Effects of aging and hypertension on the microcirculation.

Alterations of structure and function of the microcirculation in hypertension in the elderly and changes with normotensive aging have not been fully clarified. We studied capillary pressure, density, and skin microvascular function in 46 subjects in 3 groups: elderly subjects (aged >60 years) with untreated hypertension (n=16), elderly normotensive subjects (n=16), and young normotensive subjects (age <45 years, n=14). In a subgroup of 19 subjects, we also studied resistance artery function in the isometric myograph.

Acupuncture for subacute stroke rehabilitation: a Sham-controlled, subject- and assessor-blind, randomized trial.

Background: Any adjunctive therapy that may reduce persistent disability after stroke should be considered. Acupuncture is used for this purpose, but there is conflicting evidence on its effectiveness.

Methods: Patients with a recent (<4 weeks) episode of stroke were randomized to receive 12 sessions of either real or sham acupuncture during 2 weeks.