Cardiovascular Research:Botox may prevent irregular heartbeat after bypass surgery ♦ MRI shows heart ages differently in women than in men

Pacemakers identify atrial fibrillation and enable initiation of stroke prevention Pacemakers identify atrial fibrillation and enable initiation of anticoagulation to prevent strokes.

Boosting levels of a key growth factor may help prevent cardiovascular disease New research indicates that low levels of a growth factor called stem cell factor (SCF)—which is thought to be important for blood vessel repair—are linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. In a study of 384 patients with a first coronary event and 409 event-free individuals, SCF measurements had a predictive value that was in the same range as that of established cardiovascular risk factors such as LDL and HDL cholesterol. Moreover, smokers and diabetics had reduced levels of SCF in the circulation, and low blood levels of the growth factor were associated with more severe disease among patients with atherosclerosis.

Botox may prevent irregular heartbeat after bypass surgery Botox injections into fat surrounding the heart reduced the chances of developing an irregular heart rhythm -- the most common complication of bypass surgery.

MRI shows heart ages differently in women than in men The main pumping chamber of the heart ages differently in men and women, according to a MRI study. Researchers said the findings may support different treatment approaches for men and women with heart disease.