High-dose tirofiban was "noninferior" to abciximab in terms of resolution of ST-segment elevation at 90 minutes, and sirolimus-eluting stents appeared safe and reduced revascularizations in this 2x2 factorial study in STEMI patients. Heartwire
Among those heart-failure patients in whom the value of cardiac resynchronization therapy is not yet clearly established, the presence of mechanical dyssynchrony as measured by simple Doppler echo can help predict responders, a new study finds. Heartwire
Survival rates from in-hospital cardiac arrest were lower during nights and weekends, even when adjusted for potentially confounding patient, event, and hospital characteristics. Medscape Medical News
In a case-control study, women who have taken alendronate, the bisphosphonate widely prescribed for preservation of bone density, have an increased risk for the development of atrial fibrillation. Medscape Medical News
A new study suggests that the composition of plaques removed during endarterectomy can help predict the risk for subsequent restenosis; less restenosis was seen in patients with macrophage infiltration and a large lipid core. Medscape Medical News
Omega-3 fatty-acid supplementation is an "effective, safe, simple, and cheap" option for patients with chronic heart failure, say investigators. Statin therapy, on the other hand, should not be prescribed in heart-failure patients. Heartwire
