Reproducibility of Brachial Vascular Changes with Alterations in End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide.

The purpose of this study was to examine the reproducibility of the peripheral vascular response to hypercapnia. Healthy college-aged men (n = 7) and women (n = 10) underwent an iso-oxic 10-mm Hg increase in PetCO2 for 12 min. Brachial artery diameter changes were measured using ultrasound imaging.

Comparison of brachial dilatory responses to hypercapnia and reactive hyperemia.

Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) relies on reactive hyperemia to stimulate the endothelium to release nitric oxide, causing smooth muscle relaxation. Hypercapnia also produces vasodilation, which is thought to be nitric oxide-independent. The purpose of this study was to compare and contrast the effects of hypercapnia and reactive hyperemia as stimuli for brachial artery dilation.

Comparison of 2D-3D Measurements of Hallux and First Ray Sagittal Motion in Patients With and Without Hallux Valgus.

Background: Clinicians base treatment decisions on measures of hallux and first ray motion in the management of first metatarsophalangeal joint disorders. Women account for a majority of the patients. This study assessed the reliability of a 2D approach for the measurements of sagittal motion, and compared the result to a Cardan (3D) angle criterion standard and evaluated how hallux valgus (bunion) deformity affected the comparisons.