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  • 1. Ahmeti, Artan
    et al.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine. Molecular & Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George University London.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Haliti, Edmond
    Poniku, Afrim
    Batalli, Arlind
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina.
    Quality of life questionnaire predicts poor exercise capacity only in HFpEF and not in HFrEF2017In: BMC Cardiovascular Disorders, ISSN 1471-2261, E-ISSN 1471-2261, Vol. 17, article id 268Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: The Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) is the most widely used measure of quality of life (QoL) in HF patients. This prospective study aimed to assess the relationship between QoL and exercise capacity in HF patients.

    Methods: The study subjects were 118 consecutive patients with chronic HF (62 +/- 10 years, 57 females, in NYHA I-III). Patients answered a MLHFQ questionnaire in the same day of complete clinical, biochemical and echocardiographic assessment. They also underwent a 5 min walk test (6-MWT), in the same day, which grouped them into; Group I: <= 300 m and Group II: > 300 m. In addition, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF), divided them into: Group A, with preserved EF (HFpEF) and Group B with reduced EF (HFrEF).

    Results: The mean MLHFQ total scale score was 48 (+/- 17). The total scale, and the physical and emotional functional MLHFQ scores did not differ between HFpEF and HFpEF. Group I patients were older (p = 0.003), had higher NYHA functional class (p = 0.002), faster baseline heart rate (p = 0.006), higher prevalence of smoking (p = 0.015), higher global, physical and emotional MLHFQ scores (p < 0.001, for all), larger left atrial (LA) diameter (p = 0.001), shorter LV filling time (p = 0.027), higher E/e' ratio (0.02), shorter isovolumic relaxation time (p = 0.028), lower septal a' (p = 0.019) and s' (p = 0.023), compared to Group II. Independent predictors of 6-MWT distance for the group as a whole were increased MLHFQ total score (p = 0.005), older age (p = 0.035), and diabetes (p = 0.045), in HFpEF were total MLHFQ (p = 0.007) and diabetes (p = 0.045) but in HFrEF were only LA enlargement (p = 0.005) and age (p = 0.013. A total MLHFQ score of 48.5 had a sensitivity of 67% and specificity of 63% (AUC on ROC analysis of 72%) for limited exercise performance in HF patients.

    Conclusions: Quality of life, assessment by MLHFQ, is the best correlate of exercise capacity measured by 6-MWT, particularly in HFpEF patients. Despite worse ejection fraction in HFrEF, signs of raised LA pressure independently determine exercise capacity in these patients.

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  • 2.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Berisha, G.
    Bytyci, I.
    Haliti, E.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ahmeti, A.
    Poniku, A.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    The presence of metabolic syndrome predicts long-term outcome in heart failure patients2015In: European Heart Journal, ISSN 0195-668X, E-ISSN 1522-9645, Vol. 36, p. 831-831Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 3.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bytyci, I.
    Ahmeti, A.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Poniku, A.
    Haliti, E.
    Batalli, A.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Left atrial emptying function predicts long-term outcome in HFpEF patients2015In: European Heart Journal, ISSN 0195-668X, E-ISSN 1522-9645, Vol. 36, p. 1183-1183Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 4.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bytyci, I.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Hyseni, V.
    Berisha, G.
    Rexhepaj, N.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    The relationship between left atrial emptying function and exercise capacity in heart failure2014In: European Heart Journal, ISSN 0195-668X, E-ISSN 1522-9645, Vol. 35, no Supplement 1, Meeting abstract P2776, p. 510-510Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 5.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Kosovo, Prishtina; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Kosovo, Prishtina.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Kosovo, Prishtina; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Kosovo, Prishtina.
    Abdyli, Genc
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Kosovo, Prishtina; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Kosovo, Prishtina.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Kosovo, Prishtina.
    Bajraktari, Artan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Kosovo, Prishtina.
    Karahoda, Rona
    Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Kosovo, Prishtina; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Kosovo, Prishtina.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    One-month dual antiplatelet therapy reduces major bleeding compared with longer-term treatment without excess stent thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials2024In: American Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0002-9149, E-ISSN 1879-1913, Vol. 227, p. 91-97Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) remains the gold standard in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the clinical safety of 1-month DAPT followed by aspirin or a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor after PCI with drug-eluting stents (DES). We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Registry, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases and identified 5 randomized controlled trials with 29,831 patients who underwent PCI with DES and compared 1-month versus >1-month DAPT. The primary end point was major bleeding, and the co-primary end point was stent thrombosis. The secondary end point included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and major adverse cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events. Compared with >1-month DAPT, the 1-month DAPT was associated with a lower rate of major bleeding (odds ratio [OR] 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45 to 0.97, p = 0.03, I2 = 71%), whereas stent thrombosis had a similar rate in both study groups (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.44, p = 0.60, I2 = 0.0%). The study groups had similar risks for all-cause mortality (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.04, p = 0.14, I2 = 0.0%), cardiovascular death (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.19, p = 0.32, I2 = 0.0%), myocardial infarction (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.21, p = 0.62, I2 = 0.0%), and stroke (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.05, p = 0.11, I2 = 6%). The risk of major adverse cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events was lower (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.97, p = 0.02, I2 = 25%) in the 1-month DAPT compared with >1-month DAPT. In conclusion, in patients who underwent PCI with DES, 1-month DAPT followed by aspirin or a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor reduced major bleeding with no risk of increased thrombotic risk compared with longer-term DAPT.

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  • 6.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Abdyli, Genc
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Pllana-Pruthi, Edita
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Karahoda, Rona
    Research Unit, Heimerer College, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Batalli, Arlind
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Poniku, Afrim
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Shatri, Mentor
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Gashi, Drilon
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Artan
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Shatri, Faik
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina,Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    The rationale and design of the KOSovan Acute Coronary Syndrome (KOS-ACS) Registry2024In: Diagnostics, ISSN 2075-4418, Vol. 14, no 14, article id 1486Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The KOSovan Acute Coronary Syndrome (KOS-ACS) Registry is established as a prospective, continuous, nationwide, web-based registry that is operated online. The KOS-ACS registry is designed with the following objectives: (1) to obtain data on the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of ACS patients treated in Kosovo; (2) to create a national database with information on health care in ACS patients treated in Kosovo; (3) to identify the national features of associations between ACS characteristics and clinical outcomes, including mortality, complications, the length of hospital stay, and the quality of clinical care; and (4) to propose a practical guide for improving the quality and efficiency of ACS treatment in Kosovo. The Kosovo Society of Cardiology and University of Prishtina will be responsible for the development of the KOS-ACS registry and centralized data analysis at the national level. The KOS-ACS Registry will enroll all patients admitted, at any of the registered clinical centers, with the diagnosis of ACS and who will be clinically managed at any of the Kosovo hospitals. Data on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, previous and hospital drug treatment, and reperfusion therapy will be collected. The type of ACS (unstable angina, NSTEMI, or STEMI) will also be clearly defined. The time from first medical contact to balloon inflation (FMC-to-balloon) and door-to-ballon time will be registered. In-hospital death and complications will be registered. Data on the post-hospital primary outcome (MACE: cardiac death, all-cause mortality, hospitalization, stroke, need for coronary revascularization) of patients, at 30 days and 1 year, will be included in the registry.

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  • 7.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina.
    Jashari, Haki
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo..
    Alfonso, Fernando
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ndrepepa, Gjin
    Elezi, Shpend
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Comparison of drug-eluting balloon versus drug-eluting stent treatment of drug-eluting stent in-stent restenosis: A meta-analysis of available evidence2016In: International Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0167-5273, E-ISSN 1874-1754, Vol. 218, p. 126-135Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: In-stent restenosis (ISR) remains an important concern despite the recent advances in the drug-eluting stent (DES) technology. The introduction of drug-eluting balloons (DEB) offers a good solution to such problem.

    OBJECTIVES: We performed a meta-analysis to assess the clinical efficiency and safety of DEB compared with DES in patients with DES-ISR.

    METHODS: A systematic search was conducted and all randomized and observational studies which compared DEB with DES in patients with DES-ISR were included. The primary outcome measure-major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)-as well as individual events as target lesion revascularization (TLR), stent thrombosis (ST), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac death (CD) and all-cause mortality, were analyzed.

    RESULTS: Three randomized and 4 observational studies were included with a total of 2052 patients. MACE (relative risk [RR]=1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68 to 1.46, P=0.99), TLR (RR=1.15 [CI 0.79 to 1.68], P=0.44), ST (RR=0.37[0.10 to 1.34], P=0.13), MI (RR=0.97 [0.49 to 1.91], P=0.93) and CD (RR=0.73 [0.22 to 2.45], P=0.61) were not different between patients treated with DEB and with DES. However, all-cause mortality was lower in patients treated with DEB (RR=0.45 [0.23 to 0.87, P=0.019) and in particular when compared to only first generation DES (RR 0.33 [0.15-0.74], P=0.007). There was no statistical evidence for publication bias.

    CONCLUSIONS: The results of this meta-analysis showed that DEB and DES have similar efficacy and safety for the treatment of DES-ISR.

  • 8.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova; Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
    Jashari, Haki
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova.
    Alfonso, Fernando
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
    Ndrepepa, Gjin
    Elezi, Shpend
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. St George University, London, UK.
    Complete revascularization for patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis of randomized trials2018In: Coronary Artery Disease, ISSN 0954-6928, E-ISSN 1473-5830, Vol. 29, no 3, p. 204-215Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Introduction: Despite the recent findings in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with limited sample sizes and the updates in clinical guidelines, the current available data for the complete revascularization (CR) in hemodynamically stable patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) at the time of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are still contradictory.

    Aim: The aim of this meta-analysis of the existing RCTs was to assess the efficacy of the CR versus revascularization of infarct-related artery (IRA) only during primary PCI in patients with STEMI and multivessel disease (MVD).

    Patients and methods: We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and ClinicalTrials.gov databases aiming to find RCTs for patients with STEMI and MVD which compared CR with IRA-only. Random effect risk ratios (RRs) were calculated for efficacy and safety outcomes.

    Results: Ten RCTs with 3291 patients were included. The median follow-up duration was 17.5 months. Major adverse cardiac events (RR=0.57; 0.43-0.76; P<0.0001), cardiac mortality (RR=0.52; 0.31-0.87; P=0.014), and repeat revascularization (RR=0.50; 0.30-0.84; P=0.009) were lower in CR compared with IRA-only strategies. However, there was no significant difference in the risk of all-cause mortality, recurrent nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, major bleeding events, and contrast-induced nephropathy.

    Conclusion: For patients with STEMI and MVD undergoing primary PCI, the current evidence suggests that the risk of major adverse cardiac events, repeat revascularization, and cardiac death is reduced by CR. However, the risk for all-cause mortality and PCI-related complications is not different from the isolated culprit lesion-only treatment. Although these findings support the cardiac mortality and safety benefit of CR in stable STEMI, further large trials are required to provide better guidance for optimum management of such patients.

  • 9.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Jashari, Haki
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Elezi, S.
    Ndrepepa, G.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Comparison of drug-eluting balloon versus drug-eluting stent treatment of DES in-stent restenosis: a meta-analysis of randomized and observational studies2016In: European Heart Journal, ISSN 0195-668X, E-ISSN 1522-9645, Vol. 37, p. 670-670Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 10.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
    Kurtishi, Ilir
    Rexhepaj, Nehat
    Tafarshiku, Rina
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Alihajdari, Rrezarta
    Batalli, Arlind
    Elezi, Shpend
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Gender related predictors of limited exercise capacity in heart failure2013In: IJC Heart & Vessels, ISSN 2214-7632, Vol. 1, p. 11-16Article in journal (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of gender on the prediction of limited exercise capacity in heart failure (HF) patients assessed by 6 minute walk test (6-MWT).

    Methods In 147 HF patients (mean age 61 ± 11 years, 50.3% male), a 6-MWT and a Doppler echocardiographic study were performed in the same day. Conventional cardiac measurements were obtained and global LV dyssynchrony was indirectly assessed using total isovolumic time − t-IVT [in s/min; calculated as: 60 − (total ejection time − total filling time)] and Tei index (t-IVT/ejection time). Patients were divided into two groups according to gender, which were again divided into two subgroups based on the 6-MWT distance (Group I: ≤ 300 m, and Group II: > 300 m).

    Results Female patients were younger (p = 0.02), and had higher left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction — EF (p = 0.007) but with similar 6-MWT distance to male patients (p = 68). Group I male patients had lower hemoglobin level (p = 0.02) and lower EF (p = 0.03), compared with Group II, but none of the clinical or echocardiographic variables differed between groups in female patients. In multivariate analysis, only t-IVT [0.699 (0.552–0.886), p = 0.003], and LV EF [0.908 (0.835–0.987), p = 0.02] in males, and NYHA functional class [4.439 (2.213–16.24), p = 0.02] in females independently predicted poor 6-MWT distance (< 300 m).

    Conclusion Despite similar limited exercise capacity, gender determines the pattern of underlying cardiac disturbances; ventricular dysfunction in males and subjective NYHA class in female heart failure patients.

  • 11.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
    Nicoll, Rachel
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
    Schmermund, Axel
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Coronary calcium score correlates with estimate of total plaque burden2013In: International Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0167-5273, E-ISSN 1874-1754, Vol. 167, no 3, p. 1050-1052Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 12.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Heart Centre, Umeå.
    Pugliese, Nicola Riccardo
    D'Agostino, Andreina
    Rosa, Gian Marco
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Heart Centre, Umeå.
    Perçuku, Luan
    Miccoli, Mario
    Galeotti, Gian Giacomo
    Fabiani, Iacopo
    Pedrinelli, Roberto
    Henein, Michael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Heart Centre, Umeå.
    Dini, Frank L.
    Echo- and B-Type Natriuretic Peptide-Guided Follow-Up versus Symptom-Guided Follow-Up: Comparison of the Outcome in Ambulatory Heart Failure Patients2018In: Cardiology Research and Practice, ISSN 2090-8016, E-ISSN 2090-0597, article id 3139861Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Recent European Society of Cardiology and American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Guidelines did not recommend biomarker-guided therapy in the management of heart failure (HF) patients. Combination of echo- and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) may be an alternative approach in guiding ambulatory HF management. Our aim was to determine whether a therapy guided by echo markers of left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP), lung ultrasound (LUS) assessment of B-lines, and BNP improves outcomes of HF patients. Consecutive outpatients with LV ejection fraction (EF) <= 50% have been prospectively enrolled. In Group I (n=224), follow-up was guided by echo and BNP with the goal of achieving E-wave deceleration time (EDT) >= 150 ms, tissue Doppler index E/e' < 13, B-line numbers < 15, and BNP <= 125 pg/ml or decrease > 30%; in Group II (n=293), follow-up was clinically guided, while the remaining 277 patients (Group III) did not receive any dedicated follow-up. At 60 months, survival was 88% in Group I compared to 75% in Group II and 54% in Group III (chi(2) 53.5; p<0.0001). Survival curves exhibited statistically significant differences using Mantel-Cox analysis. The number needed to treat to spare one death was 7.9 (Group I versus Group II) and 3.8 (Group I versus Group III). At multivariate Cox regression analyses, major predictors of all-cause mortality were follow-up E/e' (HR: 1.05; p=0.0038) and BNP > 125 pg/ml or decrease <= 30% (HR: 4.90; p=0.0054), while BNP > 125 pg/ml or decrease <= 30% and B-line numbers >= 15 were associated with the combined end point of death and HF hospitalization. Evidence-based HF treatment guided by serum biomarkers and ultrasound with the goal of reducing elevated BNP and LVFP, and resolving pulmonary congestion was associated with better clinical outcomes and can be valuable in guiding ambulatory HF management.

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  • 13.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Rönn, Folke
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jensen, Steen M.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Combining electrical and global mechanical markers of LV dyssynchrony optimizes patient selection for cardiac resynchronization therapy2014Manuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
  • 14.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Rönn, Folke
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Jensen, Steen M.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Total isovolumic time, a marker of global left ventricular dyssynchrony, predicts response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in heart failure patients2014In: European Journal of Heart Failure, ISSN 1388-9842, E-ISSN 1879-0844, Vol. 16, no Sup. 2, p. 154-154Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 15.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Rönn, Folke
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Jensen, Steen M.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Total isovolumic time, a marker of global left ventricular dyssynchrony, predicts response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in heart failure patients with atrial fibrillation2014In: European Journal of Heart Failure, ISSN 1388-9842, E-ISSN 1879-0844, Vol. 16, p. 56-56Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 16.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Rönn, Folke
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Lindmark, Krister
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jensen, Steen M
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Combined electrical and global markers of dyssynchrony predict clinical response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy2014In: Scandinavian Cardiovascular Journal, ISSN 1401-7431, E-ISSN 1651-2006, Vol. 48, no 5, p. 304-310Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    AIM: To assess potential additional value of global left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony markers in predicting cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) response in heart failure (HF) patients. METHODS: We included 103 HF patients (mean age 67 +/- 12 years, 83% male) who fulfilled the guidelines criteria for CRT treatment. All patients had undergone full clinical assessment, NT-proBNP and echocardiographic examination. Global LV dyssynchrony was assessed using total isovolumic time (t-IVT) and Tei index. On the basis of reduction in the NYHA class after CRT, patients were divided into responders and non-responders. RESULTS: Prolonged t-IVT [0.878 (range, 0.802-0.962), p = 0.005], long QRS duration [0.978 (range, 0.960-0.996), p = 0.02] and high tricuspid regurgitation pressure drop [1.047 (range, 1.001-1.096), p = 0.046] independently predicted response to CRT. A t-IVT >= 11.6 s/min was 67% sensitive and 62% specifi c (AUC 0.69, p = 0.001) in predicting CRT response. Respective values for a QRS >= 151 ms were 66% and 62% (AUC 0.65, p = 0.01). Combining the two variables had higher specifi city (88%) in predicting CRT response. In atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, only prolonged t-IVT [0.690 (range, 0.509 -0.937), p = 0.03] independently predicted CRT response. CONCLUSION: Combining prolonged t-IVT and the conventionally used broad QRS duration has a significantly higher specifi city in identifying patients likely to respond to CRT. Moreover, in AF patients, only prolonged t-IVT independently predicted CRT response.

  • 17.
    Batalli, Arlind
    et al.
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine.
    Poniku, Afrim
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Pllana-Pruthi, Edita
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Shatri, Faik
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Abdyli, Genc
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Artan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Karahoda, Rona
    Research Unit, Heimerer College, 10000, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Selmani, Hamza
    Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Management and clinical outcome of myocardial infarction in Kosovo: a cross-sectional study2024In: Health Science Reports, E-ISSN 2398-8835, Vol. 7, no 10, article id e70122Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Aims: Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of mortality worldwide, irrespective of its presentation as non-ST-segment elevation MI (NSTEMI) or ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI). The objective of this study was to assess national results of management and clinical outcome of acute MI patients in Kosovo.

    Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study, conducted at the Clinic of Cardiology of the University Clinical Center of Kosovo, in Prishtina, included all patients hospitalized with acute MI over a period of 7 years (2014-2020). The primary outcome of the study was in-hospital mortality.

    Results: Among 7353 admitted patients with acute MI (mean age 63 ± 12 years, 29% female) and according to the final diagnosis, 4436 (59.4%) patients had STEMI, and 2987 (40.6%) NSTEMI. More patients with STEMI received primary percutaneous intervention (PPCI) than those with NSTEMI (50% vs. 41%, p < 0.001). In-hospital mortality was higher in no PPCI patients compared to PPCI both in NSTEMI (10.7% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.001) and STEMI (20.9% vs. 6.8%, p < 0.001). Age ≥65 years [0.399 (0.267–0.597), p ˂ 0.001], hemoglobin level [0.889 (0.815–0.970), p = 0.008], STEMI [0.491 (0.343–0.704), p ˂ 0.001], lack of PPCI [2.636 (1.798–3.866), p ˂ 0.001], cardiogenic shock [0.002 (0.001–0.006), p < 0.001], reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LV EF) [0.966 (0.951–0.980), p < 0.001], and heart rate at admission [1.009 (1.000–1.017), p = 0.047], independently predicted mortality. In STEMI, cardiogenic shock (p ˂ 0.001), lack of PPCI (p = 0.006), female gender (p = 0.01), and low LV EF (p = 0.04) predicted mortality but age ≥65 years (p = 0.02), female gender (p = 0.02), low LV EF (p = 0.007), and low hemoglobin (p = 0.04) predicted mortality in NSTEMI.

    Conclusion: Between 2014 and 2020, half of patients with acute MI were not treated with PPCI, who had high mortality, particularly when presenting with STEMI. Age, cardiogenic shock, anemia, low LV EF, STEMI and no PPCI independently predicted mortality. Cardiogenic shock and lack of PPCI independently predicted mortality, only in STEMI.

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  • 18. Batalli, Arlind
    et al.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, "Rrethi i Spitalit", p.n., Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bytyçi, Ibadete
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine.
    Ahmeti, Artan
    Haliti, Edmond
    Elezi, Shpend
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George University London, London, United Kingdom.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, “Rrethi i Spitalit”, p.n., Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Different determinants of exercise capacity in HFpEF compared to HFrEF2017In: Cardiovascular Ultrasound, E-ISSN 1476-7120, Vol. 15, no 1, article id 12Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: Quality of life is as important as survival in heart failure (HF) patients. Controversies exist with regards to echocardiographic determinants of exercise capacity in HF, particularly in patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The aim of this study was to prospectively examine echocardiographic parameters that correlate and predict functional exercise capacity assessed by 6 min walk test (6-MWT) in patients with HFpEF.

    METHODS: In 111 HF patients (mean age 63 ± 10 years, 47% female), an echo-Doppler study and a 6-MWT were performed in the same day. Patients were divided into two groups based on the 6-MWT distance (Group I: ≤ 300 m and Group II: >300 m).

    RESULTS: Group I were older (p = 0.008), had higher prevalence of diabetes (p = 0.027), higher baseline heart rate (p = 0.004), larger left atrium - LA (p = 0.001), longer LV filling time - FT (p = 0.019), shorter isovolumic relaxation time (p = 0.037), shorter pulmonary artery acceleration time - PA acceleration time (p = 0.006), lower left atrial lateral wall myocardial velocity (a') (p = 0.018) and lower septal systolic myocardial velocity (s') (p = 0.023), compared with Group II. Patients with HF and reduced EF (HFrEF) had lower hemoglobin (p = 0.007), higher baseline heart rate (p = 0.005), higher NT-ProBNP (p = 0.001), larger LA (p = 0.004), lower septal s', e', a' waves, and septal mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE), shorter PA acceleration time (p < 0.001 for all), lower lateral MAPSE, higher E/A & E/e', and shorter LVFT (p = 0.001 for all), lower lateral e' (p = 0.009), s' (p = 0.006), right ventricular e' and LA emptying fraction (p = 0.012 for both), compared with HFpEF patients. In multivariate analysis, only LA diameter [2.676 (1.242-5.766), p = 0.012], and diabetes [0.274 (0.084-0.898), p = 0.033] independently predicted poor 6-MWT performance in the group as a whole. In HFrEF, age [1.073 (1.012-1.137), p = 0.018] and LA diameter [3.685 (1.348-10.071), p = 0.011], but in HFpEF, lateral s' [0.295 (0.099-0.882), p = 0.029], and hemoglobin level [0.497 (0.248-0.998), p = 0.049] independently predicted poor 6-MWT performance.

    CONCLUSIONS: In HF patients determinants of exercise capacity differ according to severity of overall LV systolic function, with left atrial enlargement in HFrEF and longitudinal systolic shortening in HFpEF as the the main determinants.

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  • 19. Batalli-Këpuska, Arbnora
    et al.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Umeå Heart Centre and Internal Medicine Clinic, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Zejnullahu, Murat
    Azemi, Mehmedali
    Shala, Mujë
    Batalli, Arlind
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Umeå Heart Centre.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Umeå Heart Centre.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Umeå Heart Centre.
    Abnormal systolic and diastolic myocardial function in obese asymptomatic adolescents2013In: International Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0167-5273, E-ISSN 1874-1754, Vol. 168, no 3, p. 2347-2351Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Structural and functional cardiac changes are known in obese adults. We aimed to assess the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cardiac function in overweight and obese asymptomatic adolescents. Ninety three healthy adolescents, aged 12.6±1.2years, received weight, height, BMI, waist, hips, waist/hips ratio assessment, hematology and biochemistry tests and an echocardiogram. Based on BMI, subjects were divided into: lean (L, n=32), overweight (Ov, n=33) and obese (Ob, n=32). Interventricular septal and LV posterior wall thickness were increased parallel to the BMI (L: 0.84±0.1cm, Ov: 0.88±0.1cm, Ob: 0.96±0.1cm, p<0.001, and L: 0.78±0.1cm, Ov: 0.8±0.1cm, Ob: 0.94±0.1cm, p<0.001, respectively) as were relative wall thickness (RWT) and mass index (LVMI) (L: 0.34±0.05, Ov: 0.34±0.05, Ob: 0.40±0.04, p<0.001, and L: 47.7±8.4g/m(2), Ov: 51.9±8.3g/m(2), Ob: 65.2±13.3g/m(2), p=0<001, respectively). LV early diastolic (E') lateral and septal velocities (L: 15.3±3.9cm/s, Ov: 13.6±4cm/s, Ob: 10.5±3.4cm/s, p<0.001, and L: 12.2±2.3cm/s, Ov: 11.1±2.4cm/s, Ob: 9.8±3.1cm/s, p=0.003, respectively), and systolic (S') velocities (L: 9.2±1.4cm/s, Ov: 9.3±2.3cm/s, Ob: 8.04±1.5cm/s, p=0.018, and L: 9.05±2.3cm/s, Ov: 9±2.4cm/s, Ob: 7.6±1.1cm/s, p=0.014, respectively) were all reduced, only in obese adolescents. LV lateral E' (r=-0.44, p<0.001) and S' (r=-0.29, p=0.005) correlated with BMI. In asymptomatic adolescents, LV wall is thicker and diastolic function impaired and correlate with BMI. These findings demonstrate early cardiac functional disturbances which might explain the known obesity risk for cardiac disease.

  • 20. Berisha, Gëzim
    et al.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of cardiology University Clinical Centre of Kosovo.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of cardiology University Clinical Centre of Kosovo.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    Rexhepaj, Nehat
    Elezi, Shpend
    Henein, Michael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Impaired left atrial reservoir function in metbolic syndrome predicts symptoms in HFpEF patients2015In: International Cardiovascular Forum Journal, ISSN 2410-2636, Vol. 4, p. 37-42Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Aim. The Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) has been shown to be independently associated with increased risk for incident heart failure (HF) and coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the additional effect of MetS on LA dysfunction in a group of patients with HF and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and its relationship with symptoms.

    Methods. This study included 194 consecutive patients (age 62 ± 9 years) with stable HFpEF. LV dimensions, ejection fraction (EF), mitral annulus peak systolic excursion (MAPSE), myocardial velocities (s’, e’ and a’), LA dimensions and volumes were measured. Total LA emptying fraction (LA EF) was measured by Simpson rule volumes. Based on the NCEP-ATP III criteria, patients were divided into two groups; MetS (n=95) and non-MetS (n=108) and were compared with 34 age and gender matched controls.

    Results. Age and gender were not different between patients and control neither between MetS and non-Met. LV dimensions, EF and longitudinal function indices were also not different. The MetS patients had higher LV mass index (p=0.038), lower septal and lateral e’ (p=0.003 and p=0.001, respectively) velocities, larger LA minimal volume (p=0.007) and lower LA EF (p<0.001) compared with the non-MetS patients. Age, LA EF and MetS independently predicted the NYHA class.

    Conclusions. Despite no difference in LV systolic function, patients with HFpEF and MetS have worse LA emptying fraction, compared with HFpEF and non-MetS patients. In addition, LA reservoir function impairment and MetS independently predict patients limiting symptoms, thus add to a better understanding of HFpEF.

  • 21.
    Berisha-Muharremi, Venera
    et al.
    Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Endocrinology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine.
    Dini, Frank L.
    Cardiovascular Diseases Unit 1, Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Department, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
    Haliti, Edmond
    Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Poniku, Afrim
    Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Batalli, Arlind
    Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Tafarshiku, Rina
    Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Endocrinology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo; Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Diabetes Is the Strongest Predictor of Limited Exercise Capacity in Chronic Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF)2022In: Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, E-ISSN 2297-055X, Vol. 9, article id 883615Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Aim: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a known risk factor in patients with heart failure (HF), but its impact on phenotypic presentations remains unclear. This study aimed to prospectively examine the relationship between T2DM and functional exercise capacity, assessed by the 6-min walk test (6-MWT) in chronic HF.

    Methods: We studied 344 chronic patients with HF (mean age 61 ± 10 years, 54% female) in whom clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric data were available and all patients underwent an echo-Doppler study and a 6-MWT on the same day. The 6-MWT distance divided the cohort into; Group I: those who managed ≤ 300 m and Group II: those who managed >300 m. Additionally, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF), estimated using the modified Simpson's method, classified patients into HF with preserved EF (HFpEF) and HF with reduced EF (HFrEF).

    Results: The results showed that 111/344 (32%) patients had T2DM, who had a higher prevalence of arterial hypertension (p = 0.004), higher waist/hips ratio (p = 0.041), higher creatinine (p = 0.008) and urea (p = 0.003), lower hemoglobin (p = 0.001), and they achieved shorter 6-MWT distance (p < 0.001) compared with those with no T2DM. Patients with limited exercise (<300 m) had higher prevalence of T2DM (p < 0.001), arterial hypertension (p = 0.004), and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.001), higher waist/hips ratio (p = 0.041), higher glucose level (p < 0.001), lower hemoglobin (p < 0.001), larger left atrium (LA) (p = 0.002), lower lateral mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) (p = 0.032), septal MAPSE (p < 0.001), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (p < 0.001), compared with those performing >300 m. In the cohort as a whole, multivariate analysis, T2DM (p < 0.001), low hemoglobin (p = 0.008), atrial fibrillation (p = 0.014), and reduced septal MAPSE (p = 0.021) independently predicted the limited 6-MWT distance. In patients with HFpEF, diabetes [6.083 (2.613–14.160), p < 0.001], atrial fibrillation [6.092 (1.769–20.979), p = 0.002], and septal MAPSE [0.063 (0.027–0.184), p = 0.002], independently predicted the reduced 6-MWT, whereas hemoglobin [0.786 (0.624–0.998), p = 0.049] and TAPSE [0.462 (0.214–0.988), p = 0.041] predicted it in patients with HFrEF.

    Conclusion: Predictors of exercise intolerance in patients with chronic HF differ according to LV systolic function, demonstrated as EF. T2DM seems the most powerful predictor of limited exercise capacity in patients with HFpEF.

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  • 22.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, Prishtina, Albania.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, Prishtina, Albania.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, Prishtina, Albania.
    Lindqvist, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, Prishtina, Albania.
    Henein, Michael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, Prishtina, Albania.
    The relationship between left atrial measurements and cavity pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis2018In: Journal of the American College of Cardiology, ISSN 0735-1097, E-ISSN 1558-3597, Vol. 71, no 11, p. 911-911Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 23.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    et al.
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Pranvera, Ibrahimi
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Berisha, Gezim
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Rexhepaj, Nehat
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Left atrial emptying fraction predicts limited exercise performance in heart failure patients2014In: IJC Heart and Vessels, ISSN 2214-7632, Vol. 4, p. 203-207Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aim: We aimed in this study to assess the role of left atrial (LA), in addition to left ventricular (LV) indices, in predicting exercise capacity in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods: This study included 88 consecutive patients (60 ± 10 years) with stable HF. LV end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions, ejection fraction (EF), mitral and tricuspid annulus peak systolic excursion (MAPSE and TAPSE), myocardial velocities (s′, e′ and a′), LA dimensions, LA volume and LA emptying fraction were measured. A 6-min walking test (6-MWT) distance was performed on the same day of the echocardiographic examination. Results: Patients with limited exercise performance (≤ 300 m) were older (p = 0.01), had higher NYHA functional class (p = 0.004), higher LV mass index (p = 0.003), larger LA (p = 0.002), lower LV EF (p = 0.009), larger LV end-systolic dimension (p = 0.007), higher E/A ratio (p = 0.03), reduced septal MAPSE (p < 0.001), larger LA end-systolic volume (p = 0.03), larger LA end-diastolic volume (p = 0.005) and lower LA emptying fraction (p < 0.001) compared with good performance patients. In multivariate analysis, only the LA emptying fraction [0.944 (0.898–0.993), p = 0.025] independently predicted poor exercise performance. An LA emptying fraction < 60% was 68% sensitive and 73% specific (AUC 0.73, p < 0.001) in predicting poor exercise performance. Conclusion: In heart failure patients, the impaired LA emptying function is the best predictor of poor exercise capacity. This finding highlights the need for routine LA size and function monitoring for better optimization of medical therapy in HF.

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  • 24.
    Henein, Michael
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Hällgren, Peter
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Holmgren, Anders
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Sörensen, Karen
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Diagnostic Radiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Kofoed, Klaus Fuglsang
    Larsen, Linnea Hornbech
    Hassager, Christian
    Aortic root, not valve, calcification correlates with coronary artery calcification in patients with severe aortic stenosis: a two-center study2015In: Atherosclerosis, ISSN 0021-9150, E-ISSN 1879-1484, Vol. 243, no 2, p. 631-637Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND: The underlying pathology in aortic stenosis (AS) and coronary artery stenosis (CAS) is similar including atherosclerosis and calcification. We hypothesize that coronary artery calcification (CAC) is likely to correlate with aortic root calcification (ARC) rather than with aortic valve calcification (AVC), due to tissue similarity between the two types of vessel rather than with the valve leaflet tissue.

    MATERIAL AND METHODS: We studied 212 consecutive patients (age 72.5 ± 7.9 years, 91 females) with AS requiring aortic valve replacement (AVR) in two Heart Centers, who underwent multidetector cardiac CT preoperatively. CAC, AVC and ARC were quantified using Agatston scoring. Correlations were tested by Spearman's test and Mann-Whitney U-test was used for comparing different subgroups; bicuspid (BAV) vs tricuspid (TAV) aortic valve.

    RESULTS: CAC was present in 92%, AVC in 100% and ARC in 82% of patients. CAC correlated with ARC (rho = 0.51, p < 0.001) but not with AVC. The number of calcified coronary arteries correlated with ARC (rho = 0.45, p < 0.001) but not with AVC. 29/152 patients had echocardiographic evidence of BAV and 123 TAV, who were older (p < 0.001) but CAC was associated with TAV even after adjusting for age (p = 0.01). AVC score was associated with BAV after adjusting for age (p = 0.03) but ARC was not. Of the total cohort, 82 patients (39%) had significant coronary stenosis (>50%), but these were not different in the pattern of calcification from those without CAS. CAC was consistently higher in patients with risk factors for atherosclerosis compared to those without.

    CONCLUSION: The observed relationship between coronary and aortic root calcification suggests a diffuse arterial disease. The lack of relationship between coronary and aortic valve calcification suggests a different pathology.

  • 25.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Patterns of non-invasive imaging of carotid atherosclerosis2015Doctoral thesis, comprehensive summary (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease that can be generalized, affecting more than one arterial bed simultaneously, or localized, manifested in one system. Ultrasound based measurements of plaque textural features, such as low grey scale median (GSM), echolucent (hypoechoic) plaque types and juxtaluminal black (hypoechoic) area (JBA) are manifestation of potentially unstable lesions. Conventional carotid IMT (intima media thickness) and the recently introduced IM-GSM (echogenicity of the intima media complex) are important measures of subclinical atherosclerosis and are used to predict future ischemic events.

    The aims of this thesis were to study, in detail, the systemic nature of atherosclerosis by evaluating the carotid disease burden contralateral to symptomatic arteries, determining the relationship between proximal (subclinical atherosclerosis) and distal segments (well established disease) of the same artery and comparing local plaque features with systemic burden of atherosclerosis disease. In addition, the effect of statins on carotid plaque echogenicity was evaluated in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    Methods:

    We have measured ultrasound-based textural carotid plaque features (GSM, JBA, entropy, coarseness), surface morphology, as well as IMT and IM-GSM. An in-house custom developed research software package was used for plaque feature extraction. For the meta-analysis we used Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version 3 software.

    Results:

    Study 1. In 39 patients, the carotid plaques contralateral to symptomatic arteries had similar morphological and textural features to those in the symptomatic arteries and are more vulnerable than those in asymptomatic arteries; more often mildly or markedly irregular with more vulnerable textural plaque features (lower GSM and larger JBA).

    Study 2. In 87 asymptomatic patients, an increased IMT in CCA correlated with plaque irregularities in the bifurcation and ICA while IM-GSM was closely related to plaque echogenicity (GSM), and other textural plaque features.

    Study 3. In the same cohort in study 2, patients with previous disease in the coronary arteries had higher IMT and lower IM-GSM and those with prior stroke had lower IM-GSM. Neither IMT nor IM-GSM was different between patients with and without previous lower extremity disease. IM-GSM decreases significantly with increasing number of arterial territories p<0.001 (asymptomatic vs symptoms in one vs multiple arterial systems) but conventional IMT was not different between groups p=0.49.

    Study 4. In a meta-analysis of 9/580 identified studies including 566 patients with 7.2 months follow-up, a consistent increase in the carotid plaques echogenicity after statin therapy, was reported. The perpetual (over 12 months) effects of which were shown in a meta-regression analysis to be related to changes in hsCRP.

    Conclusion:

    Symptomatic patients have similar plaque morphology and textural features of vulnerability in the contralateral carotid system, compared with asymptomatic ones. In the latter, measurements of proximal disease reflect distal pathology and the number of affected arteries. Finally, statin therapy and the drop of LDL cholesterol result in better plaque stability and optimum control of arterial inflammation, shown by arterial wall echogenicity and hsCRP changes, respectively.

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  • 26.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Bytyci, Ibadete
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Ahmeti, Artan
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Batalli, Arlind
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Jashari, Haki
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Global dyssynchrony correlates with compromised left ventricular filling and stroke volume but not with ejection fraction or QRS duration in HFpEF2014In: International Cardiovascular Forum Journal, ISSN 2410-2636, Vol. 1, no 3, p. 147-151Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Aim: Mechanical global left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony reflected as prolonged total isovolumic time(t-IVT) has been introduced as a potential mechanism behind compromised stroke volume in heart failure (HF). It has alsobeen shown to be superior to other markers of dyssynchrony in predicting response to cardiac resynchronization therapy(CRT), but its application in HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains unknown. The aim of this study was toassess the role of t-IVT in explaining symptoms in HFpEF.Methods: In 55 symptomatic HFpEF patients (age 60±9 years, NYHA class II-IV; LV EF ≥45%) and 24 age and gendermatched controls, a complete Doppler echocardiographic study was performed including mitral annulus peak systolicexcursion (MAPSE) and myocardial velocities as well as LV filling, outflow tract velocity time integral (VTI) and stroke volumemeasurements. Global LV dyssynchrony was assessed by t-IVT [in s/min; calculated as: 60 - (total ejection time + total fillingtime)], Tei index (t-IVT/ejection time) and pre-ejection time difference between LV and RV.Results: Patients had reduced lateral and septal MAPSE (p=0.009 and p=0.01, respectively) lower lateral and septal s’(p=0.002 and p=0.04, respectively) and e’ (p<0.001, for both) velocities and higher E/e’ ratio (p=0.01) compared to controls.They also had longer t-IVT (p<0.001), higher Tei index (p=0.04), but similar pre-ejection time difference and LVEF to controls.T-IVT correlated with LV filling time (r=0.44, p<0.001), stroke volume (r=-0.41; p=0.002), MAPSE (lateral: r=-0.36, p=0.007 andseptal: r=-0.31; p=0.02), but not with LV mass index, LVEF, E/e’ ratio or QRS duration.Conclusion: Patients with HFpEF have exaggerated global mechanical dyssynchrony shown by prolonged t-IVT, comparedwith healthy age and gender matched controls. The relationship between t-IVT, LV filling and stroke volume suggests anassociation, more important than with ejection fraction or electrical dyssynchrony. These results support the importance ofthe individualistic approach for optimum HFpEF patient management.

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  • 27.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ahlqvist, Jan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology, School of Dentistry.
    Arnerlöv, Conny
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Surgery.
    Garoff, Maria
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology, School of Dentistry.
    Johansson, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Family Medicine.
    Levring Jäghagen, Eva
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Carotid ultrasound accurately detects arterial calcification quantified by cone beam computed tomography2014In: European Heart Journal, ISSN 0195-668X, E-ISSN 1522-9645, Vol. 35, no Supplement 1, Meeting abstract P3519, p. 636-636Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 28.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ultrasound assessment of carotid plaque echogenicity response to statin therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis2015In: European Heart Journal, ISSN 0195-668X, E-ISSN 1522-9645, Vol. 36, no Suppl 1, p. 993-993Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 29.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ultrasound assessment of carotid plaque echogenicity response to statin therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis2015In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, ISSN 1661-6596, E-ISSN 1422-0067, Vol. 16, no 5, p. 10734-10747Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    OBJECTIVE: To evaluate in a systematic review and meta-analysis model the effect of statin therapy on carotid plaque echogenicity assessed by ultrasound.

    METHODS: We have systematically searched electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Center Register) up to April, 2015, for studies evaluating the effect of statins on plaque echogenicity. Two researchers independently determined the eligibility of studies evaluating the effect of statin therapy on carotid plaque echogenicity that used ultrasound and grey scale median (GSM) or integrated back scatter (IBS).

    RESULTS: Nine out of 580 identified studies including 566 patients' carotid artery data were meta-analyzed for a mean follow up of 7.2 months. A consistent increase in the echogenicity of carotid artery plaques, after statin therapy, was reported. Pooled weighted mean difference % (WMD) on plaque echogenicity after statin therapy was 29% (95% CI 22%-36%), p < 0.001, I2 = 92.1%. In a meta-regression analysis using % mean changes of LDL, HDL and hsCRP as moderators, it was shown that the effects of statins on plaque echogenicity were related to changes in hsCRP, but not to LDL and HDL changes from the baseline. The effect of statins on the plaque was progressive; it showed significance after the first month of treatment, and the echogenicity continued to increase in the following six and 12 months.

    CONCLUSIONS: Statin therapy is associated with a favorable increase of carotid plaque echogenicity. This effect seems to be dependent on the period of treatment and hsCRP change from the baseline, independent of changes in LDL and HDL.

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  • 30.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Johansson, Elias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Grönlund, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Common carotid intima-media features determine distal disease phenotype and vulnerability in asymptomatic patients2015In: International Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0167-5273, E-ISSN 1874-1754, Vol. 196, p. 22-28Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objectives: There is a growing awareness of the importance of carotid plaque features evaluation in stroke prediction. Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and recently its echogenicity were used for stroke prediction, although their clinical relevance was not well determined. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between common carotid artery (CCA) ultrasound markers of atherosclerosis and distal, bifurcation and internal carotid artery (ICA), plaque features. Methods: We analyzed 137 carotid arteries in 87 asymptomatic patients with known carotid disease (mean age 69 +/- 6 year, 34.5% females). Intima media thickness (IMT) and its gray scale median (IM-GSM) were measured at the CCA. Plaque textural features including gray scale median (GSM), juxtaluminal black area (JBA-mm(2)) without a visible cap, and plaque coarseness, at bifurcation and ICA were also determined. CCA measurements were correlated with those of the distal plaques. Results: An increased IMT in CCA correlated with plaque irregularities in the bifurcation and ICA (r = 0.53, p < 0.001), while IM-GSM was closely related to plaque echogenicity (GSM) (r = 0.76, p < 0.001), and other textural plaque features. Both, IMT and IM-GSM correlated weakly with stenosis severity (r = 0.27, p = 0.001 and r = -0.18, p = 0.026) respectively. Conclusion: In asymptomatic patients, measurements of CCA reflect distal, bifurcation and ICA disease, with IMT reflecting plaque irregularities and IM-GSM as markers of textural plaque abnormalities. Integrating measurements of both IMT and IM-GSM in a model could be used as a better marker of disease vulnerability over and above each measure individually. 

  • 31.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Johansson, Elias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Grönlund, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Vulnerable plaques in the contralateral carotid arteries in symptomatic patients: a detailed ultrasound analysis2014In: Atherosclerosis, ISSN 0021-9150, E-ISSN 1879-1484, Vol. 235, no 2, p. 526-531Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND AND AIM: Carotid plaques may represent a generalized atherosclerotic syndrome or a localized disease. The aim of this study was to assess the morphological and textural features of carotid plaques located contralateral to the symptomatic side and compare them with the symptomatic side and with plaques from asymptomatic patients. METHODS: We studied 66 arteries in 39 patients (mean age 70 ± 7 year, 33% females). Arterial plaques were classified as either symptomatic (n = 30), contralateral to symptomatic (n = 25) or asymptomatic (n = 11). We compared several plaque features between these groups including the mean values of the grey scale median (GSM), entropy, juxtaluminal black area (JBA) without visible echogenic cap, GSM of the JBA and surface irregularity. RESULTS: The plaques contralateral to symptomatic arteries had similar morphological and textural features to those in the symptomatic arteries. In contrast, they had more vulnerable morphological and textural features than those in asymptomatic arteries: less smooth plaques (12% vs. 55%) and instead more often mildly irregular (60% vs 36%) or markedly irregular (28% vs. 9%; p = 0.03), lower GSM (26.2 ± 8 vs. 49.4 ± 14, p < 0.001) and lower GSM of the JBA (5.0 ± 3.6 vs. 11.4 ± 2.1, p = 0.008). The frequency of entropy and plaque calcification was similar in all groups. CONCLUSION: Symptomatic patients with carotid artery disease seem to have similar morphological and textural features of vulnerability in the symptomatic and the contralateral carotid arteries, which are profound compared with asymptomatic carotid arteries. These findings support the concept of generalized carotid atherosclerotic pathology rather than incidental unilateral disease, and also emphasize a need for aggressive measures for plaque stabilization, particularly in symptomatic patients.

  • 32.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Johansson, Elias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Grönlund, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Common carotid intima-media measurements determine distal disease structure and vulnerability in asymptomatic patients2015In: Atherosclerosis, ISSN 0021-9150, E-ISSN 1879-1484, Vol. 241, no 1, p. E164-E164Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 33.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Nicoll, Rachel
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Coronary and carotid atherosclerosis: how useful is the imaging?2013In: Atherosclerosis, ISSN 0021-9150, E-ISSN 1879-1484, Vol. 231, no 2, p. 323-333Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The recent advancement of imaging modalities has made possible visualization of atherosclerosis disease in all phases of its development. Markers of subclinical atherosclerosis or even the most advanced plaque features are acquired by invasive (IVUS, OCT) and non-invasive imaging modalities (US, MRI, CTA). Determining plaques prone to rupture (vulnerable plaques) might help to identify patients at risk for myocardial infarction or stroke. The most accepted features of plaque vulnerability include: thin cap fibroatheroma, large lipid core, intimal spotty calcification, positive remodeling and intraplaque neovascularizations. Today, research is focusing on finding imaging techniques that are less invasive, less radiation and can detect most of the vulnerable plaque features. While, carotid atherosclerosis can be visualized using noninvasive imaging, such as US, MRI and CT, imaging plaque feature in coronary arteries needs invasive imaging modalities. However, atherosclerosis is a systemic disease with plaque development simultaneously in different arteries and data acquisition in carotid arteries can add useful information for prediction of coronary events.

  • 34.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Poniku, Afrim
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Hysenaj, Violeta
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Ahmeti, Artan
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Haliti, Edmond
    Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology and Angiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Pishtinë, Republic of Kosovo.
    Predictors of exercise capacity in heart failure: combined right ventricular dysfunction and raised left ventricular filling pressures predict limited exercise capacity in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF)2013In: International Cardiovascular Forum Journal, ISSN 2410-2636, Vol. 1, no 1, p. 37-42Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Aim: Compromised exercise capacity is a major symptom in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF). Six-minute walk test (6-MWT) is popular for the objective assessment of exercise capacity in these patients but is largely confined to major heart centres. The aim of this study was to prospectively examine functional parameters that predict 6-MWT in patients with HF and reduced LVEF.

    Methods: In 111 HF patients (mean age 60±12 years, 56% male), a 6-MWT and an echo-Doppler study were performed in the same day. In addition to conventional ventricular function measurements, global LV dyssynchrony was indirectly assessed by total isovolumic time - t-IVT [in s/min; calculated as: 60 – (total ejection time – total filling time)], and Tei index (t-IVT/ejection time). Also, LV and right ventricular function were assessed by mitral and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE and TAPSE, respectively). Based on the 6-MWT distance, patients were divided into 2 groups: Group I: ≤300m and Group II: >300m.

    Results: The 6-MWT distance correlated with t-IVT and Tei index (r=-0.37, p<0.001, for both), lateral and septal e' velocities (r=0.41, p<0.001, and r=0.46, p<0.001, respectively), E/e' ratio (r=-0.37, p<0.001) and TAPSE (r=0.45, p<0.001), but not with the other clinical or echo parameters. Group I patients had longer t-IVT, lower E/e' ratio, TAPSE and lateral e' (p<0.001 for all) compared with Group II. In multivariate analysis, TAPSE [0.076 (0.017-0.335), p=0.001], E/e' [1.165 (1.017-1.334), p=0.027], t-IVT [1.178 (1.014-1.370), p=0.033] independently predicted poor 6-MWT performance (<300m). Sensitivity and specificity for TAPSE ≤1.9 cm were 66% and 77%, (AUC 0.78, p<0.001); E/e' ≥10.7 were 66% and 62% (AUC 0.67, p=0.002) and t-IVT ≥13 s/min were 64% and 60% (AUC 0.68, p=0.002) in predicting poor 6-MWT. Combined TAPSE and E/e' had a sensitivity of 68% but specificity of 92% in predicting 6-MWT. Respective values for combined TAPSE and t-IVT were 71% and 85%.

    Conclusion: In patients with HF, the limited exercise capacity assessed by 6-MWT, is multifactorial being related both to the severity of right ventricular systolic dysfunction as well as to raised LV filling pressures and global dyssynchrony.

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  • 35.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Grönlund, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyds Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Carotid plaque echogenicity predicts cerebrovascular symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis2016In: European Journal of Neurology, ISSN 1351-5101, E-ISSN 1468-1331, Vol. 23, no 7, p. 1241-1247Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and purpose: Many reports have shown an association between hypoechoic (echolucent) carotid atherosclerotic plaques and unstable features. In this meta-analysis our aim was to determine the role of carotid plaque echogenicity in predicting future cerebrovascular (CV) symptoms.

    Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Center Register) up to September 2015 were systematically searched. Studies with ultrasound-based characterization of carotid artery plaque echogenicity and its association with focal neurological symptoms of vascular origin were eligible for analysis. In the meta-analysis, heterogeneity was measured usingI2 statistics and publication bias was evaluated using the Begg–Mazumdar test. In addition several comparisons between subgroups were performed.

    Results: Of 1387 identified reports, eight studies with asymptomatic patients and three studies with symptomatic patients were meta-analyzed. Pooled analysis showed an association between echolucent carotid plaques and future CV events in asymptomatic patients [relative risk 2.72 (95% confidence interval 1.86–3.96)] and recurrent symptoms in symptomatic patients [relative risk 2.97 (95% confidence interval 1.85–4.78)]. The association was preserved for all stenosis degrees in asymptomatic patients, whilst patients with echolucent plaques and severe stenosis were at higher risk of future events. Also, computer-assisted methods for assessment of carotid plaque echogenicity and studies analyzing ultrasound data collected after the year 2000 showed better prediction.

    Conclusions: In asymptomatic and symptomatic patients, analysis of carotid plaque echogenicity could identify those at high risk of CV events.

  • 36.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Carotid plaque echogenicity predicts cerebrovascular symptoms: a systematic review and metaanalysisManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
  • 37.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Henein, Michael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Common carotid intima-media measurements determine distal disease structure and vulnerability2015In: European Journal of Neurology, ISSN 1351-5101, E-ISSN 1468-1331, Vol. 22, p. 600-601Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 38.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Johansson, E
    Grönlund, C
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Carotid IM-GSM is more accurate than conventional IMT for monitoring systemic burden of atherosclerosisManuscript (preprint) (Other academic)
  • 39.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Johansson, Elias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Ahlqvist, Jan
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology.
    Arnerlöv, Conny
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgical and Perioperative Sciences, Surgery.
    Garoff, Maria
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology.
    Jäghagen, Eva Levring
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Odontology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Atherosclerotic Calcification Detection: A Comparative Study of Carotid Ultrasound and Cone Beam CT2015In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, ISSN 1661-6596, E-ISSN 1422-0067, Vol. 16, no 8, p. 19978-19988Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND AND AIM: Arterial calcification is often detected on ultrasound examination but its diagnostic accuracy is not well validated. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of carotid ultrasound B mode findings in detecting atherosclerotic calcification quantified by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

    METHODS: We analyzed 94 carotid arteries, from 88 patients (mean age 70 ± 7 years, 33% females), who underwent pre-endarterectomy ultrasound examination. Plaques with high echogenic nodules and posterior shadowing were considered calcified. After surgery, the excised plaques were examined using CBCT, from which the calcification volume (mm3) was calculated. In cases with multiple calcifications the largest calcification nodule volume was used to represent the plaque. Carotid artery calcification by the two imaging techniques was compared using conventional correlations.

    RESULTS: Carotid ultrasound was highly accurate in detecting the presence of calcification; with a sensitivity of 88.2%. Based on the quartile ranges of calcification volumes measured by CBCT we have divided plaque calcification into four groups: <8; 8-35; 36-70 and >70 mm3. Calcification volumes ≥8 were accurately detectable by ultrasound with a sensitivity of 96%. Of the 21 plaques with <8 mm3 calcification volume; only 13 were detected by ultrasound; resulting in a sensitivity of 62%. There was no difference in the volume of calcification between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.

    CONCLUSION: Carotid ultrasound is highly accurate in detecting the presence of calcified atherosclerotic lesions of volume ≥8 mm3; but less accurate in detecting smaller volume calcified plaques. Further development of ultrasound techniques should allow better detection of early arterial calcification.

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  • 40.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience. Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine.
    Johansson, Elias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine.
    Grönlund, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences, Radiation Physics.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyds Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Carotid IM-GSM is better than IMT for identifying patients with multiple arterial disease2018In: Scandinavian Cardiovascular Journal, ISSN 1401-7431, E-ISSN 1651-2006, Vol. 52, no 2, p. 93-99Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective. Atherosclerosis is a systemic inflammatory disease that can affect more than one arterial bed simultaneously. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between ultrasound markers of atherosclerosis and multiple arterial disease. Design. We have included 87 currently asymptomatic carotid disease patients (mean age 69 +/- 6 year, 34% females) in this study. Intima media thickness (IMT) and intima media-grey scale median (IM-GSM) were measured in the common carotid artery (CCA), and correlated with previous and/or current atherosclerotic vascular disease in the coronary, carotid and lower extremities. Patients were divided into three groups: (1) asymptomatic, (2) previous symptoms in one arterial territory and (3) previous symptoms in multiple arterial territories. Results. Patients with previous disease in the coronary arteries had higher IMT (p=.034) and lower IM-GSM (p<.001), and those with prior stroke had lower IM-GSM (p=.007). Neither IMT nor IM-GSM was different between patients with and without previous lower extremity vascular disease. IM-GSM was significantly different between groups, it decreased significantly with increasing number of arterial territories affected (37.7 +/- 15.4 vs. 29.3 +/- 16.4 vs. 20.7 +/- 12.9) p<.001, for asymptomatic, symptoms in one and in multiple arterial systems, respectively. Conventional IMT was not significantly different between groups p=.49. Conclusion. Carotid IMT was higher and IM-GSM lower in patients with symptomatic nearby arterial territories but not in those with peripheral disease. In contrast to conventional IMT, IM-GSM can differentiate between numbers of arterial territories affected by atherosclerosis, suggesting that it is a better surrogate for monitoring multiple arterial territory disease.

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  • 41.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Johansson, Elias
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neuroscience, Clinical Neuroscience.
    Grönlund, Christer
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiation Sciences.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Carotid im-gsm is related to multisite atherosclerosis disease2015In: Atherosclerosis, ISSN 0021-9150, E-ISSN 1879-1484, Vol. 241, no 1, p. E164-E164Article in journal (Other academic)
  • 42.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Nicoll, Rachel
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Wester, Per
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Coronary and carotid atherosclerosis: similarities and differences2013In: Atherosclerosis, ISSN 0021-9150, E-ISSN 1879-1484, Vol. 227, no 2, p. 193-200Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Although a relationship is commonly accepted between coronary and carotid arterial disease, suggesting that atherosclerosis is a systemic condition, the extent of this association and correspondence has not been fully elucidated. This review discusses recent research in this field and highlights areas for future study. The prevalence of severe carotid stenosis increases with prevalence of coronary stenosis, with the latter being found in a significant number of stroke patients, while those with carotid stenosis may be at higher risk of myocardial infarction than stroke. There also appear to be common risk factors (age, diabetes, hypertension, smoking and dyslipidemia), although the effects in both vascular systems may not be identical. Furthermore, while the degree of stenosis in the coronary artery has little ability to predict acute coronary syndrome, which is caused by local thrombosis from a ruptured or eroded plaque, severe carotid stenosis causing hypoperfusion is highly predictive of stroke, although this effect may be time-limited. This apparent difference in event mechanism in the two arteries is interesting as is the difference in the rate of development of collaterals. Overall, the evidence shows that a clear relationship exists between disease in the coronary and carotid arteries, since conventional risk factors and the extent of stenosis and/or previous events emanating from one artery have a strong bearing on the prevalence of events in the other artery. Nevertheless, the exact correspondence between the two arteries is unclear, with sometimes contradictory study results. More research is needed to identify the full extent of risk factors for severe stenosis and cardio- or cerebral vascular events, among which, inflammatory biomarkers such as hs-CRP and prior vascular events are likely to play a key role.

  • 43.
    Jashari, Haki
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Lannering, Katarina
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Djekic, Demir
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Mellander, Mats
    Rydberg, Annika
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Paediatrics.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Persistent reduced myocardial deformation in neonates after CoA repair2016In: International Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0167-5273, E-ISSN 1874-1754, Vol. 221, no 15, p. 886-891Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    INTRODUCTION: Surgical repair of coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a safe procedure in children, however the condition is known for its potential recurrence and other related complications. The available evidence shows abnormal intrinsic properties of the aorta in CoA, thus suggesting additional effect, even after CoA repair, on left ventricular (LV) function. Accordingly, we sought to obtain a better understanding of LV myocardial mechanics in very early-corrected CoA using two-dimensional STE.

    METHODS AND RESULTS: We retrospectively studied 21 patients with corrected CoA at a median age of 9 (2-53) days at three time points: 1) just before intervention, 2) at short-term follow-up and 3) at medium-term follow-up after intervention and compared them with normal values. Speckle tracking analysis was conducted via vendor independent software, Tomtec. After intervention, LV function significantly improved (from -12.8±3.9 to -16.7±1.7; p<0.001), however normal values were not reached even at medium term follow-up (-18.3±1.7 vs. -20±1.6; p=0.002). Medium term longitudinal strain correlated with pre intervention EF (r=0.58, p=0.006). Moreover, medium term subnormal values were more frequently associated with bicuspid aortic valve (33.3% vs. 66.6%; p<0.05).

    CONCLUSION: LV myocardial function in neonates with CoA can be feasibly evaluated and followed up by speckle tracking echocardiography. LV subendocardial dysfunction however, remains in early infancy coarctation long after repair. Long-term follow-up through adulthood using myocardial deformation measurements should shed light on the natural history and consequences of this anomaly.

  • 44.
    Jashari, Haki
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Lannering, Katarina
    Mellander, Mats
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Rydberg, Annika
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Paediatrics.
    Henein, Michael Y
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Coarctation repair normalizes left ventricular function and aorto-septal angle in neonates2017In: Congenital Heart Disease, ISSN 1747-079X, E-ISSN 1747-0803, Vol. 12, no 2, p. 218-225Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and aims: Patients with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) have increased left ventricular (LV) afterload that has been shown to impact the LV and ascending aortic function. We aimed to examine the effect of coarctation on LV function and aorto-septal angle (AoSA) before and after surgical repair.

    Methods: We retrospectively studied 21 patients with surgically repaired CoA at a median age of 9 (2-53) days at three time points: (1) just before intervention, (2) at short-term follow-up, and (3) at medium-term follow-up after intervention. AoSA was measured from the parasternal long axisview, at three time points during the cardiac cycle: (1) end diastole, (2) beginning of systole, and (3) at peak ejection in the descending aorta. In addition to conventional LV structure and function, global longitudinal strain, and strain rate were measured using STE technique and Tomtec soft-ware. Three groups of age matched healthy children served as controls at each time point.

    Results: AoSA was significantly wider before intervention, in particular at peak ejection in the descending aorta (1448 6 6.48 vs. 1368 6 4.18; P < .0001), and correlated with CoA pressure gradi-ent. After intervention, AoSA normalized and significantly correlated with the increase of LV cavity function and overall LV deformation parameters.

    Conclusions: AoSA is abnormally wide in neonates with CoA and is associated with severity ofobstruction, LV dysfunction and compromised LV global deformation.

  • 45.
    Jashari, Haki
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Rydberg, Annika
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Paediatrics.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Left ventricular response to pressure afterload in children: aortic stenosis and coarctation A systematic review of the current evidence2015In: International Journal of Cardiology, ISSN 0167-5273, E-ISSN 1874-1754, Vol. 178, p. 203-209Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Congenital aortic stenosis (CAS) and Coarctation of Aorta (CoA) represent two forms of pressure afterload that affect the left ventricle (LV), hence require regular echocardiographic monitoring. Subclinical dysfunction of the LV exists even in asymptomatic patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (EF), implying low sensitivity of EF in predicting optimum time for intervention. In this article we review patterns of LV myocardial deformation before and after correction of CAS and CoA in infants, children and adolescents, showing their important role in monitoring the course of LV dysfunction. A systematic search using PubMed was performed and suitable studies are presented on a narrative form. Normal EF and/or fractional shortening (FS), with subclinical myocardial dysfunction are reported in all studies before intervention. The short-term results, after intervention, were related to the type of procedure, with no improvement or further deterioration related to surgery but immediate improvement after balloon intervention. Long term follow-up showed further improvement but still subnormal function. Thus correction of CAS and CoA before irreversible LV dysfunction is vital, and requires longitudinal studies in order to identify the most accurate parameter for function prognostication. Until then, conventional echocardiographic parameters together with myocardial velocities and deformation parameters should continue to provide follow-up reproducible measures of ventricular function.

  • 46.
    Jashari, Haki
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Rydberg, Annika
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Paediatrics.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Kryeziu, Lindita
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Normal ranges of left ventricular strain in children: a meta-analysis2015In: Cardiovascular Ultrasound, E-ISSN 1476-7120, Vol. 13, article id 37Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aims: The definition of normal values of two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography derived left ventricular (LV) deformation parameters, is of critical importance for the routine application of this modality in children. The objectives of this study were to perform a meta-analysis of normal ranges for longitudinal, circumferential and radial strain/strain rate values and to identify confounders that may contribute to differences in reported measures. Methods and Results: A systematic search was conducted. Studies describing normal healthy subjects and observational studies that used control groups as a comparison were included. Data were combined using a random-effect model. Effects of demographic, clinical and equipment variables were assessed through meta-regression. The search identified 1,192 subjects form 28 articles. Longitudinal strain (LS) normal mean values varied from -12.9 to -26.5 (mean, -20.5; 95 % CI, -20.0 to -21.0). Normal mean values of circumferential strain (CS) varied from -10.5 to -27.0 (mean, -22.06; 95 % CI, -21.5 to -22.5). Radial strain (RS) normal mean values varied from 24.9 to 62.1 (mean, 45.4; 95 % CI, 43.0 to 47.8). Meta-regression showed LV end diastolic diameter as a significant determinant of variation for LS. Longitudinal systolic strain rate (LSRs) was significantly determined by the age and RS by the type of vendor used. Conclusion: Variations among different normal ranges were dependent on the vendor used, LV end-diastolic diameter and age. Vendor-independent software for analyzing myocardial deformation in children, using images from different vendors would be the ideal solution for strain measurements or else using the same system for patient's follow up.

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  • 47. Kukaj, Vera
    et al.
    Jashari, Fisnik
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine. Clinic of Neurology, University Clinical Center of Kosovo, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo.
    Boshnjaku, Dren
    Istrefi, Enis
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Hypoglycemia-Induced Hemiparesis in a Diabetic Woman after Childbirth2015In: Case Reports in Neurological Medicine, ISSN 2090-6668, E-ISSN 2090-6676, article id 210613Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    A 24-year-old female with type 1 diabetes mellitus presented with hemiparesis induced by hypoglycemia. She was hospitalized because she has noticed a weakness of her right hand and leg three days after childbirth. On physical examination she had an expressive dysphasia and right side hemiparesis with facial drop. Hypoglycemia is rarely associated with hemiparesis and it is often overlooked, especially when it happens in patients at higher risk of other diseases frequently associated with hemiparesis. Although sporadical cases of hypoglycemia-induced hemiparesis were reported, the clear pathophysiology behind this is not well determined. However, any individual case is important in order to increase the awareness of hypoglycemia as an important etiology of this condition.

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  • 48.
    Nicoll, Rachel
    et al.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Zhao, Ying
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Olivecrona, Gunilla
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biosciences, Physiological chemistry.
    Henein, Michael
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Medicine.
    Diabetes and Hypertension Consistently Predict the Presence and Extent of Coronary Artery Calcification in Symptomatic Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis2016In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, ISSN 1661-6596, E-ISSN 1422-0067, Vol. 17, no 9, article id 1481Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: The relationship of conventional cardiovascular risk factors (age, gender, ethnicity, diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, obesity, exercise, and the number of risk factors) to coronary artery calcification (CAC) presence and extent has never before been assessed in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    Methods: We included only English language studies that assessed at least three conventional risk factors apart from age, gender, and ethnicity, but excluded studies in which all patients had another confirmed condition such as renal disease.

    Results: In total, 10 studies, comprising 15,769 patients, were investigated in the systematic review and seven studies, comprising 12,682 patients, were included in the meta-analysis, which demonstrated the importance of diabetes and hypertension as predictors of CAC presence and extent, with age also predicting CAC presence. Male gender, dyslipidaemia, family history of coronary artery disease, obesity, and smoking were overall not predictive of either CAC presence or extent, despite dyslipidaemia being a key risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD).

    Conclusion: Diabetes and hypertension consistently predict the presence and extent of CAC in symptomatic patients.

     

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  • 49. Perçuku, Luan
    et al.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; University of Prishtina, Medical Faculty, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Jashari, Haki
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Pediatrics, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Bytyçi, Ibadete
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George University London, United Kingdom; Brunel University, Middlesex, United Kingdom.
    Exaggerated systolic hypertensive response to exercise predicts cardiovascular events: a systematic review and meta-analysis2019In: Polish Archives of Internal Medicine, ISSN 0032-3772, E-ISSN 1897-9483, Vol. 129, no 12, p. 855-863Article, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    INTRODUCTION: The pathophysiology of exaggerated systolic hypertensive response to exercise (SHRE) is not fully understood, with contradictory data on its role in predicting cardiovascular (CV) events. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review and meta-analysis was to assess the association of SHRE with CV clinical outcomes in healthy normotensive individuals. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We searched PubMed (MEDLINE), Cochrane Library, RefWorks, and Google Scholar to identify clinical studies that reported data on CV event rates and outcomes for patients with SHRE on exercise stress testing. Sensitivity and specificity analysis for assessing the diagnostic accuracy of the SHRE cutoff associated with CV events was estimated using hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic analysis. RESULTS: We included 8 studies with 47 188 participants and a median follow-up of 19.3 years. Exaggerated SHRE was found in patients with composite events (CV mortality and coronary artery disease; hazard ratio [HR], 1.363; 95% CI, 1.135-1.604; P < 0.001), in those with coronary artery events (HR, 1.532; 95% CI, 1.240-1.893; P < 0.001), and in those with CV mortality (HR, 1.286; 95% CI, 1.075-1.539; P = 0.006), as compared with individuals with normal response. An exercise systolic blood pressure of 196 mm Hg predicted CV events with a sensitivity of 62% (54%-69%) and specificity of 75% (60%-86%), with a positive likelihood ratio of less than 3 and a strong correlation (r = -0.71). CONCLUSIONS: Our study supports the clinical relevance of exaggerated SHRE as a predictor of composite and individual CV clinical outcome. These findings should be considered as thought-provoking evidence for better stratification and, consequently, for optimal management of this high-risk population.

  • 50. Poniku, Afrim
    et al.
    Bajraktari, Gani
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo; Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Elezi, Shpend
    Ibrahimi, Pranvera
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Medicine. Clinic of Cardiology, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, Prishtina, Kosovo.
    Henein, Michael Y.
    Umeå University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Cardiology.
    Adiponectin correlates with body mass index and to a lesser extent with left ventricular mass in dialysis patients2018In: Cardiology Journal, ISSN 1897-5593, Vol. 25, no 4, p. 501-511Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Adiponectin is a serum protein produced by adipose tissue which exerts anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-atherosclerotic properties, hence is considered a cardio-protective marker. With the current uncertain role of adiponectin in dialysis patients to the aim of this study was to investigate its relationship with left ventricular (LV) structure and function in these patients.

    Methods: This study included 89 (age 56 +/- 13 years, 43% male) patients treated with regular dialysis for > 6 months, and 55 control subjects with normal renal function. A complete two-dimensional, M- ode and tissue-Doppler echocardiographic study, and biochemical blood analyses, adiponectin and anthropometric parameters were obtainedon the same day.

    Results: Dialysis patients had lower body mass index (BMI) and lower body surface area (BSA) (p < 0.001 for both), lower waist/hips ratio (p = 0.005), higher LV mass index (LVMI, p < 0.001), higher adiponectin level (p < 0.001) and LV end-systolic volume p = 0.003), lower LV ejection fraction (p = 0.006), longer isovolumic relaxation time (p < 0.001), lower mean LV strain (p = 0.002), larger left atrium volume (p = 0.022) and lower left atrium emptying fraction (p = 0.026), compared to controls. In dialysis patients, adiponectin correlated with waist circumference (r = -0.427, p < 0.001), BMI (r = -0.403, p < 0.001) and BSA (r = -0.480, p < 0.001), and to a lesser extent with LVMI (r = 0.296, p = 0.005), waist/hips ratio (r = -0.222, p = 0.037) and total cholesterol (r = -0.292, p = 0.013). But in controls, it correlated only modestly with age (r = 0.304, p = 0.024), hemoglobin (r = 0.371, p = 0.005), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (r = 0.315, p = 0.019) and LVMI (r = 0277, p = 0.043).

    Conclusions: It seems that in dialysis patients, adiponectin modest correlation with anthropometric measurements suggests an ongoing catabolic process rather than a change in ventricular function.

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