disease, rather than solely reflecting pre-pregnancy health. Article 3: Novel Plasma Proteomic Markers and Risk of Venous Thromboembolism. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41693575 Summary: This study identified new circulating protein biomarkers and biological pathways for incident venous thromboembolism. Researchers employed large-scale, high-throughput aptamer-based proteomics across four longitudinal cohorts, including the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study, the Cardiovascular Health Study, the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, and the Trøndelag Health study. These findings advance the understanding of venous thromboembolism etiology and hold implications for improved risk prediction and potential therapeutic strategies. Article 4: Allograft and Recipient Tissue Injury during Cardiac Allograft Rejection: Evidence from Cell-free DNA. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41698554 Summary: This study provided evidence that cardiac allograft rejection is linked to recipient tissue injury, challenging the conventional view of rejection solely as an allograft disease. Researchers measured recipient tissue injury through plasma cell-free DNA, a recognized biomarker of tissue damage, confirming its occurrence during allograft rejection. The analysis identified genetic and epigenetic signatures associated with this process, clarifying a previously poorly defined risk factor for poor survival in cardiac transplant recipients. Article 5: Effects of Increasing Total Fruit Intake With Avocado and Mango on Endothelial Function and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Adults With Prediabetes. Journal: Journal of the American Heart Association PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41698896 Summary: This randomized, two-arm parallel feeding study investigated the effects of increased total fruit intake, specifically incorporating avocado and mango, on endothelial function and cardiometabolic risk factors. Eighty-two adults with prediabetes followed an eight-week diet daily including one avoc

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 16, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like heart transplant rejection and Percutaneous coronary intervention. Key takeaway: Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Mortality Breakdown.. Article Links: Article 1: ADAR1 and RIPK1 orchestrate the ZBP1-mediated PANoptosis and mouse heart transplant rejection. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 2: Global Longitudinal Strain Reference Values in the Hispanic/Latino Population: Echocardiographic Study of Latinos (ECHO-SOL). (The American journal of cardiology) Article 3: Optical Coherence Tomography versus Intravascular Ultrasound-Guided Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Multicenter Propensity-Matched Analysis. (The American journal of cardiology) Article 4: Revascularization in Patients Over 75 With Acute Coronary Syndrome. (The American journal of cardiology) Article 5: Death Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Data from the PROGRESS-COMPLICATIONS registry. (The American journal of cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/percutaneous-coronary-intervention-mortality-breakdown-02-16-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: ADAR1 and RIPK1 orchestrate the ZBP1-mediated PANoptosis and mouse heart transplant rejection. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41692363 Summary: This study found that Z-DNA induced PANoptosis in human microvascular endothelial cells through ZBP1. Researchers observed that ADAR1 and R. I. P. K. one collaboratively regulated the activation of the ZBP1-R. I. P. K. three complex, controlling PANoptosis in a time-dependent manner. The interaction of ADAR1 with ZBP1 specifically protected against Z-DNA-induced cell death. These findings reveal crucial molecular mechanisms driving PANoptosis and its potential relevance in heart transplant rejection. Article 2: Global Longitudinal Strain Reference Values in the Hispanic/Latino Population: Echocardiographic Study of Latinos (ECHO-SOL). Journal: The American journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41478442 Summary: This study established global longitudinal strain reference values for the Hispanic/Latino population using data from the Echocardiographic Study of Latinos. Researchers defined the 95th-percentile lower limit of normal global longitudinal strain values from a healthy reference sample. These established values provide essential clinical benchmarks for detecting early cardiac dysfunction in this specific demographic. The findings offer crucial guidance for assessing heart failure risk factors and interpreting echocardiographic results in Hispanic/Latino patients. Article 3: Optical Coherence Tomography versus Intravascular Ultrasound-Guided Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Multicenter Propensity-Matched Analysis. Journal: The American journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41421515 Summary: This multicenter analysis compared clinical outcomes of optical coherence tomography versus intravascular ultrasound guidance for primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with S. T.-elevation myocardial infarction. The study utilized data from 2777 S. T.-elevation myocardial infarction patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention at 12 Japanese hospitals. Researchers found comparative data on the use of both imaging modalities, which are recommended by current guidelines for percutaneous coronary intervention guidance. These findings contribute to understanding the relative performance and clinical utility of optical coherence tomography and intravascular ultrasound in this critical patient population. Article 4: Revascularization in Patients Over 75 With Acute Coronary Syndrome. Journal: The American journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41391816 Summary: This retrospective analysis investigated revascularization strategies in patients over 75 years old presenting with acute coronary syndromes. Observational data previously showed that coronary artery bypass graft was associated with improved one-year outcomes, including lower rates of death and rehospitalization, compared to percutaneous coronary intervention and medical management in general acute coronary syndrome patients with multivessel coronary artery disease. This study provided specific data addressing these outcomes in the elderly population. The findings contribute to clinical decision-making for optimal revascularization strategies in acute coronary syndrome patients aged over 75. Article 5: Death Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention:

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 15, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like sex differences and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Key takeaway: E. C. G. Boosts Microvascular Disease Detection. Article Links: Article 1: Prognostic importance of exercise electrocardiography in patients with suspected microvascular disease. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 2: Prosthetic annulus size mismatch and recurrent mitral regurgitation after repair in advanced degenerative disease. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 3: Sex differences in the prevalence and prognosis of tricuspid regurgitation among patients with heart failure. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 4: Timing of anticoagulation restart after serious bleeding in atrial fibrillation. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 5: Plasma myeloperoxidase and echocardiographic markers of impaired diastolic function in healthy individuals. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/e-c-g-boosts-microvascular-disease-detection-02-15-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Prognostic importance of exercise electrocardiography in patients with suspected microvascular disease. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41690708 Summary: Exercise electrocardiography showing ST-segment depression demonstrates a very high positive predictive value for coronary microvascular dysfunction in specific patient groups. The present study focused on chest pain patients, using myocardial perfusion single photon emission computed tomography to rule out ischemia from epicardial coronary stenosis. This approach precisely identifies patients with suspected coronary microvascular dysfunction. Such precise identification is crucial for managing this condition, which is associated with a poor prognosis. Article 2: Prosthetic annulus size mismatch and recurrent mitral regurgitation after repair in advanced degenerative disease. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41320292 Summary: Recurrent mitral regurgitation remains a major limitation of mitral valve repair in patients with advanced degenerative mitral regurgitation and left ventricular enlargement. This retrospective study included 445 patients with advanced degenerative mitral regurgitation, classified as stages C two to D, who underwent mitral valve repair with restrictive annuloplasty. The investigation focused on whether a disproportion between left ventricular size and prosthetic annulus dimension predicts long-term mitral regurgitation recurrence. This research addresses a critical aspect of durable mitral valve repair outcomes and adverse left ventricular remodeling. Article 3: Sex differences in the prevalence and prognosis of tricuspid regurgitation among patients with heart failure. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40707240 Summary: Tricuspid regurgitation is a common finding in heart failure and associates with adverse patient outcomes. This study precisely assessed sex differences in tricuspid regurgitation prevalence, etiology, and prognosis among patients with heart failure and its subgroups. Patients were enrolled with recent transthoracic echocardiography and categorized by left ventricular ejection fraction into groups with reduced and preserved ejection fraction, using a 50 percent cutoff. This research contributes to understanding sex-specific manifestations and prognostic implications of tricuspid regurgitation in heart failure patients. Article 4: Timing of anticoagulation restart after serious bleeding in atrial fibrillation. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40670148 Summary: Restarting direct oral anticoagulants after a serious bleeding event in patients with atrial fibrillation presents a significant clinical dilemma, balancing stroke prevention and recurrent bleeding risk. This study leveraged nationwide Danish registries from 2012 to 2021 to identify atrial fibrillation patients who experienced serious bleeding events. The cohort included individuals with a Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Age seventy-five (doubled), Diabetes, Stroke (doubled), Vascular disease, Age sixty-five to seventy-four, Sex category (female) (C. H. A. two D. S. two V. A. S. c) score of two or higher. This research provides crucial data to inform the optimal timing of anticoagulation restart in these high-risk patients. Article 5: Plasma myeloperoxidase and echocardiographic markers of impaired diastolic function in healthy individuals. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40645760 Summary: Myeloperoxidase, a neutrophil-derived enzyme, associates with oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to the pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection f

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 15, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like N. L. R. P. three and lipid management. Key takeaway: Remote Heart Failure Management Sustains Benefits. Article Links: Article 1: Lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapies: a promising future. (European heart journal) Article 2: Macrophage SBK2 suppresses inflammation and atherosclerosis by NLRP3 phosphorylation. (European heart journal) Article 3: Seated Pulmonary Artery Pressure Management in Patients With Heart Failure: 12-Month Outcomes of the PROACTIVE-HF Trial. (JACC. Heart failure) Article 4: Early childhood hospital utilization and diagnoses for children born to mothers with kidney transplants: An Australian cohort study. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Article 5: Airway molecular signatures in antibody mediated lung transplant rejection. (American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/remote-heart-failure-management-sustains-benefits-02-15-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapies: a promising future. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41684258 Summary: This article identifies lipoprotein(a), or L. P. A., as a significant, genetically determined contributor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Elevated L. P. A. levels drive increased atherogenicity, contributing substantially to residual cardiovascular risk despite successful low-density lipoprotein cholesterol management. Affecting a large proportion of the population, L. P. A. represents a high-impact therapeutic target. Future L. P. A.-lowering therapies therefore hold considerable promise for reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Article 2: Macrophage SBK2 suppresses inflammation and atherosclerosis by NLRP3 phosphorylation. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41684124 Summary: B. K. two suppresses inflammation and atherosclerosis by N. L. R. P. three phosphorylation. This study found that macrophage S. H. three domain-binding kinase two, known as S. B. K. two, actively suppresses inflammation and atherosclerosis. S. B. K. two achieves this by phosphorylating nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing three, or N. L. R. P. three. This specific molecular mechanism highlights S. B. K. two’s pivotal role in modulating macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses. These findings identify S. B. K. two as a significant therapeutic target for managing the progression of atherosclerosis. Article 3: Seated Pulmonary Artery Pressure Management in Patients With Heart Failure: 12-Month Outcomes of the PROACTIVE-HF Trial. Journal: JACC. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41686133 Summary: The PROACTIVE-H. F. trial demonstrated that remote heart failure management, using seated mean pulmonary artery pressure and vital signs via the Cordella system, was safe and effective. This approach resulted in a low rate of heart failure hospitalizations and mortality, which was initially observed through 6 months. The 12-month evaluation confirmed the sustained efficacy and continued benefits of this management approach for patients with New York Heart Association class three heart failure. This method offers a valuable strategy for reducing adverse events in this high-risk patient population. Article 4: Early childhood hospital utilization and diagnoses for children born to mothers with kidney transplants: An Australian cohort study. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41690842 Summary: This Australian cohort study found that children born to mothers with kidney transplants experienced increased hospital utilization during early childhood. From 2067661 babies, 137 children of transplanted mothers were identified, experiencing 137 birth admissions and 444 subsequent admissions. The data demonstrated that these children had a higher burden of adverse health outcomes, requiring more frequent hospitalizations compared to children of mothers not exposed to kidney replacement therapy. This provides critical definition to previously undefined childhood health outcomes for this specific population. Article 5: Airway molecular signatures in antibody mediated lung transplant rejection. Journal: American journal of transplantation : official journal of the American Society of Transplantation and the American Society of Transplant Surgeons PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41690369 Summary: This study found that specific airway infl

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 14, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like C. C. R. 8 and Left Heart Dysfunction. Key takeaway: Soluble S. T. 2 Drives Fulminant Myocarditis. Article Links: Article 1: Elevated Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure in Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension. (Circulation) Article 2: CCR8 Expression on Regulatory T Cells Reveals Trajectories of Tissue Adaptation and Protects Against Myocardial Infarction-Induced Tissue Damage. (Circulation) Article 3: Spatial transcriptomics reveals a key role of fibroblast-like vascular smooth muscle cells in human atherosclerotic cell crosstalk and stability. (European heart journal) Article 4: Soluble ST2 drives fulminant myocarditis progression via the IGF2R-YY1 mitochondrial axis. (European heart journal) Article 5: Air pollution before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: changes in risk of acute myocardial infarction. (European heart journal) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/soluble-s-t-2-drives-fulminant-myocarditis-02-14-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Elevated Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure in Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41685452 Summary: The study identified a distinct subgroup of patients within adjudicated Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension who demonstrated an elevated pulmonary artery wedge pressure, exceeding 15 mmHg. It characterized this patient population by comparing their profiles to those with normal pulmonary artery wedge pressure and to patients with combined pre- and postcapillary pulmonary hypertension. This work establishes that not all Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension patients present with the expected normal pulmonary artery wedge pressure, highlighting diagnostic complexities. Article 2: CCR8 Expression on Regulatory T Cells Reveals Trajectories of Tissue Adaptation and Protects Against Myocardial Infarction-Induced Tissue Damage. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41685444 Summary: C. R. 8 Expression on Regulatory T Cells Reveals Trajectories of Tissue Adaptation and Protects Against Myocardial Infarction-Induced Tissue Damage. This study revealed that C. C. R. 8 expression on regulatory T cells dictates their tissue adaptation trajectories within the heart following myocardial infarction. It found that these C. C. R. 8-positive regulatory T cells provide protection against myocardial infarction-induced tissue damage. The data delineated specific differentiation pathways of heart regulatory T cells in a murine model, establishing a molecular mechanism for regulatory T cell-mediated cardiac protection. Article 3: Spatial transcriptomics reveals a key role of fibroblast-like vascular smooth muscle cells in human atherosclerotic cell crosstalk and stability. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41685669 Summary: This study, using spatial and single-cell transcriptomics on 13 human carotid plaques, revealed a key role for fibroblast-like vascular smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic cell crosstalk and plaque stability. It precisely mapped intercellular communication patterns within the human plaque microenvironments. The data demonstrated that these specific fibroblast-like vascular smooth muscle cells are critical mediators, identifying specific cellular interactions as potential novel targets for preventing atherosclerotic events. Article 4: Soluble ST2 drives fulminant myocarditis progression via the IGF2R-YY1 mitochondrial axis. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41684269 Summary: T. 2 drives fulminant myocarditis progression via the I. G. F. 2. R. minus Y. Y. 1 mitochondrial axis. This study demonstrated that soluble S. T. 2 drives the progression of fulminant myocarditis via the I. G. F. 2. R. minus Y. Y. 1 mitochondrial axis. It defined the cellular source and function of soluble S. T. 2 in a Coxsackievirus B3-induced fulminant myocarditis mouse model. The research found that markedly elevated soluble S. T. 2 directly contributes to disease pathogenesis, establishing a critical mechanistic pathway that could be targeted for treating this high-mortality inflammatory cardiomyopathy. Article 5: Air pollution before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: changes in risk of acute myocardial infarction. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41684267 Summary: O. V. I. D. minus 19 pandemic: changes in risk of acute myocardial infarction. This study established ambient P. M. 2.5 exposure as a known risk factor for acute myocardial infarction, distinguishing myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries as a distinct subtype from myocardial infarction with obstructive coronary disease. It capitalized on the C. O. V. I. D. minus 19 pandemic public health measures, which altered exposure patterns, as a natural experiment. The research charact

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 13, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like obesity and body mass index. Key takeaway: AF: The 25% Diabetes Complication You Miss. Article Links: Article 1: Second- and Third-Generation BCR-ABL Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and the Risk of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Prevalent New-User Design. (Circulation) Article 2: Prospective Associations of Obesity and Obesity Severity With 9 Cardiovascular Outcomes: The Cross-Cohort Collaboration. (Circulation) Article 3: Atrial fibrillation: an underappreciated complication of diabetes. (European heart journal) Article 4: Left Atrial Volumetric Enlargement in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction: Obligatory Consequence or Independent Predictor of Outcome? (JACC. Heart failure) Article 5: Progression From Exercise-Induced to Resting Left Atrial Hypertension in HFpEF: Impact of Reduced Atriopulmonary Compliance. (JACC. Heart failure) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/af-the-25-diabetes-complication-you-miss-02-13-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Second- and Third-Generation BCR-ABL Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and the Risk of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Prevalent New-User Design. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41674449 Summary: C. R. A. B. L. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors and the Risk of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Prevalent New-User Design. An increasing link between B. C. R. A. B. L. tyrosine kinase inhibitors and pulmonary arterial hypertension has been recognized since 2009. This study precisely evaluated the risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with second- and third-generation inhibitors compared to imatinib in adults. Utilizing the French national health care database, researchers established a robust prevalent new-user design which identified patient cohorts initiating these treatments between 2008 and 2024. The investigation offered a critical framework to quantify this potential adverse event for clinical practice. Article 2: Prospective Associations of Obesity and Obesity Severity With 9 Cardiovascular Outcomes: The Cross-Cohort Collaboration. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41674444 Summary: Obesity is a confirmed risk factor for cardiovascular disease, with specific relationships across the full spectrum of body mass index, including severe obesity, requiring further characterization. The Cross-Cohort Collaboration definitively described the prospective associations of obesity and its severity with nine specific cardiovascular outcomes. This comprehensive analysis included 289875 participants, comprising 79 point 2 percent women, from 21 distinct cohorts enrolled between 1948 and 2017. The study provides an extensive dataset essential for understanding long-term cardiovascular disease risks across various obesity classes. Article 3: Atrial fibrillation: an underappreciated complication of diabetes. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41668366 Summary: Atrial fibrillation is identified as a significant complication of diabetes, demonstrating a prevalence of up to 25 percent in individuals with the condition. The incidence rates of atrial fibrillation are increasing among patients with diabetes. This development of atrial fibrillation in diabetic individuals occurs independently of other risk factors such as hypertension, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, or heart failure. The pathogenesis involves multifactorial atrial structural, electrical, and autonomic remodeling directly linked to diabetes. Article 4: Left Atrial Volumetric Enlargement in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction: Obligatory Consequence or Independent Predictor of Outcome? Journal: JACC. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41677478 Summary: This study definitively investigated the independent association between left atrial volume index and long-term mortality in patients with heart failure. The research specifically considered its interaction with the severity of functional mitral regurgitation, establishing a crucial assessment framework for this relationship. The investigation provided a comprehensive approach to understanding the prognostic implications of left atrial volume index in this patient population. Article 5: Progression From Exercise-Induced to Resting Left Atrial Hypertension in HFpEF: Impact of Reduced Atriopulmonary Compliance. Journal: JACC. Heart failure PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41677477 Summary: F. pEF: Impact of Reduced Atriopulmonary Compliance. Approximately one-third of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction demonstrate normal resting pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, yet experience left atrial hypertension exclusively during exercise. This study thoroughly investigated the clinical course of these patients presenting with exercise-induced le

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 12, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like transthyretin silencers and macrophage PRMT9. Key takeaway: Acoramidis Reduces ATTR-CM Mortality & Hospitalization.. Article Links: Article 1: Sirolimus-Eluting Iron Bioresorbable Scaffolds vs Everolimus-Eluting Stents for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Randomized Trial (IRONMAN II). (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 2: Myocardial Amyloid Burden in Transthyretin Amyloidosis. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 3: Timing of Mortality Benefit in Outcomes Trials in Transthyretin Amyloidosis. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 4: Effect of Acoramidis on Recurrent and Cumulative Cardiovascular Outcomes in ATTR-CM: Exploratory Analysis From ATTRibute-CM. (Journal of the American College of Cardiology) Article 5: Macrophage PRMT9 Ameliorates Acute Myocardial Infarction by Promoting Symmetric Dimethylation and Degradation of STAT1. (Circulation) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/acoramidis-reduces-attr-cm-mortality-hospitalization-02-12-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Sirolimus-Eluting Iron Bioresorbable Scaffolds vs Everolimus-Eluting Stents for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Randomized Trial (IRONMAN II). Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41670556 Summary: The novel thin-strut sirolimus-eluting iron bioresorbable scaffold demonstrated safety and efficacy in a prior nonrandomized first-in-human study. The IRONMAN-II trial, a prospective multicenter randomized study, directly compared this bioresorbable scaffold with contemporary metallic cobalt chromium everolimus-eluting stents. This head-to-head comparison addressed the clinical need for advanced percutaneous coronary intervention devices in patients with coronary artery disease. Article 2: Myocardial Amyloid Burden in Transthyretin Amyloidosis. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41369616 Summary: Cardiovascular magnetic resonance extracellular volume reflects myocardial amyloid, establishing its role as a quantitative measure. This characteristic means it provides a framework for disease staging and therapeutic planning in transthyretin amyloidosis. The study confirmed the utility of defining calibrated thresholds and evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic value of this noninvasive measure. Article 3: Timing of Mortality Benefit in Outcomes Trials in Transthyretin Amyloidosis. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41225306 Summary: Therapies for transthyretin amyloidosis with cardiomyopathy, including transthyretin stabilizers and silencers, demonstrated a clear mortality benefit in three previous randomized trials. The current study rigorously evaluated the time course of this mortality benefit, which had often appeared delayed. Understanding this precise time course provides critical information for optimizing clinical use and guiding future trial design. Article 4: Effect of Acoramidis on Recurrent and Cumulative Cardiovascular Outcomes in ATTR-CM: Exploratory Analysis From ATTRibute-CM. Journal: Journal of the American College of Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41143759 Summary: Acoramidis, an approved oral therapy for transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy, achieves early and near-complete (90 percent) transthyretin stabilization. In the phase three ATTRibute-CM study, acoramidis significantly reduced the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality or first cardiovascular-related hospitalization. This finding demonstrates acoramidis’s effectiveness in improving recurrent and cumulative outcomes for patients with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy. Article 5: Macrophage PRMT9 Ameliorates Acute Myocardial Infarction by Promoting Symmetric Dimethylation and Degradation of STAT1. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41669821 Summary: Macrophage PRMT9 ameliorates acute myocardial infarction by promoting symmetric dimethylation and degradation of STAT1 protein. This mechanism directly modulates M1-like macrophages, which are known to exacerbate myocardial injury through excessive secretion of inflammatory cytokines during myocardial infarction. The finding establishes PRMT9 as a novel and specific therapeutic target for acute myocardial infarction. Transcript Today’s date is February 12, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Article number one. Sirolimus-Eluting Iron Bioresorbable Scaffolds vs Everolimus-Eluting Stents for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Randomized Trial (IRONMAN II). The novel thin-strut sirolimus-eluting iron bioresorbable scaffold demonstrated safety and efficacy in a prior nonrandomized first-in-human study. The IRONMAN-

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 11, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like qualitative research and heart failure. Key takeaway: AF Rate Control: Evidence Gap Identified. Article Links: Article 1: Changes in Haemodynamics, Cardiac Energetics, and Cell Signalling Pathways Induced by VA-ECMO with or without Left Ventricular Active Unloading. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 2: Heart rate in early rhythm control therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Article 3: From Representation to Reform: A Qualitative Study of Gender Equity in Interventional Cardiology. (The American journal of cardiology) Article 4: Comprehensive Assessment of Left Ventricular Function and Exercise Endurance in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: The Combined Application of Left Ventricular Pressure-Strain Loop and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing. (Cardiology) Article 5: Peripheral Perfusion Index as a Marker of Hypoperfusion in Heart Failure. (Cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/af-rate-control-evidence-gap-identified-02-11-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Changes in Haemodynamics, Cardiac Energetics, and Cell Signalling Pathways Induced by VA-ECMO with or without Left Ventricular Active Unloading. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667045 Summary: A.-E. C. M. O. with or without Left Ventricular Active Unloading. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V. A.-E. C. M. O.), commonly used in refractory cardiogenic shock, is known to exacerbate left ventricular loading conditions and impair cardiac energetics. Adjunctive left ventricular unloading strategies are frequently combined with V. A.-E. C. M. O. to counteract these negative effects. These strategies, including intra-aortic balloon pump (I. A. B. P.) or Impella, aim to enhance myocardial recovery through activation of cardioprotective pathways. This approach directly addresses the recognized myocardial strain induced by V. A.-E. C. M. O. Article 2: Heart rate in early rhythm control therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41663267 Summary: Current clinical recommendations advise preventing high heart rates in atrial fibrillation (A. F.) to reduce A. F.-related symptoms and morbidity. However, robust evidence demonstrating a strong relationship between lower heart rate during A. F. and a reduction in symptoms or cardiovascular complications is notably lacking. This analysis specifically compared patient symptoms, treatment strategies, and a composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, stroke, or hospitalization with worsening heart failure. It highlighted an ongoing clinical gap regarding optimal heart rate targets in early rhythm control therapy. Article 3: From Representation to Reform: A Qualitative Study of Gender Equity in Interventional Cardiology. Journal: The American journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41666966 Summary: Women represent fewer than five percent of practicing interventional cardiologists in the United States. The W. E. C. A. R. E. study, through semi-structured interviews with 18 women interventional cardiology attendings and fellows, identified five major themes. These themes comprehensively characterize the unique career experiences, challenges, and support systems for women within the interventional cardiology subspecialty. This qualitative research provides specific insights into gender equity dynamics and potential areas for reform in the field. Article 4: Comprehensive Assessment of Left Ventricular Function and Exercise Endurance in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: The Combined Application of Left Ventricular Pressure-Strain Loop and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing. Journal: Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41662326 Summary: The study utilized a comprehensive approach to assess left ventricular function and exercise endurance in 55 patients with non-obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This assessment combined left ventricular pressure-strain loop and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Researchers explored correlations between maximum left ventricular wall thickness and various clinical, echocardiographic, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing parameters. This methodological integration provides a thorough evaluation framework for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients. Article 5: Peripheral Perfusion Index as a Marker of Hypoperfusion in Heart Failure. Journal: Cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41662304 Summary: Current heart failure guidelines advocate for hemodynamic assessment based on f

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 11, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Blood pressure reduction and E. X. C. E. L. trial. Key takeaway: Macrophage circHIPK2 Directs Post-MI Fibrosis. Article Links: Article 1: Spontaneous Myocardial Infarction After Left Main Revascularization: The EXCEL Trial. (Circulation) Article 2: Computed tomography-guided vs conventional catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia: the InEurHeart trial. (European heart journal) Article 3: Quadruple vs triple therapy for resistant hypertension: the QUADRO trial. (European heart journal) Article 4: Macrophage-specific circular RNA circHIPK2, inflammation, and fibrosis after myocardial infarction. (European heart journal) Article 5: Wine consumption, Mediterranean diet, and cardiovascular risk in two Spanish cohorts. (European heart journal) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/macrophage-circhipk2-directs-post-mi-fibrosis-02-11-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Spontaneous Myocardial Infarction After Left Main Revascularization: The EXCEL Trial. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41664927 Summary: From the E. X. C. E. L. trial, this study established a systematic adjudication of spontaneous myocardial infarctions following left main coronary artery revascularization. It directly compared myocardial infarction events between patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention and those undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery for left main coronary artery disease. The research determined the relative rates, etiology, and long-term prognostic implications of these spontaneous myocardial infarctions. This work provided definitive data on a critical adverse event after revascularization procedures. Article 2: Computed tomography-guided vs conventional catheter ablation for ventricular tachycardia: the InEurHeart trial. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667137 Summary: The InEurHeart trial systematically compared computed tomography-guided ventricular tachycardia ablation with conventional ablation. This multicenter randomized controlled study involved 113 patients with prior myocardial infarction and clinically significant ventricular tachycardia. The trial established a direct comparison of the therapeutic effectiveness and safety profiles of these two ablation techniques. It provided foundational data for refining ablation strategies for complex ventricular tachycardia, especially in high-risk post-myocardial infarction patients. Article 3: Quadruple vs triple therapy for resistant hypertension: the QUADRO trial. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667119 Summary: The Q. U. A. D. R. O. trial investigated the effectiveness of a quadruple single-pill combination versus triple antihypertensive therapy for resistant hypertension. This multicenter, phase three, randomized controlled study systematically compared blood pressure reduction outcomes between these two therapeutic approaches. The trial established the comparative efficacy of adding a fourth antihypertensive agent to triple therapy for patients with uncontrolled blood pressure. This provides crucial evidence for guiding treatment decisions in individuals with resistant hypertension to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Article 4: Macrophage-specific circular RNA circHIPK2, inflammation, and fibrosis after myocardial infarction. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667113 Summary: This study identified circular R. N. A. circH. I. P. K. two as significantly upregulated in inflammatory cardiac macrophages after myocardial infarction. Researchers found that its expression directly correlated with post-myocardial infarction inflammation dynamics. The data demonstrated that circH. I. P. K. two functions as a key molecular switch for macrophage polarization. These findings reveal a novel mechanism linking specific R. N. A. regulation to cardiac remodeling, inflammation, and fibrosis following myocardial infarction. Article 5: Wine consumption, Mediterranean diet, and cardiovascular risk in two Spanish cohorts. Journal: European heart journal PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667089 Summary: This study rigorously assessed the association between Mediterranean diet adherence, with or without wine consumption, and major cardiovascular disease or all-cause mortality. The research utilized data from the PREDIMED trial, encompassing 7447 high-risk participants. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was quantified using a validated questionnaire, including a specific measure for wine consumption up to seven glasses per week. This provides crucial evidence to clarify the independent and combined effects of wine within the Mediterranean diet on cardiovascular outcomes and overall survival. Transcript Today’s date is February 11, 2

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 10, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like endothelium and cost-utility analysis. Key takeaway: AP-1 Genes Drive Lung Allograft Dysfunction. Article Links: Article 1: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes in Stressor-Associated Atrial Fibrillation: Insights From the VITAL-AF Trial. (Circulation) Article 2: Spatial transcriptomics reveals coordinated endothelial and epithelial activator protein-1 activation in CLAD. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 3: Economic evaluation of ex-vivo lung perfusion for lung transplantation: a cost-utility analysis from a large Canadian centre. (The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation) Article 4: Bone Benefits After Simultaneous Pancreas-kidney Transplantation Compared With the Pretransplant Period. (Transplantation) Article 5: Association between body mass index, plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, symptoms and outcome in patients referred for investigation of suspected heart failure. (Heart (British Cardiac Society)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/ap-1-genes-drive-lung-allograft-dysfunction-02-10-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Incidence, Risk Factors, and Outcomes in Stressor-Associated Atrial Fibrillation: Insights From the VITAL-AF Trial. Journal: Circulation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41662456 Summary: This study found that stressor-associated atrial fibrillation, defined as newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation in the presence of a reversible physiological stressor, is a common clinical entity. The VITAL-AF trial characterized this patient population, which comprised adults aged 65 years and older across primary care practices. This research highlights the widespread occurrence of this specific atrial fibrillation subtype, underscoring its clinical significance for diagnosis and management. The findings establish the importance of distinguishing stressor-associated atrial fibrillation for improved risk stratification in older adults. Article 2: Spatial transcriptomics reveals coordinated endothelial and epithelial activator protein-1 activation in CLAD. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41663041 Summary: Spatial transcriptomic analyses of human lungs with chronic lung allograft dysfunction revealed significant upregulation of activator protein-1 target genes, including JUNB and FOS. This upregulation was observed in both the epithelial and endothelial tissues of patients with chronic lung allograft dysfunction. The data demonstrated coordinated activator protein-1 activation in these cell types within affected lung allografts. This provides novel insight into the disease pathology of chronic lung allograft dysfunction. Article 3: Economic evaluation of ex-vivo lung perfusion for lung transplantation: a cost-utility analysis from a large Canadian centre. Journal: The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41663040 Summary: Ex-vivo lung perfusion enables the evaluation and rehabilitation of potentially usable donor lungs outside the body prior to transplantation. This study established a comprehensive cost-utility analysis model for integrating ex-vivo lung perfusion into lung transplant programs, adopting a hospital perspective. The model utilizes individual-level simulation over a lifetime horizon for adults with end-stage lung disease awaiting transplantation. This research provides a critical tool for assessing the health economic implications of technologies that expand the donor organ pool and improve transplant outcomes. Article 4: Bone Benefits After Simultaneous Pancreas-kidney Transplantation Compared With the Pretransplant Period. Journal: Transplantation PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41656551 Summary: Bone health is frequently compromised in patients with type one diabetes and advanced diabetic kidney disease. This study characterized changes in bone mineral density and trabecular bone score before and after simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation in 48 patients. This research addresses the critical skeletal impact of simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation in this vulnerable patient population. It highlights the importance of understanding bone changes in the context of immunosuppressive regimens. Article 5: Association between body mass index, plasma N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, symptoms and outcome in patients referred for investigation of suspected heart failure. Journal: Heart (British Cardiac Society) PubMed Link: http

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 09, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like Accessory pathways and Omnipolar technology near-field. Key takeaway: CVP: Key to Heart Failure Chemoreceptor Sensitivity. Article Links: Article 1: A Novel Predictive Model for Left Atrial Low-Voltage Areas in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation. (Heart rhythm) Article 2: Blood pressure and the risk of stroke in young patients with atrial fibrillation. (Heart rhythm) Article 3: High-Frequency Areas as an Electrophysiological Clue for Accessory Pathway Ablation: Characterizing Spatial Dissociation with Peak Frequency Mapping. (Heart rhythm) Article 4: Impact of linear ablation in persistent atrial fibrillation using a dual energy, wide-footprint catheter – Analysis from the SPHERE Per-AF Randomized Trial. (Heart rhythm) Article 5: Central venous pressure, rather than cardiac output, is associated with peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity in heart failure patients with left ventricular assist device. (International journal of cardiology) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/cvp-key-to-heart-failure-chemoreceptor-sensitivity-02-09-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: A Novel Predictive Model for Left Atrial Low-Voltage Areas in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation. Journal: Heart rhythm PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41655667 Summary: Left atrial low-voltage areas (LVAs) indicate atrial fibrosis and structural remodeling in a subset of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation patients. This study developed and validated a novel predictive model for identifying these LVAs in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Researchers enrolled patients receiving initial radiofrequency ablation. LVAs were specifically defined as regions with a bipolar voltage of less than 0.5. Article 2: Blood pressure and the risk of stroke in young patients with atrial fibrillation. Journal: Heart rhythm PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41655666 Summary: Elevated blood pressure is associated with an increased stroke risk in atrial fibrillation patients. This study identified patients aged 20 to 39 years, newly diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, from the Korean Health Insurance Service database. The investigation focused on the effect of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure on ischemic stroke risk in this young atrial fibrillation cohort. This research addresses an important gap in understanding stroke risk factors for younger adults with atrial fibrillation. Article 3: High-Frequency Areas as an Electrophysiological Clue for Accessory Pathway Ablation: Characterizing Spatial Dissociation with Peak Frequency Mapping. Journal: Heart rhythm PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41655665 Summary: Catheter ablation is a curative therapy for atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia caused by accessory pathways, but precise localization is challenging. Omnipolar technology near-field (O. T. N. F.) provides a novel frequency-based analysis. This study characterized the spatial relationship between high-frequency areas identified by O. T. N. F. -derived peak frequency maps and successful accessory pathway ablation sites. This characterization helps improve precision in catheter ablation for atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia. Article 4: Impact of linear ablation in persistent atrial fibrillation using a dual energy, wide-footprint catheter – Analysis from the SPHERE Per-AF Randomized Trial. Journal: Heart rhythm PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41655663 Summary: Linear ablation lesions beyond pulmonary vein isolation in persistent atrial fibrillation often show variable efficacy. This study examined the performance of a novel dual-energy pulsed field/radiofrequency lattice-tip mapping and ablation system for linear ablation. The research also investigated the impact of this ablation strategy on outcomes within the SPHERE Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Randomized Trial. This investigation addresses the need for optimized ablation techniques for persistent atrial fibrillation. Article 5: Central venous pressure, rather than cardiac output, is associated with peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity in heart failure patients with left ventricular assist device. Journal: International journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41655605 Summary: Heart failure patients exhibit elevated sympathetic tone and abnormal peripheral chemoreceptor (PChR) function, often linked to reduced cardiac output. A study involving 14 heart failure patients with left ventricular assist devices found that central venous pressure, rather than cardiac output, was associated with peripheral chemoreceptor sensitivity. This finding provides unique insight into the impact of hemodynamic changes on peripheral chemoreceptor function. Transcript Today’s date is February 09, 2026. Welcome to Cardiology Today. Here are the latest research findings. Arti

Welcome to Cardiology Today – Recorded February 08, 2026. This episode summarizes 5 key cardiology studies on topics like preeclampsia and maternal-fetal interface. Key takeaway: Adipose Tissue Drives Heart Failure Pathogenesis. Article Links: Article 1: Coronary Artery Compliance Modification after Non-Compliant Balloon Angioplasty and Intravascular Lithotripsy. (The American journal of cardiology) Article 2: Outcomes of High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism Stratified by Clinical Phenotype: Results from Two Specialized Pulmonary Embolism Centres. (The Canadian journal of cardiology) Article 3: Small extracellular vesicle-mediated adipocyte-cardiomyocyte crosstalk exacerbates heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. (Cardiovascular research) Article 4: SIRT1-NCOR2 Corepressor Modulates Trophoblast-Macrophage Interactions in Preeclampsia. (Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)) Article 5: circMFN2 Regulates the IGF2BP3-PDK4 to Ameliorate Pulmonary Hypertension. (Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)) Full episode page: https://podcast.explainheart.com/podcast/adipose-tissue-drives-heart-failure-pathogenesis-02-08-26/ Featured Articles Article 1: Coronary Artery Compliance Modification after Non-Compliant Balloon Angioplasty and Intravascular Lithotripsy. Journal: The American journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41654158 Summary: Intravascular lithotripsy demonstrates efficacy in treating balloon-crossable calcified coronary lesions. It achieves this by inducing calcium fractures and improving coronary artery compliance. This study evaluates patients with calcified coronary artery lesions from the BENELUX-IVL prospective registry who received intravascular lithotripsy under intravascular ultrasound. The research provides a direct comparison of coronary artery compliance modification between intravascular lithotripsy and non-compliant balloon angioplasty. Article 2: Outcomes of High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism Stratified by Clinical Phenotype: Results from Two Specialized Pulmonary Embolism Centres. Journal: The Canadian journal of cardiology PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41653976 Summary: High-risk pulmonary embolism presents with high early mortality and a heterogeneous patient population, ranging from cardiac arrest to obstructive shock or hypotension. Systemic thrombolysis remains the standard of care, but its use is limited by contraindications and bleeding risk. Catheter-directed therapies offer alternatives, though data on their use in high-risk pulmonary embolism is limited. This study characterized the clinical characteristics, management strategies, and outcomes across three distinct high-risk pulmonary embolism clinical phenotypes. Article 3: Small extracellular vesicle-mediated adipocyte-cardiomyocyte crosstalk exacerbates heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Journal: Cardiovascular research PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41645491 Summary: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (H. F. pEF) phenotypes were induced in male C57BL/6N mice using a high-fat diet combined with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester. The study found a causal relationship between adiposity and Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction pathogenesis. Resection of visceral adipose tissue blunted Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction phenotypes in mice, while transplantation of visceral adipose tissue exacerbated these phenotypes. Article 4: SIRT1-NCOR2 Corepressor Modulates Trophoblast-Macrophage Interactions in Preeclampsia. Journal: Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41645896 Summary: Preeclampsia, a severe hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, is associated with low sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) levels in trophoblasts. Single-cell sequencing of systemic sirtuin 1 heterozygous knockout mice revealed abnormal activation of trophoblast retinoic acid receptor responder 2 (RARRES2) and macrophage chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) at the maternal-fetal interface. The investigation determined that low sirtuin 1 in trophoblasts increases retinoic acid receptor responder 2 expression, which subsequently affects macrophage polarization. This mechanism clarifies a key pathway in preeclampsia pathogenesis. Article 5: circMFN2 Regulates the IGF2BP3-PDK4 to Ameliorate Pulmonary Hypertension. Journal: Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979) PubMed Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41641542 Summary: A pulmonary hypertension (P. H.)-related circular R. N. A., circMFN2, originating from the mitofusin-2 (MFN2) locus, was identified. This circMFN2 was significantly downregulated in the peripheral blood of patients with P. H. and in the pulmonary arteries of Sugen/hypoxia-induced P. H. mice. The study demonstrated that circMFN2 regulates the insulin-like growth factor two messenger R. N. A. binding protein three (IGF2BP3)-pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase four (PDK4) pathway. This regulation by circMFN2 ameliorates P. H., indicating its role a