Implantable Loop Recorders in Patients with Unexplained Syncope: Does Ethnic Background Influence Diagnostic Yield?

Background: Implantable loop recorders (ILRs) are a central tool in the evaluation of unexplained syncope. These devices record and store electrocardiograms, both automatically and on patient-dependent activation. Therefore, obtaining optimal diagnostic results relies on a patient's comprehension and collaboration.

Routine fixed-dose heparin vs. ACT-guided heparin administration for elective PCI and its influence on patient in-hospital outcome: a retrospective study.

Objective: Activated clotting time (ACT)-based heparin dosing during percutaneous intervention (PCI) is recommended by Society guidelines. However, the relationship between ACT and outcome in the setting of elective PCI has not been sufficiently studied. We sought to evaluate the in-hospital outcome of patients undergoing elective PCI while receiving fixed-dose heparin without ACT measurement versus those with ACT-guided management.

Torsades de pointes after prolonged intravenous amiodarone therapy for atrial fibrillation.

Amiodarone can induce TdP; therefore, it should be avoided as a first choice for therapy in patients without heart disease. Careful QT interval monitoring, especially during intravenous use, can prevent development of this life-threatening arrhythmia.

Lipid profile as a strong indicator of coronary plaques: noninvasive assessment by multislice computerized tomography.

Background: Most acute coronary syndrome disorders occur as a consequence of atherosclerotic plaque rupture. Lipids are involved in atherosclerotic plaque buildup. Advances in image quality of coronary computed tomography have enabled improved characterization of coronary plaques.

Is second hand smoking associated with atrial fibrillation risk among women in Israel? A case-control study.

Background: The first complete ban on indoor smoking in all public spaces (including bars and restaurants) occurred in 1994 in Israel, because of clear scientific evidence that SHS (Second Hand Smoking) is dangerous to non-smokers. Despite the smoking-ban law warning about the dangers of smoking, SHS remains in houses. The role of cigarette smoking on cardiac arrhythmia is less clearly defined and secondhand smoke (SHS) impact on the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unknown.