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American College of Cardiology issues clinical competencies for cardiovascular NPs, PAs

The American College of Cardiology has released the first competency statement for nurse practitioners and physician assistants in adult cardiovascular medicine. The document outlines core competencies for systems-based practice, medical knowledge, and procedural skills to improve access to care and enhance patient satisfaction.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 20, 2020

Does coronary microvascular spasm exist?

Researchers investigate coronary microvascular spasm using real-time blood flow velocity measurement during acetylcholine testing. The study aims to provide objective evidence on the existence of coronary microvascular spasm, a condition affecting chronic coronary syndromes.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateMar 20, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Eating more protein could help ward off atrial fibrillation in women

A study of over 99,000 postmenopausal women found that consuming 58-74 grams of protein per day significantly reduced the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Increasing protein intake by 10-20 grams daily can potentially lower this risk and has implications for cardiovascular health.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 19, 2020

Impact of postdilation on intervention success and MACE

Performing postdilation after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) for acute coronary syndromes may improve intracoronary nitrate infusion rates, myocardial blush grade, and drug-eluting stent use. However, it does not predict final TIMI flow grade or major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateMar 19, 2020

US sees sharp increase in hypertension-related deaths

Rates of deaths related to hypertension have risen sharply across the US, with a 72% increase in rural areas and a 20% increase in urban areas. High blood pressure can cause damage to arteries and lead to events such as heart attacks or strokes, emphasizing the importance of taking it seriously.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 19, 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.

Women carry heavier burden of chest pain, but less artery narrowing

Women with coronary artery disease experience more chest pain due to plaque build-up, but have less extensive disease compared to men. The study highlights the need for more research and clinicians to adopt a dual focus to prevent cardiovascular events and improve patients' quality of life.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2020

Having a low birthweight baby may increase risk for early heart failure

A new study suggests that giving birth to a low-weight baby under 5.5 pounds may be an independent risk factor for developing changes in heart function that can lead to heart failure. Researchers found that women who experienced adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia or pre-term birth, had a higher risk of heart failure at 30...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2020
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.

Getting too little -- or too much -- sleep may be bad for the heart

Research found that sleeping seven or eight hours a night is associated with lower evidence of arterial stiffness and a reduced risk of heart disease. However, both short and long sleep durations were linked to increased plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. A balanced sleep pattern may be key to maintaining cardiovascular health.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2020

PTSD strongly linked with heart disease in female veterans

A large-scale study finds a strong association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ischemic heart disease in female veterans. Women with PTSD were 47 years old on average, five years younger than those without the condition, highlighting the need for earlier screening and routine care.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2020
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.

Medical radiation exposure fell in the US from 2006 to 2016

A study found that per capita radiation exposure in the US decreased by 20% between 2006 and 2016, mainly due to a decline in nuclear medicine procedures. Meanwhile, CT scans increased but saw a small drop in effective dose thanks to advancements in dose modulation technology.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 17, 2020

Modern women with heart disease need flexible lifestyle programs

A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that women with heart disease often face barriers to cardiac rehabilitation due to lack of time, social support and transportation issues. The authors identified ways to modernize cardiac rehabilitation by offering enjoyable physical activities, flexible class tim...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateMar 7, 2020
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.

Improving cardiovascular health of the most vulnerable

A two-year pilot study increased statin medication use by 24-45% and high-intensity statin treatment by 349%, resulting in significant decreases in total cholesterol and LDL levels. The partnership demonstrated the impact of public health partnerships on treating cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 21, 2020

More than 2 million patients with heart disease report use of marijuana

A review article published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates that 2 million adults with cardiovascular disease in the US have used or currently use marijuana. Observational studies link marijuana use to increased heart risk, including stroke, arrhythmia, and decreased heart muscle function.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 20, 2020

Belly fat linked with repeat heart attacks

A large study of over 22,000 patients after a first heart attack found that abdominal obesity is independently associated with fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and strokes. Waist circumference was a stronger marker of recurrent events than overall obesity in men, while women had a U-shaped relationship between waist circumference and ...

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJan 20, 2020
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Research suggests potential link between marijuana and heart risks

A review suggests that marijuana use can increase cardiovascular health hazards, especially when combined with certain medications. Cardiologists are advised to screen patients for marijuana use and adjust dosing accordingly.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 20, 2020

Burnout linked with irregular heartbeat

A large study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that individuals with burnout syndrome are at a 20% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Chronic stress and inflammation may be key mechanisms behind this association.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJan 13, 2020

Tea drinkers live longer

A study of 100,902 participants found that habitual tea consumption was linked to lower risks of cardiovascular disease and all-cause death. Green tea showed the strongest association, while black tea had no significant effects.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateJan 9, 2020
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.

Hepatitis C-positive donors a viable option to expand heart donor pool

Patients transplanted with hepatitis C-positive donor hearts had comparable outcomes after one year compared to those receiving hearts from disease-free donors. The study suggests using such hearts can expand the donor pool, reduce wait times and improve patient survival rates.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateDec 20, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Middle-income countries are hardest hit by cardiovascular disease in Europe

The European Society of Cardiology reports that middle-income countries in Europe are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease, with higher mortality rates and more years lost due to CVD. The statistics highlight the need for targeted prevention policies and improved access to modern healthcare facilities.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 10, 2019

Women, exercise and longevity

A study of 4,714 adult women found that those with good exercise capacity were at lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other causes. Women with poor exercise capacity had nearly four times higher annual rates of death from these causes compared to those with good exercise capacity.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateDec 7, 2019

Cellular repair response to treadmill test can predict cardiac outcomes

Researchers found that a decrease in CPC counts during an exercise test can predict high risk of heart attack or death over the next three years. Monitoring CPC response to exercise provides more information than nuclear imaging for cardiac ischemia, reducing radiation exposure.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateDec 4, 2019

Lack of specialists doom rural sick patients

Research by Saint Louis University finds that rural patients with chronic conditions have higher death rates, more hospitalizations, and limited access to specialist physicians. The study suggests strategies to improve specialist care in rural areas, including telemedicine and loan forgiveness for physicians.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalHealth Affairs·DateDec 3, 2019
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Brush your teeth to protect the heart

A nationwide cohort study in Korea found that frequent tooth brushing reduced the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure by 10% and 12%, respectively. The study suggests a potential mechanism: reducing bacteria in the subgingival biofilm, which can prevent translocation to the bloodstream.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateDec 2, 2019

Informed consent for heart procedure: most patients overestimate benefits

A study by the European Society of Cardiology found that most patients do not understand or recall information given to them before heart procedures. Patients often believe that opening blocked arteries can cure their heart disease, despite this being a misconception.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing·DateNov 28, 2019

New model for predicting kidney injury after common heart procedure

A Yale-led group developed a new mathematical model to predict acute kidney injury (AKI) risk in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. The model accounts for individual differences and complex associations between contrast levels and AKI risk, providing more accurate estimates.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 22, 2019
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.

BU doc honored by the American Heart Association

Emelia J. Benjamin, a renowned researcher and cardiologist, has received two prestigious awards from the American Heart Association for her significant contributions to clinical cardiology and her dedication to mentoring young investigators. She is recognized for over 600 publications and substantial NIH grant support.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateNov 20, 2019

Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications, Volume 4, Supplement 1 publishes

The article covers topics such as basic and translational medicine, clinical research, and cardiovascular prevention & rehabilitation. The 30th Great Wall International Congress of Cardiology (GW-ICC) presented new concepts and technologies in cardiovascular medicine.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateNov 19, 2019

Improving the odds for patients with heart pumps

A new Yale study found a clear association between neurohormonal blockade therapy and increased survival and quality of life for patients with left ventricular assist devices. The study, which analyzed over 12,000 patients, showed a 56% survival rate for those taking NHB therapy compared to 43.9% for those not on the medications.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateNov 19, 2019

Rare genetic variants predispose to sudden cardiac death

Researchers identified rare DNA variants in 1% of asymptomatic adults that substantially increase risk of sudden cardiac death. Genetic sequencing may enable new opportunities to identify high-risk individuals prior to any symptoms.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 16, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Women most affected by vascular complications of diabetes

Research highlights the disproportionate impact of diabetes on women, with a higher risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure compared to men. Healthy lifestyle habits and glucose-lowering treatment are crucial in preventing these complications.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateNov 14, 2019

Artificial intelligence tool predicts life expectancy in heart failure patients

Researchers developed an AI algorithm based on electronic health records data that accurately predicted life expectancy for heart failure patients, achieving an 88% success rate. The model identified eight readily available variables to determine low- and high-risk of death, providing valuable insight for informed medical decisions.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·DateNov 13, 2019

The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology publish new joint 2019 Clinical Performance and Quality Measures for Adults with High Blood Pressure

The new 2019 Clinical Performance and Quality Measures for Adults with High Blood Pressure aim to accelerate translation of scientific evidence into clinical practice. The measures evaluate patient care in accordance with the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines, including timeliness, safety, effectiveness, efficiency, equity...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 12, 2019
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.

Biomarker blood test could reveal high risk heart patients in need of treatment

A new biomarker blood test has identified adults with mild hypertension who are at higher risk for cardiovascular events without symptoms. The test detected slight elevations in protein biomarkers in approximately one-third of these individuals, who were more likely to experience heart attacks, strokes, or congestive heart failure.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateNov 11, 2019

Electronic cigarettes are not worth the risk say scientists

Scientists report that electronic cigarettes have adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels due to nicotine's impact on blood pressure and inflammation. The lack of standardised products makes it difficult to study the health effects of e-cigarettes, leading researchers to advise against their use.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalCardiovascular Research·DateNov 7, 2019

World's most comprehensive study of a deadly heart condition yields 1st results

Researchers have developed a comprehensive registry of over 2,750 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, allowing for more accurate predictions of patient risk and identification of best treatments. The study's findings will help doctors better understand the condition and its complexities.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 7, 2019

Study finds inequities in access to heart failure care

Patients who self-identified as black, Latinx, female or over the age of 75 were less likely to be admitted to cardiology service despite heart failure diagnosis. The study highlights racial inequities in access to specialized care, which may contribute to disparities in readmissions and outcomes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·DateOct 29, 2019
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.

Study looks at distribution of new cases of diabetes, density of specialists

Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital analyzed national data on the prevalence of diabetes and the number of internal medicine specialists in each U.S. state. They found that cardiologists were the highest represented specialists, suggesting they are well-positioned to provide optimal care for patients with diabetes.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateOct 23, 2019

One in five cardiac rehab patients are depressed, anxious, or stressed

A study found that 18% of cardiac rehab patients had moderate to severe depression, anxiety, or stress. These conditions were associated with higher rates of dropout from rehabilitation and reduced improvements in symptoms. Clinicians are urged to screen for mental health issues and offer additional support.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateOct 10, 2019
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

More patients with cardiovascular disease now die at home than in the hospital

A study by Haider Warraich and colleagues found that 31% of cardiovascular disease deaths occur at home, exceeding hospital fatalities. The research analyzed over 12 million deaths from 2003 to 2017, revealing disparities in place of death among underserved racial and ethnic groups.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 9, 2019

Cancer patients who exercise have less heart damage from chemotherapy

Exercise can counteract the negative effects of cancer treatments on the cardiovascular system and relieve symptoms such as nausea and fatigue. A tailored exercise prescription is recommended for each patient based on individual characteristics, personal history, and cancer treatment.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·DateOct 7, 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

Study identifies cardiovascular toxicities associated with ibrutinib

A recent study analyzed deaths associated with ibrutinib and identified several cardiovascular toxicities, including supraventricular arrhythmias and heart failure. The study highlights the need to improve management of patients taking this drug, which has a higher death rate compared to chemotherapy.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 23, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Tackling cardiovascular deaths requires urgent action in children

The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the importance of preventing cardiovascular disease in children, who are already at risk due to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy diets. The SBC Goes to School project aims to educate 63,000 students through teacher-student monitors, promoting exercise and healthy eating habits.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateSep 21, 2019

SCAI stages of cardiogenic shock stratify mortality risk

A new shock classification scheme has been validated in a retrospective study analyzing over 10,000 cardiac intensive care patients, revealing a stepwise increase in unadjusted CICU and hospital mortality with each successive SCAI shock stage.

SourceSociety for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 20, 2019

ACC issues principles for overcoming compensation, opportunity inequity

The American College of Cardiology has published its first health policy statement on cardiologist compensation and opportunity equity, aiming to advance fairness and improve patient care. The document outlines 17 principles for achieving equity in compensation and opportunity, including minimizing disparities and promoting equal acces...

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 16, 2019