Articles tagged with Heart
A nationwide French study of 120,173 people aged 75 found that those who stopped taking statins had a 33% increased risk of heart or blood vessel problems. Discontinuing statin treatment was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.
A study of 174 hospitals in Australia and New Zealand reveals that the rate of cardiac device complications varies significantly, with some hospitals reporting much lower complication rates than others. The study suggests that improving quality of care is crucial to reducing these complications.
A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that HIV-infected cells release a viral protein called Nef, impairing cholesterol metabolism and triggering inflammation in uninfected bystander cells. This impairment causes the formation of excessive lipid rafts and triggers inflammation, potentially contributing to various co-morbidities ass...
Researchers at the University of Louisville have developed a new method to keep human heart slices alive for up to 6 days, enabling more extensive preclinical testing of heart drugs and therapies. This innovation will facilitate improved testing of efficacy and toxicity, saving time and costs in clinical trials.
Researchers at TUM have found a protein in the blood that provides better control of atrial fibrillation treatment, allowing for precise assessment of tissue damage. This breakthrough enables early recognition of problems and targeted therapeutic measures to be taken.
A new study found that former NFL players are nearly 6 times more likely to have atrial fibrillation compared to men of similar age. The researchers believe that the prolonged strength training involved in American football may increase heart chamber size and wall thickness, leading to altered heart rhythms.
A preclinical study examines the role of plastic exposure on heart rhythm disruptions and arrhythmias. Exposure to mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), a metabolite from Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), slows atrioventricular conduction and increases the atrioventricular node effective refractory period.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that metabolites associated with energy powerhouse mitochondria changed differently in patients who developed heart dysfunction compared to those who did not. Citric acid and aconitic acid levels differentiated the two groups of patients.
Researchers developed electrocardiomatrix technology that outperforms standard cardiac telemetry in detecting atrial fibrillation after a stroke. The technology converts ECG signals into a three-dimensional heatmap for rapid inspection of all collected heartbeats, minimizing false positives and negatives.
Researchers found that African American children living in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods are less likely to receive bystander CPR, with lower rates also observed in Hispanic and other ethnic groups. Targeted CPR training in these areas may enhance outcomes.
A team of CNIC scientists identified SRSF3 as crucial for proper heart function and found that its loss leads to reduced expression of genes involved in contraction. Further research revealed that SRSF3 controls the alternative processing of mTOR, a major regulator of cell metabolism, which is essential for heart health.
A global audit and survey found that cardiac rehab is available in only 55% of the world's countries, serving only 1.65 million patients, leaving a gap of over 18 million patients in need. The programs that do exist are often under-resourced, with many countries lacking cardiac rehab spots altogether.
Aerobic and resistance exercise were found to reduce epicardial adipose tissue mass, while pericardial adipose tissue mass was reduced only by resistance training. The study's findings suggest that regular physical activity can help mitigate the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that experienced runners showed elevated cardiac biomarkers after ultramarathons, but these levels were below clinical risk thresholds. Novice runners paced themselves below their cardiac limit, using self-selected strategies for safe heart health.
A recent study has found a link between cardiac disease in captive gorillas and male obesity, revealing that thickening of the heart due to scarring interferes with normal heart function. Female gorillas also develop heart disease but less frequently than males, despite living longer.
Researchers at Temple University Health System have discovered that a small RNA molecule can reactivate heart cell proliferation and improve heart function in mice with severe heart attacks. The study, published in Circulation Research, shows that miR-294 treatment reawakens an embryonic signaling program in adult heart cells.
A new study using a rat model with high blood pressure found that air pollution-like irritants alter the defensive heart-lung reflex, leading to increased heart rates and abnormal rhythms. The research suggests that chronic hypertension may remodel airway sensory nerves controlling this reflex.
Researchers have developed a new medical therapy that could protect people with cardiovascular disease by boosting the body's natural defences. The treatment, which is based on a peptide called apelin, has shown promising results in mice and humans, reducing mortality rates and improving health outcomes.
A new study from McMaster University found that physical activity in children as young as three years old benefits blood vessel health and cardiovascular fitness, reducing early risk indicators of adult heart disease.
The study estimates that 7.6 million people over 65 in the EU had atrial fibrillation in 2016, with this number expected to increase to 14.4 million by 2060. Atrial fibrillation patients over 80 are at a greater risk of stroke, making prevention and detection crucial.
The American Heart Association and the Heart Failure Society of America issue a statement on managing both conditions, highlighting lifestyle modifications and multidisciplinary care teams. The guidelines emphasize the importance of coordinated treatment to improve patient outcomes.
A new study found that US soldiers have worse cardiovascular health compared to civilians of similar ages, particularly in blood pressure. The researchers, who analyzed data from over 263,000 active duty Army personnel and a representative civilian population, aimed to identify areas for improvement.
A new study by Yale researchers found that beta blockers can minimize the impact of negative emotions on heart rhythm in individuals with a history of atrial fibrillation. The medication reduced the risk of AFib episodes triggered by stress and anger, while still having an effect on those taking beta-blockers.
A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that a bad night's sleep can lead to a spike in blood pressure, even on the following day. Researchers wore portable blood pressure cuffs and actigraphy monitors on participants to measure the impact of sleep efficiency on cardiovascular health.
Researchers discovered that widowed men are 11% more likely to die from a heart attack compared to widows, while divorced men with atrial fibrillation have a 14% higher risk. Single women actually have a 13% lower risk of death from heart failure than single men.
Researchers found that approximately 50 percent of hospitalizations for both TAVI and surgical aortic valve replacement were associated with the development of new atrial fibrillation. Hospitalizations with new atrial fibrillation had higher odds of in-hospital stroke and in-hospital death compared to those without, highlighting the ne...
A new study of 4,803 cardiac arrest patients found that survival rates are unaffected by the day of the week, suggesting that specialist teams working 24/7 deliver consistent care. The research debunks previous claims of a 'weekend effect' in heart conditions, highlighting the importance of CPR and defibrillation.
A study of over 8,000 people in the UK found no association between moderate to heavy coffee consumption and arterial stiffness. The research, led by Queen Mary University of London, suggests that coffee may not be as detrimental to heart health as previously thought.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that consuming energy drinks can increase the risk of electrical disturbances in the heart, which affect heart rhythm. The study also found a statistically significant increase in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in participants who consumed energy drinks.
A study by UCSF researchers found that high blood pressure and elevated blood sugar can cause heart block, a common form of arrhythmia. Lifestyle changes and monitoring could eliminate the need for pacemakers.
Researchers have identified DZIP1 gene mutation as a potential cause of MVP, which leads to congenital defects and abnormal heart rhythm. The study's findings may facilitate drug-based interventions for the condition.
A study published in Experimental Physiology found that short-sleepers have lower blood levels of three microRNAs, which influence gene expression and maintain vascular health. This could lead to new tests for sleep-deprived patients concerned about their health.
A new study has established a nationwide treatment protocol for cardiogenic shock, saving 72% of patients' lives. The protocol, which emphasizes invasive hemodynamic monitoring and mechanical circulatory support, was tested in 35 sites across the US.
A novel therapeutic approach occluding the superior vena cava shows promise in reducing pressure and volume in heart failure patients. The treatment improves cardiac filling pressures and function without affecting systemic blood pressure or output.
A new five-stage system defines cardiogenic shock based on narrative patient descriptions, physical findings, and biochemical/hemodynamic markers to facilitate rapid assessment and communication between providers. The consensus aims to standardize vocabulary, recognize risk for adverse outcomes, and inform interventions.
Researchers developed a novel technique called LAMPOON to prevent left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, a common complication of transcatheter mitral valve replacement. The study found that the new method increased treatment options for high-risk patients and achieved better survival rates compared to other methods.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that renal infarction is associated with acute kidney injury in patients with cardiac amyloidosis. The study revealed a relatively high prevalence of renal infarction among these patients, suggesting it as a potential cause of acute kidney injury in this context.
Patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea have a significantly higher risk of heart complications in the first 30 days after surgery. The risk is 50% higher than those without sleep apnea, and can lead to cardiac death, heart injury, and heart failure.
A joint statement from the American Heart Association and others suggests home-based cardiac rehabilitation as a viable option for patients who cannot attend traditional programs. Effective home-based care requires scientifically-based, standardized care with remote supervision and coaching.
Researchers compared two cardiac resynchronization therapies in a pilot study, finding comparable rates of response between His bundle pacing and biventricular pacing. The study suggests that His bundle pacing may be a viable alternative for treating heart failure patients with electrical disturbances.
Researchers at Temple University Health System found that the heart communicates with fat cells through a signaling enzyme, GRK2, regulating weight gain in patients with heart failure. The study's findings could lead to new ways to modulate weight gain.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed an approach called Unremarkable AI that aims to make transformational AI seem unobtrusive in clinical decision making. This approach is designed to enable seamless human-AI collaboration by embedding AI-generated predictions and evaluations into existing clinical routines.
A clinical trial found that transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is equivalent or potentially preferable to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for low-risk surgical patients. TAVR showed strong post-procedure benefits, including reduced re-hospitalizations and improved quality of life metrics at 30 days.
A new study highlights the growing need for cardio-oncology services to monitor and prevent heart disease in cancer patients. The research found that many cancer survivors are not fully aware of the risks of cardiotoxicity and lack understanding of a balanced diet, making them more susceptible to heart failure.
A 14-week exercise programme has improved the structure and function of hearts damaged by premature birth. Young adults born preterm have shown normalized cardiac pumping functions after exercise, which should reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.
A recent study published in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery found that coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is associated with lower mortality rates and reduced hospital readmission compared to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The research analyzed data from two major clinical outcomes registries and identified patien...
Researchers have found that the drug Tadalafil, used to treat erectile dysfunction, slows or even reverses the progression of heart failure in sheep. The study suggests that the drug may also be effective in humans, offering new hope for treatment of this devastating condition.
Research on brain-heart interactions may lead to life-saving therapies for heart failure and arrhythmia by manipulating specific nerves to emit electrical signals. Dr. Cheng's lab is developing a comprehensive map of neurons and their connections to the heart.
A Northwestern University and UC San Diego team has created a novel way to deliver a bioactivated, biodegradable substance through a noninvasive catheter without clogging. The approach uses self-assembling peptides that turn the body's inflammatory response into a signal to heal rather than a means of scarring.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to standardize the results of a ballistocardiogram, allowing for tracking of health changes and potential early detection of cardiovascular diseases. The model can capture information on elasticity of arteries, contractility of heart ventricles, and viscoelasticity of blood vessels.
The Framingham Heart Study, the nation's longest-running cohort study, has been renewed for an additional six years and $38 million from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Researchers will examine the elderly groups and younger cohorts to better understand aging and determinants of health and disease in older people.
Researchers successfully engineered and printed a 3D vascularised engineered heart with cells, blood vessels, ventricles, and chambers that matches the immunological, cellular, biochemical, and anatomical properties of the patient. The use of native patient-specific materials is crucial to eliminating implant rejection risks.
New research reveals that melatonin's antiarrhythmic benefits are distinct from its antioxidant properties. In a rat model of heart attacks, melatonin treatment reduced incidence of ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation, but this effect was not associated with oxidative stress.
A new study found that socioeconomic status is a significant factor in the likelihood of receiving a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a life-saving treatment for heart failure. Patients from lower-income backgrounds, including African Americans and Hispanics, are less likely to receive LVADs compared to those with private insurance.
A University of Guelph study found that the circadian mechanism affects cognition and mood in heart failure patients, suggesting ways to prevent and treat both conditions. The research may lead to new strategies to improve patients' quality of life.
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.
A Swedish review of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest data shows compression-only CPR increased six-fold and doubled the chance of survival, compared to no CPR. Bystander CPR rates nearly doubled over an 18-year period, with patients receiving standard or hands-only CPR being two times more likely to survive 30 days.
Researchers from Rochester Institute of Technology and Georgia Tech developed a new approach to simulate the heart's electrophysiology in real-time, allowing doctors to better discuss life-threatening heart conditions with patients. This method uses WebGL code to repurpose graphics cards for faster scientific computing applications.
A novel study in rabbits found that fetal exposure to nicotine can alter heart development and lead to impaired adaptation to adrenalin, potentially contributing to SIDS. This may explain why some babies do not wake up during sleep apnea.
Despite national guidelines, many patients who benefit from statins do not take them due to a lack of physician guidance and fear of side effects. Research found that 59.2% of eligible patients never received an offer of statins, with women, black patients, and those without insurance being more likely to report this.