Research on the heart and how it stays healthy. Covers light exposure, tissue maintenance, trauma-related cardiovascular risk, and circadian effects.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
Scientists at the University of Bonn identified Creld1 as a crucial gene for heart valve development in mice, which also functions similarly in humans. This discovery may lead to improved diagnosis of unidentified heart valve diseases and better understanding of cardiac development.
A Minneapolis Heart Institute Fellow is recognized as a finalist for the ACCF Young Investigators Awards, focusing on using non-invasive tools to identify heart attack survivors at risk of sudden cardiac death. The study used contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging to assess scar size and predict future outcomes.
A new telemedicine program integrating office visits with supplemental phone coaching improves cardiovascular disease risk factors such as fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, stress reduction, and medication adherence. Adults who engaged in five or more coaching sessions showed significant improvements.
Researchers analyzed electronic health records to identify individuals at risk of familial hypercholesterolaemia. Only 4.3% of those identified were diagnosed, highlighting the need for improved provider recognition and treatment.
A head-to-head study favors balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valves for treating aortic stenosis, with a success rate of 95.9% compared to 77.5% for self-expanding valves. Patients receiving balloon-expandable valves also reported improved symptoms at a rate of 94.3%.
Researchers have identified two new protein markers, GlycA and GlycB, which are associated with inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels of these proteins were found in nearly half of the patients who died or suffered an adverse event during follow-up.
The study found the heart becomes more spherical by 9.4% in microgravity, similar to predicted models, and may benefit certain cardiovascular patients on Earth. The temporary shape change appears after spaceflight, but long-term health effects are unknown.
New studies confirm coronary artery calcium scans as a reliable indicator of long-term heart disease risk, outperforming other tests in low-risk patients. The tests have been shown to detect early signs of plaque accumulation and hardening of the arteries.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables in early adulthood has been linked to reduced rates of coronary heart disease in middle-aged adults. Young women who ate 8 servings or more per day were 40% less likely to develop calcified plaque in their arteries 20 years later.
Research suggests that women with four or more children are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, with a two-fold higher risk of abnormal coronary artery calcium scores and aortic wall thickness. This association remains even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors, education, race, and known risk factors.
Physicist Premi Haynes has made a groundbreaking discovery about the cellular structure of the human heart, particularly related to heart failure. She found that different regions of the left ventricular wall have unique cellular patterns of mechanical properties, with the middle being a better
Scientists from the University of Chicago discovered that DNA variants in SCN10A regulate SCN5A expression, suggesting a primary role for SCN5A in cardiac arrhythmia risk. The study highlights the importance of evaluating functional targets of genome-wide association study hits to avoid costly implications.
Researchers have developed controllable chemical compounds that can deliver protective effects of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas, reducing heart attack injury by up to 70%. The technology aims to unlock the gas's therapeutic potential in treating conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that emotional stressors like anger can cause changes in the nervous system controlling heart rate, triggering microvascular coronary dysfunction more often in women than men. This condition can lead to heart attacks and other cardiac issues despite clear arteries.
A new study found that patients with advanced cardiac insufficiency who remain active and have low levels of depression can significantly increase their chances of surviving the waiting period for a donor heart. The researchers recommend psychological counseling to help patients stay physically active and reduce symptoms of depression.
A recent study reveals that the genetic disease ARVC is more widespread than initially assumed, with all known affected families sharing a common genetic origin. The mutation was first identified in Canada and has since been found in European countries including Germany, Denmark, and the USA, indicating a shared European heritage.
A leading US cardiovascular research scientist argues that low saturated fat diets do not reduce heart disease risk and that current dietary guidelines are based on flawed data from the 1950s. He recommends a diet low in refined carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods to boost and maintain heart health.
A study of STEMI patients found that patient and family satisfaction with acute care transfers was significant, with most feeling the transfer was necessary and well explained. However, some would have preferred to stay at their local facility.
A systematic review of 49 studies found that patients with heart failure and their families often lack basic knowledge about the condition, leading to confusion, delays in seeking help, and uncertainty about long-term care. This lack of understanding can decimate quality of life and is a major reason seniors end up in emergency rooms.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that outbursts of anger can trigger heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems in the two hours immediately afterwards. The risk is particularly high for those with existing cardiovascular problems or a history of heart attack or stroke.
A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that patients who had troublesome teeth extracted before heart surgery were at a higher risk of poor outcomes, including death. The study suggested that physicians should evaluate each patient individually to weigh the benefits and risks of tooth extraction before cardiac surgery.
Fibromuscular dysplasia can cause high blood pressure, kidney failure, stroke, and other symptoms in women. A recent Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association aims to improve diagnosis and treatment for this condition.
The American Heart Association has funded 112 studies at Loyola since 1984, with the latest award bringing the total to $10.6 million. Loyola is recognized as one of the top 50 hospitals nationwide for cardiology and heart surgery.
Researchers found a specific genetic flaw in the KCNE2 gene that is connected to sudden cardiac death due to heart arrhythmia. This discovery could lead to improved early detection and prevention strategies for people at higher risk, such as those with diabetes.
A new imaging technique can diagnose aortic disease and predict potential complications in patients with bicuspid aortic valve. Blood flow changes were found to be driven by specific types of abnormal aortic valves, and the study demonstrated a direct association between blood flow patterns and aortic diseases.
A study found that patients undergoing PCI have a higher risk of dying from non-cardiac diseases than heart disease, with only 37% of deaths being cardiac-related. The researchers attribute this to improved cardiac therapies, such as medication and catheterization laboratory technologies.
A new study reveals that couples who perceive their spousal support as ambivalent experience higher levels of coronary artery calcification, a significant predictor of heart disease. Researchers found that this ambivalence can lead to increased stress and undermine supportive interactions in the relationship.
Researchers found that patients who received their CVD risk expressed as 'Heart Age' demonstrated significant decreases in risk scores and were more likely to adopt healthier lifestyles. This study supports the effectiveness of the Heart Age tool in reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
A study of over 76,000 women found that advanced maternal age is associated with a 40% decreased risk of major congenital malformations. Women aged 35 and older had lower incidence rates for brain, kidney, and abdominal wall defects, while heart defect rates remained unchanged.
Researchers found elevated levels of translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) in patients with myocarditis and mice, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for heart inflammation. TSPO's role in driving disease progression and prognosis is also being explored.
Studies demonstrate the utility of ultrasound in emergency medicine, yielding rapid and accurate diagnoses. Clinician-performed cardiac ultrasound has been shown to improve prognostic value, with significant correlation between GP and cardiologist measurements.
A UCLA team developed an easy-to-use risk calculator that predicts heart failure patients' chances of survival for up to five years. The calculator uses four key variables: B-type natriuretic peptide level, peak oxygen consumption, New York Heart Association classification, and heart failure medications.
Scientists at University of Calgary's Libin Cardiovascular Institute have discovered a calcium-sensing-gate mechanism responsible for initiating calcium waves and arrhythmias. This breakthrough may lead to new drug interventions for treating calcium-triggered arrhythmias.
A study in mice reveals two major pools of immune cells that promote healing and drive inflammation in the heart. Healthy hearts maintain a population of embryonic macrophages, while adult macrophages are recruited during cardiac stress, leading to inflammation. The findings provide new insights into the complex interplay between these...
A study published in JAMA found that coronary artery calcium (CAC) density is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular events. Researchers suggest re-evaluating the CAC scoring system to incorporate density and other variables, as dense plaques may be more stable than previously thought.
Scientists have discovered six proteins essential for cell-to-cell communication in the heart, regulating heartbeat synchronization and limiting heart attacks and strokes. The findings also suggest that mTOR inhibitors can be used to prevent erratic heart rhythms, offering a potential treatment for arrhythmias and heart failure.