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Microbot motors fit to swim human arteries

Researchers from Monash University have designed microbot motors powered by piezoelectricity, allowing them to swim up narrow arteries and enhance surgical views. The innovative technology could revolutionize minimally invasive surgeries, making them safer and more effective.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateJan 20, 2009

Step out for PAD

New research shows regular exercise can significantly improve peripheral artery disease (PAD) symptoms by increasing collateral blood flow and enhancing vascular efficiency. Exercise training can delay pain onset and increase mobility in people with PAD.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateDec 14, 2008

High phosphorus linked to coronary calcification in chronic kidney disease

A study published in JASN found that even mild increases in serum phosphorus levels are associated with cardiovascular events in people with moderate chronic kidney disease. Vascular calcification, detected by CT scans, was more common in patients with higher phosphorus levels, increasing the risk of coronary artery calcification.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 10, 2008

Study: Even occasional smoking can impair arteries

A new University of Georgia study found that even occasional cigarette smoking can decrease arterial responsiveness by up to 36% in young, healthy adults. Repeated bouts of smoking further impaired flow-mediated dilation, indicating a potential long-term risk for cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalUltrasound in Medicine & Biology·DateOct 7, 2008

The benefits of green tea in reducing an important risk factor for heart disease

A recent study found that green tea rapidly improves the function of endothelial cells lining the circulatory system. The consumption of green tea resulted in increased brachial artery dilatation, indicating improved endothelial function. This is significant as endothelial dysfunction is a key event in the progression of atherosclerosis.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation·DateJul 2, 2008

Brief, intense exercise benefits the heart

Research from McMaster University found that brief, high-intensity sprints improve blood vessel function and structure, similar to traditional long-duration exercise. The study suggests that short bursts of intense exercise can reap the same cardiovascular benefits as longer workouts.

Hypoxia training suppresses harmful cardiac nitric oxide production during heart attack

Researchers found that intermittent hypoxia treatment reduced myocardial infarction and lethal arrhythmias following coronary artery occlusion and reperfusion in dogs. The treatment also suppressed cardiac activity of nitric oxide synthase, a key enzyme involved in the production of harmful compounds.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateMay 23, 2008

Fibroids common, but women have options

A new study found that submucosal fibroids may migrate to the endometrial cavity after uterine artery embolization (UAE), but most are expelled spontaneously. Women can choose alternative treatments like hysteroscopic resection and/or myomectomy for better management of symptoms.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 16, 2008

New potential drug target for the treatment of atherosclerosis

Scientists at the Salk Institute have identified PPAR delta as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can slow down lesion progression and reduce plaque buildup in arteries. Activating this protein may offer a novel approach to treating metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiovascular risks.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2008