Significant Increase In Blood Flow Research Articles

Indices of vertebral vein discirculation in workers in noise occupaions

Introduction. Occupational sensorineural hearing loss (OSNHL) is a gradual bilateral hearing loss developing over several years as a result of exposure to constant or non-constant noise (mainly high-frequency) at the workplace as one of the main causes in etiology, researchers name a violation of blood supply and vascular stenosis. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the indices of venous dyscirculation under the influence of industrial noise at the early stages of the development of OSNHL. Materials and methods. Twenty two male patients who have been working in conditions exceeding the maximum permissible noise levels for more than 5 years were examined, and the comparison group included 29 healthy male volunteers from 27 to 55 years old who do not work in the production sector. All the subjects were examined by an otorhinolaryngologist, a neurologist, and a therapist. Audiometry was performed on two axes for everyone. Air and bone conduction were performed separately for each ear. All patients underwent a triplex scan of the arteries and veins of the neck and brain in the supine and standing positions. Results. In comparison with the control group of healthy volunteers who did not work in industrial noise conditions, workers in noise occupations had a significant increase in blood flow, which averaged 25.2 cm/sec. When measuring the diameters of the vertebral veins, a tendency to vasodilation was revealed. Limitations. The limitation was the small sample size, due to the low patient turnover at the preclinical stage. Conclusion. The complex effect of noise on the body leads to changes in the wall of the venous network, a violation of venous outflow and can manifest itself not only with clinical complaints, but also in the form of episodic dizziness, cephalgia, which in turn can worsen the course of the development of OSNHL. It is necessary to perform ultrasound dopplerography of the neck veins for all workers of noise occupations at the preclinical stage to assess the risk of OSNHL occurrence.

Abstract 17144: Pi3 Kinase Activation by Platelet-Derived Purified Exosome Product to Induce Angiogenesis

Introduction: Platelets are heavily implicated in angiogenesis; however, the underlying mechanism remains relatively uncharacterized. The goal of this study was to evaluate the angiogenic potency of a platelet-derived regenerative exosome product (PEP) in an effort to develop a novel treatment for peripheral arterial disease. Here, we evaluated the mechanistic basis of PEP in angiogenesis and it’s use In Vivo in a rodent hind limb ischemia model. Methods/Results: Under Current Good Manufacturing Practices, conditioned medium from apheresis platelet cultures was purified to acquire the exosomes. PEP, enriched in exosome markers CD63, CD9 and Flotillin, induced human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation, migration, and vascular tube formation In Vitro. Proteomic evaluation of PEP highlighted receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) pathways and western blot validation demonstrated induction of phospho-MAPK and phospho-AKT following PEP treatment of HUVECs. Systematic evaluation of RTK receptor involvement was performed using small molecule inhibitors and receptor knock-down in HUVECs, ruling out RTK activation as a mode of action. However, small molecule inhibition of PI3 kinase demonstrated elimination of PEP-induced AKT phosphorylation and reduction in PEP-induced angiogenesis In Vitro measured by HUVEC proliferation and migration. In Vivo, evaluation of angiogenesis was performed in a rodent model of hindlimb ischemia treated with PEP embedded in fibrin glue (PEP/TISSEEL). Blood flow was evaluated by SPY angiography on day 0 pre- and post-operation, day 21, and day 28. Animals treated with PEP/TISSEEL showed a significant increase in blood flow compared to sham and TISSEEL treated animals (percent perfusion at 28 days: sham 40.9%, TISSEEL 44.3%, PEP/TISSEEL 100.2%), with significant increase in vascular area on histology (at 28 days vascular area (μm 2 )/muscle area(μm 2 ): healthy control 12.71, sham 4.66, TISSEEL 4.76, PEP/TISSEEL 15.54). Conclusions: Exosome driven activation of PI3 kinase can induce angiogenesis both In Vitro and In Vivo. PEP provides a novel, clinical-grade, off-the-shelf therapy to promote angiogenesis for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease.

Immediate Effects of Myofascial Release Treatment on Lumbar Microcirculation: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

(1) Background: Inflammatory processes in the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) lead to thickening, compaction, and fibrosis and are thought to contribute to the development of nonspecific low back pain (nLBP). The blood flow (BF) of fascial tissue may play a critical role in this process, as it may promote hypoxia-induced inflammation. The primary objective of the study was to examine the immediate effects of a set of myofascial release (MFR) techniques on the BF of lumbar myofascial tissue. The secondary objectives were to evaluate the influence of TLF morphology (TLFM), physical activity (PA), and body mass index (BMI) on these parameters and their correlations with each other. (2) Methods: This study was a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Thirty pain-free subjects (40.5 ± 14.1 years) were randomly assigned to two groups treated with MFR or a placebo intervention. Correlations between PA, BMI, and TLFM were calculated at baseline. The effects of MFR and TLFM on BF (measured with white light and laser Doppler spectroscopy) were determined. (3) Results: The MFR group had a significant increase in BF after treatment (31.6%) and at follow-up (48.7%) compared with the placebo group. BF was significantly different between disorganized and organized TLFM (p < 0.0001). There were strong correlations between PA (r = -0.648), PA (d = 0.681), BMI (r = -0.798), and TLFM. (4) Conclusions: Impaired blood flow could lead to hypoxia-induced inflammation, possibly resulting in pain and impaired proprioceptive function, thereby likely contributing to the development of nLBP. Fascial restrictions of blood vessels and free nerve endings, which are likely associated with TLFM, could be positively affected by the intervention in this study.

Acute Calcineurin Inhibitor Nephrotoxicity Diagnosed Using Kidney Doppler Ultrasonography After Heart Transplant: A Case Report

Acute calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) nephrotoxicity is a common complication associated with CNI exposure. However, it can be difficult to diagnose. Herein, we report a case of acute CNI nephrotoxicity after heart transplant that was visualized using kidney Doppler ultrasonography. A 38-year-old female patient underwent heart transplant 5 years after the use of left ventricular assist device support because of advanced heart failure due to ischemic cardiomyopathy. Corticosteroids, tacrolimus, and mycophenolate mofetil were administered as immunosuppressive regimens postoperatively. The patient gradually developed kidney dysfunction despite a favorable perioperative clinical course and hemodynamics. Serum creatinine increased to 1.89 mg/dL on postoperative day (POD) 9, and the kidney Doppler ultrasonography examination showed severely reduced blood flow in the renal and renal segmental arteries, indicating acute CNI nephrotoxicity due to vasoconstriction of the renal arterioles. After the cessation of tacrolimus, kidney function returned to baseline levels within 2 days, and the kidney Doppler ultrasonography examination on POD 19 revealed a significant increase in blood flow in the renal and renal segmental arteries. Basiliximab followed by everolimus were administered as alternative immunosuppressants. No organic stenosis of the renal artery was detected on the kidney magnetic resonance angiography, and the patient was discharged on POD 51, without any other adverse events, including rejection. Although CNIs are widely used after heart transplant, acute nephrotoxicity should always be considered. After heart transplant, a kidney Doppler ultrasonography should be performed routinely and promptly if there are any clinical manifestations related to kidney function.

Melatonin improves testicular hemodynamics and sperm quality in rams subjected to mild testicular heat stress

Melatonin is a potent free-radical scavenger, with anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic effects. The objective was to determine whether melatonin promoted testicular blood flow and protected sperm quality in rams after mild heat stress (HS; scrotal neck insulation). Twelve yearling Dorset rams with good semen quality were housed indoors (∼18–20 °C). Once weekly for 2 wk, Doppler indices (resistive index [RI] and pulsatility index [PI]) were measured in the supratesticular artery and semen collected by electroejaculation. Then, rams were randomly allocated into two equal groups, and given either 36 mg melatonin in 1 ml corn oil SQ under the ear (MEL), or only corn oil (CONT). At 15 d after treatment, all rams were subjected to mild HS for 96 h, with blood flow measurements and semen collection done once weekly for 7 wk. There were group, week and group∗week interaction effects (P < 0.005) for total and progressive sperm motility (CASA); total sperm abnormalities and acrosome integrity had effects of group, week and group∗week interaction effects (P < 0.00); and there were group and week effects for RI and PI (P < 0.005), with no significant differences before treatment. Changes in total and progressive motility and sperm abnormalities were evident at Week 1 post-HS in CONT rams, but MEL mitigated (P ˂ 0.05) these effects from Weeks 2–7. Furthermore, both PI and RI were reduced (P ˂ 0.05; i.e., significant increase in blood flow) in MEL versus CONT rams most weeks after HS. In MEL rams, sperm motility and total abnormalities had recovered at Weeks 5 and 6, respectively, whereas CONT rams had not completely recovered by Week 7. There was no difference (P < 0.05) between MEL and CONT groups in scrotal subcutaneous temperatures in the 4-d intervals before, during and after HS. In conclusion, melatonin significantly improved testicular blood flow and protected sperm motility and morphology in rams exposed to testicular HS. Therefore, melatonin has potential for mitigating effects of testicular HS under field conditions.

The effect of glucagon on local subcutaneous blood flow in non-diabetic volunteers; a proof-of-concept study

IntroductionGlucagon and insulin are the two most important hormones in glucose metabolism and have been incorporated in the dual-hormonal artificial pancreas, a device for automated glucose regulation for people with diabetes type 1. Currently the subcutis is the preferred site of hormone delivery for insulin-only as well as dual-hormonal artificial pancreas systems. The delay in glucose-lowering effect after subcutaneous injection of insulin is substantial, in contrast to the elevation of blood glucose values after subcutaneously injected glucagon which is occurs shortly after injection. We hypothesize that this is caused by properties of glucagon and have investigated the vasodilative effect of glucagon on subcutaneous blood flow in this proof-of-concept study. MethodsTwenty-two volunteers received subcutaneous injections of 0.1 mg and 0.01 mg glucagon, and saline on the abdomen. Blood flow was measured by a laser doppler blood flowmeter for 35 min after injections. ResultsInjection of 0.1 mg glucagon resulted in a significant increase in blood flow compared with baseline blood flow for all time intervals. Significant increase was also observed after the 0.01 mg glucagon injection, except between two- and five-min post injection. The inter-individual variance was large and a third of the subjects did not show an apparent increase in local subcutaneous blood flow after the 0.1 mg glucagon injection. ConclusionThis proof-of-concept study shows that micro-boluses of glucagon increases local subcutaneous blood flow on the abdomen of non-diabetic subjects. However, the vasodilative effect of glucagon is not observed in all subjects. The trial was not registered to protect intellectual property rights.

OBESTATIN ACCELERATES THE HEALING OF GINGIVAL ULCERS IN SALIVARY INTACT AND SIALOADENECTOMIZED RATS

<h3>Objectives</h3> There are numerous strategies for the prevention or treatment of oral mucositis. However, their effectiveness is limited and does not correspond to expectations. Recent studies have shown that obestatin exhibits protective effects and accelerates the healing of gastrointestinal mucosa. The aim of the present study was to examine the influence of obestatin administration on oral ulcers in rats. <h3>Study Design</h3> Studies were performed on salivary-intact and sialoadenectomized rats. Gingival ulcers were induced by the use of acetic acid. Rats were treated intraperitoneally twice a day with saline or obestatin (4, 8, or 16 nmol/kg/dose) for 6 days. The study determined the oral mucosa morphology, cell proliferation, mucosal blood flow, and mucosal pro-inflammatory IL-1β level. <h3>Results</h3> In animals with intact salivary glands without induction of oral ulcers, treatment with obestatin was without any effect. Obestatin administration in rats with gingival ulcersbut with intact salivary glands significantly increased healing rate of these ulcers. Obestatin given at a dose of 8 or 16 nmol/kg/dose caused the strongest and similar therapeutic effects. This result was associated with a significant increase in blood flow and cell proliferation in gingival mucosa, as well as a significant decrease in IL-1β level. Sialoadenectomy caused a reduction in cell proliferation and an increase in IL-1β level. Administration of obestatin reversed this effect. In sialoadenectomized rats, the healing rate of ulcers was reduced. As in rats without induction of ulcers, this effect was associated with a reduction in blood flow and cell proliferation in oral mucosa, as well as an increase in mucosal IL-1β concentration. In these rats, obestatin reversed the effect of sialoadenectomy and doses of 8 or 16 nmol/kg increased the healing rate of oral ulcers above a value observed in control rats with intact salivary glands. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Obestatin accelerates the healing of gingival ulcers in both sialoadenectomized and non-sialoadenectomized rats. This therapeutic effect is well correlated with an increase in blood flow and cell proliferation in oral mucosa, as well as decrease of pro-inflammatory IL-1β level. Obestatin is potentially useful candidate for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis.

Characterization of mesenteric and portal hemodynamics using 4D flow MRI: the effects of meals and diurnal variation.

To determine the variability of blood flow measurements using 4D flow MRI in the portal and mesenteric circulations and to characterize the effects of meal ingestion, time of day, and between-day (diurnal) variations on portal and mesenteric hemodynamics. In this IRB-approved and HIPAA-compliant study, 7 healthy and 7 portal hypertension patients imaged. MRI exams were conducted at 3T using a 32-channel body coil with large volumetric coverage and 1.25-mm isotropic true spatial resolution. Blood flow was quantified (L/min) in the hepatic and splanchnic vasculature. The first MR scan was performed after at least 8h of fasting. Subsequently, subjects ingested 574mL EnSure Plus® orally. A second acquisition was started 20min after the meal ingestion. A third scan was performed before lunch and a fourth acquisition took place 20min after lunch. A fifth scan was performed around 4pm. Finally, subjects returned one week later for a repeat morning visit, with identical conditions as the first visit. In healthy controls significant increase in blood flow was seen in the PV, SMV, SMA, HA, and SCAo in response to breakfast but only the SCAo, SMA, SMV, and PV had a significant response to lunch. In general, patients with cirrhosis showed reduced response to meals compared to that in healthy controls. Additionally, PV flow in patients had the highest value in the afternoon. Effects of meal ingestion, time of day, and between-day variations were characterized using Radial 4D flow MRI in patients with cirrhosis and healthy controls.

Hysterectomy with opportunistic salpingectomy and its influence on structural-functional parameters of ovarian tissue

The study examined the development of posthysterectomy syndrome in patients after hysterectomy with preservation of ovarian tissue.&#x0D; The aim of the study was to assess the functionality of ovarian tissue in patients with hysterectomy and opportunistic salpingectomy performed for uterine fibroids.&#x0D; Materials and methods of the research. The study was performed in 160 women of reproductive age. The first group included 90 patients after vaginal hysterectomy with tubectomy and associated with laparoscopy, the second group - 70 patients after abdominal hysterectomy with tubectomy. The control group included 50 women of reproductive age 45.7±1.3 years with asymptomatic fibroids. The diagnostic algorithm included assessment of hormonal status and instrumental study of structural and functional parameters of ovarian tissue both at the stage of preoperative observation and for 12 months, 3 and 5 years after surgery.&#x0D; Research results and their discussion. At the preoperative stage in both groups found a higher percentage of thyroid disease, hypertension and metabolic disorders, as well as combined proliferative processes of the uterus. Normal ultrasound picture of the ovaries was found in 67.8 % - in the first group and in 47.1 % - in the second group. Significant increase in blood flow in the ovarian artery, in the remote period showing atrophic changes with the development of ovarian depletion syndrome. Assessment of hormonal status in both groups shows marked changes in baseline levels of gonadotropic hormones (FSH and LH): increase in baseline FSH levels by 2.2 times, LH - 1.5 times against the control group (p &lt;0.05), dyshormonal disorders persist for up to 5 years after surgery in one third of cases, and up to 36 months - there is an increase in the proportion of cystic and trophic changes, most pronounced in patients with reduced ovarian reserve, dysmetabolic manifestations and combined proliferative processes of the uterus and appendages before surgery, and syndrome chronic pelvic pain and venous pelvic blood supply in the postoperative period.&#x0D; Conclusions. The technique of performing a hysterectomy does not have a significant effect on the functional state of the ovaries in the long term. The main indicators of ovarian blood flow and steroid hormone production after hysterectomy with opportunistic salpingectomy for uterine fibroids are close to the reference values up to 36 months postoperatively

Measuring hyperemic response to light flicker stimulus using continuous laser speckle flowgraphy in mice

Alterations in neurovascular coupling have been associated with various ocular, cerebral, and systemic vascular disorders. In the eye, changes in vessel caliber by dynamic vessel analysis have been used to measure neurovascular coupling following a light flicker stimulus. Here, we present a new protocol for quantifying light-flicker induced hyperemia in the C57/Bl6J mouse retina using laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG). Our protocol was adapted from protocols used in human subjects. By acquiring continuous time series data, we detected significant increase in blood flow. These responses are maintained with low variability over multiple imaging sessions, indicating these methods may be applied in serial studies of neurovascular coupling.

Hemodynamic phenotyping of transgenic rats with ubiquitous expression of an angiotensin-(1-7)-producing fusion protein.

Activation of the angiotensin (Ang)-converting enzyme (ACE) 2/Ang-(1-7)/MAS receptor pathway of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) induces protective mechanisms in different diseases. Herein, we describe the cardiovascular phenotype of a new transgenic rat line (TG7371) that expresses an Ang-(1-7)-producing fusion protein. The transgene-specific mRNA and the corresponding protein were shown to be present in all evaluated tissues of TG7371 with the highest expression in aorta and brain. Plasma Ang-(1-7) levels, measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA) were similar to control Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, however high Ang-(1-7) levels were found in the hypothalamus. TG7371 showed lower baseline mean arterial pressure (MAP), assessed in conscious or anesthetized rats by telemetry or short-term recordings, associated with increased plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and higher urinary sodium concentration. Moreover, evaluation of regional blood flow and hemodynamic parameters with fluorescent microspheres showed a significant increase in blood flow in different tissues (kidneys, mesentery, muscle, spleen, brown fat, heart and skin), with a resulting decrease in total peripheral resistance (TPR). TG7371 rats, on the other hand, also presented increased cardiac and global sympathetic tone, increased plasma vasopressin (AVP) levels and decreased free water clearance. Altogether, our data show that expression of an Ang-(1-7)-producing fusion protein induced a hypotensive phenotype due to widespread vasodilation and consequent fall in peripheral resistance. This phenotype was associated with an increase in ANP together with an increase in AVP and sympathetic drive, which did not fully compensate the lower blood pressure (BP). Here we present the hemodynamic impact of long-term increase in tissue expression of an Ang-(1-7)-fusion protein and provide a new tool to investigate this peptide in different pathophysiological conditions.

Cold atmospheric plasma improves cutaneous microcirculation in standardized acute wounds: Results of a controlled, prospective cohort study

BackgroundGiven the high prevalence of wounds and their challenging treatment, the research of therapies to improve wound healing is of great clinical interest. In addition, the general consequences of developing chronic wounds constitute a large health economic aspect, which underscores the interest in the development of efficient treatment strategies. Direct cold atmospheric plasma (di_CAP) has been shown to have beneficial effects on microcirculation of human tissue (Kisch et al., 2016a). It also affects microbial settlements, which may have supportive effects on wound healing processes (Balzer et al., 2015). To treat these adequately, in our view, the positive effects on wound healing should be objectified by application on standardized wounds. However, wound healing is a complex process, depending on nutrient and oxygen supply by cutaneous blood circulation.In spite of microcirculation has been shown to improve in healthy skin by CAP, a quantification of the effect in a standardized wound model has never been evaluated (Kisch et al., 2016a).Based on this, we hypothesize that CAP also influences the microcirculation in standardized acute wounds in a prospective cohort study. MethodsMicrocirculatory data of 20 healthy subjects (14 males, 6 females; mean age 40.85 ± 15.84 years; BMI 26.83 ± 7.27 kg/m2) were recorded continuously at a standardized acute wound after skin transplantation (donor site) at the thigh. Under standardized conditions, microcirculatory measurements were performed using a combined laser Doppler and photospectrometry system. After baseline measurement, CAP was applied by a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma device for 90 s to the acute wound area. Immediately after the application, cutaneous microcirculation was assessed for 30 min (min) at the same site. ResultsAfter CAP application, tissue oxygen saturation immediately increased by 5% (92,66 ± 4,76% vs. Baseline 88,21 ± 6,52%, p < 0,01) in the first 60 s and remained significantly elevated for 4 min. Capillary blood flow increased by 19.3% within the first minute of CAP therapy (220.14 ± 65.91 AU vs. Baseline 184.52 ± 56.77 AU, p < 0.001). The statistically highly significant increase in blood flow continued over the entire measurement time. A maximum value was shown in the blood flow in the 15th minute (232.15 ± 58.90 AU, p < 0.001) according to CAP application. With regard to the output measurement, it represents a percentage increase of 25.8%.The measurement of post-capillary venous filling pressure at a tissue depth of 6-8 mm was 59.39 ± AU 12.94 at baseline measurement. After application, there were no significant changes. ConclusionCAP increases cutaneous tissue oxygen saturation and capillary blood flow at the standardized acute wound healing model. These results support recently published data on wound healing after CAP treatment.However, further studies are needed to determine if this treatment can improve the reduced microcirculation in chronic wounds. Moreover, repetitive application protocols have to be compared with a single session treatment approach.

Microvascular anatomy of the non-lobulated liver of adult Xenopus laevis: A scanning electron microscopic study of vascular casts.

The microvascular anatomy of the non‐lobulated liver of adult Xenopus laevis was studied by scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts. Hepatic portal veins and hepatic arteries entered hepatic lobes at the hiluses, hepatic veins left at these sites. Intraparenchymal, hepatic portal veins branched up to 10 times before terminal portal venules supplied liver sinusoids. Hepatic arteries closely followed portal vessels. Arteriolar side branches formed anastomoses with close by portal venules (arteriolar‐portal anastomoses; APAs), liver sinusoids (arteriolar‐sinusoidal anastomoses; ASAs), and peribiliary plexus vessels. Distally, hepatic arteries anastomosed with terminal portal venules having >100 μm in diameter. Liver sinusoids formed a dense three‐dimensional network displaying signs of non‐sprouting and sprouting angiogenesis evidenced by “holes” and blind ending tapering cast vascular structures (sprouts), respectively. Sinusoids drained via efferent hepatic veins. Right and left hepatic veins drained into the posterior caval vein. Locally, a dense honeycomb‐like 3D‐meshwork of resin structures was found around terminal portal venules and hepatic arteries. These networks were fed by hepatic arterioles and drained into adjacent terminal portal venules. As their morphologies differed significantly from sinusoids and they were found at sites where diffuse lymphoid tissue is described, we are convinced that they represent the vasculature of diffuse lymphoid tissue areas. Frequencies and diameter ratios of hepatic portal venules versus hepatic arterioles anastomosing with the former (APAs) implicate that the arterial supply contributes to the oxygenation of parenchymal and stromal cells rather than to a significant increase in blood flow towards hepatic sinusoids.

Influence of phospholipase A2 and paraoxonase activity on endothelial function changes in various forms of coronary artery disease

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. High phospholipase A2 activity is associated with atherosclerotic disorders of the arteries, while paraoxonase activity decreases with increasing atherogenic plasma activity. The purpose is to study the relationship between the combined effect of phospholipase A2 and paraoxonase activity on vascular endothelial dysfunction in various forms of coronary artery disease. We examined 152 men 52.5 ± 0.8 years, including 53 - STEMI, 32 - NSTEMI, 67 - chronic chronic coronary syndromes (CCS). Methods. All patients were examined for endothelial function of the brachial artery with a test for reactive hyperemia and vasodilation with exogenous NO, as well as determination of phospholipase A2 activity and plasma paraoxonase activity. All studiies conform to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki of the World Medical Association. Results. Dynamics evaluation of endothelial function indicates a significant increase in blood flow in the brachial artery after compression in the NSTEMI group, but a decrease in the STEMI group after vasodilation of exogenous NO. Analysis of phospholipase A2 activity and paraoxonase showed an increasing the first in STEMI group compared to NSTEMI one and CCS while decreasing the second in the corresponding groups (Tab. 1). The results of the study confirm the association of increased activity of phospholipase A2 with vascular disorders severity, the correction of which should be considered a priority in prospective studies. The fact of reducing the activity of paraoxonase should be considered in the correction treatment of vascular disorders. Tab. 1 CCS NSTEMI STEMI LSD criteria D% 7,48 ± 0,39 6,65 ± 0,54 6,77 ± 0,62 {1-2} V% 54,71 ± 1,01 51,13 ± 1,92 42,16 ± 3,29 p1 &amp;lt; 0,0001 p2 = 0,010 {3} / {1, 2} D% (NO) 10,35 ± 0,47 8,24 ± 0,96 10,28 ± 0,98 {1, 2} V% (NO) 55,60 ± 1,12 37,71 ± 3,72 p1 &amp;lt; 0,0001 28,12 ± 3,94 p1 &amp;lt; 0,0001 {1} / {2, 3} sPA2 1,12 ± 0,03 1,25 ± 0,04 p1 &amp;lt; 0,0001 1,34 ± 0,04 p1 &amp;lt; 0,0001 {1} / {2, 3} PAO 0,54 ± 0,01 0,50 ± 0,01 0,44 ± 0,01 p1 &amp;lt; 0,0001 p2 &amp;lt; 0,0001 {1} / {2,3} D% - diameter of brachial artery after compression. V% - blood flow velocity after compression. sPA2 -phospholipase A2. PAO - paraoxanase. p - reliability on Sheffe"s criteria.

Changes in the microcirculation in periodontal tissue due to experimental peri-implantitis

ObjectivesPeri-implantitis causes dislodgement of dental implants due to inflammation in the peri-implant tissue. The microcirculation in the periodontal tissue undergoes morphological and physiological changes due to inflammation. The immune mechanism of peri-implantitis differs from that of periodontitis. In this study, we examined the changes in the microcirculation in the peri-implant tissue with experimentally induced inflammation, using morphological and physiological techniques. MethodsSix beagle dogs were used in the experiment. After extracting both mandibular premolars, three titanium screw implants were inserted on each side of the mandibular jaw. Dental floss was placed on the right side for 90 days in the study group but not in the control group. Microvascular resin cast models were created, and morphological changes were observed using scanning electron microscopy. Periodontal blood flow was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry. ResultsNinety days after induction of inflammation, bone resorption was observed around the implant body. Osseointegration was impaired, and a gap at the implant–bone interface was observed. The resin cast models showed that inflamed gingival blood vessels had invaded the bone marrow through the resorbed apical margin of the alveolar bone. Analysis of the physiological data obtained using laser Doppler flowmetry showed a significant increase in blood flow around the implants with experimentally induced inflammation. ConclusionsSignificant morphological and physiological changes occur in the gingival microcirculation of peri-implant tissue due to inflammation. Evaluating the vasculature and blood flow in the tissue surrounding the site of peri-implantitis may be helpful for pathologic analysis in clinical settings.

SGC Activity and Regulation of Blood Flow in a Zebrafish Model System.

Soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) protein is a heterodimer formed by two subunits encoded by GUCY1A1 and GUCY1B1 genes. The chromosomal locus 4q32.1 harbors both of these genes, which has been previously significantly associated with coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and high blood pressure. Blood pressure is influenced by both the environment and genetics and is complemented by several biological pathways. The underlying mechanisms associated with this locus and its genes still need to be investigated. In the current study, we aimed to establish the zebrafish as a model organism to investigate the mechanisms surrounding sGC activity and blood pressure. A zebrafish mutant gucy1a1 line was generated using the CRISPR-Cas9 system by inducing a 4-bp deletion frameshift mutation. This mutation resulted in a reduction of gucy1a1 expression in both heterozygote and homozygote zebrafish. Blood flow parameters (blood flow, arterial pulse, linear velocity, and vessel diameter) investigated in the gucy1a1 mutants showed a significant increase in blood flow and linear velocity, which was augmented in the homozygotes. No significant differences were observed for the blood flow parameters measured from larvae with individual morpholino downregulation of gucy1a1 and gucy1b1, but an increase in blood flow and linear velocity was observed after co-morpholino downregulation of both genes. In addition, the pharmacological sGC stimulator BAY41-2272 rescued the impaired cGMP production in the zebrafish gucy1a1± mutant larvae. Downregulation of cct7 gene did not show any significant difference on the blood flow parameters in both wild-type and gucy1a1± background larvae. In summary, we successfully established a zebrafish platform for investigating sGC-associated pathways and underlying mechanisms in depth. This model system will have further applications, including for potential drug screening experiments.

The Effects of Green Kiwifruit Ingestion on Digestive Health, Blood Flow, Skin Health, and the Autonomic Nervous System

We aimed to assess the impact of consuming two Zespri Hayward green kiwifruit a day on 11 healthy women subjects over a period of 4 consecutive weeks. We analyzed the effects of kiwifruit consumption on intestinal, abdominal, and bowel movement related discomfort, bowel movement frequency, peripheral blood flow, skin health, and autonomic nervous system activity. This study was a randomized control trial, consisting of a four-week intervention period. Participants were divided to ensure equal age distributions and then randomly placed into two intervention groups: a kiwifruit consumption group (n = 11) and a control group (no kiwifruit consumption) (n = 5). The kiwifruit consumption group was instructed to consume two kiwifruit a day during the 4-week intervention period, while subjects in the control group were instructed not to consume kiwifruit for the duration of the study. Besides a restriction from eating yogurt and other fruits, subjects were requested to eat their meals as per usual. The results of this study showed a significant decrease in intestinal, abdominal, and bowel movement discomfort, and a significant increase in bowel movement frequency, at 4 weeks of kiwifruit consumption compared to before consumption. In addition, subjects in the kiwifruit consumption group experienced a significant increase in blood flow, particularly in the index and middle finger at 2 and 4 weeks of kiwifruit consumption. Furthermore, subjects in the kiwifruit consumption group experienced a significant increase in skin brightness at 4 weeks of kiwifruit consumption compared to before consumption. The results of this study suggest that kiwifruit appears to be a delicious and safe option for intestinal, abdominal, and bowel movement discomfort interventions for healthy women. In addition, kiwifruit may aid in increasing bowel movement frequency, peripheral blood flow, and brightness of skin among healthy women as well.

Sesame lignans increase sympathetic nerve activity and blood flow in rat skeletal muscles.

Beneficial effects of sesame lignans, especially antioxidative effects, have been widely reported; however, its potential effects on autonomic nerves have not yet been investigated. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the effect of sesame lignans on the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nerve activity in rat skeletal muscle was measured using electrophysiological approaches, with blood flow determined using the laser Doppler method. Sesame lignans were administered intragastrically at 2 and 20 mg/kg, and after 60 min, the sympathetic nerve activity was observed to increase by 45.2% and 66.1%, respectively. A significant increase in blood flow (39.6%) was also observed for the 20-mg/kg dose when measured at 55 min after administration. These sympathomimetic effects were completely prevented by subdiaphragmatic vagotomy, and the increase in blood flow was eliminated in the presence of the beta2-adrenergic receptor inhibitor butoxamine. Thus, it is proposed that sesame lignans can increase the blood flow of skeletal muscle, possibly by exciting sympathetic nerve activity through the afferent vagal nerve.

Effect of the parasympathetic vasodilation on temperature regulation via trigeminal afferents in the orofacial area

The skin temperature (Tm) of the orofacial area influences orofacial functions and is related to the blood flow (BF). Marked increases in BF mediated by parasympathetic vasodilation may be important for orofacial Tm regulation. Therefore, we examined the relationship between parasympathetic reflex vasodilation and orofacial Tm in anesthetized rats. Electrical stimulation of the central cut end of the lingual nerve (LN) elicited significant increases in BF and Tm in the lower lip. These increases were significantly reduced by hexamethonium, but not atropine. VIP agonist increased both BF and Tm in the lower lip. The activation of the superior cervical sympathetic trunk (CST) decreased BF and Tm in the lower lip; however, these decreases were significantly inhibited by LN stimulation. Our results suggest that parasympathetic vasodilation plays an important role in the maintaining the hemodynamics and Tm in the orofacial area, and that VIP may be involved in this response.

Changes in Microvascular Reactivity and Systemic Vascular Resistance in Patients With Psoriasis

The aim: of this pilot study was to explore local blood flow in psoriatic plaques and normal skin before and after provocations known to alter cutaneous vascular resistance in order to test whether the increased flow was caused by a failure of normal vascular control processes in plaque skin and what association it has with cardiovascular parameters. Material and methods: 11 patients who had a diagnosis of psoriasis vulgaris were enrolled in the study. Cutaneous blood flow was recorded over plaque and clinically normal skin. 10 healthy sex and age matched subjects were selected as controls. Blood flow in psoriatic and normal skin was measured by a single- channel Laser Doppler blood flowmeter (Blood Flow meter, AD Instruments Ltd., Oxford, UK). Post-occlusive reactive hyperaemia was assessed on the plaque and non-plaque site. Cardiovascular parameters: heart rate, systolic and diastolic pressure, cardiac output, and vascular resistance were continuously monitored by a Finapres (FINAPRES Medical Systems, The Netherlands). Results: In patients, basal-LD flow was significantly higher in psoriatic skin compared to nonpsoriatic skin and significantly higher than in the controls. However, the post-occlusive hyperaemia test did not reveal significant differences between the patients and control subjects. Systemic vascular resistance was significantly lower in patients with psoriasis compared to healthy individuals. Conclusions: The results suggest that reduced microvascular resistance is associated with a significant increase in blood flow of psoriatic plaques and with lower systemic vascular resistance.