Articles tagged with Heart
Researchers at Tel Aviv University developed a hybrid cardiac patch using biomaterial from patients and gold nanoparticles. The patch can improve heart function after heart attacks without triggering an immune response.
The World Heart Federation's Global Cardiovascular Disease Taskforce urges the United Nations to support efforts to curb non-communicable diseases like heart disease and stroke. The task force estimates that cardiovascular disease will account for $7 trillion of the economic burden from 2011-2025.
Researchers found modest acute changes in cardiac biomarkers and electrocardiogram findings following thoracic radiation therapy, but no clinically significant cardiac events. The study suggests that longer follow-up and increased dose range may reveal the impact of radiation on late RT-related toxicity.
The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, uses control theory to analyze heart rate data from athletes and found that a healthy heart must maintain certain patterns of variability during exercise to keep the body in balance. This variability is essential for maintaining homeostasis and preventing fati...
Scientists at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute have discovered a connection between elevated PCSK9 levels and acute heart attacks in patients. Elevated PCSK9 levels were found in blood samples from patients who had experienced a heart attack, but not in those who had never had one or had recovered from a previous attack.
Women with mechanical heart valves are at high risk of thrombotic complications, haemorrhagic events, and late foetal loss during pregnancy. The study found that 1.4% of pregnant women with a mechanical valve died, while nearly 20% lost their baby.
The BIOPACE trial found a non-significant trend in favour of biventricular pacing over right ventricular pacing, but no significant improvement in outcomes. Patients with left ventricular ejection fraction of 50% or less did not show any benefit from biventricular pacing.
The European Society of Cardiology has published the first expert consensus on ventricular arrhythmias, providing guidelines for diagnosis and management. The recommendations cover a wide range of ventricular arrhythmias, from benign to life-threatening conditions.
The European Lead Extraction ConTRolled (ELECTRa) registry found that transvenous lead extraction is clinically successful in over 98% of cases, with a failure rate of 1.5%. Non-infective indications for lead extraction are becoming increasingly common, accounting for 47.3% of cases.
A new study has failed to identify a medical treatment for post-operative pericardial effusion (POPE), a potentially serious condition that can lead to cardiac tamponade. The POPE-2 study showed that colchicine had no effect in reducing the volume of fluid around the heart or preventing the risk of cardiac tamponade.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive technology that uses video monitoring to detect atrial fibrillation by analyzing subtle changes in skin color. The technology has an error rate of 20%, comparable to automated ECG measurements, and holds promise for diagnosing cardiac disease using contactless video monitoring.
Researchers found that post-menopausal women with higher levels of physical activity had a lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation, regardless of their weight status. The study's lead author notes that more physically active women were less likely to develop the condition.
A new study by researchers at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre and York University found that cardiac rehabilitation programs in Canada are generally strong but require improvement in specific areas. The study identified key quality indicators that can be used to address gaps and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers successfully transplanted genetically engineered pig hearts into baboons, achieving prolonged survival of over 200 days. The use of target-specific immunosuppression and human genes in the pigs enabled the hearts to remain viable without complications.
Researchers found consistent improvements in the use of evidence-based treatments and medications, as well as an increase in quality improvement initiatives. Hospitalization rates dropped for all racial groups, with notable declines in heart attack, unstable angina, and ischemic stroke rates.
New research reveals that blacks and women have a higher burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors than whites. The study analyzed data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study and found that diabetes contributes more to CVD in women, while high blood pressure is a greater risk factor for blacks.
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown cardiac molecule that can block a protein causing genetic disruptions in the heart. By restoring levels of this molecule, progression to heart failure was stopped in mice. The molecule, known as Myheart, controls a protein called BRG1 and may lead to a compound for human trials.
The 2014 ESC/ESA Guidelines provide recommendations for cardiovascular assessment and management in non-cardiac surgery, aiming to reduce complications. The guidelines cover risk assessment models, biomarkers, anticoagulants, statins, aspirin, and beta-blockers to mitigate cardiac risk in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.
Researchers found that childhood coxsackie virus infection depletes cardiac stem cells, impairing the heart's ability to tolerate stress and increasing the risk of heart disease later in life. The study suggests a potential link between early viral infections and long-term cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that catheter ablation significantly improves cardiovascular survival among adults with atrial fibrillation, even in older patients and those with comorbidities. The study, published in Heart Rhythm, shows a 60% reduction in mortality rates among participants.
Congenital heart disease specialists have developed a nonsurgical technique to repair patent ductus arteriosus, a common cardiac birth defect. The minimally invasive procedure employs fluoroscopy and echocardiography to guide closure without exposing fragile infants to open-heart surgery.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found dementia patients are more likely to receive a pacemaker for atrial fibrillation than those without cognitive impairment, despite being diagnosed with less aggressive interventions. The likelihood was highest among dementia patients, even after accounting for clinical factors.
Researchers discovered that a particular EPA metabolite, 18-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (18-HEPE), plays a crucial role in protecting against cardiovascular diseases. This metabolite was produced by immune cells and confirmed its heart-protective effects.
Researchers have developed a minimally invasive gene therapy procedure that transforms ordinary heart muscle cells into specialized 'biological pacemaker' cells. This breakthrough could lead to a long-lasting treatment for patients with heart rhythm disorders, potentially eliminating the need for electronic pacemakers.
Preliminary research found that patients with serious heart and lung conditions have a narrower range of facial expressions, particularly the ability to register surprise. This can help doctors prioritize care and avoid unnecessary tests.
Severe childhood malnutrition may increase risk for high blood pressure in adulthood. Adults who endured malnutrition growing up had higher diastolic blood pressure and peripheral resistance.
A Northwestern Medicine study found that adults who adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors in their 30s and 40s can control and potentially reverse coronary artery disease. The study also showed that losing healthy habits as they age leads to a measurable negative impact on heart health.
A four-year trial found that 30% of patients with cryptogenic stroke had atrial fibrillation detected within three years with the device, compared to 3% in those who received standard follow-up care. Patients with atrial fibrillation were switched to blood thinners, which proved more effective in preventing future strokes.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women may derive greater benefits from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) compared to men. The CRT device helps regulate the heartbeat, improving symptoms and quality of life for individuals with heart failure.
A recent study published in Journal of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography found that advanced CT scanning equipment significantly reduces patient radiation exposure. The use of newer generation, dual-source CT scanners resulted in a 61% decrease in radiation exposure compared to older scanners.
African-American barbers will be enlisted in the fight against hypertension through a new grant, which aims to train barbers to conduct blood pressure checks and steer patients to lifesaving medical care. The study aims to test the effectiveness of barbershop hypertension programs and their cost-effectiveness.
The American Heart Association conference highlighted the potential of SODA-LO Salt Microspheres to reduce sodium intake in food products. The ingredient, developed by Tate & Lyle, can lower sodium content by 25-50% in foods such as bread and salty snacks.
A study found that people with poor cardiovascular health are more likely to experience cognitive decline, including learning and memory problems. Researchers analyzed data from 17,761 individuals aged 45 and older, finding that those with the lowest cardiovascular health scores had impaired cognitive function.
A large study finds that high levels of certain air pollutants are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular problems, including irregular heart rhythms and lung blood clots. The research suggests that particulate matter is particularly harmful for elderly people.
A study from Duke University Medical Center found that implantable cardioverter defibrillators improve survival among heart failure patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 30-35%. The device reduces three-year mortality rates by 3.6% in patients without ICDs.
Many breast cancer patients fail to receive treatment for heart problems despite having a higher risk of complications, according to a recent study. Researchers found that only about one-third of older breast cancer patients saw a cardiologist within 90 days of developing heart issues.
An analysis of 600 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guideline recommendations found that 80% were retained at the next revision, while those not supported by multiple randomized studies were more likely to be downgraded. The study suggests the need for frequent re-evaluation of practices and policies based on g...
Researchers at Temple University School of Medicine are working on three projects to investigate key molecular mechanisms in heart failure, aiming to develop new therapies. The projects focus on signaling pathways implicated in cardiac injury and repair, with the goal of having new treatments ready for patients.
Researchers have discovered how proteins fetuin-A and albumin can slow down the uptake of calcium phosphate crystals by blood vessel cells, reducing damage. The study offers potential to develop treatments to prevent and reduce the damaging effects of calcification in ageing and several diseases.
A new study published in The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery found that low-dose anticoagulation therapy can be safely used with a newer generation mechanical heart valve. Patients under 65 years old who received this valve had significantly lower risk of bleeding without an increased incidence of thromboembolism.
The document outlines criteria for healthcare providers and institutions to offer consistent and appropriate care to patients in transcatheter valve therapy. A multi-disciplinary team approach is emphasized, involving both surgeons and interventional cardiologists, to improve patient treatment and outcomes.
A new review paper by Dr. Subodh Verma links bicuspid aortic valves to an increased risk of aortic aneurysms, highlighting the need for regular surveillance and close monitoring. The study suggests that patients with this condition should avoid strenuous activities that may increase blood pressure and cause the aneurysm to grow.
Two studies indicate that more intense exercise does not always mean better for heart health. Overdosing on high-intensity exercise may actually increase the risk of death from a heart attack or stroke in those with existing heart disease. Moderate exercise at moderate intensity is key to maximizing cardiovascular benefits.
A new study reveals that athletes who have a lifelong history of endurance events may experience abnormal heart rhythms due to molecular changes in their heart's pacemaker. Elderly athletes are more likely to need artificial pacemakers fitted compared to normal adults.
New research finds that living near foreclosed properties increases risk of higher blood pressure, with each additional property within 100 meters associated with a 1.71 mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure. This association may be due to unhealthy stress from perception of decreased property value and neighborhood instability.
The LEADLESS study found that the leadless pacemaker demonstrated overall device performance comparable to conventional pacemakers, with no infections or failures to sense, pace, or communicate. The device's benefits may allow for less patient discomfort and device complications.
A study by McMaster University found that defibrillator testing is not necessary and can cause serious complications in patients receiving ICDs. The study, involving 2,500 patients, showed those who didn't undergo the test had similar outcomes to those who did.
Scientists have identified two critical molecules that guide cardiac progenitor cells to form the heart in developing embryos. The discovery could help researchers understand congenital heart defects and improve embryo survival and growth.
A study found that maternal smoking during the first trimester is linked to an increased risk of congenital heart defects, particularly among older women and heavy smokers. The research suggests that smoking during pregnancy may account for up to 1-2% of all heart defects.
The Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation has successfully implanted the world's smallest cardiac pacemaker as part of a global clinical trial. The Medtronic Micra Transcatheter Pacing System is a miniature device that delivers electrical impulses to pace the heart through an electrode, eliminating the need for surgical wires.
A study analyzing over 4,000 patients reveals significant variations in mitral valve repair rates among surgeons and hospitals. Increased surgeon experience, particularly above 20 annual procedures, significantly boosts the likelihood of repair over replacement.
A large Japanese study found that dispatcher-assisted bystander CPR increased the delivery rate of CPR and was associated with improved neurological and overall outcomes. Children who received dispatcher-assisted CPR had a significantly higher chance of survival and better brain function compared to those who did not receive CPR.
Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding how cardiac progenitor cells, responsible for building mouse hearts, can renew themselves. This discovery may pave the way for using these cells to repair damaged heart tissue and even grow new heart tissue for transplantation.
A study by the University of Sheffield found that low blood sugar levels can cause prolonged periods of abnormal heart rhythms in older patients with Type 2 diabetes. The research sheds light on the 'Dead in Bed' syndrome, where young people without a history of complications die suddenly from diabetes.
Biologists have identified a crucial outer shield on T-type channels that influences the electrochemical signaling of heart and brain cells. This finding holds promise for developing new drugs to treat epilepsy, cardiovascular disease, and cancer by targeting this regulator.
Researchers found that cardiac fibroblasts are unique cells with organ-specific functions and can be used in replacement therapies for congenital heart disease and heart failure. They have specific genes that tell them to become heart cells, making them a promising alternative to heart transplants.
Research suggests that irrational health beliefs are associated with lower adherence to cardiac rehabilitation programs. Patients with more irrational health beliefs completed a lower percentage of sessions than those with fewer such beliefs. Providing evidence-based medical information may help enhance adherence to the program.
Researchers tracked bar-headed geese's remarkable tolerance to low oxygen while exercising at top speed in simulated high altitude conditions. The study found that the birds' hearts can supply more oxygen to their muscles, suggesting adaptations for humans could prevent or treat heart attacks and stroke.
Research suggests that interrupting diurnal rhythms impairs healing immediately after a heart attack, while normal cycles promote better outcomes. Maintaining circadian rhythms during the first few days after an attack can improve scar formation and healing.
Research suggests that maintaining healthy blood pressure, sugar levels, and cholesterol as a young adult may help prevent cognitive decline in mid-life. A 25-year study of 3,381 participants found that those with higher risk factors scored lower on cognitive function tests in their 40s and 50s.