Simple cardiac risk score can predict problems with blood flow in the brain

The study shows that for those participants who do not have a history of heart disease or stroke that a simple cardiac risk score — a summary measure of factors such as blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, abdominal fat, and dietary factors — is associated with MRI-detected pre-clinical cerebrovascular disease like carotid artery plaque and silent strokes.

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Genetic variants with possible positive implications for lifestyle

A research team has examined the interplay between genetics, cardiovascular disease and educational attainment in a major population study. Genetic variants which had been linked to educational attainment in other studies were observed in the subjects. The researchers found that these variants also had implications for a more health-conscious lifestyle and thus a lower risk of cardiovascular disease – in some cases regardless of the level of education.

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New target regulating mitochondria during stress

Like an emergency response team that is called into action to save lives, stress response proteins in the heart are activated during a heart attack to help prevent cell death. As part of this process, researchers show for the first time that one of these specialized emergency responder proteins, known as MCUB, temporarily decreases harmful levels of calcium transport into mitochondria, the energy-generating batteries of cells.

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