{"title":"The use of Veno-arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for Acute High Risk Pulmonary Embolism: A Systematic Review.","authors":"Rohit Munagala, Humail Patel, Pranav Sathe, Avneet Singh, Mangala Narasimhan","doi":"10.2174/011573403X339627241224085451","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X339627241224085451","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Pulmonary embolism (PE) associated with hemodynamic compromise, termed high-risk or massive acute PE (MAPE), is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Despite advancements in procedural techniques and an increase in the availability of advanced therapies, the outcomes associated with high-risk PE remain poor. Here, we review the literature surrounding the use of Veno-arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VAECMO), primarily as a bridging therapy, in patients presenting with high-risk pulmonary embolism.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis utilizing PubMed/MEDLINE from database inception until March 2024. The terms \"high-risk PE\", \"massive PE\" and \"MAPE\" were paired with \"VA-ECMO\", \"bridge therapy\" and \"solo therapy\" along with related terms to find and analyze relevant studies. The primary outcome assessed was in-hospital mortality.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Most comparative studies involved assessing VA-ECMO's utility as solo therapy vs as a bridge to advanced therapy. Out of the data involving VA-ECMO as solo therapy, most showed definite survival benefit in subset of populations with VA-ECMO's role being varied by age and cardiac arrest presence. A portion of studies were notable for finding no difference in outcomes; however no major retrospective determined negative effect of VA-ECMO. In head-to-head studies as a bridge, studies from multiple centers highlighted VA-ECMO's role in stabilizing and improving survival in massive PE prior to systemic or catheter directed thrombolysis. Follow-up studies were limited, however one retrospective showed 30-day mortality of 31% and the 1-year mortality of 54% post PERT call. Follow-up echocardiograms performed on survivors between 30-365 days from Pulmonary Embolism Response Team (PERT) activation interestingly all had normal Right Ventricular (RV) size and function with mild to no tricuspid regurgitation.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Most major literature supports the use of VA-ECMO as either solo therapy or a bridge to advanced therapy in MAPE with additional shock or cardiac arrest. However, further studies are needed to develop society guidelines for regular initiation in cases of MAPE.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":"21 4","pages":"e1573403X339627"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12180365/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144316069","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ibrahim Al-Sawalha, Abdel Qader Abu-Salih, Mohammad Al-Bdour, Rula Al Shimi, Mohammad Al-Slehat, Amjad Almansi, Suhel F Batarseh, Moneeb Al-Taj, Nebras Jaloudi
{"title":"Safety and Efficacy of Transendocardial Stem Cells Therapy in Chronic Ischemic Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.","authors":"Ibrahim Al-Sawalha, Abdel Qader Abu-Salih, Mohammad Al-Bdour, Rula Al Shimi, Mohammad Al-Slehat, Amjad Almansi, Suhel F Batarseh, Moneeb Al-Taj, Nebras Jaloudi","doi":"10.2174/011573403X353157250115105436","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X353157250115105436","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Chronic ischemic heart failure is a major global health issue despite advancements in therapy. Stem cell (SC) therapy has emerged as a potential treatment, but its effectiveness remains uncertain. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the current evidence on SC therapy's efficacy.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a comprehensive literature search in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases up to April 2024. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with blinded designs, focusing on patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) treated with mesenchymal stem cells compared to placebo or sham interventions via percutaneous endomyocardial catheter systems. Data extraction, performed independently by two authors, focused on safety and efficacy variables. The meta-analysis used a random-effects model, with sensitivity analyses to address study heterogeneity.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Twenty studies were included in the meta-analysis. Significant improvements were observed in the stem cell group for left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) (pooled effect size -7.59, 95% CI [-12.28 to -2.89], P=0.002) and stress SPECT outcomes (pooled effect size - 5.33, 95% CI [-6.73 to -3.93], P<0.00001). Sensitivity analysis reduced heterogeneity in left ventricular end-diastolic function (LVEDF) (P=0.01, I²=54%) and revealed a significant benefit for stem cell therapy (pooled effect size -3.87, 95% CI [-6.77 to -0.97], P=0.009). No significant effects were observed for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) or myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2). Functional improvements in New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification were noted (OR=4.22, 95% CI (1.14-15.68), P=0.03), though no significant differences were found in safety outcomes, including major cardiovascular events, mortality, or rehospitalization rates.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Transendocardial SC therapy shows promise in improving certain cardiac parameters, though its impact on LVEF and MVO2 remains inconclusive, indicating the need for further research.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"e1573403X353157"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12172215/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143063993","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Brian Mendel, Kelvin Kohar, Richie Jonathan Djiu, Defin Allevia Yumnanisha, Ananda Pipphali Vidya, Justin Winarta, Karunia Hafifah Arifin, Muhammad Dzaky Erlangga Mumtaz, Aqilla Katrita Zaira Nugroho, Gusti Ngurah Prana Jagannatha, Sisca Natalia Siagian, Radityo Prakoso
{"title":"Safety and Efficacy of Zero Fluoroscopy Patent Ductus Arteriosus Closure in Comparison to the Standardized Fluoroscopy-Guided Procedure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.","authors":"Brian Mendel, Kelvin Kohar, Richie Jonathan Djiu, Defin Allevia Yumnanisha, Ananda Pipphali Vidya, Justin Winarta, Karunia Hafifah Arifin, Muhammad Dzaky Erlangga Mumtaz, Aqilla Katrita Zaira Nugroho, Gusti Ngurah Prana Jagannatha, Sisca Natalia Siagian, Radityo Prakoso","doi":"10.2174/011573403X338573241101092849","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X338573241101092849","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a common condition in premature infants requiring intervention to avoid problems. Despite improvements in lowering radiation exposure and employing better contrast agents, fluoroscopy is still the most widely employed technique, which exposes interventional echocardiographers to radiation risks. Techniques, such as Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)-guided procedures or Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)-guided procedures, provide radiationfree options. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of fluoroscopy-guided versus non-fluoroscopy-guided PDA closure techniques with respect to the reduction in procedural risks and improved clinical decision-making when treating hemodynamically severe PDAs in premature newborns. As there is no specific age or cutoff for this procedure, it is crucial to perform it as early as possible to prevent complications, especially if symptoms are already present.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This systematic review has been registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024516321. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar) have been reviewed up to February 2024 to search the literature. The main outcome has been the procedural success rate. The additional outcomes have included procedural-related complications rate. We have performed a proportional meta-analysis using the random-effects model and the DerSimonian-Laird method. The risk of bias in all included studies has been evaluated using the STROBE guideline.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 85 (78 fluoroscopy and 7 zero-fluoroscopy) studies have been included in this study. Percutaneous PDA closure success rate has been significantly higher in zero-fluoroscopy group compared to fluoroscopy guidance [99.4% (95%CI: 98.1-100%) and 94.6% (95%CI: 92.3-97%, test for subgroup differences p < 0.01), respectively]. The complication rate has been similar in both groups [4% (95%CI: 0- 10%) in zero-fluoroscopy and 8.9% (95%CI: 6.5-11.3%) in fluoroscopy group, test for subgroup differences; p = 0.14]. Device embolization has been the most common complication reported in the fluoroscopy group [1.7% patients (95%CI: 1.1-2.3%)]. Meanwhile, the residual leak has been the only complication reported in the zero-fluoroscopy group [15.6% patients (95%CI: 0-37.5%)].</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is common in preemies and requires intervention. While fluoroscopy is widely used with lower radiation and better contrast agents, it still carries radiation risks. Thus, this review has evaluated the safety and effectiveness of fluoroscopy versus zero-fluoroscopyguided PDA closures, aiming to reduce procedural risks and enhance clinical decisions for treating PDA. Zero fluoroscopy techniques for percutaneous PDA closure have been found to yield comparable success rates and procedural outcomes to fluorosc","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"6-14"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12308002/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143122357","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis of Metabolic Reprogramming in Cardiovascular Diseases: Trends, Key Contributors, and Future Directions from 2000 to 2024.","authors":"Xing Chen, Liu Lin Yang, Li Xiang Li, Yan Deng","doi":"10.2174/011573403X371021250109064231","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X371021250109064231","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Metabolic reprogramming is critical in cardiovascular disease (CVD) research, affecting a variety of diseases such as myocardial damage, coronary heart disease, and atherosclerosis, and has also emerged as a therapeutic target. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of the past 24 years to identify trends and hotspots in CVD metabolism, aiming to guide future research and inform policy.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>This study analyzes publications from January 1, 2000, to October 10, 2024, using the Web of Science Core Collection database. Tools like CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and SCImago Graphica were used for co-authorship, keyword, citation, and journal visualizations. Dual-map overlays and annual publication trends were examined to uncover hotspots, trends, and the progression of metabolic reprogramming in CVD.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>This study analyzed 765 articles and reviews from 66 countries. The USA had the most publications, with the University of Milan being the most productive institution. Després, JP's team in Italy, published the most papers. The International Journal of Molecular Sciences had the highest publication count, while Cardiovascular Diabetology had the greatest citation impact. Recent research has mainly focused on the role of immune cell substrate metabolism in CVD.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study reveals the development trend and research characteristics of CVD metabolic reprogramming over the past 24 years, from the early focus on disease risk factors to the recent exploration of the transformation of immune cell metabolism. In the future, targeting immune cell metabolism will drive CVD therapy forward.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":"21 4","pages":"e1573403X371021"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12180361/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144289323","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Wei Jet Oo, Chooi Ling Lim, Mun Hon Goh, Rhun Yian Koh
{"title":"Serum Cortisol and Cardiovascular Disease Risk - A Potential Biomarker.","authors":"Wei Jet Oo, Chooi Ling Lim, Mun Hon Goh, Rhun Yian Koh","doi":"10.2174/011573403X328499241106064553","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X328499241106064553","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death globally, poses a significant burden on the healthcare sector. Its association with stress and Cushing's Syndrome has driven cortisol, the 'stress hormone,' to be a potential candidate in determining CVD risk. Cortisol synthesis and release through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis are regulated by several hormones and receptors involved in the pathological cascade towards CVD. Evidence suggests that metabolic syndrome plays a major role in cortisol-mediated CVD risk. On the other hand, non-metabolic features are also implicated when the association between cortisol and CVD risk remains significant upon normalisation of metabolic parameters. Correspondingly, the treatment for hypercortisolism is often found effective in lowering CVD risk. Despite available evidence, several factors continue to hinder the clinical use of cortisol as a risk biomarker for CVD. This review provides an insight into the role of serum cortisol in CVD progression and risk, with emphasis on the mechanistic features and parameters.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"e1573403X328499"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12172220/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142926501","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Habeeb Abdulkareem Habeeb, Fraser Todd, Rohith Valsalan, Emily Schembri, John K Noyhar, Gary Yip, Mahesan Anpalahan
{"title":"Prevalence and Adverse Outcomes of Iron Deficiency in Heart Failure.","authors":"Habeeb Abdulkareem Habeeb, Fraser Todd, Rohith Valsalan, Emily Schembri, John K Noyhar, Gary Yip, Mahesan Anpalahan","doi":"10.2174/011573403X351268250130070459","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X351268250130070459","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction/objective: </strong>Outcomes of iron deficiency (ID) in heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) or in samples with mixed heart failure subtypes are variably described. Hence, we investigated the prevalence and adverse outcomes of ID in a sample of mixed heart failure subtypes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Adult patients admitted with HF over a six-month period were retrospectively studied. ID was defined as serum ferritin<100 mcg/L, or serum ferritin 100-300 mcg/L with serum transferrin saturation<20%. For each case of ID, sex- and age-matched (within five years) controls were selected. The primary outcome was the composite of all-cause mortality or readmissions up to 12 months post-index admission.</p><p><strong>Results and discussion: </strong>Of the 245 patients admitted with HF [HFpEF: 83 (70.3%), HFrEF: 35 (29.6%)], 233 met the inclusion criteria. Iron studies were available for 131 patients and 59 (45%) had ID. ID had a significant univariate association with the primary outcome (OR: 3.80, 95% CI: 1.42-10.18, P=0.008), and it remained significant after controlling for age, anaemia, comorbidities, and frailty (OR: 6.04, 95% CI: 1.18-30.85, P=0.031). ID also had a significant independent association with readmissions (OR: 4.61, 95% CI: 1.15-18.43, P=0.03), but not with mortality (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 0.67-4.35, P=0.257). In post-hoc analysis, ID exhibited a significant association with primary outcome in patients with HFrEF (OR: 14.12, 95% CI: 1.7- 117.33, P=0.014), but not in patients with HFpEF (OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 0.71-4.58, P=0.214).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>ID is common in patients hospitalised for heart failure and has been found to have a significant association with the composite primary outcome, largely due to its effect on readmissions. ID may have a differential effect on adverse outcomes with respect to heart failure subtypes.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"104-111"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12307997/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143448497","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Cardiotoxicity of Microplastics: An Emerging Cardiovascular Risk Factor.","authors":"Bhanu Duggal, Ghanshyam Kumar","doi":"10.2174/011573403X366030250404105925","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X366030250404105925","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The widespread use of plastics and improper disposal have resulted in the ubiquity of microplastics in the environment, from uninhabited polar regions to terrestrial ecosystems. This ubiquity poses significant health concerns for our environment and health. Various in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies have indicated microplastic toxicity in humans' respiratory, digestive, neurological, reproductive, and developmental health. Recent studies have pointed out that these microplastics also have cardiovascular toxicity. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number one killer in the world, with over 20 million annual deaths worldwide. Hence, microplastics, as a potential risk factor for CVDs, can result in a significant increase in mortality and morbidity because almost everyone is currently exposed to microplastics. This perspective article explores the toxic effects of microplastics on cardiovascular human health. It focuses on various studies that have found microplastics from human arteries/cardiac tissues and their potential role in atherosclerosis and subsequent increases in myocardial infarction, stroke, and mortality. Studies reported the presence of various microplastics, such as polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, and polystyrene, in cardiac tissues and arteries (coronary, aorta, cerebral, and carotid). Studies have suggested a potential negative correlation between microplastics and cardiovascular health, with the presence or increased concentration of microplastics linked to greater severity of health issues. Still, a causal relationship is yet to be established. Future studies, such as cohorts, should focus on deciphering and establishing whether microplastics are a potential cardiovascular risk factor.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"1-5"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12307981/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143972306","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Evaluation of the Effect of Virgin Rice Bran Oil (VRBO) on Doxorubicininduced Cardiotoxicity in Wistar Rats.","authors":"Suseela Prema, Rakesh Verma, Amritesh Nagarwal, Meenakshi Bharkatiya, Madhuri Baghel, Ladli Kishore, Pranay Wal, Amin Gasmi","doi":"10.2174/011573403X327970250108045235","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X327970250108045235","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>The usage of doxorubicin (DOX), an antineoplastic drug that is frequently used for the cure of cancer, is restricted to maximal doses due to its cardiac toxicity. Reactive oxygen species produced by DOX result in lipid peroxidation and organ failure, ultimately resulting in cardiomyopathy. Due to its high polyphenol content, virgin rice bran oil (VRBO) is a diet nutritional supplement with a strong antioxidant. This study aimed to assess the potential defense of VRBO against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>VRBO and DOX injections were administered to thirty male Wistar rats for 42 days after being randomly assigned to five groups.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The study demonstrated the cardioprotective effects of VRBO against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity. VRBO (0.71 and 1.42 ml/kg) significantly improved the heart-tobody weight ratio, reduced elevated serum CK-MB and LDH levels by 18.4% and 52.7%, respectively, and increased HDL by 43.1%. ECG parameters also improved, with reductions in QT interval (19%), ST interval (28%), and QRS complex (15%). VRBO enhanced systolic blood pressure (up to 21%) and heart rate (7.1%). Antioxidant markers showed notable recovery, with MDA levels reduced by 66.1%, while GSH, SOD, and catalase levels increased by 129.4%, 158.2%, and 84.8%, respectively.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>A cardioprotective benefit was found at middle and higher VRBO dosages. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of VRBO as a cardioprotective medication, further research on dosage response and bioavailability is required.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"e1573403X327970"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12180362/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143058233","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Role of Red Blood Cells in Cholesterol Accumulation and Atherosclerotic Plaque Instability: A Perspective on Atherosclerosis.","authors":"Reza Mohebbati, Mohammad Amin Momeni-Moghaddam","doi":"10.2174/011573403X358572250128104335","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X358572250128104335","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Atherosclerosis stands as the primary cause of CVD, characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol deposits within macrophages in medium and large arteries. This deposition promotes the proliferation of specific cell types within the arterial wall, gradually narrowing the vessel lumen and impeding blood flow. Intra-plaque hemorrhages are recognized as critical events in atherosclerotic plaques, leading to the deposition of red blood cells (RBCs) and the release of hemoglobin (Hb). Approximately 40% of high-risk plaques exhibit intra-plaque hemorrhage. Recent studies have demonstrated that intra-plaque hemorrhage is closely linked to plaque progression and increased vulnerability, establishing it as a critical factor in the development of acute clinical symptoms associated with atherosclerosis. The presence of RBC membranes within atherosclerotic plaques contributes significantly to lipid accumulation, indicating a pivotal role in plaque instability. Upon RBC degradation, cholesterol from both the membrane and its interior can profoundly impact atherosclerotic plaque development. Considering that red blood cells (RBCs) can contribute to the excretion of cholesterol through the hepatobiliary system alongside HDL, and given that elevated cholesterol levels are a risk factor for the development and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, RBCs may play a protective role in cardiovascular health. However, when bleeding occurs within a plaque, RBCs that are trapped in the plaque environment, an environment rich in oxidant compounds, can rupture. The cholesterol released from these ruptured RBCs can significantly promote inflammatory reactions. This study aims to explore the inconsistent role of RBCs and their cholesterol content in the progression of atherosclerotic plaques.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"22-28"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12308013/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143413524","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Advancements in Cardiac Catheterization Safety: Novel Radiation Protection Approaches Redefining Occupational Health.","authors":"Zahra Shaghaghi, Roozbeh Narimani Javid, Maryam Alvandi","doi":"10.2174/011573403X304828240819050538","DOIUrl":"10.2174/011573403X304828240819050538","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Radiation exposure poses a substantial occupational risk for healthcare professionals in the catheterization laboratory (cath lab). The escalating complexity and frequency of interventional procedures, such as cardiac catheterizations and percutaneous coronary interventions, underscore the need for innovative strategies to mitigate radiation exposure. While traditional measures like lead aprons, thyroid collars, and goggles have been pivotal in reducing radiation exposure, they have limitations, especially during prolonged and intricate procedures. Consequently, there is a growing demand for advanced radiation protection methods that prioritize safety without compromising procedural efficacy. Recent strides in radiation protection technology have given rise to novel shielding devices and zero-radiation approaches tailored for cath lab use. The novel shields leverage innovative materials and designs to achieve superior attenuation of both scattered and direct radiation. Their ergonomic and adjustable features also ensure optimal shielding coverage without impeding the operator's skill or workflow. Multiple studies have validated the effectiveness of these advanced radiation protection methods in diminishing occupational radiation exposure in the cath lab. Initial findings suggest a significant reduction in doses for operators and staff, potentially lowering the risk of radiation-induced health complications over the long term. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current landscape of radiation protection shields in the cath lab, emphasizing the efficacy and potential of these cuttingedge shielding technologies.</p>","PeriodicalId":10832,"journal":{"name":"Current Cardiology Reviews","volume":" ","pages":"e1573403X304828"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2025-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12060925/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142016652","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}