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Background: Smartphones can emit two types of electromagnetic waves, static field from magnet and dynamic field from calling. Previous evidence showed the interference effects from old generation of mobile phones to cardiac implantable electronic device (CIEDs). The current generation of smartphones and CIEDs are reportedly better designed to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI). We seek to find the presence and the magnitude of EMI from the current generation of smartphones. Objectives: The primary objective was to find out the presence and the effect of electromagnetic interference from current generation smartphones on cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). The secondary objectives were to demonstrate safety of using current generation smartphones on cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). Methods: A total of 80 subjects with CIEDs (Pacemaker, ICD, CRT-D, CRT-P) were recruited from our CIEDs clinic. Each subject was tested with three different smartphones (Nokia 3310, Iphone 7, and Samsung Galaxy S9), resulted in a total of 240 tests. Each phone was placed on chest wall, at pulse generator site, at atrial lead level, and at ventricular lead level. During the tests, real-time interrogations were performed to detect any EMI from smartphones in stand-by mode, and during calling-in and out for 30 seconds. After the tests, post-test interrogation was performed to detect any parameters changes. Adverse events including pacemaker inhibition, false ICD shock, CIEDs device malfunction, and urgent electro- physiologist consultations were recorded. Results: 80 subjects (Mean age 70.5 year-old, 50% male) were recruited in the study, and all completed 240 tests according to our protocol. The most common type of CIEDs tested was pacemaker (N=56, 70%), followed by ICD (N=16, 20%), and CRT (N=8, 10%). Most patients (N=62, 77.5%) had more than one lead implanted. The mean age of CIEDs implantation was 5.2 years (Devices were implanted since 2008-2019). Of all the tests performed, no electromagnetic interference (EMI) or adverse events was observed. Conclusion: Current generation of smartphones have no EMI effect to CIEDs and can be used safely without any adverse events including pacemaker inhibition, false ICD shock and CIEDs malfunction.

Background The cornerstone of the treatment of vasovagal syncope (VVS) is lifestyle modifications; however, some patients incur life-disturbing attacks despite compliance with these treatments which underscores the importance of pharmacological interventions. Methods In this open-label multi-center randomized controlled trial, we are going to randomize 1375 patients with VVS who had ≥2 syncopal episodes in the last year into three parallel arms with a 2:2:1 ratio to receive midodrine, fludrocortisone, or no medication. All patients will be recommended to drink 2 to 3 liters of fluids per day, consume 10 grams of NaCl per day, and practice counter-pressure maneuvers. In medication arms, patients will start on 5 mg of midodrine TDS or 0.05 mg of fludrocortisone BD. After one week the dosage will be up-titrated to midodrine 30 mg/day and fludrocortisone 0.2 mg/day. Patient tolerance will be the principal guide to dosage adjustments. We will follow-up the patients on 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after randomization. The primary outcome is the time to first syncopal episode. Secondary outcomes include the recurrence rate of VVS, time interval between first and second episodes, changes in quality of life (QoL), and major and minor adverse drug reactions. QoL will be examined by the 36-Item Short Form Survey questionnaire at enrollment and 12 months after randomization. Conclusion The COMFORTS trial is the first study that aims to make a head-to-head comparison between midodrine and fludrocortisone, against a background of lifestyle modifications for preventing recurrences of VVS and improving QoL in patients with VVS.

Post-infarct ventricular septal rupture is life-threatening condition, challenging in management. Surgical and transcatheter approach are treatment of choices. A 53 year-old female presented with chest pain for 1 day. Electrocardiogram had ST-elevation on inferior leads. Echocardiogram revealed