Left Atrial Structural and Functional Changes in Adults with Congenital Septal Defects and Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation.

. To identify the difference between adult patients with septal defects and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and patients without a history of arrhythmia using the left atrial (LA) volume and function parameters, to reveal the parameters associated with AF development. .

Improved Surgical Outcomes in Adults with Congenital Heart Disease and Decompensated Heart Failure: The Role of Perioperative Medical Optimization.

BACKGROUND Decompensated heart failure (HF) is recognized as a significant prognostic factor for unfavorable outcomes in both the general population and adults with congenital heart diseases (ACHD). Among ACHD patients, those with advanced heart failure may be candidates for heart transplantation. However, in ACHD patients requiring heart surgery, even with reduced ejection fraction, the administration of appropriate medications can result in improved circulatory parameters, functional class, and surgical outcomes.

Effect of mineral diets on the development of cartilage material properties.

Vitamin D and minerals, including zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn), are vital in the development of bones, but their roles in the development of articular cartilage material behavior are not well understood. In this study, articular cartilage material properties from a hypovitaminosis D porcine model were evaluated. Pigs were produced by sows fed vitamin D deficient diets during gestation and lactation, and the offspring were subsequently fed vitamin D deficient diets for 3 weeks during the nursery period.

Hemostasis assessment in Fontan patients using the new thrombodynamics test.

Background: Thromboembolic events are a well-known risk for Fontan patients and often lead to morbidity and mortality in cyanotic patients and patients with a single ventricle. Coagulopathy and thrombophilia, in addition to disturbed Fontan blood flow and endothelial injury, are major contributors to thromboembolic complications. However, there is currently no consensus regarding the optimal medication to prevent or treat these events.

Successful One-and-a-Half Ventricle Repair of Right Ventricle Dysfunction Due to Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment in a Patient with Restrictive Cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND The cardiotoxic effects of chemotherapy in cancer treatment can damage cardiomyocytes. A common link in the pathogenesis is the proliferation of fibroblasts and the increase of collagen synthesis, leading to development of common endomyocardial fibrosis. The walls of ventricles become rigid and their inability to relax prevents them from carrying the required amount of blood.