Dilated Cardiomyopathy This is an OPML file. It can be used to export all the MedWorm RSS feeds on this topic into your personal RSS reader (usually you have to save this file to your own computer before clicking on an Import OPML command in your own feed reader to upload the file which will then import all the feeds) or it can be used by webmasters to integrate MedWorm feeds with their own website. This is an RSS file. You can use it to subscribe to this data in your favourite RSS reader, such as GoogleReader, or to display this data on your own website or blog. Subscribe to this data using MyMedWorm.Subscribe to this data using GoogleReader.Subscribe to this data using Bloglines.Subscribe to this data using MyYahoo.

This page shows you the latest news and research items in this category.

Recurrent and founder mutations in the Netherlands-Phospholamban p.Arg14del mutation causes arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy.
CONCLUSION: The p.Arg14del mutation in the PLN gene is the most frequently identified mutation in Dutch cardiomyopathy patients. The mutation that arose 575-825 years ago is likely to have originated from the eastern part of the province of Friesland and is highly prevalent in the general population in the northern part of the Netherlands. PMID: 23568436 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Netherlands Heart Journal)
Source: Netherlands Heart Journal - May 24, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: van der Zwaag PA, van Rijsingen IA, de Ruiter R, Nannenberg EA, Groeneweg JA, Post JG, Hauer RN, van Gelder IC, van den Berg MP, van der Harst P, Wilde AA, van Tintelen JP Tags: Neth Heart J Source Type: research

Genetic analysis in 418 index patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy: overview of 10 years' experience
Conclusion The yield of identified mutations in DCM index patients with clinical clues, such as associated neuromuscular disease or familial occurrence, is higher compared with those without these clues. For sporadic DCM, specific clinical characteristics may be used to select cases for DNA analysis. (Source: European Journal of Heart Failure)
Source: European Journal of Heart Failure - May 22, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: van Spaendonck-Zwarts, K. Y., van Rijsingen, I. A. W., van den Berg, M. P., Lekanne Deprez, R. H., Post, J. G., van Mil, A. M., Asselbergs, F. W., Christiaans, I., van Langen, I. M., Wilde, A. A. M., de Boer, R. A., Jongbloed, J. D. H., Pinto, Y. M., van Tags: GENETICS Source Type: research

Clinical utility and prognostic value of left atrial volume assessment by cardiovascular magnetic resonance in non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy
Conclusions LAVi is a powerful independent predictor of transplant-free survival and HF outcomes in DCM. Assessment of LAV improves risk stratification in DCM and should be incorporated into routine CMR examination. (Source: European Journal of Heart Failure)
Source: European Journal of Heart Failure - May 22, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Gulati, A., Ismail, T. F., Jabbour, A., Ismail, N. A., Morarji, K., Ali, A., Raza, S., Khwaja, J., Brown, T. D. H., Liodakis, E., Baksi, A. J., Shakur, R., Guha, K., Roughton, M., Wage, R., Cook, S. A., Alpendurada, F., Assomull, R. G., Mohiaddin, R. H., Tags: PROGNOSIS Source Type: research

Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor-Associated Factor 2 Signaling Provokes Adverse Cardiac Remodeling in the Adult Mammalian Heart [Original Articles]
Conclusions— These results show for the first time that targeted overexpression of TRAF2 is sufficient to mediate adverse cardiac remodeling in the heart. (Source: Circulation: Heart Failure)
Source: Circulation: Heart Failure - May 21, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Divakaran, V. G., Evans, S., Topkara, V. K., Diwan, A., Burchfield, J., Gao, F., Dong, J., Tzeng, H.-P., Sivasubramanian, N., Barger, P. M., Mann, D. L. Tags: Other heart failure, Animal models of human disease, Apoptosis Original Articles Source Type: research

Control of inflammatory heart disease by CD4+ T cells
This review focuses on autoimmune myocarditis and its sequela, inflammatory dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMI), and the inflammatory and immune mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of these diseases. Several mouse models of myocarditis and DCMI have improved our knowledge of the pathogenesis of these diseases, informing more general problems of cardiac remodeling and heart failure. CD4+ T cells are critical in driving the pathogenesis of myocarditis. We discuss in detail the role of T helper cell subtypes in the pathogenesis of myocarditis, the biology of T cell–derived effector cytokines, and the participation of other leu...
Source: Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences - May 21, 2013 Category: Science Authors: Jobert G. Barin, Daniela Čiháková Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Anti-KCNQ1 K+ channel autoantibodies increase IKs current and are associated with QT interval shortening in dilated cardiomyopathy
Conclusion Anti-KCNQ1 autoantibodies found in a subgroup of DCM patients are associated with QT interval shortening and increased IKs current. (Source: Cardiovascular Research)
Source: Cardiovascular Research - May 17, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Li, J., Seyler, C., Wiedmann, F., Schmidt, C., Schweizer, P. A., Becker, R., Katus, H. A., Thomas, D. Tags: Ion channels and arrhythmias Source Type: research

Cathepsin K Knockout Alleviates Pressure Overload-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy [Heart]
Evidence from human and animal studies has documented elevated levels of lysosomal cysteine protease cathepsin K in failing hearts. Here, we hypothesized that ablation of cathepsin K mitigates pressure overload–induced cardiac hypertrophy. Cathepsin K knockout mice and their wild-type littermates were subjected to abdominal aortic constriction, resulting in cardiac remodeling (heart weight, cardiomyocyte size, left ventricular wall thickness, and end diastolic and end systolic dimensions) and decreased fractional shortening, the effects of which were significantly attenuated or ablated by cathepsin K knockout. Pressu...
Source: Hypertension - May 15, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Hua, Y., Xu, X., Shi, G.-P., Chicco, A. J., Ren, J., Nair, S. Tags: Hypertrophy Heart Source Type: research

The cardiomyocyte molecular clock, regulation of Scn5a, and arrhythmia susceptibility
The molecular clock mechanism underlies circadian rhythms and is defined by a transcription-translation feedback loop. Bmal1 encodes a core molecular clock transcription factor. Germline Bmal1 knockout mice show a loss of circadian variation in heart rate and blood pressure, and they develop dilated cardiomyopathy. We tested the role of the molecular clock in adult cardiomyocytes by generating mice that allow for the inducible cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of Bmal1 (iCSBmal1). ECG telemetry showed that cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of Bmal1 (iCSBmal1–/–) in adult mice slowed heart rate, prolonged RR and QRS...
Source: AJP: Cell Physiology - May 15, 2013 Category: Cytology Authors: Schroder, E. A., Lefta, M., Zhang, X., Bartos, D., Feng, H.-Z., Zhao, Y., Patwardhan, A., Jin, J.-P., Esser, K. A., Delisle, B. P. Tags: CALL FOR PAPERS Source Type: research

Prediction of ventricular arrhythmias using cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is the commonest cause of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in developed countries. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most frequent cause of VT in individuals over the age of 30, while hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), myocarditis and congenital heart disease in those below 30 years of age. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), a non-invasive, non-radiating technique, can reliably detect the changes in ventricular volumes and the ejection fraction that can be predictive of VT/SCD. Furthermore, the capability of CMR to perform tissue characterization and detect oedema, fat and fibrotic substrate, using...
Source: European Journal of Echocardiography - May 13, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Mavrogeni, S., Petrou, E., Kolovou, G., Theodorakis, G., Iliodromitis, E. Tags: CLINICAL/ORIGINAL PAPERS Source Type: research

Screening athletes for cardiovascular disease in Africa: a challenging experience
Conclusions About 12% of native African athletes showed ECG abnormalities unrelated to training and requiring additional testing and periodical follow-up. Structural abnormalities were found, however, in a minority (5%), including HCM in one, but no ARVC or DCM. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that preparticipation CV screening is efficient to identify (or raise suspicion) for CV abnormalities in native African athletes, but challenging for conclusive identification of cardiac diseases in the difficult scenario of a developing African country. (Source: British Journal of Sports Medicine)
Source: British Journal of Sports Medicine - May 10, 2013 Category: Sports Medicine Authors: Schmied, C., Di Paolo, F. M., Zerguini, A. Y., Dvorak, J., Pelliccia, A. Tags: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy Original article Source Type: research

Occupational exposure to cobalt is not associated with incipient signs of dilated cardiomyopathy in a Belgian refinery
Conclusions Occupational exposure to cobalt does not appear associated with incipient signs of dilated cardiomyopathy within the gradient of exposure recorded in this population. (Source: Occupational and Environmental Medicine)
Source: Occupational and Environmental Medicine - May 8, 2013 Category: Occupational Health Authors: Lantin, A.-C., Vermeulen, J., Mallants, A., Vanoverschelde, J.-L., Speybroeck, N., Swennen, B., Hoet, P., Lison, D. Tags: Workplace Source Type: research

Increased 99m Tc-Sestamibi Washout Reflects Impaired Myocardial Contractile and Relaxation Reserve During Dobutamine Stress Due to Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Dilated Cardiomyopathy Patients
ConclusionsIncreased 99mTc-MIBI washout may predict mitochondrial dysfunction and the impairment of myocardial contractile and relaxation reserves during dobutamine stress in DCM patients. (Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging)
Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging - May 6, 2013 Category: Radiology Source Type: research

Lamin A/C and emerin regulate MKL1–SRF activity by modulating actin dynamics
Nature advance online publication 05 May 2013. doi:10.1038/nature12105 Authors: Chin Yee Ho, Diana E. Jaalouk, Maria K. Vartiainen & Jan Lammerding Laminopathies, caused by mutations in the LMNA gene encoding the nuclear envelope proteins lamins A and C, represent a diverse group of diseases that include Emery–Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, and Hutchison–Gilford progeria syndrome. Most LMNA mutations affect skeletal and cardiac muscle by mechanisms that remain incompletely understood. Loss of structural function and altered interaction of m...
Source: Nature AOP - May 5, 2013 Category: Research Authors: Chin Yee HoDiana E. JaaloukMaria K. VartiainenJan Lammerding Tags: Letter Source Type: research

Bridge to Transplant With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Followed by HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device in a Child [CASE REPORTS]
A 10-year-old boy was admitted with dilated cardiomyopathy. Before scheduled implantation of a HeartWare ventricular assist device, he experienced a cardiac arrest and required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for both cardiac and pulmonary support. After 4 days of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and 126 days of support on the HeartWare ventricular assist device, he underwent successful cardiac transplantation. He is doing well 6 months after transplantation. (Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery)
Source: The Annals of Thoracic Surgery - April 30, 2013 Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Crews, K. A., Kaiser, S. L., Walczak, R. J., Jaquiss, R. D. B., Lodge, A. J. Tags: Minimally invasive surgery CASE REPORTS Source Type: research

MicroRNA-146a is a therapeutic target and biomarker for peripartum cardiomyopathy
Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a life-threatening pregnancy-associated cardiomyopathy in previously healthy women. Although PPCM is driven in part by the 16-kDa N-terminal prolactin fragment (16K PRL), the underlying molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. We found that 16K PRL induced microRNA-146a (miR-146a) expression in ECs, which attenuated angiogenesis through downregulation of NRAS. 16K PRL stimulated the release of miR-146a–loaded exosomes from ECs. The exosomes were absorbed by cardiomyocytes, increasing miR-146a levels, which resulted in a subsequent decrease in metabolic activity and decreased ex...
Source: Journal of Clinical Investigation - April 28, 2013 Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Julie Halkein, Sebastien P. Tabruyn, Melanie Ricke-Hoch, Arash Haghikia, Ngoc-Quynh-Nhu Nguyen, Michaela Scherr, Karolien Castermans, Ludovic Malvaux, Vincent Lambert, Marc Thiry, Karen Sliwa, Agnes Noel, Joseph. A. Martial, Denise Hilfiker-Kleiner, Ingri Source Type: research

Calcium dysregulation in ventricular myocytes from mice expressing constitutively active Rac1.
Abstract Increased Rac1 activity and its concomitant elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels is believed to be involved in the development of cardiac diseases such as hypertrophy and arrhythmia. To study the effects of activated Rac1 on the properties of isolated ventricular myocytes we used a transgenic mouse model (RacET) expressing constitutively active Rac1. Concurrent with dilated cardiomyopathy global Ca(2+) handling as well as single cell contractility was substantially decreased. Cellular ROS levels were assessed with two independent assays and unexpectedly depicted decreased ROS production in Rac...
Source: Cell Calcium - April 27, 2013 Category: Cytology Authors: Oberhofer M, Tian Q, Ruppenthal S, Wegener S, Reil JC, Körbel C, Hammer K, Menger M, Neuberger HR, Kaestner L, Lipp P Tags: Cell Calcium Source Type: research

An 8-year single-centre experience of cardiac resynchronisation therapy: procedural success, early and late complications, and left ventricular lead performance
Conclusion Transvenous implantation of the LV lead is safe and achievable for CRT with high procedural success rates. For the first time we describe the late complications from CRT in different heart failure populations. This group of patients must be kept under surveillance, not only for heart failure events but also for device-related issues. The reasons for higher complication rates in DCM patients require further evaluation. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - April 26, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Ahsan, S. Y., Saberwal, B., Lambiase, P. D., Chaubey, S., Segal, O. R., Gopalamurugan, A. B., McCready, J., Rogers, D. P., Lowe, M. D., Chow, A. W. C. Tags: Pacing and resynchronization therapy Source Type: research

MicroRNA-22 Regulates Cardiac Hypertrophy and Remodeling in Response to Stress.
Conclusions: Our studies uncover miR-22 as a critical regulator of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac remodeling. PMID: 23524588 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Circulation Research)
Source: Circulation Research - April 26, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Huang ZP, Chen J, Seok HY, Zhang Z, Kataoka M, Hu X, Wang DZ Tags: Circ Res Source Type: research

New Concepts in Functional Mitral Regurgitation It Is Not Just a Disease of the Left Ventricle⁎
Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) has long been considered to be secondary to underlying left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. FMR is a complex and heterogeneous disorder that results from an imbalance between the closing force of LV contraction and the tethering forces that prevent the leaflets from prolapsing into the left atrium (). Various mechanisms, such as symmetrical or asymmetrical annular dilation (), tethering of the leaflets by outward and/or apical displacement of the papillary muscles and their supporting LV walls (), reduced LV systolic function (), and abnormal LV shape (), alone or in combination, have be...
Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology - April 24, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Paul A. Grayburn Tags: Heart Valve Disease: Editorial Comment Source Type: research

Ultrastructural uncoupling between T-tubules and sarcoplasmic reticulum in human heart failure
Conclusion Human heart failure of distinct causes shared similar physical uncoupling between TTs and SRs, which appeared attributable to the reduced expression of JP2 and increased expression of miR-24. Therapeutic strategy against JP2 down-regulation would be expected to protect patients from cardiac E–C uncoupling. (Source: Cardiovascular Research)
Source: Cardiovascular Research - April 23, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Zhang, H.-B., Li, R.-C., Xu, M., Xu, S.-M., Lai, Y.-S., Wu, H.-D., Xie, X.-J., Gao, W., Ye, H., Zhang, Y.-Y., Meng, X., Wang, S.-Q. Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLES: SPOTLIGHT ON T-TUBULES AND RYANODINE RECEPTOR MICRODOMAIN SIGNALLING IN CARDIAC HYPERTROPHY AND FAILURE Source Type: research

Up-regulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ uptake leads to cardiac hypertrophy, contractile dysfunction and early mortality in mice deficient in CASQ2
Conclusion We demonstrate that enhanced SR Ca2+ uptake combined with dysregulated RyR2s results in sustained diastolic Ca2+ release causing apoptosis, dilated cardiomyopathy, and early mortality. Our data also suggest that up-regulation of SERCA activity must be advocated with caution as a therapy for HF in the context of abnormal RyR2 function. (Source: Cardiovascular Research)
Source: Cardiovascular Research - April 23, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Kalyanasundaram, A., Lacombe, V. A., Belevych, A. E., Brunello, L., Carnes, C. A., Janssen, P. M. L., Knollmann, B. C., Periasamy, M., Gyorke, S. Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLES: SPOTLIGHT ON T-TUBULES AND RYANODINE RECEPTOR MICRODOMAIN SIGNALLING IN CARDIAC HYPERTROPHY AND FAILURE Source Type: research

New Concepts in Functional Mitral Regurgitation It Is Not Just a Disease of the Left Ventricle ⁎ ⁎
Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) has long been considered to be secondary to underlying left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. FMR is a complex and heterogeneous disorder that results from an imbalance between the closing force of LV contraction and the tethering forces that prevent the leaflets from prolapsing into the left atrium (1). Various mechanisms, such as symmetrical or asymmetrical annular dilation (2), tethering of the leaflets by outward and/or apical displacement of the papillary muscles and their supporting LV walls (3,4), reduced LV systolic function (5), and abnormal LV shape (6), alone or in combination, ...
Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Interventions - April 22, 2013 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research

Pregnancy and treatment outcome in a patient with left ventricular non-compaction
Left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC) is a rare form of cardiomyopathy. This case reviews a woman with familial LVNC (EF 45%, NYHA class I, evidence of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia pre-pregnancy) who had significant decompensation with heart failure in the third trimester that required early delivery. Deterioration in symptoms and LV function 7 days after delivery required further hospitalization and aggressive treatment. Suppression of lactation with bromocriptine, together with standard heart failure management, has allowed recovery and return to full activities and work. Acknowledged adverse risk factors in LV...
Source: European Journal of Heart Failure - April 22, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Sawant, R. D., Freeman, L. J., Stanley, K. P. S., McKelvey, A. Tags: CASE REPORTS Source Type: research

Stress-dependent dilated cardiomyopathy in mice with cardiomyocyte-restricted inactivation of cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase I
Conclusion These results indicate that the loss of cGKI in cardiac myocytes compromises the hypertrophic program to pathological stimulation, rendering the heart more susceptible to dysfunction. In particular, cGKI mediates stimulatory effects of CNP on myocyte Ca2+i handling and contractility. (Source: European Heart Journal)
Source: European Heart Journal - April 21, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Frantz, S., Klaiber, M., Baba, H. A., Oberwinkler, H., Volker, K., Gassner, B., Bayer, B., Abesser, M., Schuh, K., Feil, R., Hofmann, F., Kuhn, M. Tags: BASIC SCIENCE Source Type: research

Exome Sequencing and Genome-Wide Linkage Analysis in 17 Families Illustrate the Complex Contribution of TTN Truncating Variants to Dilated Cardiomyopathy [Original Articles]
Conclusions— These data suggest that TTN truncating variants contribute to DCM cause. However, the lack of segregation of all identified TTN truncating variants illustrates the challenge of determining variant pathogenicity even with full exome sequencing. (Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Genetics)
Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Genetics - April 16, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Norton, N., Li, D., Rampersaud, E., Morales, A., Martin, E. R., Zuchner, S., Guo, S., Gonzalez, M., Hedges, D. J., Robertson, P. D., Krumm, N., Nickerson, D. A., Hershberger, R. E., on behalf of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute GO Exome Seque Tags: Clinical genetics, Genomics, Genetics of cardiovascular disease Original Articles Source Type: research

MOG1 Rescues Defective Trafficking of Nav1.5 Mutations in Brugada Syndrome and Sick Sinus Syndrome [Original Articles]
Conclusions— Use of MOG1 to enhance Nav1.5 trafficking to PM may be a potential personalized therapeutic approach for some patients with Brugada syndrome, dilated cardiomyopathy, and sick sinus syndrome in the future. (Source: Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology)
Source: Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology - April 16, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Chakrabarti, S., Wu, X., Yang, Z., Wu, L., Yong, S. L., Zhang, C., Hu, K., Wang, Q. K., Chen, Q. Tags: Arrythmias-basic studies, Arrhythmias, clinical electrophysiology, drugs Original Articles Source Type: research

Congenital posterior pole cataract and adult onset dilating cardiomyopathy: expanding the phenotype of αB-crystallinopathies.
This report describes a family with an unusual read-through mutation in CRYAB, leading to the elongation of the normal αB-crystallin protein with 19 amino acid residues. Affected family members combine a CPPC with an adult onset dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), thereby expanding the αB-crystallinopathy phenotype. Repolarisation abnormalities preceded the onset of cardiomyopathy and were already present in childhood. No skeletal myopathy was observed. This report illustrates that congenital cataract can be a prelude to more severe disease even outside the context of inborn errors of metabolism. The identification of a CRYAB ...
Source: Clinical Genetics - April 16, 2013 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: van der Smagt J, Vink A, Kirkels J, Nelen M, Ter Heide H, Molenschot M, Weger R, Schellekens P, Hoogendijk J, Dooijes D Tags: Clin Genet Source Type: research

Four-dimensional blood flow-specific markers of LV dysfunction in dilated cardiomyopathy
Conclusion Despite equivalent LVSVs, HF patients with mild LV remodelling demonstrate altered diastolic flow routes through the LV and impaired preservation of inflow KE at pre-systole compared with healthy subjects. These unique flow-specific changes in the flow route and energetics are detectable despite clinical compensation, and may prove useful as subclinical markers of LV dysfunction. (Source: European Journal of Echocardiography)
Source: European Journal of Echocardiography - April 15, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Eriksson, J., Bolger, A. F., Ebbers, T., Carlhall, C.-J. Tags: ORIGINAL PAPERS Source Type: research

Effect of pimobendan in addition to standard therapy for heart failure on prevention of readmission in elderly patients with severe chronic heart failure
ConclusionsPimobendan in conjunction with conventional therapy for heart failure decreases the readmission rate in elderly patients with severe heart failure for at least 2 years. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; ●●: ●●–●●. (Source: Geriatrics and Gerontology International)
Source: Geriatrics and Gerontology International - April 15, 2013 Category: Geriatrics Authors: Hiroaki Kawano, Shuji Arakawa, Osami Satoh, Yuji Matsumoto, Motonobu Hayano, Daisuke Nakatomi, Toshihiko Yamasa, Koji Maemura Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research

Development of a enterovirus diagnostic assay system for diagnosis of viral myocarditis in humans
Abstract The coxsackieviruses type B3 (CVB3) are members of the genus Enterovirus of the family Picornaviridae. They are the commonest cause of chronic myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy. However, there is still no effective method for diagnosing CVB3 infection in humans. Here, a fast and accurate system that uses a capsid‐protein‐specific peptide sequence to detect CVB3 in the sera of patients with viral myocarditis was established. The peptide sequence was selected from the whole CVB3 capsid protein sequence by computationally predicting fragments with high antigenicity and low hydrophobicity. Two of eight possib...
Source: Microbiology and Immunology - April 15, 2013 Category: Microbiology Authors: Byung‐Kwan Lim, Eun‐Seon Ju, Dieu Hung Lao, Soo‐Hyeon Yun, Yoo‐Jung Lee, Duk‐Kyung Kim, Eun‐Seok Jeon Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Clinical and functional capacity of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy after four years of transplantation
CONCLUSION: Survival of heart transplant patients was equivalent to about 70%. The results of this study before the 6WT showed that patients' cardiovascular responses are below the estimated, nevertheless within the normal range established. (Source: Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Cardiovascular)
Source: Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Cardiovascular - April 12, 2013 Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Source Type: research

Current Status of Surgical Ventricular Restoration for Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Over the past 3 decades, several observational studies established a role for surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) in the treatment of ischemic cardiomyopathy. In 2009, the Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure (STICH) trial reported their findings and found no benefit of adding SVR to coronary artery bypass surgery in ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. The STICH findings precipitated a decline in interest in SVR. In this article, we review the historical background and observational data that established a role for SVR. We critically review the STICH trial, and contend that the limitations are such that the study ...
Source: Seminars in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - April 12, 2013 Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Hisayoshi Suma, Anelechi C. Anyanwu Tags: State of the Art Source Type: research

Retrospective evaluation of antibody index of human parvovirus B19 as a prognostic factor in patients with dilated and ischemic cardiomyopathy
Abstract Cardiotropic viral infections are important causative factors in dilated cardiomyopathy. This retrospective study examined the antibody index for human parvovirus B19 in patients suffering from dilated or ischemic cardiomyopathy as a prognostic factor for stable left ventricular function. Blood specimens from 43 patients with the diagnosis of dilated or ischemic cardiomyopathy were analyzed for human parvovirus B19 by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme immunoassay kit for qualitative determination of IgG and IgM antibodies. To exclude patients with acute myocarditis, only patients with onset of symptoms mo...
Source: Journal of Medical Virology - April 12, 2013 Category: Virology Authors: Konstantin Zedtwitz‐Liebenstein, Oliver Robak, Heinz Burgmann, Michael Frass Tags: Research Article Source Type: research

Back to the future! Bold new indication for pulmonary artery banding
Rarely, a report enters the literature that becomes a clinical game-changer. This month’s issue of the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation contains a report with just such potential. Clinical investigators Schranz et al, in their article, “Pulmonary artery banding in infants and young children with left ventricular dilated cardiomyopathy: A novel therapeutic strategy before heart transplantation,” postulated that among infants aged (Source: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation)
Source: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation - April 11, 2013 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: Leonard L. Bailey Tags: Editorial Commentary Source Type: research

‘State-of-the-heart’ of cardiac laminopathies
Purpose of review: LMNA gene encodes the nuclear A-type lamins. LMNA mutations are associated with more than 10 clinical entities and represent one of the first causes of inherited dilated cardiomyopathy. LMNA-dilated cardiomyopathy is associated with conduction disease (DCM-CD) and is a severe and aggressive form of DCM. However, pathogenesis remains largely unknown and no specific treatment is currently available for the patients. In this review, we present recent discoveries that improve the understanding of the cardiac pathophysiological roles of A-type lamins and shed light on potential therapeutic targets. Recent fin...
Source: Current Opinion in Cardiology - April 10, 2013 Category: Cardiology Tags: MOLECULAR GENETICS: Edited by Ali J. Marian Source Type: research

The influence of atorvastatin on parameters of inflammation left ventricular function, hospitalizations and mortality in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy -- 5-year follow-up
Background: We assessed the influence of atorvastatin on selected indicators of an inflammatory condition, left ventricular function, hospitalizations and mortality in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Methods: We included 68 DCM patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (Source: Lipids in Health and Disease)
Source: Lipids in Health and Disease - April 8, 2013 Category: Lipidology Authors: Agata Bielecka-DabrowaDimitri MikhailidisManfredi RizzoStephan von HaehlingJacek RyszMaciej Banach Source Type: research

The influence of atorvastatin on parameters of inflammation left ventricular function, hospitalizations and mortality in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy ¿ 5-year follow-up
Background: We assessed the influence of atorvastatin on selected indicators of an inflammatory condition, left ventricular function, hospitalizations and mortality in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Methods: We included 68 DCM patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (Source: Lipids in Health and Disease)
Source: Lipids in Health and Disease - April 8, 2013 Category: Lipidology Authors: Agata Bielecka-DabrowaDimitri MikhailidisManfredi RizzoStephan von HaehlingJacek RyszMaciej Banach Source Type: research

Thrombosis and embolism in pediatric cardiomyopathy
The management of cardiomyopathy in pediatric patients is complicated by the risk of cardiac-associated embolism. This review examines the incidence, risk factors, and treatment of embolism in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM), and noncompaction of the left ventricular myocardium (NLVM) in children. The reported incidence of embolism for DCM ranges from 1 to 16%. Left ventricular ejection fraction below 25% or fractional shortening below 15% are major risk factors for intracardiac thrombus formation in this group. The risk of embolism for RCM ranges from 12 to 33%. Atrial dilation is considered...
Source: Blood Coagulation and Fibrinolysis - April 1, 2013 Category: Hematology Tags: Review Article Source Type: research

Temporal Relationship of Conduction System Disease and Ventricular Dysfunction in LMNA Cardiomyopathy
Conclusions: ECG abnormalities preceded DCM with a median difference of 7 years. Clinical surveillance should occur at least annually in those at risk for LMNA cardiomyopathy with any ECG findings. (Source: Journal of Cardiac Failure)
Source: Journal of Cardiac Failure - April 1, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Chad Brodt, Jill D. Siegfried, Mark Hofmeyer, Jose Martel, Evadnie Rampersaud, Duanxiang Li, Ana Morales, Ray E. Hershberger Tags: Clinical Investigations Source Type: research

Family History of Dilated Cardiomyopathy among Patients with Heart Failure from the HF‐ACTION Genetic Ancillary Study
ConclusionAt least 8.5% of patients with nonischemic etiology in the HF‐ACTION genetic ancillary study provided FH indicating familial DCM, information important to inform further genetic analyses of this cohort and to plan other studies. (Source: Clinical and Translational Science)
Source: Clinical and Translational Science - April 1, 2013 Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Laura Hudson, Ana Morales, Ana Clara Mauro, David Whellan, Kirkwood F. Adams, Christopher M. O'Connor, Ray E. Hershberger Tags: Article Source Type: research

Anesthesia for Ventricular Assist Device Placement in Pediatric Patients: Experience From a Single Center
Conclusion: VAD is increasingly being used as a bridge to heart transplantation in the pediatric population. Anesthesiologists must be vigilant about the pathophysiology of heart failure, the operative procedure, and the implanted device. (Source: Transplantation Proceedings)
Source: Transplantation Proceedings - April 1, 2013 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: S. Kocabas, F.Z. Askar, T. Yagdi, C. Engin, M. Ozbaran Tags: Thoracic Transplantation Source Type: research

Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation in Heart Failure Patients With a Left Ventricular Thrombus
Conclusion: We believe that patients with a LV thrombus and preserved right ventricular function are good candidates for implantation of a LVAD after removing the intracavitary thrombus. (Source: Transplantation Proceedings)
Source: Transplantation Proceedings - April 1, 2013 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: C. Engin, T. Yagdi, O. Balcioglu, S. Erkul, B. Baysal, E. Oguz, F. Ayik, P. Ozturk, M. Ozbaran Tags: Thoracic Transplantation Source Type: research

Effect of Aortic Valve Movements on Gastrointestinal Bleeding That Occured in Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Patients
Conclusion: In addition to aortic valve movements, we believe that a GI bleeding history was an equally important factor predisposing to this complication. (Source: Transplantation Proceedings)
Source: Transplantation Proceedings - April 1, 2013 Category: Transplant Surgery Authors: O. Balcioglu, C. Engin, T. Yagdi, S. Nalbantgil, B. Baysal, S. Erkul, Y. Engin, I. Kutlayey, M. Ozbaran Tags: Thoracic Transplantation Source Type: research

Low-dose dobutamine induces left ventricular mechanical dyssynchrony in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and a narrow QRS: a study using real-time three-dimensional echocardiography.
CONCLUSIONS: Dobutamine may induce LV mechanical dyssynchrony in a substantial proportion of patients with DCM and a narrow QRS. In such cases, regional LV contractile reserve does not fully contribute to an increase in global LVSV. PMID: 23473770 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Journal of Cardiology)
Source: Journal of Cardiology - April 1, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Yagishita-Tagawa Y, Abe Y, Arai K, Yagishita D, Takagi A, Ashihara K, Shoda M, Naruko T, Itoh A, Haze K, Yoshikawa J, Hagiwara N Tags: J Cardiol Source Type: research

MiR-10a* up-regulates coxsackievirus B3 biosynthesis by targeting the 3D-coding sequence
In this study, we found that the miR-10a duplex could significantly up-regulate the biosynthesis of CVB type 3 (CVB3). Further study showed that it was the miR-10a star strand (miR-10a*) that augmented CVB3 biosynthesis. Site-directed mutagenesis showed that the miR-10a* target was located in the nt6818–nt6941 sequence of the viral 3D-coding region. MiR-10a* was detectable in the cardiac tissues of suckling Balb/c mice, suggesting that miR-10a* may impact CVB3 replication during its cardiac infection. Taken together, these data for the first time show that miRNA* can positively modulate gene expression. MiR-10a* migh...
Source: Nucleic Acids Research - March 31, 2013 Category: Research Authors: Tong, L., Lin, L., Wu, S., Guo, Z., Wang, T., Qin, Y., Wang, R., Zhong, X., Wu, X., Wang, Y., Luan, T., Wang, Q., Li, Y., Chen, X., Zhang, F., Zhao, W., Zhong, Z. Tags: RNA Source Type: research

Cardiomyopathies: Prognostic value of myocardial fibrosis in patients with DCM
Nature Reviews Cardiology 10, 298 (2013). doi:10.1038/nrcardio.2013.45 A prospective, longitudinal study has indicated that late gadolinium enhancement CMR imaging for the assessment of midwall fibrosis might be useful in the risk stratification of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. The investigators compared 142 patients determined to have midwall fibrosis with 330 patients without fibrosis. (Source: Nature Reviews Cardiology)
Source: Nature Reviews Cardiology - March 26, 2013 Category: Cardiology Tags: Research Highlight Source Type: research

Successful Treatment of Pump Pocket Infection after Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation by Negative Pressure Wound Therapy and Omental Transposition.
Abstract A 52-year-old man suffering from dilated cardiomyopathy underwent implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) insertion as a bridge to transplantation. He presented with evidence of LVAD-related mediastinitis and pump pocket infection 57 days after the LVAD implantation. The mediastinum was reopened and irrigated. A large amount of pus was observed around the outflow and inflow conduits and in the pump pocket. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) was initiated. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was isolated from blood and mediastinal pus. Enterobacter cloacae was also isolated by m...
Source: Annals of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - March 26, 2013 Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Kimura M, Nishimura T, Kinoshita O, Okada S, Inafuku H, Kyo S, Ono M Tags: Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg Source Type: research

Clinical markers of organ dysfunction associated with increased 1-year mortality post-implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation
Conclusions Clinical markers of liver dysfunction, recent mechanical ventilation, and renal impairment were independently associated with increased 1 year mortality. Presence of more than one clinical marker of organ dysfunction was associated with significantly increased risk of mortality in our study. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - March 25, 2013 Category: Cardiology Authors: Chong, D., Tan, B. Y., Ho, K. L., Liew, R., Teo, W. S., Ching, C. K. Tags: Sudden death and ICDs Source Type: research

Activation of Cardiac Fibroblasts by Ethanol Is Blocked by TGF‐β Inhibition
ConclusionsEtOH treatment directly promotes cardiac fibroblast activation by stimulating TGF‐β release from fibroblasts. Inhibiting the action of TGF‐β decreases the fibrogenic effect induced by EtOH treatment. The results of this study support TGF‐β to be an important component in cardiac fibrosis induced by exposure to EtOH. (Source: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research)
Source: Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research - March 25, 2013 Category: Addiction Authors: Brittany A. Law, Wayne E. Carver Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Activation of Cardiac Fibroblasts by Ethanol Is Blocked by TGF-β Inhibition.
CONCLUSIONS: EtOH treatment directly promotes cardiac fibroblast activation by stimulating TGF-β release from fibroblasts. Inhibiting the action of TGF-β decreases the fibrogenic effect induced by EtOH treatment. The results of this study support TGF-β to be an important component in cardiac fibrosis induced by exposure to EtOH. PMID: 23528014 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research)
Source: Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research - March 25, 2013 Category: Addiction Authors: Law BA, Carver WE Tags: Alcohol Clin Exp Res Source Type: research