Children with more body fat and less endurance have stiffer arteries than their fitter counterparts, according to new research. The study found that identifying these children early could help prevent cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A study by University of Washington researchers suggests that dangerous plaques in blood vessels can rupture due to an overproduction of protein-digesting enzymes. This process is associated with plaque hemorrhage, artery-blocking clots, and a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Researchers from Mount Sinai School of Medicine identified potential heart problems in responders on-site at the World Trade Center collapse. They found impaired diastolic function, particularly in middle-aged men, which can lead to shortness of breath and heart failure.
A new study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine reveals that supplementing vitamin D may have different effects on atherosclerosis based on patient race, with black patients at higher risk of increased calcium deposition in arteries.
Researchers found that patients with larger volumes of epicardial fat tend to have more dangerous atherosclerotic plaques, which can lead to active buildup in coronary arteries. The study also showed that epicardial fat volume correlates with ischemia during nuclear stress tests.
Emory physicians report successful outcomes from 21 patients with left main coronary artery blockages treated using hybrid revascularization. The procedure combines coronary artery bypass surgery and PCI, resulting in no major adverse events. A large-scale clinical trial is planned to assess intermediate and long-term outcomes.
Drug-eluting stents have shown promising results in treating peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients with critical limb ischemia, rivaling bypass surgery in primary patency rates of up to 81.8% and freedom from major amputation of up to 90.6%. The treatment offers a safe and effective solution for tiny blocked arteries below the knee.
Patients who received stents and participated in cardiac rehabilitation had a significant reduction in mortality rates compared to those who did not participate. Cardiac rehabilitation programs improve health outcomes and quality of life through rigorous exercise and risk factor control.
A new study from Henry Ford Health finds that patients with high levels of abdominal aortic calcium (plaque) are nearly 60% at risk of coronary artery disease and dying. Conversely, those with low AAC scores have a lower risk of heart disease.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a new way to grow arteries using a drug that inhibits a specific signaling pathway. This breakthrough could lead to a non-invasive 'biological bypass' option for patients with coronary artery disease.
A recent study discovered that blood flow force triggers a chain reaction protecting arteries from dangerous clogs. The reaction involves the structural change of an enzyme, histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5), influencing key genes involved in reversing atherosclerosis.
A new software technology allows doctors to visualize 3D images of heart arteries in the catheterization lab, improving assessment and treatment of coronary artery disease. This can reduce radiation exposure and decrease analysis time for cardiologists.
Researchers report a rare diagnosis of superior mesenteric artery syndrome in a diabetic patient, causing similar symptoms to gastroparesis. Computed tomography and upper GI series are reliable diagnostic tools, while adequate nutrition supply and bodyweight gain aim to relieve symptoms.
A study of nearly 2000 healthy adults found that kidney abnormalities occur in at least 25% of the population. Most abnormalities were mild and not causing discomfort, but future research is needed to determine their impact on long-term health.
The COMPARE study found that everolimus-eluting stents significantly reduced serious adverse cardiac events compared to paclitaxel-eluting stents. The study concluded that the use of second-generation everolimus-eluting stents was associated with a significant reduction in major adverse cardiac events at 1 year.
A new computer model explains why certain drugs released from stents can cause blood clots and heart attacks, by predicting drug distribution in branched arteries. The findings could aid the FDA in its approval process for stents and lead to safer stent designs.
A new study reveals that exercise stimulates the creation of new blood vessels in leg muscles, a process known as angiogenesis, thanks to the PGC-1alpha protein. This finding could lead to new treatments for peripheral artery disease and prevent amputations.
Researchers developed a computer model to predict physiologically realistic drug delivery patterns from stents in branched arterial vessels. The model shows that spatial variation in drug distribution can be significant and may affect treatment outcomes.
A study found that patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and no symptoms of heart disease are at high risk for cardiovascular events. Asymptomatic coronary artery disease was detected in 24% of PAD patients through non-invasive imaging, highlighting the need for extensive cardiovascular risk factor management.
A new MEMS sensor can detect changes in bulk resistance for plaque characteristics and identify spots where back currents may be promoting plaque formation. This technology has the potential to improve heart attack treatment by distinguishing between stable and unstable plaque.
Hardening of the arteries has been detected in ancient Egyptian mummies, dating back to 3,500 years ago. Atherosclerosis, a build-up of fat and cholesterol in blood vessels, was found in four out of 20 mummies.
Researchers have discovered that ancient Egyptian mummies, some as old as 3,500 years, exhibited significant calcification in their arteries, indicating the presence of atherosclerosis. This finding suggests that heart attack and stroke may not be exclusively modern diseases.
A Mayo Clinic study found that the incidence of stroke or mini-stroke related to angioplasty remained steady over a 15-year period. Researchers identified patients who suffered an angioplasty-related cerebrovascular accident (CVA), defined as a stroke, and compared outcomes with the remainder of the study population.
A study published in JAMA found that telephone-delivered collaborative care for post-CABG depression significantly improved mental HRQL, physical functioning, and mood symptoms. Intervention patients reported a 50% or greater reduction in mood symptoms compared to those receiving usual care.
Researchers recommend screening people over 40 for PAD due to its association with heart disease and stroke. The study found 17 cases of PAD among 362 volunteers, highlighting the importance of aggressive treatment and prevention strategies.
A study found that three months of vigorous physical activity in older adults with type 2 diabetes improved the elasticity of their arteries, leading to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. The participants showed an impressive drop in arterial stiffness after just three months of exercise.
Researchers found that modifying risk factors through healthy lifestyle changes remains vital to combating peripheral arterial disease. While some patients with blocked leg arteries may not exhibit symptoms, early detection and treatment are still essential to prevent progression and potential complications.
A new study suggests that invasive procedures may not be necessary for all patients with narrowed arteries in and around the kidneys. The researchers found that only a small percentage of cases progress to a dangerous blockage, and progression does not always predict severe kidney function decline.
A non-invasive test can effectively screen for silent heart disease and identify high-risk patients, potentially preventing heart attacks and sudden deaths. Coronary artery calcium scans detected plaque in coronary arteries, which were more effective than standard measurements.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered matrix metalloproteinase-8 plays a crucial role in clogged arteries and heart disease. The study found that MMP8 enhances the effects of existing ACE inhibitor drugs, potentially reducing deaths from heart disease.
A new computed-tomography-based protocol can identify coronary artery narrowing and myocardial ischemia simultaneously, improving diagnostic accuracy for clinically significant coronary artery disease. The study's results compare favorably to SPECT stress imaging and cardiac catheterization, with lower radiation doses.
A nonagenarian researcher, Fred Kummerow, has filed a petition with the FDA to ban trans fats from the American diet. His research suggests that trans fats contribute to the two main causes of heart disease: blood clots and atherosclerosis. The FDA has 180 days to respond to his petition.
Effective reperfusion therapy in AMI patients can cut individual risk of dying by half and save millions of European lives. Modern catheter-based reperfusion strategies are more effective than fibrinolytic agents, reducing infarct-related mortality by up to 37%.
A landmark international study found that high doses of clopidogrel significantly reduce stent thrombosis and heart attacks in patients undergoing angioplasty. The study showed a 30% reduction in stent thrombosis risk and a 22% lower risk of heart attack with the higher dose regimen.
Researchers found that lowering heart rate with Beta-blockers can increase central aortic pressures in older individuals with high blood pressure, leading to reduced stroke prevention. The study suggests that alternative treatments may be more effective in this population.
A study found that measuring ankle circulation using a blood pressure cuff can identify asymptomatic peripheral artery disease in stroke and TIA survivors, who are at higher risk of subsequent cerebrovascular events. The test, called ABI measurement, is easily performed in under 15 minutes and detected PAD in 26% of survivors.
Researchers discovered that oxycholesterol significantly raises blood cholesterol levels and promotes atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants can counteract these effects by blocking the oxidation process that forms oxycholesterol.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that CT angiography can identify diseases and injuries beyond the pulmonary arteries in children. Researchers evaluated 89 CTA exams with suspected pulmonary embolism and found alternative diagnoses in 59% of cases, including pneumonia and atelectasis.
Research finds sequential use of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and percutaneous cryosurgery can treat more HCC patients, even those with larger tumors. This minimally invasive technique improves patient survival times and reduces surgical complications.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) enhances visualization of hepatic arteries, portal veins, and bridging veins, as well as liver graft parenchyma perfusion. CEUS has high sensitivity and specificity for detecting vascular complications after liver transplantation.
A study of heart disease patients reveals those with prior atherosclerosis are more likely to die in the hospital and receive less recommended therapy. Researchers found these patients were also more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, and earlier stroke and heart failure incidence.
Researchers found that high levels of calcium in coronary arteries can predict severe cardiac events, including fatal heart attacks. The study suggests combining calcium scoring with other imaging tests can help identify patients at highest risk.
A major electronic collection of articles about uterine artery embolization is now available, providing information on the treatment's benefits and technical aspects. The collection includes studies that demonstrate the procedure's lower cost compared to traditional surgery.
A study found that CT scans used to screen for coronary artery calcification could lead to an estimated 42 additional radiation-induced cancer cases per 100,000 men and 62 cases per 100,000 women. The wide dose variation from different scanners resulted in a wide range of estimated radiation-induced cancer risks.
A new study from Tel Aviv University shows that high glycemic index foods, such as cornflakes and white bread, can cause sudden expansion of artery walls, leading to reduced elasticity and increased heart disease risk. The research provides a new mechanism for understanding how these foods affect the progression of heart disease.
A new study reveals that trans fats interfere with the regulation of blood flow by hindering key enzymes and reducing prostacyclin production. This can lead to increased inflammation, high LDL cholesterol, and calcified arteries, ultimately contributing to atherosclerosis and heart disease.
Researchers evaluated percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PAA) as an alternative to conventional RFA in treating hypervascular HCC. The study found that PAA significantly reduced post-RFA recurrence and improved treatment outcomes, making it a promising new approach for this patient population.
Half of myocardial infarction patients report onerous fatigue four months after the event, with depression symptoms also common. Patients' perceptions of their illness play a crucial role in determining prognosis and treatment effectiveness.
A new study finds that following quality measures has a greater impact on patient outcomes than hospital volume for coronary artery bypass surgery. Patients treated by surgeons and hospitals with high adherence to six quality standards have better post-operative results, regardless of their volume, the research team found.
Research found that Andean women's uterine artery blood flow and oxygen delivery are higher than European counterparts at high altitude, resulting in larger babies. The study suggests genetic adaptation allows Andean mothers to adapt to the high-altitude environment, protecting their fetuses from reduced growth.
A new automated system for interpreting coronary CT angiography (CCTA) studies detects major coronary artery stenosis with 95% accuracy, helping prioritize cases. The technology aims to improve radiologist efficiency and reduce response times in positive cases.
Researchers found that phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, commonly used to treat male erectile dysfunction, can also relax female rat internal pudendal arteries and improve blood flow. The study suggests that these drugs may be effective in treating female sexual dysfunction caused by inadequate blood supply.
New studies suggest male impotence drugs like Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis may also treat female sexual dysfunction. Researchers found the drugs relax blood vessels in females differently than males, with some women more sensitive to certain medications.
A large and solitary congenital arterioportal fistula (APF) was diagnosed in a 73-year-old woman. Transcatheter closure using multiple coils was initially successful but resulted in two subsequent episodes of alimentary tract hemorrhage, suggesting that APFs with significant collateral circulation may be challenging to treat.
Research found that facemasks can prevent adverse cardiovascular effects caused by diesel exhaust, reducing arterial stiffness and associated risks. Wearing a facemask during exercise in smoggy cities may lead to reduced blood pressure and improved heart rate control.
Researchers found that drug-eluting stents significantly improved patency rates and reduced restenosis in patients with critical limb ischemia. At three years, 60% of treated arteries remained open in the drug-eluting stent group, compared to 10% in the bare-metal stent group.
Researchers led by Prof. Boris Rubinsky developed a technique using irreversible electroporation (IRE) to destroy cells responsible for restenosis in arteries. IRE successfully destroyed almost all cells in less than 23 seconds with no damage to other structures.
The SAMMPRIS trial will determine if stenting or intensive medical therapy alone can reduce the risk of recurrent stroke in patients with narrowed brain arteries. The study aims to improve the management of patients at risk for stroke and provide definitive answers on the long-term benefits of stenting.
Researchers found that HAART contributes to pulmonary hypertension in HIV-infected patients by impairing blood vessel-lining endothelial cell function. A novel treatment for chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) involves neprilysin, which protects against PHTN by regulating neural signaling molecules.
A new study by Duke University Medical Center reveals that delayed treatment for heart attacks using drugs alone is as effective as treatment with stents, offering a cheaper and less invasive option. The research found modest benefits in reducing chest pain but no long-term quality of life difference between the two approaches.