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Common heart medication digoxin shows promise in enhancing survival after surgery for infants with certain heart defects

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that digoxin treatment significantly reduced mortality and the need for a transplant among infants undergoing a hybrid procedure for single-ventricle physiology. The researchers analyzed data from 259 infants who received digoxin during their interstage per...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 26, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Heart vest could help predict sudden cardiac death risk

A new study by UCL researchers suggests that a vest mapping the heart's electrical activity could help identify people at high risk of sudden cardiac death. The electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) vest combines signals with MRI images to generate 3D models, potentially predicting risk factors for life-threatening heart rhythms.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 18, 2023

Deaths from heart valve infections drop across U.S. overall, but surged among young adults

A new study found that deaths from infective endocarditis decreased overall in the US, but rose sharply among people ages 25-44, likely linked to the opioid crisis. Researchers call for more investigation into the trends and recommend comprehensive care plans including substance use disorder screening and treatment.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 13, 2023

Gladstone team uncovers why maternal diabetes predisposes babies to heart defects

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified cells and molecules that go awry in the developing hearts of fetuses in women with diabetes, leading to higher levels of retinoic acid activity. The study could eventually lead to interventions to lower heart malformations risk in babies born to women with diabetes.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·DateNov 30, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society (CHSS) and fourteen professional organizations announce recommendations for performing pediatric heart surgery in US

Leading professional organizations announce first-time multidisciplinary consensus guidelines for essential and comprehensive care centers in the US. The guidelines aim to address known variation in outcomes at different centers, providing structure, process, and outcome components necessary for quality care.

SourceSAGE·JournalWorld Journal for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery·DateSep 29, 2023

Virtual drug quiets noise in heart tissue images

A new computational approach removes movement in heart cell and tissue images, allowing direct monitoring of electro-mechanical coupling. The algorithm mimics a drug's action, giving insight into heart diseases.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 11, 2023

UCLA research suggests that heart transplantation is safer for adults with single-ventricle CHD than previously thought

Researchers analyzed data from 2005-2020 and found that 10-year conditional survival was similar between biventricular and most single-ventricle CHD patients. Biventricular CHD patients also showed better 10-year survival compared to non-CHD heart transplant recipients.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 11, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

AI model developed by Brigham researchers could help screen for heart defect

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed an AI model that screens electrocardiograms (ECG) for signs of atrial septal defects (ASD), a common adult congenital heart disease. The model correctly detected ASD in 93.7% of cases, outperforming traditional methods.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalEClinicalMedicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2023

Prenatal diagnosis matters: Linked to earlier surgery for congenital heart disease

A study by Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that prenatal diagnosis is associated with earlier surgery for babies with congenital heart defects, leading to improved outcomes. Prenatally diagnosed babies had surgery on average one week sooner than those with postnatal diagnosis.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalCirculation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes·DateAug 4, 2023

New genes implicated in deadly heart defect

Researchers from Sanford Burnham Prebys have identified new genes that contribute to hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), a rare and life-threatening heart disease. The findings, published in eLife, bring scientists one step closer to unraveling the biology of this complex disease.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournaleLife·DateJul 17, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Researchers target proteins, pathways behind congenital heart disease

Researchers at UNC School of Medicine identified molecular pathways critical for heart development, revealing that the mevalonate pathway regulates embryonic heart cell cycling and signaling molecules. This study provides a foundational data set to identify biological causes of congenital heart disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJun 6, 2023

A key mechanism that controls human heart development discovered

A specialized mRNA translation circuit controlled by protein RBPMS determines the competence for heart formation in human embryonic development. The study provides a better understanding of human cardiac development and reveals potential molecular targets for therapeutic interventions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Brain injuries drop 20% for babies with heart defects

A 20-year study reveals that recent advances in surgical and clinical care have significantly reduced brain injuries in babies with congenital heart disease. Infants who received higher postoperative blood pressure had a 20% lower risk of brain injury compared to those in earlier stages.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 1, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New pediatric investigation article reviews the potential of transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement for congenital heart disorders

The procedure requires thorough pre-procedural evaluation and assessment of anatomical and hemodynamic data. Long-term results indicate that TPVR can effectively restore RVOT function, while improving survival rates and reducing the need for reintervention across age groups. Vigilant testing is recommended to avoid rare but serious com...

SourceCactus Communications·JournalPediatric Investigation·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 3, 2023

New 3D model shows how cadmium exposure may affect heart development

Researchers developed a 3D organoid model that mimics human heart development, revealing how low levels of cadmium can block cardiomyocyte formation and induce heart abnormalities. The study supports decades of toxicology research on environmental exposures contributing to human diseases.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 2, 2022

New genetic finding sheds light for congenital heart disease

A study led by the Masonic Medical Research Institute found that VGLL4 is required for embryo development but dispensable for myocardial growth, providing new insights into congenital heart defects and heart failure. This discovery has significant implications for treating heart malformations.

SourceMasonic Medical Research Institute·JournalCells·DateSep 21, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Scientists at the CNIC and Hospital Puerta de Hierro develop a tool to determine if dilated cardiomyopathy has a genetic origin

A new software application predicts the likelihood that a case of dilated cardiomyopathy has a genetic mutation. The Madrid Genotype Score identifies patients most likely to have inherited the disease, facilitating genetic screening and tailored treatment adjustments.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateSep 12, 2022

Pediatric cardiologists uncover possible cause of racial disparity affecting congenital heart disease

A recent study by pediatric cardiologists has found that certain maternal health conditions can partially explain the racial disparities in congenital heart disease outcomes. The research assessed over 8,000 infant and mother records from diverse populations and identified placental and metabolic syndromes as contributing factors.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 26, 2022

Higher folate levels during pregnancy may lower risk of congenital heart disease

A case-control study found that pregnant women with higher folate levels are at a lower risk of having children with congenital heart disease. The researchers measured red blood cell folate levels and found that those with CHD had significantly lower median levels than those without CHD.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateAug 22, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

First intermediate to long-term study of the harmony transcatheter pulmonary valve system validates safety and efficacy

A one-year study validated the Harmony transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) system's safety and efficacy in treating congenital heart disease patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation. The study showed favorable clinical and hemodynamic outcomes, including low mortality rates and minimal interventions.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateMay 19, 2022

Scientists implicate non-cardiac genes in congenital heart disease

Researchers discovered that non-cardiac protein subunit CHD4 interacts with three cardiac genes mutated in patients with congenital heart disease, leading to misexpression of non-cardiac genes and faulty heart development. This finding provides a new mechanism for the prevalence of congenital heart disease in humans.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 27, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Doctors diagnosing fetal heart disease benefit from explanatory AI

Researchers found that AI-enhanced diagnosis helps doctors accurately detect fetal congenital heart disease, with fellows making the most accurate diagnoses. The new system uses graphical charts to represent the AI's analysis of ultrasound videos, improving accuracy and trust among medical professionals.

SourceRIKEN·JournalBiomedicines·DateApr 4, 2022

For youth with a heart defect, shift to adult-focused care is key to health, quality of life

Most people born with heart defects now survive past childhood, requiring seamless transition to adult-oriented healthcare. The American Heart Association updates guidelines for managing congenital heart disease in adolescents and young adults, highlighting the importance of involving individuals and families in research.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMar 17, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Getting to the heart of complex disease

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have developed a novel method for identifying genetic variants that are likely to play important roles in congenital heart disease. The study leverages interactions between proteins to pinpoint candidate genes, including GLYR1, which is involved in turning other genes on and off.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalCell·DateFeb 18, 2022

When a protective gene buffers a bad one, a heart can beat

Scientists found a protective gene that counters a deleterious mutation causing atrial septal defects, allowing some people with the mutation to thrive. The discovery provides valuable clinical information for families affected by congenital heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateFeb 15, 2022

My heart will go on: Patient-derived heart cells mimic disease in vitro

Researchers from Osaka University created patient-derived heart cells that exhibit reduced contractility and impaired desmosome assembly when carrying a mutation associated with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. Replacing the mutated gene restored normal function, suggesting a potential treatment approach for this disease.

SourceOsaka University·JournalStem Cell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2022

Fetal MRI is a valuable adjunct to ultrasound in detecting abnormal extracardiac development in fetuses with congenital heart defects

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that fetal MRI can detect at least one other abnormality in almost 57% of fetuses with heart defects. Additionally, approximately a quarter of all fetuses had structural brain abnormalities, regardless of the severity of the heart defect.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 20, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Genetic study of heart defects and autism finds new causative genes

Researchers identified 23 genes contributing to congenital heart disease, including 12 previously unknown, using a new algorithm called M-DATA. This method combines genetic data from people with related conditions, increasing the power to identify risk factors and potentially leading to improved treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 4, 2021

Most mothers born with heart defects can become pregnant and give birth safely

A study of 7,512 pregnancies in women with congenital heart disease found no maternal deaths, but more health complications for mothers and babies compared to a control group. Babies born to CHD mothers had an increased risk of stillbirths, low birthweight, and major visible abnormalities.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateOct 12, 2021

How SNPs can be used to detect disease pathways

Researchers developed VarSAn, a computational tool that analyzes SNPs to predict disease pathways, including breast and prostate cancer. The tool uses network analysis to identify perturbed pathways, offering a new approach to understanding genetic variation.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 27, 2021

Study links high lipid levels in early pregnancy with congenital heart disease in children

A study published in Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica found that pregnant women with elevated blood lipids, particularly triglycerides and Apolipoprotein-B, were more than twice as likely to deliver children with congenital heart disease. The research highlights the importance of maintaining good health during pregnancy an...

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateAug 4, 2021

Technology provides procedure efficiencies for congenital heart disease patients

A new international registry analysis reveals benefits of using longer covered stents for interventional procedures in congenital heart disease patients. The study found that these longer stents significantly reduce the need for additional stents and minimize procedural risk factors, potentially replacing open-heart surgery.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·DateApr 30, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Study reveals networks of genes involved in congenital heart disease

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UCSF have discovered a complex network of genes and proteins that go awry in a subset of congenital heart diseases. The study sheds light on how genetic mutations contribute to the disease, offering new insights into potential prevention or treatment strategies.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 14, 2020

Cutting-edge, whole-heart imaging provides new details on heart defects

A new imaging technique has been developed that allows scientists to study the tiny details of a whole animal heart in 3D. This technique may lead to new insights into congenital heart disease and improve survival rates for people born with heart defects. The study reveals structural differences between healthy and defective heart cell...

SourceeLife·DateOct 20, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

What happens when babies with heart defects become adults?

Adults with congenital heart disease require lifelong management, including regular appointments, pregnancy planning, and exercise recommendations. The ESC guidelines provide guidance on diagnosis, treatment, and support to help these individuals lead normal lives.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 29, 2020

ESC Congress 2020 - Highlights from the scientific program

ESC Congress 2020 presented over 400 topics covering the entire spectrum of cardiology, including late-breaking science studies, clinical trials, and ESC Guidelines. The event featured four new Clinical Practice Guidelines launched live during the congress.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJul 21, 2020
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

SCAI issues recommendations on adult congenital cardiac interventional training

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions has issued recommendations on adult congenital cardiac interventional training, focusing on eligibility, training environment, and procedural volume. The guidelines suggest a minimum of 150 ACHD catheterization cases for trainees to participate in as primary or first assistant.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 16, 2020

Congenital heart disease more deadly in low-income countries

A comprehensive study of congenital heart disease found lower predicted long-term survival, higher remission rates, and lower prevalence in low-income countries compared to high-income nations. The study revealed a significant disparity in CHD mortality rates between countries, with most deaths occurring in infants under one year old.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateJan 31, 2020

Can cells collected from bone marrow repair brain damage in babies with CHD?

Researchers at Children's National Hospital aim to use mesenchymal stromal cells collected from bone marrow to promote brain growth and repair in newborns undergoing cardiac surgery for congenital heart disease. The NIH-funded trial seeks to determine the safety of this treatment and set the stage for a Phase 2 efficacy trial.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·DateNov 14, 2019

Fathers-to-be should avoid alcohol six months before conception

Research published in European Journal of Preventive Cardiology suggests that fathers-to-be should not consume alcohol for at least six months before fertilization, while mothers should stop drinking one year prior to pregnancy. This can lower the risk of congenital heart disease in offspring.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateOct 3, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers test new imaging method for first time on human patients

Researchers have successfully tested a new ultrasound technology on human patients, enabling detailed images of internal structure and blood flow. The vector flow imaging method provides advanced detail of blood flow patterns within cardiac chambers, across valves, and in the great arteries.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalProgress in Pediatric Cardiology·DateApr 3, 2019