Pericarditis

The aim of this study is to develop a comprehensive 10-minute protocol based on function and myocardial tissue characterization without the need for contrast injection, which can be standardized for 70% of cardiac patients. To test this 10-minute CMR protocol for its ability to significantly improve diagnostic decision-making and to reduce cost. To test its clinical feasibility, performance and cost-effectiveness in different populations including: Non-ischemic cardiomyopathies (-)OS-CMR and Ischemic Heart Disease and CAD (+)OS-CMR

This project is based on a predictive alghorithm (Multifactorial Dynamic Perfusion Index-MDPI) already published and covered by a patent. The MDPI is based on a dynamic collection of 7 different variables during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and provides a probability index for postoperative acute kidney injury. Multicenter observational prospective trial developed through 3 work packages, addressing (1) external validation of the MDPI in a series of 800 adult cardiac surgery patients collected in 2 Institutions (2) development of a novel MDPI to be applied in infants \< 20 kg undergoing cardiac surgery (200 patients) and (3) verification of of other possible outcomes that may be predicted by the MDPI. Since many of the predictive variables are modifiable by the perfusionist/anesthesiologist during CPB, it is a tool that allows therapeutic manouvres. Ultimately, the MDPI will be incorporated in a dedicated monitor to provide an on-line "flight control" during CPB. Cardiac surgery associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI) is one of the most common postoperative complications, associated with an increased mortality risk. Several risk scores for CSA-AKI exist. They are based on preoperative risk factors and severity of the procedure. They define a static risk (SR) based on non-modifiable risk factors. As so, they do not consider intraoperative variables, that include potentially modifiable risk factors (dynamic risk, DR). In a previous study we have developed a new model for prediction of CSA-AKI that is inclusive of the SR and the DR, producing the Multifactorial Dynamic Perfusion Index (MDPI). The MDPI is based on 7 factors collected during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB): oxygen delivery time spent on a low oxygen delivery, hematocrit, time on CPB, mean arterial pressure, transfusions and lactate values. The MDPI showed a better discrimination (AUC 0.769) than the other existing models, and a good calibration until a risk of 60%. Of notice 5 out of the 7 predictors composing the MDPI are modifiable risk factors and therefore can be considered as a ¿flight control¿, on-line measure of the quality of perfusion, to prompt interventions by the perfusionist and the anesthesiologist. The MDPI is covered by an Italian patent (n. 102022000012893) owned by the IRCCS Policlinico San Donato with Marco Ranucci as inventor. The patent covers the inclusion of the MDPI into a dedicated monitor collecting the variables on CPB and producing the MDPI. The activities are separated into 3 work-packages (WP). WP 1: The MDPI has been developed in a single Institution. Additionally, its validation was performed on the same development series using a bootstrap technique. To make this algorithm exportable in different Institutions, a different new series of patients is required (internal validation) and a new series collected in an external Institution (external validation). Additionally, it cannot be excluded that additional risk factors may be identified and included in the MDPI algorithm; moreover, there is the hypothesis that other outcome measures of morbidity and even mortality may be predicted by the MDPI. WP 1 includes the operative Units 1 and 2 and is based on the collection of a new series of consecutive adult patients requiring cardiac surgery with CPB. The study protocol has been already submitted to the Ethics Committee (166/int/2022) and Clinical Trial. Gov for the internal validation at the operative unit 1 and includes 400 patients. An additional amount of 400 patients will be collected at the operative unit 2. In this series, the MDPI parameters will be collected and assessed for discrimination and calibration properties in predicting CSA-AKI (defined as AKI of any kind, AKI stage and AKI stage 2 or greater). Appropriate tools will be applied to define discrimination (ROC analysis) and calibration (calibration plot using LOWESS) properties of the MDPI. This WP is essentially a validation of the existing MDPI as patented by IRCCS Policlinico San Donato WP2: The MDPI has been develop in the adult patient population. There is little information available in the literature about the CSA-AKI risk factors in infants and newborns weighing \< 20 kgs. However, CSA-AKI in this segment of population is present at a rate that is equal or even higher than in the adults. It can be hypothesized that above 20 kgs, the patient is probably comparable to the adult patient, whereas there is a gap in knowledge in infants and newborns. WP2 is intended to cover this gap in knowledge by addressing a series of 200 patients weighing \< 20 kgs and receiving cardiac surgery with CPB for palliation or correction of congenital heart defects, producing an MDPI for infants (I MDPI). This WP will be totally performed at the operative unit 2, that is the largest congenital heart center in Italy. A new patent on the I-MDPI is anticipated. WP3: This WP is based on the same patient population of WP 1, but has a complementary aim. It is in fact possible that (a) other factors apart from the seven included in the MDPI may be associated with CSA-AKI, therefore deserving to be included in the model (MDPI 2.0) and (b) other outcomes, and namely 30-days mortality may be predicted by the MDPI. Once defined these aims, this WP (that includes the 2 operative units) includes the preliminary steps for the implementation of the MDPI into existing or newly developed monitoring systems for CPB. Dedicated patents are anticipated for MDPI 2.0.

This is a study to understand if taking VTX2735 is safe and effective in participants diagnosed with Recurrent Pericarditis (RP). Cohort A will include up to 30 participants and will consist of the following: * A 30-day Screening Period (to see if a participant qualifies for the study) * A 6-week Open Label Treatment Period - participant receives VTX2735 Dose A * A 7-week Extension Treatment Period (if a participant meets criteria for extension treatment) - participant receives VTX2735 Dose A * An 11-week Once Daily Treatment Period (if a participant meets criteria for this treatment period) - participant receives VTX2735 Dose B * A 14-day Follow-Up Period Cohort B will include up to 20 participants and will consist of the following: * A 30-day Screening Period (to see if a participant qualifies for the study) * A 6-week Open Label Treatment Period - participant receives VTX2735 Dose B or C * An 18-week Extension Treatment Period (if a participant meets criteria for extension treatment) - participant receives VTX2735 Dose B or C * A 14-day Follow-Up Period

Prospective, observational, single-center cohort study including patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Patients will be enrolled during preoperative evaluation. A peripheral blood sample will be collected within 24 hours before surgery and patients will be followed during hospitalization and for 12 months after discharge.

CACP syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by the triad of camptodactyly, non-inflammatory arthropathy with synovial hyperplasia, and coxa vara. Occasionally, non-inflammatory pericarditis and pleural effusion may also occur. This syndrome is likely underdiagnosed due to its rarity. Epidemiological information is limited to isolated case reports or small patient series, with the largest reported cohort including 35 patients. The genetic cause of CACP syndrome is associated with mutations in the PRG4 gene, located on chromosome 1q31.1. While clinical signs (camptodactyly, non-inflammatory arthropathy, and coxa vara) and radiological findings suggest the diagnosis, genetic testing confirms it by identifying pathogenic biallelic mutations in PRG4. To date, twenty-two mutations have been identified, all leading to premature stop codons and the absence of functional lubricin. However, the exact pathophysiology of CACP syndrome remains incompletely understood. Clinical manifestations of CACP syndrome can vary, even within the same family. The progressive and slow onset can initially present as an incomplete clinical picture. However, camptodactyly (85- 100%) and arthropathy (100%) are constant features. Although genetically homogeneous, CACP exhibits significant intra- and interfamilial phenotypic variability due to secondary genetic factors, environmental modifiers, and complex molecular mechanisms. Camptodactyly is symmetrical, with variable distribution. It may affect fingers or toes and can be congenital or develop during childhood. Arthropathy is symmetrical, primarily involving large joints (wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, and hips). Coxa vara is present in 50-90% of cases, is progressive, and tends to worsen with age. Spinal abnormalities such as lordosis, scoliosis, and kyphosis are possible, though the cervical spine is generally spared. The articular manifestations of CACP syndrome may mimic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and patients are often initially misdiagnosed and treated inappropriately. Joints appear swollen due to non-inflammatory synovial effusion and synovial thickening. They develop contractures, functional limitations, and sometimes musculoskeletal pain. Non-inflammatory pericarditis is reported in 30% of published cases, with variable clinical courses that may require surgical intervention in cases of constrictive pericarditis. The routine pathway of assessments and follow-up for patients with CACP syndrome includes an initial detailed evaluation and regular monitoring. Following the diagnosis, which is based on clinical history, imaging studies, and genetic confirmation of PRG4 mutations, patients undergo periodic clinical visits, generally scheduled every six months. During these visits, the progression of the disease, articular symptoms (e.g., camptodactyly, mobility limitations), and possible extraarticular complications, such as pericarditis, are assessed. Radiological (e.g., X-rays, MRI) and laboratory assessments, however, can be spaced out over longer intervals compared to the schedule of clinical visits, typically every 1-2 years, unless specific indications arise. Nonetheless, these examinations may be requested based on contingent clinical needs, such as a sudden worsening of symptoms or suspicion of complications. This flexible approach helps to balance thorough disease monitoring with minimizing the burden on patients, while ensuring personalized and timely management of the condition. At present, there is no specific pharmacological treatment for CACP. Management is primarily symptomatic and aimed at preventing joint deformities and extra-articular complications. Currently, no experimental therapies are available for CACP syndrome, but future research could explore gene therapy, regenerative medicine, and biologics. This study, involving pediatric and pediatric rheumatology centers across Italy and Europe, aims to collect epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic data from a large cohort of patients. Its goals include better defining the disease's characteristics, understanding its natural history, and evaluating different therapeutic approaches and their efficacy. The study will also analyze potential genotypephenotype correlations.

Primary Objective: To determine the 24-month difference in stress myocardial blood flow during adenosine stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in premenopausal women treated with near complete estrogen deprivation for high-risk hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and in premenopausal women treated without near complete estrogen deprivation for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. Secondary Objectives: * To determine the 12-month difference in stress myocardial blood flow during adenosine stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in premenopausal women treated with near complete estrogen deprivation for high-risk hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and in premenopausal women treated without near complete estrogen deprivation for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. * To determine the 12-month and 24-month difference in aortic stiffness (thoracic pulse wave velocity and distensibility) with CMR in premenopausal women treated with an near complete estrogen deprivation for high-risk hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and in premenopausal women treated without near complete estrogen deprivation for hormone-receptor-negative breast cancer. * To determine the association of stress CMR myocardial blood flow with total coronary plaque burden from coronary computed tomography angiography (at baseline and 24 month difference) and difference in variability in these measures in premenopausal women treated with near complete estrogen deprivation for high-risk hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and in premenopausal women treated without near complete estrogen deprivation for hormone receptor- negative breast cancer. * To determine the 12-month and 24-month difference in myocardial perfusion reserve in premenopausal women treated with near complete estrogen deprivation for high-risk hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and in premenopausal women treated without near complete estrogen deprivation for hormone-receptor-negative breast cancer. * To develop predictive models to identify women at highest risk for developing deficits in myocardial blood flow in premenopausal women treated with near complete estrogen deprivation for high-risk hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. * To monitor disease outcomes, in particular invasive-breast cancer free survival and to assess if any changes in anti-neoplastic therapy occur on the basis cardiovascular diagnoses generally or specifically due to CROWN study results.

The aim of this study is to assess emergency medicine physician and advanced practice provider (APP) knowledge and technical skill in performance of a point-of-care ultrasound simulation and just-in-time training pathway to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of the ultrasound training program. By performing this study, we hope to create a standardized training model which could potentially facilitate point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) clinical performance and thereby improve patient care.

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase-3 trial. The primary objective is to assess whether patients remain free of pericarditis recurrence while receiving CardiolRx. Before any trial-related procedure is performed, written informed consent will be obtained. After informed consent is obtained, patients will be screened for eligibility. The highest NRS pain score within the past 7 days is to be assessed prior to randomization at Visit 1 (Day 1). Baseline blood samples for central laboratory assessment of hs-CRP and pharmacokinetic assessments should also be collected prior to randomization at Visit 1 (Day 1). All other screening assessments will be performed at any time within 7 days prior to randomization at Visit 1 (Day 1) and include the following: Physical examination, vital signs, 12-lead ECG; C-SSRS and blood draws for local laboratory assessments (see Section 17.2). Eligible patients will be randomized at Visit 1 (Day 1) to either CardiolRx or matching placebo in a 1:1 ratio. Double-blind trial therapy will be initiated in the evening of Day 1, 10 - 16 days (no additional time window is allowed) prior to the last scheduled dose of the IL-1 blocker and after all baseline assessments are completed. Trial therapy will be administered for 24 weeks. Vital signs, ECG recording and blood draws for local and central laboratory analyses will be carried out at selected visits. Concomitant medications and (S)AEs will be recorded at all visits. Final efficacy assessments will take place at Visit 9, 24 weeks after randomization and start of trial therapy and include a physical exam, vital signs, pain score NRS collection, a 12-lead ECG, a C-SSRS, as well as blood draws for local and central laboratory assessments. A virtual safety follow-up visit (Visit 10) will be scheduled 4 weeks after the last trial therapy administration.

Recurrent pericarditis (RP) is a complex challenging condition, which significantly impacts patients' quality of life, both from the physical and emotional point of view, and can lead to dangerous complications such as cardiac tamponade and constrictive pericarditis. Moreover, patients experiencing several recurrences also tend to need substantial healthcare resources without necessarily experiencing clinical improvement. Understanding more into details the pathophysiology underlying RP is certainly of pivotal importance for optimizing workup strategies and treatment protocols. It is now recognized that pericarditis stems from a bidirectional cross-talk between environmental triggers and the innate and adaptive immune systems in a genetically susceptible host, with a central role of the pro-inflammatory agonistic molecule IL-1 (IL-1α and IL-1β) and the so-called inflammasome. Neutralizing autoantibodies have been identified targeting the endogenous interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) in conditions characterized by severe systemic inflammation such as myocarditis after Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccination, Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C). Therefore, it is possible to hypothesize that testing patients with RP for these antibodies might add significant insights into the knowledge of the pathophysiology of this condition. This may help uncover different underlying mechanisms with similar clinical presentations. New mechanisms involving hyperphosphorylation of IL-1RA precede peripheral immune tolerance breakdown, which may also contribute to certain pericarditis phenotypes. Therefore, it is possible to hypothesize that IL-1RA antibody testing could provide important information to better profile RP patients with an inflammatory phenotype (as indicated by common biochemical markers like CRP) and those with a complicated clinical course. These patients often exhibit marked activation of the IL-1 signaling pathway, and IL-1RA antibody testing may help uncover underlying mechanisms and improve their characterization. Given the negative correlation between neutralizing antibodies against IL-1RA (and low circulating levels of IL-1RA) and markers of cardiac damage and inflammation, testing these antibodies in RP might be of value. High titers of IL-1RA antibodies in RP may indicate uncontrolled activation of the IL-1 pathway, shedding light on why some patients experience recurrences when tapering treatment with the naturally occurring IL-1 receptor antagonist, anakinra. Testing these IL-1RA antibodies in other types of pericarditis could also help explore their correlation with clinical phenotypes, including presentation, clinical course, and response to treatment strategies. Key exclusion criteria include pericarditis secondary to specific etiologies (except post-cardiac injury), history of immunosuppression, and any clinical conditions that may influence the results. Additionally, suPAR testing can complementarily highlight chronic low-grade inflammation, which may underlie certain pericarditis cases that do not exhibit an overt "inflammatory phenotype" (e.g., normal CRP) but are challenging to manage. Longitudinal testing of patients during acute episodes and intercritical phases is planned if feasible. In both IL-1RA antibody and suPAR testing, this study aims to provide more accurate markers compared to commonly used markers for the "inflammatory phenotype" and potentially uncover unknown pathophysiological mechanisms. Currently, there is a lack of literature on this topic. The results of this study may provide a rationale for the selective use of anakinra in specific clinical scenarios and/or guide the evaluation of its dosing with an individualized approach.

The study will consist of two components. 1) The vaccine-induced inflammatory heart disease database will be established. There will be a retrospective chart review looking at vaccine myocarditis/pericarditis (Brighton Criteria Levels 1-3). 2\) There will be a prospective, pragmatic design case-control study for vaccine myocarditis/pericarditis. This will be a multi-center study conducted in centers in Canada that treat post-vaccine inflammatory heart disease in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Patients will be invited to participate in the Registry when they present to the Emergency Department, during inpatient admission, or in the Cardiology Outpatient Clinic. Patients will be invited to ask a relative or friend to contact the research site to serve as controls. The retrospective component of the study will be conducted by identifying patients previously diagnosed with this condition at participating centers. At some centers, we will collect clinical information and include blood samples for biomarkers at the baseline/recruitment visit and first follow-up visit for cases and at a research study visit for controls. The follow-up visit is expected to be between 4 and 12 weeks after the initial visit. The UOHI will see the patients for clinical purposes and the research data will be captured at the same time points. These are expected at baseline/initial visit and then a 4-12-weeks follow-up visit. Clinical assessments and bloodwork will be conducted at the two visits. Subsequent follow-up via telephone interview will be conducted after 6 months, 12 months and every year for 4 years, with a script-based questionnaire to ascertain the patient's clinical status and the achievement of clinical endpoints. Patients will be asked to complete a quality-of-life questionnaire.