Reference values of the carotid elastic modulus using shear wave elastography and arterial stiffness change in coronary slow flow.

Purpose: Shear wave elastography (SWE) accurately and sensitively evaluates arterial wall stiffness by quantifying the elastic modulus (EM); however, the absence of reference values has precluded its widespread clinical application. This prospective cohort study aimed to establish reference values for the carotid EM using SWE; investigate the main determinants of the EM; and evaluate EM changes in coronary slow flow (CSF), which is characterized by delayed coronary opacification without evident obstructive lesion in epicardial coronary artery on angiography.

Method: This study enrolled 169 healthy volunteers and 30 patients with CSF.

Effect of septal flash on right ventricular systolic function in left bundle-branch block patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction.

A leftward motion of the ventricular septum prior to ejection, known as the septal flash (SF), is frequently observed in patients with left bundle-branch block (LBBB). We investigated whether the abnormal motion of the ventricular septum affects right ventricle (RV) contractile performance in LBBB patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Forty-four patients with complete LBBB were selected using standard 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs), with 30 healthy individuals serving as controls.

[Collagen changes of allografting an acellular dermal matrix].

Objective: To evaluate the collagen changes of allografting an acellular dermal matrix (allo-ADM).

Methods: The allo-ADM was grafted underneath the skin of SD rats. The content of collagen and the proportion of type I to III collagen was examined with a biochemical assay.