Cyclic strain modulates tubulogenesis of endothelial cells in a 3D tissue culture model.

Angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting capillaries or venules. It occurs in a mechanically dynamic environment due to blood flow, but the role of hemodynamic forces in angiogenesis remains poorly understood. We have developed a unique in vitro system for the investigation of angiogenesis under cyclic strain.

The role of mechanical stresses in angiogenesis.

Angiogenesis is the formation of new capillary blood vessels from preexisting vessels. It is involved in many normal and diseased conditions, as well as in the application of tissue-engineered products. There has been extensive effort made to develop strategies for controlling pathological angiogenesis and for promoting vascularization in biomedical engineering applications.

Dimensions of the cervical neural foramina in resting and retracted positions using magnetic resonance imaging.

Study Design: Prospective within-subject experimental design using a sample of convenience.

Objectives: To describe cervical foraminal dimensions in vivo of nonimpaired, asymptomatic individuals in a neutral cervical spine position using magnetic resonance images, and then to document dimensional changes of the foramina when placing the neck in a retracted position.

Background: Physical therapists frequently use movement interventions to treat spine dysfunctio The influence of positional changes of the head and neck on the dimensions of the cervical neuiural foramina is not well documented.