Heart Disease

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  • A Serving A Day Of Dark Chocolate Might Keep The Doctor Away

    Cholesterol News From Medical News Today
    26 Apr 2012 | 2:00 am
    Chocolate, considered by some to be the "food of the gods," has been part of the human diet for at least 4,000 years; its origin thought to be in the region surrounding the Amazon basin. Introduced to the Western world by Christopher Columbus after his fourth voyage to the New World in 1502, chocolate is now enjoyed worldwide...

  • Public Event - do you know your risk of heart disease?

    MedWorm: Heart Disease
    16 May 2012 | 6:00 am
    1 in 3 people die of some form of cardiovascular disease, making it the UK's biggest killer. This free public event, which is sponsored by the Society for Endocrinology following the award of a Public Engagement Grant to Dr Yvonne Alexander (Manchester), will invite experts from the University of Manchester including Professor Ann White, Professor Rayaz Malik and Professor John Harris, as well as BBC Health Correspondent Dr Gill Jenkins, to discuss risk factors for cardiovascular disease and debate the statement "Are we doing enough to beat heart disease?" The event will be chaired by Dr…

  • Early versus delayed cyclosporine treatment in cardiac recovery and intestinal injury during resuscitation of asphyxiated newborn piglets

    MedWorm: Cardiogenic Shock
    9 May 2012 | 11:55 pm
    Conclusion  This study demonstrates that treating asphyxiated newborn piglets with cyclosporine within 2 h of resuscitation is effective with superior cardioprotection and intestinal injury attenuation with early treatment. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ExperimentalPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00134-012-2577-1Authors Richdeep S. Gill, Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, CanadaTze-Fun Lee, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, CanadaConsolato Sergi, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton,…

  • Tirapazamine-Doxorubicin Interaction Referring to Heart Oxidative Stress and Ca2+ Balance Protein Levels

    MedWorm: Cardiomyopathy
    15 May 2012 | 12:49 pm
    Doxorubicin (DOX) causes long-term cardiomyopathy that is dependent on oxidative stress and contractility disorders. Tirapazamine (TP), an experimental adjuvant drug, passes the same red-ox transformation as DOX. The aim of the study was to evaluate an effect of tirapazamine on oxidative stress, contractile protein level, and cardiomyocyte necrosis in rats administered doxorubicin. Rats were intraperitoneally injected six times once a week with tirapazamine in two doses, 5 (5TP) and 10 mg/kg (10TP), while doxorubicin was administered in dose 1.8 mg/kg (DOX). Subsequent two…

  • Novel rare variants in congenital cardiac arrhythmia genes are frequent in drug-induced torsades de pointes

    MedWorm: Cardiac Arrhythmia
    14 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    Authors: A H Ramirez, C M Shaffer, J T Delaney, D P Sexton, S E Levy, M J Rieder, D A Nickerson, A L George & D M Roden (Source: The Pharmacogenomics Journal)MedWorm Sponsor Message: Have a look at The Cardiology Daily, the new MedWorm portal for cardiologists, updated daily with all the latest cardiology news and research.
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    MedWorm: Heart Disease

  • Public Event - do you know your risk of heart disease?

    16 May 2012 | 6:00 am
    1 in 3 people die of some form of cardiovascular disease, making it the UK's biggest killer. This free public event, which is sponsored by the Society for Endocrinology following the award of a Public Engagement Grant to Dr Yvonne Alexander (Manchester), will invite experts from the University of Manchester including Professor Ann White, Professor Rayaz Malik and Professor John Harris, as well as BBC Health Correspondent Dr Gill Jenkins, to discuss risk factors for cardiovascular disease and debate the statement "Are we doing enough to beat heart disease?" The event will be chaired by Dr…

  • Ghana: Hole in Heart Girl Calls for Support

    15 May 2012 | 11:52 pm
    [Ghanaian Chronicle] Ho - A 14 year old Class Four pupil of the Kekeli Academy at Tapa-Alavanyo in the Biakoye District, Celestine Adikyere, has been diagnosed of a heart disease at the National Cardiothoracic Centre of Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, and her condition calls for immediate open-heart surgery. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

  • Admission Hyperglycemia and TIMI Frame Count in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

    15 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    We evaluated the relationship between admission blood glucose levels and estimated coronary flow by the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count (TFC) method in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). The TFC of 121 consecutive patients with STEMI were evaluated after pPCI. Patients with admission glucose levels >198 mg/dL (11 mmol/L) were defined as hyperglycemic. Hyperglycemia was observed in 36 (29.8%) patients. The TFC was significantly higher in patients with hyperglycemia (70.75…

  • Rapamycin Affects Tissue Plasminogen Activator and Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 Expression: A Potential Prothrombotic Mechanism of Drug-Eluting Stents

    15 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    In conclusion, rapamycin inhibited t-PA and induced PAI-1 expression in HUVECs. This effect may contribute to in-stent thrombosis associated with DESs. (Source: Angiology)

  • Delivery of gene-therapy for heart disease boosted 100-fold; now in 100-patient trial

    15 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    (San Diego Biotechnology Connection) Researchers at Emory University used a standard balloon angioplasty catheter to induced transient ischemia, which when coupled with the vasodilator nitroglycerin, boosts the cell transfection of an adenovector gene construct into heart cells. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)
 
 
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    MedWorm: Cardiac Arrhythmia

  • Novel rare variants in congenital cardiac arrhythmia genes are frequent in drug-induced torsades de pointes

    14 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    Authors: A H Ramirez, C M Shaffer, J T Delaney, D P Sexton, S E Levy, M J Rieder, D A Nickerson, A L George & D M Roden (Source: The Pharmacogenomics Journal)MedWorm Sponsor Message: Have a look at The Cardiology Daily, the new MedWorm portal for cardiologists, updated daily with all the latest cardiology news and research.

  • Biosense Webster Announces Launch Of The THERMOCOOL SF NAV Catheter With Curve Visualization

    14 May 2012 | 9:40 pm
    Biosense Webster, Inc., a worldwide leader in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, announced the launch of the new THERMOCOOL® SF NAV irrigated ablation catheter with Curve Visualization in the United States (Source: Medical Design Online News)

  • Recent Clinical Trials in Atrial Fibrillation in Hypertensive Patients

    10 May 2012 | 11:54 pm
    Abstract  Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common clinically significant sustained cardiac arrhythmia, and Hypertension (HTN) is the most common cardiovascular disorder. AF is a major risk factor for strokes whether it is symptomatic or silent. Recent publications have shed light on the role of antihypertensive regiments in prevention of AF, while others have provided data on the efficacy and safety of novel antiarrhythmic drugs such as dronedarone and vernakalant. The older CHADS2 score and its more refined modern counterparts are well validated to determine stroke risk and…

  • Nonfluoroscopic Catheter Ablation of Cardiac Arrhythmias in Adults

    8 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    Conclusion: Catheter ablations were efficiently and effectively performed in adults with a variety of arrhythmias using only IE, EAM, and ICE for catheter guidance. This nonfluoroscopic technique was feasible, posed no additional safety concerns, and should be readily implementable in most electrophysiology laboratories.(J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. pp. 1‐9) (Source: Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology)

  • Primary carnitine deficiency and pivalic acid exposure causing encephalopathy and fatal cardiac events

    7 May 2012 | 11:46 pm
    Conclusion  Exposure to antibiotics containing pivalic acid was associated with encephalopathy and progression to lethal cardiac arrhythmia in patients suffering from PCD. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s10545-012-9488-8Authors Jan Rasmussen, Department of Internal Medicine, National Hospital, FO-100 Thorshavn, the Faroe IslandsOlav W. Nielsen, Department of Cardiology, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen, DenmarkAllan M. Lund, Department of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet University Hospital, Copenhagen, DenmarkLars Køber,…
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    MedWorm: Cardiology

  • The Relationship between Insufficient Sleep and Self-Rated Health in a Nationally Representative Sample

    16 May 2012 | 6:07 am
    We examined participants >18 years of age (n=377, 160) from a representative, cross-sectional survey (2008 BRFSS). Self-reported insufficient sleep in the previous 30 days was categorized into six groups. The outcome was poor SRH. We calculated odds ratios ((OR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) of increasing categories of insufficient rest/sleep, taking zero days of insufficient sleep as the referent category. We found a positive association between increasing categories of insufficient sleep and poor SRH, independent of relevant covariates. In the multivariable-adjusted model, compared to…

  • Abiomed Announces Record Fourth Quarter Revenue of $37.3 Million, Up 31% and Achieves Profitability for Full Fiscal Year

    16 May 2012 | 5:00 am
    DANVERS, Mass., May 16, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Abiomed, Inc. (Nasdaq:ABMD), a leading provider of breakthrough heart support technologies, today reported fourth quarter fiscal 2012 revenue of $37.3 million, up 31% compared to revenue of $28.5 million in the same period of fiscal 2011, and GAAP net income of $2.6 million or $0.06 per diluted share compared to GAAP net loss of $1.8 million or a loss of $0.05 per basic and diluted share in the prior year. For the full fiscal year, total revenue was $126.4 million, up 25% compared to revenue of $101.2 million in the prior fiscal year and GAAP…

  • The End-Organ Impairment in Liver Cirrhosis: Appointments for Critical Care

    16 May 2012 | 3:23 am
    Liver cirrhosis (LC) can lead to a clinical state of liver failure, which can exacerbate through the course of the disease. New therapies aimed to control the diverse etiologies are now more effective, although the disease may result in advanced stages of liver failure, where liver transplantation (LT) remains the most effective treatment. The extended lifespan of these patients and the extended possibilities of liver support devices make their admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) more probable. In this paper the LC is approached from the point of view of the pathophysiological…

  • Anticonvulsant activity of alcoholic root extract of Cardiospermum halicacabum

    16 May 2012 | 2:26 am
    The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anticonvulsant effects of alcoholic root extract of Cardiospermum halicacabum L., Sapindaceae (ARECH), on the various murine models of epilepsy. The root extract of the plant was administered p.o. to male swiss albino mice at doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg before evaluation. The brain monoamine levels were determined after two days administration. ARECH at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg significantly delayed the onset of clonus and tonus in pentylenetetrazol, isoniazid and picrotoxin-induced convulsions. Tonic hind limb extension was also decreased…

  • Sesame oil enhances endogenous antioxidants in ischemic myocardium of rat

    16 May 2012 | 2:26 am
    The present study was designed to evaluate the potency of antioxidant activity of sesame oil in-vitro model of myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury of rat. Sesame oil was administered orally to Wistar albino rats (180-200 g) in two different doses (n=6), by gastric gavage at a dose of 5 mL/kg b.w. (S1) and 10 mL/kg b.w (S2) daily for thirty days. Control and sesame oil treated rat hearts were subjected to invitro global ischemic reperfusion injury (5 min perfusion, 9 min noflow and 12 min reperfusion). A significant rise in TBARS and decrease of GSH, catalase, LDH, CK and AST occurred in…
 
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    Scientific American Topic - Heart Disease

  • 4 Medical Implants That Escaped FDA Scrutiny

    30 Apr 2012 | 5:30 pm
    Medical devices sustain and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans. But as the over $100 billion-a-year industry pushes thousands of devices to market every year, reports of faulty devices, repeat surgeries, and recalls have increased. The FDA and the industry maintain that a speedy approval process gives patients faster access to life-saving devices. But critics say that unlike drugs, a substantial number of risky devices are cleared without clinical testing, and receive almost no oversight once on the market. [More]

  • For a Healthier Country, Overhaul Farm Subsidies

    19 Apr 2012 | 7:30 am
    Some years ago two nutrition experts went grocery shopping. For a dollar, Adam Drewnow­ski and S. E. Specter could purchase 1,200 calories of potato chips or cookies or just 250 calories worth of carrots. It was merely one example of how an unhealthy diet is cheaper than a healthy one. This price difference did not spring into existence by force of any natural laws but largely because of antiquated agricultural policies. Public money is working at cross-purposes: backing an overabundance of unhealthful calories that are flooding our supermarkets and restaurants, while also battling…

  • The Limits of Breath Holding (preview)

    12 Apr 2012 | 9:07 am
    Take a deep breath and hold it. You are now engaging in a surprisingly mysterious activity. On average, we humans breathe automatically about 12 times per minute, and this respiratory cycle, along with the beating of our heart, is one of our two vital biological rhythms. The brain adjusts the cadence of breathing to our body’s needs without our conscious effort. Nevertheless, all of us also have the voluntary ability to deliberately hold our breath for short periods. This skill is advantageous when preventing water or dust from entering our lungs, when stabilizing our chests before…

  • Bugs That Transmit "Silent Killer" Are Biting More in the U.S.

    9 Apr 2012 | 7:00 am
    Transmitted by bloodsucking kissing bugs, tropical Chagas disease--which afflicts millions in Central and South America--may affect more people in the U.S. than previously thought. Although doctors officially have recorded only seven cases of new human infections in North America, a new study found that five of 13 kissing bugs collected from California and Arizona had bitten a human host--and many of the bugs they collected were infected with Chagas. [More]

  • How Useful Is Whole Genome Sequencing to Predict Disease?

    2 Apr 2012 | 4:30 pm
    A $1,000 genome sequence is close to being available. What will your sequence tell you about your actual risk for certain diseases? [More]
 
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    About.com Heart Disease

  • Nuts For Heart Health - The Good And The Bad

    14 May 2012 | 3:30 am
    Several studies conducted over the years have shown that eating an ounce of nuts four or five times a week can significantly reduce your risk of coronary artery disease, by as much as 40%. In fact, by 2003, the accumulated data was sufficient to move the the FDA to issue a formal statement saying that eating certain specific nuts --- almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, walnuts, and peanuts -- can reduce the risk of heart disease....Read Full Post

  • Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)

    10 May 2012 | 6:13 pm
    In deep venous thrombosis (DVT) blood clots form in the deep veins of the legs. Not only can the DVT itself produce unpleasant symptoms, but also DVT can lead to the much more serious problem of pulmonary embolus....Read Full Post

  • The Long QT Syndrome

    7 May 2012 | 2:05 am
    The Long QT syndrome is an inherited disorder of the heart's electrical system that can cause sudden death, even in young, healthy individuals. Read about long QT syndrome, its causes and treatment, here.

  • Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia (IST)

    4 May 2012 | 2:38 am
    Inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST) is a condition in which an individual's resting heart rate is abnormally high (greater than 100 beats per minute), their heart rate increases rapidly with minimal exertion, and their rapid heart rate is accompanied by symptoms of palpitations, fatigue, and exercise intolerance. It is more common in women, and (while one hopes not) this may be why it is all too often written off by doctors as "anxiety." Read about IST, its causes and treatment, here.

  • Unstable Angina

    30 Apr 2012 | 2:56 am
    Unstable angina is one of the types of "Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)," a series of conditions most commonly produced by the rupture of a plaque in a coronary artery. All types of ACS, including unstable angina, should be considered medical emergencies....Read Full Post
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    About.com Heart Health Center: What's Hot Now

  • Rheumatic Fever

    heartdisease.guide@about.com
    16 May 2012 | 6:08 am
    Rheumatic fever is a widespread inflammation, related to strep throat, that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, brain, and heart.

  • antidepressants_for_patients

    heartdisease.guide@about.com
    16 May 2012 | 6:08 am
    Depression is a major risk factor in patients with heart disease, but it can be treated with antidepressants

  • nuts and heart disease

    heartdisease.guide@about.com
    16 May 2012 | 6:08 am
    Several studies conducted over the years have strongly suggested that eating an ounce of nuts four or five times a week can significantly reduce your risk of coronary artery disease - by as much as 40%.

  • calcium blockers for angina

    heartdisease.guide@about.com
    16 May 2012 | 6:08 am
    Calcium channel blockers dilate blood vessels, reduce the force of heart muscle contraction, and slow the heart rate, thus reducing the risk of angina in patients with coronary artery disease.

  • Long QT syndrome

    heartdisease.guide@about.com
    16 May 2012 | 6:08 am
    Long QT syndrome - torsades de pointes
 
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    Scientific American Topic - Heart Disease

  • 4 Medical Implants That Escaped FDA Scrutiny

    30 Apr 2012 | 5:30 pm
    Medical devices sustain and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans. But as the over $100 billion-a-year industry pushes thousands of devices to market every year, reports of faulty devices, repeat surgeries, and recalls have increased. The FDA and the industry maintain that a speedy approval process gives patients faster access to life-saving devices. But critics say that unlike drugs, a substantial number of risky devices are cleared without clinical testing, and receive almost no oversight once on the market. [More]

  • For a Healthier Country, Overhaul Farm Subsidies

    19 Apr 2012 | 7:30 am
    Some years ago two nutrition experts went grocery shopping. For a dollar, Adam Drewnow­ski and S. E. Specter could purchase 1,200 calories of potato chips or cookies or just 250 calories worth of carrots. It was merely one example of how an unhealthy diet is cheaper than a healthy one. This price difference did not spring into existence by force of any natural laws but largely because of antiquated agricultural policies. Public money is working at cross-purposes: backing an overabundance of unhealthful calories that are flooding our supermarkets and restaurants, while also battling…

  • The Limits of Breath Holding (preview)

    12 Apr 2012 | 9:07 am
    Take a deep breath and hold it. You are now engaging in a surprisingly mysterious activity. On average, we humans breathe automatically about 12 times per minute, and this respiratory cycle, along with the beating of our heart, is one of our two vital biological rhythms. The brain adjusts the cadence of breathing to our body’s needs without our conscious effort. Nevertheless, all of us also have the voluntary ability to deliberately hold our breath for short periods. This skill is advantageous when preventing water or dust from entering our lungs, when stabilizing our chests before…

  • Bugs That Transmit "Silent Killer" Are Biting More in the U.S.

    9 Apr 2012 | 7:00 am
    Transmitted by bloodsucking kissing bugs, tropical Chagas disease--which afflicts millions in Central and South America--may affect more people in the U.S. than previously thought. Although doctors officially have recorded only seven cases of new human infections in North America, a new study found that five of 13 kissing bugs collected from California and Arizona had bitten a human host--and many of the bugs they collected were infected with Chagas. [More]

  • How Useful Is Whole Genome Sequencing to Predict Disease?

    2 Apr 2012 | 4:30 pm
    A $1,000 genome sequence is close to being available. What will your sequence tell you about your actual risk for certain diseases? [More]
 
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    WebMD Health

  • Amanda de Cadenet Starts ‘The Conversation’

    16 May 2012 | 1:24 pm
    The LA-based photographer’s new show dishes body image, motherhood, healthy aging, and more with top women celebrities.

  • Infant Head Lag May Signal Autism

    16 May 2012 | 11:06 am
    Infants who show developmental delays in head and neck muscle control may be at increased risk for autism, a new study suggests.

  • Americans Living Longer but Obesity Rising

    16 May 2012 | 12:01 am
    The CDC today released its annual state of the union’s health, and there’s good news and bad. We’re living longer, for example. But we’re also gaining more weight.

  • First At-Home HIV Test Nears Approval

    15 May 2012 | 6:11 pm
    An FDA advisory panel says the agency should approve over-the-counter sale of the OraQuick home HIV test. Results take only 20 minutes. One problem: About 1 in 14 people with HIV will get a negative result.

  • New Sunscreen Guide: 1 in 4 Products Deemed Safe

    15 May 2012 | 5:55 pm
    With warmer weather on the way, the Environmental Working Group has just released a new edition of their popular sunscreen guide.
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    MedWorm: Heart Attack

  • Association between pediatric psoriasis and the metabolic syndrome

    16 May 2012 | 2:07 am
    To the Editor: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that affects approximately 2% of the general population, and roughly 1% of children. Numerous large population-based studies have demonstrated the systemic effects of psoriatic disease in adults showing an increased risk of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Although the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adults with psoriasis has been well documented, there are more limited data available on cardiovascular risk factors in children with psoriasis. (Source: Journal of the American Academy of…

  • Admission Hyperglycemia and TIMI Frame Count in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

    15 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    We evaluated the relationship between admission blood glucose levels and estimated coronary flow by the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count (TFC) method in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). The TFC of 121 consecutive patients with STEMI were evaluated after pPCI. Patients with admission glucose levels >198 mg/dL (11 mmol/L) were defined as hyperglycemic. Hyperglycemia was observed in 36 (29.8%) patients. The TFC was significantly higher in patients with hyperglycemia (70.75…

  • Effects Of Acute And Chronic Atorvastatin On Cadioprotection Of Ischemic Postconditioning In Isolated Rat Hearts

    15 May 2012 | 2:58 pm
    This study suggests that Ipost should be used carefully when atorvastatin is taken by patients with acute myocardial infarction.©2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd (Source: Cardiovascular Therapeutics)

  • Medtronic Nets New Indications for Resolute Integrity Drug-Eluting Stent in Europe

    15 May 2012 | 2:40 pm
    The Resolute Integrity DES is now explicitly indicated in countries outside the United States that accept the CE mark for the following patient and lesion types: acute coronary syndromes, acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina; diabetes mellitus; bifurcations; multi-vessel disease; total occlusions and chronic total occlusions; and in-stent restenosis. All but the indications for diabetes and multi-vessel disease are new. (Source: News from Angioplasty.Org)

  • Clinical information transfer and data capture in the acute myocardial infarction pathway: an observational study

    14 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    Conclusion  The study highlights fragmentation, CIS duplication, and discrepancies in the current clinical information capture and data transfer across the MI care pathway in an acute cardiac care setting. The development of an integrated and user‐friendly electronic data capture and transfer system would reduce duplication and would facilitate efficient and complete information provision at the point of care. (Source: Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice)
 
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    Scientific American Topic - Heart Disease

  • 4 Medical Implants That Escaped FDA Scrutiny

    30 Apr 2012 | 5:30 pm
    Medical devices sustain and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans. But as the over $100 billion-a-year industry pushes thousands of devices to market every year, reports of faulty devices, repeat surgeries, and recalls have increased. The FDA and the industry maintain that a speedy approval process gives patients faster access to life-saving devices. But critics say that unlike drugs, a substantial number of risky devices are cleared without clinical testing, and receive almost no oversight once on the market. [More]

  • For a Healthier Country, Overhaul Farm Subsidies

    19 Apr 2012 | 7:30 am
    Some years ago two nutrition experts went grocery shopping. For a dollar, Adam Drewnow­ski and S. E. Specter could purchase 1,200 calories of potato chips or cookies or just 250 calories worth of carrots. It was merely one example of how an unhealthy diet is cheaper than a healthy one. This price difference did not spring into existence by force of any natural laws but largely because of antiquated agricultural policies. Public money is working at cross-purposes: backing an overabundance of unhealthful calories that are flooding our supermarkets and restaurants, while also battling…

  • The Limits of Breath Holding (preview)

    12 Apr 2012 | 9:07 am
    Take a deep breath and hold it. You are now engaging in a surprisingly mysterious activity. On average, we humans breathe automatically about 12 times per minute, and this respiratory cycle, along with the beating of our heart, is one of our two vital biological rhythms. The brain adjusts the cadence of breathing to our body’s needs without our conscious effort. Nevertheless, all of us also have the voluntary ability to deliberately hold our breath for short periods. This skill is advantageous when preventing water or dust from entering our lungs, when stabilizing our chests before…

  • Bugs That Transmit "Silent Killer" Are Biting More in the U.S.

    9 Apr 2012 | 7:00 am
    Transmitted by bloodsucking kissing bugs, tropical Chagas disease--which afflicts millions in Central and South America--may affect more people in the U.S. than previously thought. Although doctors officially have recorded only seven cases of new human infections in North America, a new study found that five of 13 kissing bugs collected from California and Arizona had bitten a human host--and many of the bugs they collected were infected with Chagas. [More]

  • How Useful Is Whole Genome Sequencing to Predict Disease?

    2 Apr 2012 | 4:30 pm
    A $1,000 genome sequence is close to being available. What will your sequence tell you about your actual risk for certain diseases? [More]
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    Cardiovascular Ultrasound - Latest Articles

  • The impact of aging and atherosclerotic risk factors on transthoracic coronary flow reserve in subjects with normal coronary angiography

    Maurizio Galderisi
    13 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Age may affect coronary flow reserve (CFR) especially in subjects with atherosclerotic risk factors (ARFs). The aim of this prospective, multicenter, observational study was to determine the effects of aging on CFR in patients with normal epicardial coronary arteries and ARFs. Three-hundred-thirty-five subjects (mean age = 61 years) with at least one ARF but normal coronary angiography underwent high-dose dipyridamole stress-echo with Doppler evaluation of left anterior descending artery. CFR was calculated as the ratio between hyperemic and resting coronary diastolic peak velocities.

  • Fetal cardiac muscle contractility decreases with gestational age: a color-coded tissue velocity imaging study

    Nina Elmstedt
    8 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Present data regarding how the fetal heart works and develops throughout gestation is limited. However, the possibility to analyze the myocardial velocity profile provides new possibilities to gain further knowledge in this area. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate human fetal myocardial characteristics and deformation properties using color-coded tissue velocity imaging (TVI). MethodsTVI recordings from 55 healthy fetuses, at 18 to 42 weeks of gestation, were acquired at a frame rate of 201-273 frames/s for offline analysis using software enabling retrieval of the…

  • Correction: Visualization of the intracavitary blood flow in systemic ventricles of Fontan patients by contrast echocardiography using particle image velocimetry

    Konstantinos Lampropoulos
    25 Apr 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Following publication of our article [Lampropoulos et al., Cardiovascular Ultrasound 2012, 10:5] the authors noted that the legends for Figure 1 and Figure 2 were incorrect.The correct legend for Figure 1 is:Sequence analysis of systemic ventricular flow during systole and diastole in Fontan patients. The vortex from the Fontan group was consistently shorter, wider and rounder. The vortices were located at the centre of the left ventricle throughout diastole and systole and did not redirect flow in a coherent, sequential fashion as in controls. The location, shape and sphericity of the main…

  • Value of segmental myocardial strain by 2-dimensional strain echocardiography for assessment of scar area induced in a rat model of myocardial infarction

    Shu-sheng Liao
    2 Apr 2012 | 7:00 pm
    ObjectivesTwo-dimensional strain echocardiography (2DSE) technique has enabled accurate quantification of regional myocardial function. This experimental study was aimed to investigate the value of 2DSE in detection of segmental regional myocardial dysfunction induced by fibrosis following myocardial infarction in a small animal (rat) model. Methods: A rat model of myocardial infarction was established by ligation of the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery in 17 SD rats. Regional myocardial function was detected by 2DSE at baseline and 4-weeks post-infarction, including…

  • Percutaneous treatment of patients with heart diseases: selection, guidance and follow-up. A review

    Carla Contaldi
    26 Mar 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation, patent foramen ovale, interatrial septal defect, atrial fibrillation and perivalvular leak, are now amenable to percutaneous treatment. These percutaneous procedures require the use of Transthoracic (TTE), Transesophageal (TEE) and/or Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). This paper provides an overview of the different percutaneous interventions, trying to provide a systematic and comprehensive approach for selection, guidance and follow-up of patients undergoing these procedures, illustrating the key role of echocardiography.
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    BMC Cardiovascular Disorders - Latest Articles

  • Effectiveness of two intensive treatment methods for smoking cessation and relapse prevention in patients with coronary heart disease: study protocol and baseline description

    Nadine Berndt
    14 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: There is no more effective intervention for secondary prevention of coronary heart diseasethan smoking cessation. Yet, evidence about the (cost-)effectiveness of smoking cessationtreatment methods for cardiac inpatients that also suit nursing practice is scarce. This protocoldescribes the design of a study on the (cost-)effectiveness of two intensive smoking cessationinterventions for hospitalised cardiac patients as well as first results on the inclusion rates andthe characteristics of the study population. Methods: A quasi-experimental study design is used in eight cardiac wards…

  • Idiopathic premature ventricular contractions and ventricular tachycardias originating from the vicinity of tricuspid annulus: Results of radiofrequency catheter ablation in thirty-five patients

    Li Yue-Chun
    1 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: In recent years, catheter ablation has increasingly been used for ablation of idiopathicpremature ventricular complexes (PVCs) or ventricular tachycardias (IVTs). However, themapping and catheter ablation of the arrhythmias originating from the vicinity of tricuspidannulus (TA) may not be fully understood. This study aimed to investigate electrophysiologiccharacteristics and effects of radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for patients withsymptomatic PVCs and IVTs originating from the vicinity of TA. Methods: Characteristics of body surface electrocardiogram (ECG) and…

  • Cardiac tamponade related to a coronary injury by a pericardial calcification: an unusual complication

    Anne Cypierre
    24 Apr 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Cardiac tamponade is a rare but severe complication of pericardial effusion with a poor prognosis. Prompt diagnosis using transthoracic echocardiography allows guiding initial therapeutic management. Although etiologies are numerous, cardiac tamponade is more often due to a hemopericardium. Rarely, a coronary injury may result in such a hemopericardium with cardiac tamponade. Coronary artery aneurysm are the main etiologies but blunt, open chest trauma or complication of endovascular procedures have also been described.Case presentationA 83-year-old hypertensive man presented for…

  • The prognostic importance of a history of hypertension in patients with symptomatic heart failure is substantially worsened by a short mitral inflow deceleration time

    Charlotte Andersson
    24 Apr 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Hypertension is a common comorbidity in patients with heart failure and may contribute todevelopment and course of disease, but the importance of a history of hypertension inpatients with prevalent heart failure remains uncertain. Methods: 3078 consecutively hospitalized heart failure patients (NYHA classes II-IV) were screenedfor the EchoCardiography and Heart Outcome Study (ECHOS). The left ventricular ejectionfraction (LVEF) was estimated by 2 dimensional transthoracic echocardiography in allpatients and a subgroup of 878 patients had additional data on pulsed wave…

  • Age - related treatment strategy and long-term outcome in acute myocardial infarction patients in the PCI era

    Petr Kala
    24 Apr 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Older age, as a factor we cannot affect, is consistently one of the main negative prognosticvalues in patients with acute myocardial infarction. One of the most powerful factors thatimproves outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndromes is the revascularizationpreferably performed by percutaneous coronary intervention. No data is currently availablefor the role of age in large groups of consecutive patients with PCI as the nearly sole methodof revascularization in AMI patients. The aim of this study was to analyze age-relateddifferences in treatment strategies, results of PCI…
 
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    MedWorm: Hypertension

  • Meta-Analysis of Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes Associated with the Use of Insulin Glargine versus NPH Insulin during Pregnancy

    16 May 2012 | 6:07 am
    As glargine, an analog of human insulin, is increasingly used during pregnancy, a meta-analysis assessed its safety in this population. A systematic literature search identified studies of gestational or pregestational diabetes comparing use of insulin glargine with human NPH insulin, with at least 15 women in both arms. Data was extracted for maternal outcomes (weight at delivery, weight gain, 1st/3rd trimester HbA1c, severe hypoglycemia, gestation/new-onset hypertension, preeclampsia, and cesarean section) and neonatal outcomes (congenital malformations, gestational age at delivery, birth…

  • The Relationship between Insufficient Sleep and Self-Rated Health in a Nationally Representative Sample

    16 May 2012 | 6:07 am
    We examined participants >18 years of age (n=377, 160) from a representative, cross-sectional survey (2008 BRFSS). Self-reported insufficient sleep in the previous 30 days was categorized into six groups. The outcome was poor SRH. We calculated odds ratios ((OR) (95% confidence interval (CI)) of increasing categories of insufficient rest/sleep, taking zero days of insufficient sleep as the referent category. We found a positive association between increasing categories of insufficient sleep and poor SRH, independent of relevant covariates. In the multivariable-adjusted model, compared to…

  • Multiple Pappenheimer bodies after splenectomy

    16 May 2012 | 3:32 am
    We report on a 49‐year‐old man dialyzed for renal insufficiency. Past medical history included chronic alcohol abuse leading to severe complications such liver cirrhosis, portal hypertension and diabetes. He had been splenectomized one year before.© 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S (Source: European Journal of Haematology)

  • Review of the genus Ipomoea: traditional uses, chemistry and biological activities

    16 May 2012 | 2:26 am
    Approximately 600-700 species of Ipomoea, Convolvulaceae, are found throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Several of those species have been used as ornamental plants, food, medicines or in religious ritual. The present work reviews the traditional uses, chemistry and biological activities of Ipomoea species and illustrates the potential of the genus as a source of therapeutic agents. These species are used in different parts of the world for the treatment of several diseases, such as, diabetes, hypertension, dysentery, constipation, fatigue, arthritis, rheumatism,…

  • Sexual dimorphism in rodent models of hypertension and atherosclerosis

    16 May 2012 | 2:23 am
    AbstractApproximately one third of all deaths are attributed to cardiovascular disease (CVD), making it the biggest killer worldwide. Despite a number of therapeutic options available, the burden of CVD morbidity continues to grow indicating the need for continued research to address this unmet need. In this respect investigation of the mechanisms underlying the protection that pre‐menopausal females enjoy from cardiovascular‐related disease and mortality is of interest. In this review we discuss the essential role that rodent animal models play in enabling this field of research. In…
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    Cardiovascular Diabetology - Latest Articles

  • Associations between retinol-binding protein 4 and cardiometabolic risk factors and subclinical atherosclerosis in recently postmenopausal women: Cross-sectional analyses from the KEEPS Study

    Gary Huang
    14 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: The published literature regarding the relationships between retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) and cardiometabolic risk factors and subclinical atherosclerosis is conflicting, likely due, in part, to limitations of frequently used RBP4 assays. Prior large studies have not utilized the gold-standard Western Blot analysis of RBP4 levels. Methods: Full-length serum RBP4 levels were measured by Western Blot in 709 postmenopausal women screened for the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study. Cross-sectional analyses related RBP4 levels to cardiometabolic risk factors, carotid artery…

  • Gender difference in carotid intima-media thickness in type 2 diabetic patients: a 4-year follow-up study

    Bo Zhao
    13 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Different population studies have reported gender difference in carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), which is proved to be a risk factor of cardiovascular diseases. However, few longitudinal researches examine this gender difference in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Therefore, we prospectively analyzed CIMT in T2DM patients over a 4-year follow-up period. Methods: 355 T2DM patients (mean age 59 years; 54.9% women) were included in the present study. CIMT were measured using Color Doppler ultrasound. CIMT was measured at baseline (CIMT) in 2006 and at follow-up in…

  • Blood pressure and lipid management fall far short in persons with type 2 diabetes: Results from the DIAB-CORE Consortium including six German population-based studies

    Ina-Maria Rückert
    7 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background Although most deaths among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are attributable to cardiovascular disease, modifiable cardiovascular risk factors appear to be inadequately treated in medical practice. The aim of this study was to describe hypertension, dyslipidemia and medical treatment of these conditions in a large population-based sample.Methods The present analysis was based on the DIAB-Core project, in which data from five regional population-based studies and one nationwide German study were pooled. All studies were conducted between 1997 and 2006. We assessed the frequencies…

  • Ginkgo biloba extract reduces high-glucose-induced endothelial adhesion by inhibiting the redox-dependent interleukin-6 pathways

    Jia-Shiong Chen
    2 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Chronic elevation of glucose level activates vascular inflammation and increases endothelial adhesiveness to monocytes, an early sign of atherogenesis. This study aimed to elucidate the detailed mechanisms of high-glucose-induced endothelial inflammation, and to investigate the potential effects of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE), an antioxidant herbal medicine, on such inflammation.Materials and methods: Human aortic endothelial cells were cultured in high glucose or mannitol as osmotic control for 4 days. The expression of cytokines and adhesion molecules and the adhesiveness of…

  • In-hospital death in acute coronary syndrome was related to admission glucose in men but not in women

    Julio Takada
    2 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Admission hyperglycemia is associated with mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), but controversy exists whether hyperglycemia uniformly affects both genders. In this study, we evaluated coronary risk factors, gender, hyperglycemia and their effect on hospital mortality. Methods: ACS patients (363 women and 596 men) were grouped based on glycemia above or below 200 mg/dL and gender: men with glucose lower than 200 mg/dL (MMHG); women with glucose lower than 200 mg/dL (WMHG); men with glucose greater or equal to 200 mg/dL (MHHG); and women with glucose greater or…
 
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    Cholesterol News From Medical News Today

  • Caring For The US Navy's Animal Warriors Could Have Impact On Human Health

    11 May 2012 | 2:00 am
    Military patrol dogs with your keen sense of smell, step aside. The U.S. Navy has enlisted the biological sonar and other abilities of bottlenose dolphins and California sea lions to protect harbors from enemy swimmers, detect explosives on the seafloor and perform other tasks...

  • 'Good' Cholesterol, May Not Protect Against Heart Disease

    9 May 2012 | 3:00 am
    A new study by Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) researchers has found that a subclass of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the so-called "good" cholesterol, may not protect against coronary heart disease (CHD) and in fact may be harmful...

  • The Positive Effects Of Heart Rehabilitation Programs

    7 May 2012 | 2:00 am
    Research conducted at the University of Granada has demonstrated the efficiency of a heart rehabilitation program aimed at patients suffering from heart disease. The authors of this study affirm that it is essential that heart rehabilitation programs aimed at cardiac patients are established...

  • Improving Understanding Of The Interaction Between Blood Flow And Heart Health

    30 Apr 2012 | 3:00 am
    Clogging of pipes leading to the heart is the planet's number one killer. Surgeons can act as medical plumbers to repair some blockages, but we don't fully understand how this living organ deteriorates or repairs itself over time...

  • A Serving A Day Of Dark Chocolate Might Keep The Doctor Away

    26 Apr 2012 | 2:00 am
    Chocolate, considered by some to be the "food of the gods," has been part of the human diet for at least 4,000 years; its origin thought to be in the region surrounding the Amazon basin. Introduced to the Western world by Christopher Columbus after his fourth voyage to the New World in 1502, chocolate is now enjoyed worldwide...
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    Europace - current issue

  • 'False-positive' intrathoracic impedance monitor alarm caused by amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism in a patient with cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator

    Nakashima, T., Takasugi, N., Kubota, T., Takasugi, M., Kanamori, H., Ushikoshi, H., Hattori, A., Aoyama, T., Kawasaki, M., Nishigaki, K., Takemura, G., Minatoguchi, S.
    24 Apr 2012 | 9:16 am
    A 78-year-old female received a cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator equipped with an intrathoracic impedance (ITI) monitor and amiodarone therapy was initiated. A massive and long-lasting decrease in ITI occurred without heart failure (HF) deterioration. Pericardial effusion secondary to amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism may have caused the impedance reduction.

  • Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia induced by Valsalva manoeuvre in a patient with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia

    De Mattia, L., Brieda, M., Del Bianco, F., Dametto, E., Nicolosi, G. L.
    24 Apr 2012 | 9:16 am
    A 54-year-old patient with episodes of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia developed non-sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia during Valsalva manoeuvre.

  • Unusual failure of left ventricular lead implantation diagnosed by multidetector computed tomography

    Da Costa, A., Gate-Martinet, A., Nadrouss, A., Isaaz, K.
    24 Apr 2012 | 9:16 am
    We report a case of coronary sinus (CS) ostium draining into the left atrium representing an exceptional cause of left ventricular (LV) lead implant failure. The diagnosis should be suspected in the case of unsuccessful CS catheterization and confirmed by computed tomography scan evaluation, so as to avoid a new failure when attempting implantation on the other side.

  • Non-contact mapping system accurately localizes right-sided accessory pathways in type B Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

    Nishida, T., Nakajima, T., Kaitani, K., Takitsume, A., Soeda, T., Okayama, S., Somekawa, S., Takeda, Y., Ishigami, K.-i., Kawata, H., Kawakami, R., Horii, M., Uemura, S., Saito, Y.
    24 Apr 2012 | 9:16 am
    Aims Ablation of right-sided accessory pathways (APs) is sometimes challenging because several anatomical features of the tricuspid annulus (TA) and surrounding structures differ from those of the mitral annulus. This study investigated the electrophysiological characteristics and efficacy of a non-contact mapping (NCM) system for catheter ablation of right-sided APs. Methods and results We examined nine APs in six consecutive patients who underwent catheter ablation of right-sided APs with NCM. In Case 6, we compared NCM with contact activation mapping. Three of six patients had two APs, and…

  • Histopathological effects and evolution of transvenous {beta}-radiation applications in right and left atria: an animal study

    Franceschi, F., Bonan, R., Khairy, P., Dubuc, M., Thibault, B., Macle, L., Talajic, M., Roy, D., Koutbi, L., Virmani, R., Guerra, P. G.
    24 Apr 2012 | 9:16 am
    Aims β-radiation is a novel potential energy source for the creation of myocardial lesions. While the feasibility of delivering β-radiation via a deflectable transvenous catheter has been described, dose effects and the time course of histopathological changes have not been previously assessed. The purpose of this study was to characterize pathological aspects of cardiac lesions induced by β-radiation in an animal model at various stages of evolution and in response to different dose exposures. Methods and results Nine dogs and one pig were studied. The cavotricuspid isthmus,…
 
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    European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery - current issue

  • Use of allogenous bone graft and osteosynthetic stabilization in treatment of massive post-sternotomy defects [CASE REPORTS]

    Kalab, M., Molitor, M., Kubesova, B., Lonsky, V.
    16 May 2012 | 9:18 am
    Thoracic stabilization using transverse plate fixation represents a modern and safe method of sternal dehiscence treatment. However, it still remains difficult to apply in cases of massive loss of bone tissue of the chest wall. An unsatisfactory stability of thorax often results in severe respiratory insufficiency, and also affects healing of soft tissue closure while increasing the risk of development of chronic fistulas and other dehiscences. In the reported case, we opted for a unique treatment of massive post-sternotomy defect using an allogenous bone graft of calva. Transverse titanium…

  • Univentricular heart and Fontan staging: analysis of factors impacting on body growth [CONGENITAL]

    Francois, K., Bove, T., Panzer, J., De Groote, K., Vandekerckhove, K., De Wilde, H., De Wolf, D.
    16 May 2012 | 9:18 am
    OBJECTIVES The optimal timing of the Fontan staging for a univentricular heart and its impact on growth remains debateable. In a Fontan cohort, the influence of staged interventions and patient factors on somatic development was explored. METHODS We reviewed 64 total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) patients treated since 1992. Serial anthropometric parameters recorded from birth to the latest follow-up (mean 12.5 ± 6.1 years) and at each intervention [neonatal surgery, bidirectional cavopulmonary anastomosis (BCPA), TCPC, catheter treatment] were converted to z-scores. The…

  • In vitro haemocompatibility of a novel bioprosthetic total artificial heart [TX [amp ] MCS]

    Jansen, P., van Oeveren, W., Capel, A., Carpentier, A.
    16 May 2012 | 9:18 am
    OBJECTIVES The CARMAT total artificial heart (TAH) is an implantable, electro-hydraulically driven, pulsatile flow device with four bioprosthetic valves. Its blood-pumping surfaces consist of processed bioprosthetic pericardial tissue and expanded polytetrafluorethylene (ePTFE), potentially allowing for the reduction of anti-coagulation. This pre-clinical study assessed the in vitro haemocompatibility of these surfaces. METHODS Coupons of pericardial tissue and ePTFE were placed in closed tubular circuits filled with 12.5 ml of fresh human blood exposed to the pulsatile flow at…

  • Assessment of aortopulmonary collateral flow and pulmonary vascular growth using a 3.0 T magnetic resonance imaging system in patients who underwent bidirectional Glenn shunting [CONGENITAL]

    Wang, R.-P., Liang, C.-H., Huang, M.-P., Liu, H., Deng, Q.-P., Yang, M.-F.
    16 May 2012 | 9:18 am
    OBJECTIVES To explore the feasibility of evaluating the aortopulmonary collateral flow (APCF) and pulmonary vascular growth of patients who underwent bidirectional Glenn shunting (BGS) using phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI) and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (CE-MRI). METHODS Blood flow measurements of the great vessels of the body were recorded in 22 post-BGS patients using 3.0 T PC-MRI. Right and left pulmonary blood flow (QP), stroke volume (SV) of the ascending aorta (QS), blood flow of descending aorta (Qd) and venous return of the superior and…

  • The importance of intraoperative fluid balance for the prevention of postoperative acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis after pulmonary resection for primary lung cancer [THORACIC]

    Mizuno, Y., Iwata, H., Shirahashi, K., Takamochi, K., Oh, S., Suzuki, K., Takemura, H.
    16 May 2012 | 9:18 am
    OBJECTIVES Postoperative acute exacerbation (PAE) of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious complication that is hard to treat. Therefore, it is important to manage IPF patients in such a way as to avoid PAE. Conversely, the relationship between postoperative acute lung injury and perioperative fluid administration has been reported. Herein, we analyse the perioperative risk factors of PAE of IPF, including fluid management. METHODS Fifty-two patients diagnosed as having clinical IPF who underwent pulmonary resection (segmentectomy, lobectomy or bilobectomy) for primary lung cancer…
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    Heart current issue

  • The Author's reply

    Gerstenfeld, E. P.
    12 May 2012 | 2:35 am
    The Author's reply Dr Ward feels that I have given ‘short shrift’ to the cryoballoon in my commentary on the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for laser balloon ablation.1 2 I certainly welcome Dr Wards' comments and summary of cryoballoon efficacy, but feel a few additional comments are necessary. First, Dr Ward points out that my comments may be biased because I have a ‘vested interest’ in the laser balloon. It should be noted that while I have received an investigator initiated research grant to perform preclinical work with the…

  • Balloons and atrial fibrillation

    Ward, D. E.
    12 May 2012 | 2:35 am
    To the Editor This excellent short review article1 is written by someone who has a self-declared interest in the manufacturer of the ‘laser balloon’ (Cardiofocus Inc, Marlborough, MA, USA). It is unsurprising therefore to see that he gives the cryoballoon, a rival technology, short shrift by dismissing it as ‘having problems’. In fact, there are published data showing that it is probably the most successful approach to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) so-far invented.2 Acute success was achieved in over 98% of 924 patients. The one year freedom from PAF rate is…

  • Left ventricular apical mechanics during ectopy in an asymptomatic athlete

    Stohr, E. J., Shave, R.
    12 May 2012 | 2:35 am
    The frequent occurrence of ventricular ectopics in athletes is thought to be a part of the physiological adaptation process as a consequence of regular exercise training.1 However, the acute impact of a premature ventricular contraction (PVC) on the mechanical sequence of the myocardium has never been shown. Here, we present data of left ventricular (LV) apical function during a PVC in a 20-year-old healthy, asymptomatic male triathlete (body mass: 76 kg; height: 1.81 m; maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max): 66.4 ml/kg/min). Data were analysed using novel speckle tracking…

  • It is usually the cigarettes that do it

    Zaman, M. J. S.
    12 May 2012 | 2:35 am
    To the Editor It should be remembered that in the INTERHEART study, nine risk factors accounted for 90% of the population attributable risk of a myocardial infarction in men and 94% in women—these did not include family history.1 Thus, on a population basis, I would disagree with the authors that ‘A positive family history of premature coronary artery disease (CAD) is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD)’. It is, however, obvious that ‘The associated risk increases further when relatives are affected at a younger age’—and thus the paper…

  • Cardiovascular highlights from non-cardiology journals

    Lindsay, A. C.
    12 May 2012 | 2:35 am
    General cardiologyEpinephrine use and cardiac arrest survival Whist epinephrine (epinephrine) is commonly used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, both in and out of hospital, its effectiveness is poorly established. Although some animal studies have suggested a short term benefit due to increased cerebral and coronary perfusion, an increase in myocardial oxygen consumption and ventricular arrhythmias has also been documented. The purpose of this analysis was to determine how the use of epinephrine in cardiopulmonary resuscitation performed before hospital arrival (out-of-hospital arrest)…
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    Hypertension News From Medical News Today

  • Large Population Study Fomds Palpitations Predictive Of Future Atrial Fibrillation

    16 May 2012 | 3:00 am
    A large cohort study has found that the strongest risk factors for atrial fibrillation in both men and women were a history of palpitations and hypertension. While hypertension is a well known risk factor for AF, the investigators note that "the impact of self-reported palpitations on later occurrence of AF has not been documented earlier"...

  • News From The Annals Of Family Medicine: May/June 2012

    15 May 2012 | 4:00 am
    Reinvigorating the 1967 Folsom Report's 'Communities of Solution' to Address Today's Fragmented U.S. Health Care System In the wake of federal efforts to reform the U.S. health care system, a group of rising family medicine leaders call for a reinvigoration of community-centered health systems, as originally outlined in the landmark 1967 Folsom Report...

  • If You Have A Family History Of Hypertension, Physical Fitness May Reduce Your Risk

    15 May 2012 | 3:00 am
    If your parents have a history of high blood pressure, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing the disease with moderate exercise and increased cardiovascular fitness, according to new research in the American Heart Association's journal Hypertension...

  • Survey Results Suggest The Need For Better Preventive Care For The Diseased Heart

    14 May 2012 | 3:00 am
    There are discrepancies between the recommendations for the management of cardiovascular risk factors and their implementation in clinical practice. In the latest issue of Deutsches Arzteblatt International, Christof Prugger and his fellow authors present the results of the EUROASPIRE I, II and III surveys in the Munster region of Germany (Dtsch Arztebl Int 2012; 109(17): 303)...

  • No Protective Effects Against Colorectal Cancer Found With Blood Pressure Drugs

    14 May 2012 | 3:00 am
    A new study has found that, contrary to current thinking, taking beta blockers that treat high blood pressure does not decrease a person's risk of developing colorectal cancer. Published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the study also revealed that even long-term use or subtypes of beta blockers showed no reduction of colorectal cancer risk...
 
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    Lipids in Health and Disease - Latest Articles

  • Plasma levels of lipometabolism-related miR-122 and miR-370 are increased in patients with hyperlipidemia and associated with coronary artery disease

    Wei Gao
    14 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Hyperlipidemia plays a crucial role in the development and progression of coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent studies have identified that microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of lipid metabolism, but little is known about the circulating levels of lipometabolism-related miRNAs and their relationship with the presence of CAD in patients with hyperlipidemia. Methods: In the present study, we enrolled a total of 255 hyperlipidemia patients with or without CAD and 100 controls with normal blood lipids. The plasma levels of four known lipometabolism-related miRNAs, miR-122,…

  • High-density lipoprotein subclass and particle size in coronary heart disease patients with or without diabetes

    Li Tian
    14 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: A higher prevalence of coronary heart disease (CHD) in people with diabetes. We investigated the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subclass profiles and alterations of particle size in CHD patients with diabetes or without diabetes. Methods: Plasma HDL subclasses were quantified in CHD by 1-dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with immunodetection. Results: Although the particle size of HDL tend to small, the mean levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC) have achieved normal or desirable for CHD patients with or without diabetes who…

  • Association of rs5888 SNP in the scavenger receptor class B type 1 gene and serum lipid levels

    Dong-Feng Wu
    13 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Bai Ku Yao is a special subgroup of the Yao minority in China. The present study was undertaken to detect the association of rs5888 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the scavenger receptor class B type 1 (SCARB1) gene and several environmental factors with serum lipid levels in the Guangxi Bai Ku Yao and Han populations. Methods: A total of 598 subjects of Bai Ku Yao and 585 subjects of Han Chinese were randomly selected from our stratified randomized cluster samples. Genotypes of the SCARB1 rs5888 SNP were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment…

  • Supplementation of highly concentrated beta-cryptoxanthin in a satsuma mandarin beverage improves adipocytokine profiles in obese Japanese women

    Masako Iwamoto
    13 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Serum beta-cryptoxanthin levels are lower in overweight subjects than in normal subjects. Abnormalities of adipocytokine profiles in obesity subjects have been reported. There are several reports that serum beta-cryptoxanthin levels in them were relatively lower than normal subjects.ObjectiveWe hypothesize that supplementation of highly concentrated beta-cryptoxanthin improves serum adipocytokine profiles in obese subjects. This study tested the association between beta-cryptoxanthin intake and serum adipocytokine levels. Methods: An intervention study consisted of a 3-week long…

  • Long term stability of paraoxonase-1 and high-density lipoprotein in human serum

    Piet Beekhof
    13 May 2012 | 7:00 pm
    Background: Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is an enzyme with numerous functions and receives an increasing interest in clinical and epidemiological studies. Sometimes samples are stored for longer periods at a certain temperature. Therefore the stability of PON1 activity must be checked and retained upon storage for longer periods. Results: In this study the stability of PON1 activity has been tested in human serum samples during storage up to 12 months at 3 commonly used temperatures, -20degreesC, -70degreesC and 196degreesC. It was found that the stability of the PON1 activity is constant during 12…
 
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    MedicineNet Cholesterol General

  • ezetimibe and simvastatin, Vytorin

    1 May 2012 | 2:00 am
    Title: ezetimibe and simvastatin, VytorinCategory: MedicationsCreated: 1/31/2005 10:17:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 5/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

  • pravastatin, Pravigard PAC (discontinued)

    1 May 2012 | 2:00 am
    Title: pravastatin, Pravigard PAC (discontinued)Category: MedicationsCreated: 12/31/1997 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 5/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

  • atorvastatin, Lipitor

    1 May 2012 | 2:00 am
    Title: atorvastatin, LipitorCategory: MedicationsCreated: 12/31/1997 12:00:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 5/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

  • rosuvastatin, Crestor

    1 May 2012 | 2:00 am
    Title: rosuvastatin, CrestorCategory: MedicationsCreated: 10/22/2003 10:01:00 PMLast Editorial Review: 5/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

  • Cholesterol Levels in the U.S. on the Decline

    26 Apr 2012 | 2:00 am
    Title: Cholesterol Levels in the U.S. on the DeclineCategory: Health NewsCreated: 4/26/2012 11:01:00 AMLast Editorial Review: 4/26/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    Statins News From Medical News Today

  • Statins Before Heart Surgery May Help Patients

    24 Apr 2012 | 12:00 pm
    A new systematic review by The Cochrane Library researchers has demonstrated that the risk of post-operative atrial fibrillation can be reduced by administering pre-operative statin therapy, in addition to reducing patients' ICU (intensive care unit) stay and hospital stay in those undergoing cardiac surgery...

  • Patients Who Undergo Heart Surgery May Benefit From Pre-Operative Statins

    18 Apr 2012 | 4:00 am
    Pre-operative statin therapy can reduce the chance of post-operative atrial fibrillation and shortens the stay on the intensive care unit (ICU) and in the hospital in patients who undergo cardiac surgery, according to a new systematic review by Cochrane researchers...

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients At Increased Mortality Risk If They Stop Their Statin Therapy

    29 Mar 2012 | 3:00 am
    Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who discontinue use of statin therapy are at increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and other causes...

  • Possible New Route To Fight Dengue Virus

    25 Mar 2012 | 2:00 am
    Researchers have identified enzymes and biochemical compounds called lipids that are targeted and modified by the dengue virus during infection, suggesting a potential new approach to control the aggressive mosquito-borne pathogen...

  • Improved Understanding Of COPD

    23 Mar 2012 | 3:00 am
    The third most deadly disease in the U.S., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), appears to be partly driven by the action of immune cells circulating in the blood entering into the tissues of the lungs. UC Davis scientists have discovered that this key process begins in the blood vessels around the large airways in the center of the lung...
 
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    MedWorm: Stroke

  • Exertional heat stroke: new concepts regarding cause and care. - Casa DJ, Armstrong LE, Kenny GP, O'Connor FG, Huggins RA.

    16 May 2012 | 7:11 am
    When athletes, warfighters, and laborers perform intense exercise in the heat, the risk of exertional heat stroke (EHS) is ever present. The recent data regarding the fatalities due to EHS within the confines of organized American sport are not promising: ... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))MedWorm Sponsor Message: Have a look at The Neurology Daily, the new neurology portal driven by MedWorm, with all the latest neurology news and research updated daily.

  • Motor imagery in stroke patients, or plegic patients with spinal cord or peripheral diseases

    16 May 2012 | 4:06 am
    ConclusionsMI may be hampered on the affected side in severely paretic patients, particularly in the presence of impaired proprioception. Remarkably, the second study illustrates that motor experiences shape MI. This confirms the close relationship between MI and movement execution. The study advocates the careful use of test batteries for assessment of MI when investigating mental training in clinical trials. Not all patients might benefit to the same extent from MI training. This is possibly contingent on intact proprioception and preserved MI. (Source: Acta Neurologica Scandinavica)

  • Association between pediatric psoriasis and the metabolic syndrome

    16 May 2012 | 2:07 am
    To the Editor: Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that affects approximately 2% of the general population, and roughly 1% of children. Numerous large population-based studies have demonstrated the systemic effects of psoriatic disease in adults showing an increased risk of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Although the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adults with psoriasis has been well documented, there are more limited data available on cardiovascular risk factors in children with psoriasis. (Source: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology)

  • Circuit training benefits stroke survivors

    15 May 2012 | 10:56 pm
    Task-oriented circuit training is a good alternative to standard physiotherapy for stroke survivors who need to improve their walking ability, show results from a randomized trial. (Source: MedWire News - Stroke)

  • Depression subtypes and 5‐year risk of dementia and Alzheimer disease in patients aged 70 years

    15 May 2012 | 10:00 pm
    ConclusionsLate‐onset depressive episodes with DEDS are risk factors for dementia and AD development, regardless of the severity of the depression. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. (Source: International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry)
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    Cardiovascular Business News

  • FDA: Don't take MS drug with prior CV condition, stroke

    16 May 2012 | 5:15 am
    The FDA has completed its evaluation of a report of a patient who died after the first dose of a multiple sclerosis drug, fingolimod (Gilenya, Novartis), and determined that it is now contraindicated in patients with certain pre-existing or recent (within the last six months) heart conditions or stroke, or who are taking certain anti-arrhythmic medications.

  • O'Neill takes helm of new structural heart unit at Henry Ford

    16 May 2012 | 5:01 am
    William W. O'Neill, MD, has been appointed medical director of the new Center for Structural Heart Disease at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. He will begin his new position on July 31.

  • HHS strives for healthcare accountability with web-based tool

    15 May 2012 | 10:36 am
    In an attempt to keep government accountable for its actions, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has made available a web-based tool for the public to monitor and measure how the healthcare system performs.

  • Circ: Hospitals that perform better, spend more

    15 May 2012 | 6:35 am
    Hospitals that put patients under the knife more frequently see higher overall costs, according to a study published online May 10 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. The researchers identified intensity of tests, medication use and services as some of the culprits and said that there may be room for improvement in these hospitals to reduce the use of these modalities and cut costs.

  • St. Jude's renal denervation system nets EU thumbs up

    15 May 2012 | 4:51 am
    St. Jude Medical has been granted CE Mark approval of its EnligHTN renal denervation system.
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    AED, ECG/EKG, Stress Test Machine, Holter, Cardiac Rehab, Diagnostic Connectivity

  • Tennessee city chooses Powerheart G3 AED for park safety

    Karen Anderson
    23 Apr 2012 | 11:00 am
    The city of Clarksville, Tennessee, is getting ready to install an automated external defibrillator (AED) in the city’s busy Heritage Park. The Powerheart G3 AED is a gift to the city from the Clarksville Firefighters Association, along with a special alarm-equipped cabinet. Mayor Kim McMillian accepts a Powerheart G3 AED donated by the Clarksville Firefighters Association (Photo: Bill Larson, ClarksvilleOnline.com) The firefighters told ClarksvilleOnline.com that they chose the AED because it can use special defibrillator pads designed for children, is equipped with a long-life lithium…

  • Tours of Christchurch earthquake “Red Zone” include safety officers and AEDs

    Karen Anderson
    28 Mar 2012 | 6:21 pm
    Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were part of the preparation for the first public tours of the devastated central business district in Christchurch, New Zealand. On Feb. 22, 2011, a 6.3 earthquake just six miles from New Zealand’s second largest city killed 185 people and injured hundreds of others. Coming just months after a 7.1 quake in the same region, the quake demolished already weakened structures, liquified the ground in entire neighborhoods, and forced closure of the city’s central business distract. Red Cross safety officers with Powerheart G3 AEDs for the tour…

  • New Jersey AED bills clear legislative committees

    Karen Anderson
    13 Feb 2012 | 2:47 pm
    Janet’s Law, a bill to put automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in every school in New Jersey, has cleared committees in both the State Senate and the State Assembly. It will next go to a full vote of both houses. New Jersey student Janet Zilinski, 11, died in 2006 after collapsing from sudden cardiac arrest at school. (Photo: janetzilinski.org) Bill S-167 (and a companion bill in the Assembly) would require all public and private schools serving children in grades K through 12 to maintain on their premises a readily-accessible AED and to have five school employees certified in CPR…

  • Indiana police officers revive sudden cardiac arrest victim

    Karen Anderson
    3 Jan 2012 | 3:39 pm
    In Seymour, Indiana, police cars are equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and officers are trained in CPR and AED use. On Dec. 23, Officers James Handley and Mat Carver put that equipment and training to use when they were the first responders to a call to assist an unconscious man. Seymour, Indiana, police officers Mat Carver and James Handley with the Powerheart AED they used to save the life of a sudden cardiac arrest victim. (Photo: Aubrey Woods, TribTown.com) According to the report on TribTown.com, the officers arrived to find a 56-year-old man unconscious and without…

  • Investment in AEDs pays off: School saves a student’s life

    Karen Anderson
    21 Dec 2011 | 7:59 pm
    A recent investment in automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the Richland, Washington, school district paid off last week when one of the devices was used to restart the heart of a 15-year-old high school student who suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Freshman Jeremy Brewer had been outside on the Richland High School campus with friends during lunch break when he suddenly fell to the ground. Students who saw him collapse summoned teachers, who went into action. While two ran to Jeremy’s aid and began CPR, others called 911 and raced to the school gym for a defibrillator. As it…
 
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    Dr. Sinatra's Healthy Heart Blog

  • Why You Should Choose CoQ10 & Your Dentist Over Statin Drugs

    Stephen Sinatra
    16 May 2012 | 6:00 am
    The American Heart Association recently came out with a statement refuting the long-held belief that periodontal disease contributes to heart disease and stroke. The reason for that connection is that bacteria caused by gum disease can trigger inflammation in the heart. While the study’s lead author acknowledged gum disease increases the amount of circulating bacteria in the mouth, he stated preventive periodontal treatment is not going to help cut your risk of heart disease and stroke. Instead, he recommends people focus their efforts on treating known causes of heart disease, such as…

  • Mindful Summer Escapes

    Stephen Sinatra
    14 May 2012 | 9:28 am
    As we move closer to summer, many of us are planning vacations and weekend getaways.  But over the years many of my cardiac patients have expressed concern that traveling and dining out could take a toll on their waistlines and blood pressure.   So, years ago I co-authored the book Spa Medicine: Your Gateway to the Ageless Zone with Dr. Graham Simpson and Dr. Jorge Suarez-Menendez. It explains and extols the benefits of the “medi-spa,” a facility where you can relax and renew in a health-minded environment. Most medi-spas offer a variety of holistic…

  • 9 Secrets for Achieving a Healthy Weight

    Stephen Sinatra
    11 May 2012 | 9:30 am
    With summer just around the corner, the advertisements for weight loss programs are ramping up. But despite what some diet programs promise there is no easy answer or “magic” bullet to quickly propel you from chubby to chic without any hard work on your part—despite what some of the diet programs promise. But it can be done, over a period of time if you develop the right healthy habits: 1. Eat plenty of foods that are rich in fiber, especially plant-based fiber found in fruits, vegetables, oat bran, lentils, chickpeas, and more.  2. Increase your intake of…

  • Why Saturated Fats Are Heart-Healthy

    Stephen Sinatra
    10 May 2012 | 10:03 am
    Recently, one of my blog readers asked what I think about the book Eat Fat Lose Fat by Dr. Mary Enig and Sally Fallon. I haven’t read this particular book, but I do know the authors and I’m familiar with what they’ve written. In fact, I referred to Dr. Enig in my new upcoming book, The Great Cholesterol Myth,  that’s coming out in the fall of 2012. The message of this book is that saturated fats aren’t the demons we’ve made them out to be and I definitely agree. In fact, the lack of saturated fats in our diets has contributed to obesity and heart…

  • Spa Vacations Benefit Your Heart, Even If You're at Home

    Stephen Sinatra
    7 May 2012 | 9:10 am
    Years ago, I had my first spa experience. I was lecturing at Canyon Ranch in Arizona. During my week-long stay, I lost five pounds while nurturing my body. It was a very positive experience and I learned some alternative therapies in the healing process as well. Back home on the East Coast I discovered Gurney's Inn, a seaside spa resort in Montauk, Long Island—which I’ve frequented with my family each year ever since. What I like about spas is that they’re a heart-healthy getaway. Unlike other vacations that can expand your waistline, they afford an opportunity to eat…
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    AED, ECG/EKG, Stress Test Machine, Holter, Cardiac Rehab, Diagnostic Connectivity

  • Tennessee city chooses Powerheart G3 AED for park safety

    Karen Anderson
    23 Apr 2012 | 11:00 am
    The city of Clarksville, Tennessee, is getting ready to install an automated external defibrillator (AED) in the city’s busy Heritage Park. The Powerheart G3 AED is a gift to the city from the Clarksville Firefighters Association, along with a special alarm-equipped cabinet. Mayor Kim McMillian accepts a Powerheart G3 AED donated by the Clarksville Firefighters Association (Photo: Bill Larson, ClarksvilleOnline.com) The firefighters told ClarksvilleOnline.com that they chose the AED because it can use special defibrillator pads designed for children, is equipped with a long-life lithium…

  • Tours of Christchurch earthquake “Red Zone” include safety officers and AEDs

    Karen Anderson
    28 Mar 2012 | 6:21 pm
    Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) were part of the preparation for the first public tours of the devastated central business district in Christchurch, New Zealand. On Feb. 22, 2011, a 6.3 earthquake just six miles from New Zealand’s second largest city killed 185 people and injured hundreds of others. Coming just months after a 7.1 quake in the same region, the quake demolished already weakened structures, liquified the ground in entire neighborhoods, and forced closure of the city’s central business distract. Red Cross safety officers with Powerheart G3 AEDs for the tour…

  • New Jersey AED bills clear legislative committees

    Karen Anderson
    13 Feb 2012 | 2:47 pm
    Janet’s Law, a bill to put automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in every school in New Jersey, has cleared committees in both the State Senate and the State Assembly. It will next go to a full vote of both houses. New Jersey student Janet Zilinski, 11, died in 2006 after collapsing from sudden cardiac arrest at school. (Photo: janetzilinski.org) Bill S-167 (and a companion bill in the Assembly) would require all public and private schools serving children in grades K through 12 to maintain on their premises a readily-accessible AED and to have five school employees certified in CPR…

  • Indiana police officers revive sudden cardiac arrest victim

    Karen Anderson
    3 Jan 2012 | 3:39 pm
    In Seymour, Indiana, police cars are equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and officers are trained in CPR and AED use. On Dec. 23, Officers James Handley and Mat Carver put that equipment and training to use when they were the first responders to a call to assist an unconscious man. Seymour, Indiana, police officers Mat Carver and James Handley with the Powerheart AED they used to save the life of a sudden cardiac arrest victim. (Photo: Aubrey Woods, TribTown.com) According to the report on TribTown.com, the officers arrived to find a 56-year-old man unconscious and without…

  • Investment in AEDs pays off: School saves a student’s life

    Karen Anderson
    21 Dec 2011 | 7:59 pm
    A recent investment in automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for the Richland, Washington, school district paid off last week when one of the devices was used to restart the heart of a 15-year-old high school student who suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Freshman Jeremy Brewer had been outside on the Richland High School campus with friends during lunch break when he suddenly fell to the ground. Students who saw him collapse summoned teachers, who went into action. While two ran to Jeremy’s aid and began CPR, others called 911 and raced to the school gym for a defibrillator. As it…
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