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Aortitis includes both infectious and non-infectious inflammation of the arterial wall. Infectious forms have a worse prognosis, necessitating immediate diagnosis and treatment. We report a case of a patient with prosthetic valve endocarditis complicated with infectious aortitis and multiple embolic lesions, ultimately leading to death.

Background: Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic disorder characterized by fibrofatty replacement of myocardial tissue, predominantly affecting the right ventricle (RV), but often involving the left ventricle (LV) as well. The early detection of fibrosis, crucial for risk stratification, has been enhanced by advanced imaging techniques. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) has shown promise as a surrogate marker for late enhancement (LE) in identifying myocardial fibrosis, yet precise cut-off values for strain are lacking. The aim of the study is to evaluate LV strain as a predictor of LE in ACM and to define strain cut-offs for early fibrosis detection, enhancing non-invasive diagnostic accuracy. Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 64 patients diagnosed with ACM. Echocardiographic analysis using speckle-tracking echocardiography was performed to assess LV strain. LE was evaluated through cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) or via cardiac computed tomography (CCT) in cases with CMR contraindications. The study aimed to correlate regional LV strain values with the presence of LE, identifying cut-off values predictive of fibrosis. Results: The study found significant correlations between reduced LV strain values and the presence of LE, particularly in the anterolateral and inferolateral segments (p < 0.05). Specific strain thresholds, such as those for segment 12 (p = 0.02) and segment 17 (p = 0.03), were identified as predictive markers for LE. These findings suggest that strain imaging could serve as a non-invasive tool for the early detection of myocardial fibrosis in ACM patients. Conclusions: LV strain analysis offers potential as a non-invasive surrogate marker for myocardial fibrosis in ACM. Incorporating strain imaging into routine echocardiographic evaluations could improve early diagnosis and risk stratification, guiding patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading global cause of mortality, accounting for approximately 30% of all deaths. It is primarily characterized by the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. Early detection of atherosclerotic plaques is crucial to prevent major adverse cardiac events. Notably, recent studies have shown that 15% of myocardial infarctions occur in patients with non-obstructive CAD, underscoring the importance of comprehensive plaque assessment beyond merely identifying obstructive lesions. Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a cost-effective and efficient technique for excluding obstructive CAD, particularly in patients with a low-to-intermediate clinical likelihood of the disease. Recent advancements in CCTA technology, such as improved resolution and reduced scan times, have mitigated many technical challenges, allowing for precise quantification and characterization of both calcified and non-calcified atherosclerotic plaques. This review focuses on two critical physiological aspects of atherosclerotic plaques: the burden of calcifications, assessed via the coronary artery calcium score (CACs), and perivascular fat attenuation index (pFAI), an emerging marker of vascular inflammation. The CACs, obtained through non-contrast CT scans, quantifies calcified plaque burden and is widely used to stratify cardiovascular risk, particularly in asymptomatic patients. Despite its prognostic value, the CACs does not provide information on non-calcified plaques or inflammatory status. In contrast, the pFAI, derived from CCTA, serves as an indirect marker of coronary inflammation and has shown potential in predicting adverse cardiac events. Combining both CACs and pFAI assessment could offer a comprehensive risk stratification approach, integrating the established calcification burden with novel inflammatory markers to enhance CAD prevention and management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-Saccharomyces yeasts have recently garnered significant interest in oenology. When co-inoculated with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, they contribute to the improvement of wine quality from a sensory point of view. In the present study, a group of yeasts previously isolated from manna and honey by-products were subjected to a genotypic identification. The D1/D2 variable domains of the 26-sRNA gene and the ITS region of the 5.8S gene were sequenced. Additionally, a differentiation of strains was carried out by RAPD-PCR. All strains underwent in vitro screening. Subsequently, a micro-vinification experiment was conducted, focusing on strains with favourable technological characteristics: Lachancea thermotolerans, Starmerella lactis-condensi, and Candida oleophila. These strains were sequentially inoculated alongside a control strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Technological screening revealed that some strains exhibited limited H2S production, ethanol tolerance (up to 8% v/v), resistance to potassium metabisulphite (200 mg/L), osmotic stress tolerance (up to 320 g/L of glucose), and copper resistance (on average 5 mM). The findings from this study can guide the selection of new starters and co-starters for regional wine production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a cost-effective and time-saving technique for excluding coronary artery disease. One valuable tool obtained by CCTA is the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score. The use of CAC scoring has shown promise in the risk assessment and stratification of cardiovascular disease. CAC scores can be complemented by plaque analysis to assess vulnerable plaque characteristics and further refine risk assessment. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the value of the CAC as a prognostic tool and its implications for patient risk assessment, treatment strategies and outcomes. CAC scoring has demonstrated superior ability in stratifying patients, especially asymptomatic individuals, compared to traditional risk factors and scoring systems. The main evidence suggests that individuals with a CAC score of 0 have a good long-term prognosis, while an elevated CAC score is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Finally, the clinical power of CAC scoring and the development of new models for risk stratification could be enhanced by machine learning algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced heart failure (AHF) presents a complex landscape with challenges spanning diagnosis, management, and patient outcomes. In response, the integration of multimodality imaging techniques has emerged as a pivotal approach. This comprehensive review delves into the profound significance of these imaging strategies within AHF scenarios. Multimodality imaging, encompassing echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), nuclear imaging and cardiac computed tomography (CCT), stands as a cornerstone in the care of patients with both short- and long-term mechanical support devices. These techniques facilitate precise device selection, placement, and vigilant monitoring, ensuring patient safety and optimal device functionality. In the context of orthotopic cardiac transplant (OTC), the role of multimodality imaging remains indispensable. Echocardiography offers invaluable insights into allograft function and potential complications. Advanced methods, like speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), empower the detection of acute cell rejection. Nuclear imaging, CMR and CCT further enhance diagnostic precision, especially concerning allograft rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy. This comprehensive imaging approach goes beyond diagnosis, shaping treatment strategies and risk assessment. By harmonizing diverse imaging modalities, clinicians gain a panoramic understanding of each patient's unique condition, facilitating well-informed decisions. The aim is to highlight the novelty and unique aspects of recently published papers in the field. Thus, this review underscores the irreplaceable role of multimodality imaging in elevating patient outcomes, refining treatment precision, and propelling advancements in the evolving landscape of advanced heart failure management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE Silver tellurides find applications in the development of infrared detection, imaging, magnetics, sensors, memory devices, and optic materials. However, only a limited number of silver tellurides have been described to date. Laser ablation synthesis (LAS) was selected to generate new Ag-Te clusters. METHODS Isothermal adsorption was used to study the formation of silver nano-particles-tellurium aggregates. Laser desorption ionization quadrupole ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LDI-QIT-TOFMS) was used for the generation and analysis of Ag mTe n clusters. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to visualize the structure of materials. The stoichiometry of the generated clusters was determined by computer modeling of isotopic patterns. RESULTS A simple, one-pot method for the preparation of Ag-Te nano-composite was developed and found suitable for LAS of silver tellurides. The LDI of Ag-Te nano-composite leads to the formation of 11 unary and 52 binary clusters. The stoichiometry of the 34 novel Ag mTe n clusters is reported here for the first time. CONCLUSIONS LAS with TOFMS detection was proven to be a powerful technique for the generation of silver telluride clusters. Knowledge of the stoichiometry of the generated clusters might facilitate the further development of novel high-tech silver tellurium nano-materials. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE Metal tellurides have applications in various fields of science and technology but only a few gold-silver tellurides have been reported. The laser ablation synthesis (LAS) method allows the preparation of nano-materials from solid substrates. Therefore, this method was selected to synthesise some gold-silver tellurides. METHODS Laser desorption ionisation quadrupole ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LDI QIT TOF MS) was used for the generation of new Au pAg qTe r clusters. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to characterise the materials. The stoichiometry of the clusters generated was determined via collision-induced dissociation (CID) and modeling of isotopic patterns. RESULTS Chemisorption of gold and silver nano-particles on tellurium powder led to the formation of a new kind of Au-Ag-Te nano-composite. The LDI of this nano-composite yielded nine unary (Ag q, Te r), 40 binary (Au pTe r and Ag pTe r) and 78 ternary clusters. The stoichiometry of these novel Au pAg qTe r clusters is reported here for the first time. CONCLUSIONS The new Au-Ag-Te nano-composite was found to be a more suitable precursor for the generation of clusters than the mixtures of the elements. TOF MS was shown to be a useful technique for following the generation of gold-silver tellurides. Knowledge of the cluster stoichiometry could accelerate the further development of novel high-tech materials such as chalcogenide glasses. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RATIONALE Gold carbides can be produced via laser ablation synthesis (LAS) from mixtures of nano-gold (NG) and various carbonaceous materials. The nano-composite of nano-gold (NG) and nano-diamond (ND) might represent a promising precursor for the generation of new gold carbides. METHODS Time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used. The stoichiometry of clusters was determined via modelling of the isotopic patterns and MS n analysis. RESULTS A simple procedure for the preparation of ND-NG nano-composite was developed using NG and ND. The formation of AuC n+ ( n = 1-11, 18), Au2C n+ ( n = 1-16) and Au3C n+ ( n = 1-10) clusters during LAS of the nano-composite was proved. Structures of gold carbides are proposed and discussed. Diamonds-containing Au mC n+ ( m = 1-3, n = 10, 14, 18, 22) clusters might be not carbides but endohedral supramolecular complexes Au m@C n+ i.e., 'gold-doped' diamonds. CONCLUSIONS TOF MS was shown to be a useful technique for following the formation of gold carbides in the gas phase. Clusters and 'gold-doped' diamonds generated might inspire synthesis of new Au-C materials with hardly predictable, unusual properties. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]