Advances in Arterial Stiffness Research

This book provides current research advances on arterial stiffness. Chapter One addresses the pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and total pulmonary vascular capacitance (Cp) product of the pulmonary circulation as a global estimate of right ventricular (RV) afterload, the assessment of the local arterial stiffness indices and its relationship with PVR and Cp, and finally, reviews the cause-effect relationships between large/conduit stiffening and distal/resistive vascular disease. Chapter Two discusses local and regional arterial stiffness measurement in clinical practice. Chapter Three reviews the processes involved in the pathogenesis of arterial stiffness in COPD, and the possible role of COPD therapy in vascular alterations. Chapter Four reviews links between bone turnover, vascular calcifications and arterial stiffness. Chapter Five examines ambulatory arterial stiffness index during pregnancy in Type 1 diabetes mellitus. Chapter Six provides a review on the pulse wave velocity and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients on renal replacement therapy. Chapter Seven focuses on the higher arterial stiffness related to blood pressure overresponse to arm and leg resistance exercises in elderly individuals.