Comparative analysis of MRAs and ASIs and new data on lung ultrasound in ambulatory HFpEF lead the March issue
WASHINGTON, DC (MARCH 10, 2026) – The March issue of the Journal of Cardiac Failure (JCF) features new analyses addressing therapeutic selection within the aldosterone pathway and earlier identification of pulmonary congestion in patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Articles highlighted in the March issue of JCF include:
A featured review compares steroidal and nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) and aldosterone synthase inhibitors (ASIs), highlighting key differences in mechanism, pharmacology, and adverse-effect profiles. Drawing on trial data across hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and HF, including available head-to-head comparisons, the authors outline clinical implications and call for more direct comparison studies, as well as trials evaluating combination strategies with SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists.
The issue also includes a study evaluating lung ultrasound in ambulatory patients with HFpEF. Using pocket ultrasound devices, investigators assessed the prevalence of B-lines as a marker of pulmonary congestion. B-lines were common and were associated with NT-proBNP levels and echocardiographic indices. Notably, pulmonary congestion identified by ultrasound was not always evident on physical examination.The findings support lung ultrasound as a potential tool for monitoring congestion and guiding therapy in outpatient HFpEF management.
In addition, the issue publishes an HFSA Scientific Statement on Integrated Healthcare Technologies (IHTs) in HF care. The statement reviews current evidence demonstrating improvements in quality of life and reductions in hospitalization with certain digital health interventions, while also addressing limitations related to patient engagement, digital literacy, system interoperability, data privacy, workflow disruption, and implementation costs.
View the full issue online. For interviews with authors, please contact Laura Poko at lpoko@hfsa.org.
About the Journal of Cardiac Failure
The Journal of Cardiac Failure (JCF) publishes the highest quality science in the field of heart failure with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, mentorship, multidisciplinary partnerships, and patient-centeredness. Published papers span original investigator-initiated work to state-of-the-art reviews, guidelines and scientific statements, expert perspectives, early career and trainee spotlight pieces, patient and patient-partner narratives. JCF also emphasizes the power of language and prioritizes innovative approaches to dissemination of published work to reach and impact the broader heart failure community.
About the Heart Failure Society of America
The Heart Failure Society of America, Inc. (HFSA) represents the first organized effort by heart failure experts from the Americas to provide a forum for all those interested in heart function, heart failure, and congestive heart failure (CHF) research and patient care. The mission of HFSA is to provide a platform to improve and expand heart failure care through collaboration, education, innovation, research, and advocacy. HFSA members include physicians, scientists, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, trainees, other healthcare workers and patients. For more information, visit hfsa.org.
Media Contact: Laura Poko, 301-798-4493, ext. 226, lpoko@hfsa.org