Salivary melatonin levels and sleep-wake rhythms in pregnant women with hypertensive and glucose metabolic disorders: A prospective analysis.

In preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, the sympathetic nerves are activated, leading to disrupted sleep. Melatonin, which transmits information to regulate the sleep-wake rhythm and other such biorhythms, has been implicated in insulin resistance, antioxidant behaviors, and metabolic syndrome. In addition, its reduced secretion increases the risk of hypertension and diabetes.

Heart rate and electroencephalogram changes caused by finger acupressure on planta pedis.

Preliminary experiments were carried out to investigate the feasibility of using an electroencephalogram and heart rates to evaluate the efficacy of finger acupressure on the key points of planta pedis (both soles). Continuous electroencephalograms were recorded from 19 electrodes based on the International 10-20 electrode placement system on 22 university students (21+/-2.3 years).

Neuroprotective effects of melatonin against anoxia/aglycemia stress, as assessed by synaptic potentials and superoxide production in rat hippocampal slices.

Melatonin, which plays an important role in circadian rhythm regulation, is highly potent endogenous free radical scavenger and antioxidant. To clarify the neuroprotective effects of melatonin as a free radical scavenger, we recorded changes in synaptic potentials and monitored the generation of superoxide (O)(2)(-) (using hydroethidine) in the CA1 pyramidal layers of rat hippocampal slices exposed to anoxia/aglycemia ('ischemic') stress. Synaptic responses evoked by stimulation of Schaffer collateral/commissural afferents were suppressed by ischemic stress.