Mobilization of CD133(+)CD34(-) cells in healthy individuals following whole-body acupuncture for spinal cord injuries.

Acupuncture can alleviate symptoms of spinal cord injuries (SCI). The underlying mechanism, however, is unknown. We hypothesized that stem cells could be mobilized by acupuncture.

Isometric handgrip exercise during dobutamine-atropine stress echocardiography increases heart rate acceleration and decreases study duration and dobutamine and atropine dosage.

Background: Dobutamine-atropine stress echocardiography (DASE) is an established test for the diagnosis and risk stratification of patients with coronary artery disease. Atropine use to attain target heart rate prolongs test time.

Hypothesis: The aim of this study was to assess the utility of isometric handgrip exercise (33% maximal voluntary contraction x 4 min) with DASE.