Are Saunas Beneficial or Harmful for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease? Examination with Model Mouse / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  Background: Heat shock proteins (Hsps), expression of which are induced by thermal treatment, function in the protection of kidneys by suppressing apoptosis and maintaining renal tubular viability. Moreover, recently, it has been indicated that the expression of Hsps can be a therapeutic target for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). We investigated the effect of dry sauna therapy on ADPKD model mice.  Methods and Results: The mice (male DBA/2FG-pcy mice) were categorized into three groups: controls, TS: pcy mice subjected to prolonged sauna with administered water containing 4% sucrose, SW: pcy mice administered water containing 4% sucrose. The TS group was subjected to sauna sessions twice a week for four weeks. The TS group attained and were maintained at rectal temperatures of approximately 39.0°C, until they were carefully removed from the far infrared-ray device. After 4 weeks of sauna treatment, creatinine and blood-urea-nitrogen (BUN) levels determined by an enzymatic method. The heat shock protein (HSP) or cell growth and size related proteins were analyzed by western blotting. The TS group exhibited marginally higher creatinine and BUN levels than did the control and SW groups, however, the differences were not significant. However, cyst enlargement in the TS group reduced significantly compared to that of the control group. HSP90 expression was slightly decreased in the TS and SW groups relative to the control group (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001, vs. control), as was Erk expression, which is linked to cyst development and proliferation (p < 0.05, TS vs. control). Hsp27 expression and phosphorylation level in the SW group were comparable with that of the control group. However, the TS group had increased levels of Hsp27 and phosphorylation (NS). The expression of pro-caspase-3 in the TS group was marginally lower than that in the control group. However, the activity of caspase-3 in all groups showed no differences.  Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that 4 weeks of sauna treatment could cause transient dehydration and related renal dysfunction and led to the risk of stimulating cyst growth by increased Hsp27 expression. Moreover, we concluded that prevention of dehydration and cyst growth could be suppressed by taking an appropriate amount of water directly after sauna treatment.

Are Saunas Beneficial or Harmful for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease? Examination with Model Mouse / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  Background: Heat shock proteins (Hsps), expression of which are induced by thermal treatment, function in the protection of kidneys by suppressing apoptosis and maintaining renal tubular viability. Moreover, recently, it has been indicated that the expression of Hsps can be a therapeutic target for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). We investigated the effect of dry sauna therapy on ADPKD model mice.  Methods and Results: The mice (male DBA/2FG-pcy mice) were categorized into three groups: controls, TS: pcy mice subjected to prolonged sauna with administered water containing 4% sucrose, SW: pcy mice administered water containing 4% sucrose. The TS group was subjected to sauna sessions twice a week for four weeks. The TS group attained and were maintained at rectal temperatures of approximately 39.0°C, until they were carefully removed from the far infrared-ray device. After 4 weeks of sauna treatment, creatinine and blood-urea-nitrogen (BUN) levels determined by an enzymatic method. The heat shock protein (HSP) or cell growth and size related proteins were analyzed by western blotting. The TS group exhibited marginally higher creatinine and BUN levels than did the control and SW groups, however, the differences were not significant. However, cyst enlargement in the TS group reduced significantly compared to that of the control group. HSP90 expression was slightly decreased in the TS and SW groups relative to the control group (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001, vs. control), as was Erk expression, which is linked to cyst development and proliferation (p < 0.05, TS vs. control). Hsp27 expression and phosphorylation level in the SW group were comparable with that of the control group. However, the TS group had increased levels of Hsp27 and phosphorylation (NS). The expression of pro-caspase-3 in the TS group was marginally lower than that in the control group. However, the activity of caspase-3 in all groups showed no differences.  Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that 4 weeks of sauna treatment could cause transient dehydration and related renal dysfunction and led to the risk of stimulating cyst growth by increased Hsp27 expression. Moreover, we concluded that prevention of dehydration and cyst growth could be suppressed by taking an appropriate amount of water directly after sauna treatment.

Trabajadores sexuales masculinos: entre el sexo seguro y el riesgo. Etnografía en una sauna gay de Barcelona, España / Male sex workers: between safe sex and risk. Ethnography in a gay sauna in Barcelona, Spain

Resumen Esta etnografía se realizó en Barcelona, ciudad que ofrece diferentes recursos de ocio homosexual, como las saunas gay. El objetivo fue analizar desde los estudios sobre género y masculinidades, cómo se articula la sexualidad, la percepción sobre la infección por VIH y otras infecciones de transmisión sexual (ITS), y las medidas preventivas en trabajadores sexuales masculinos (TSM) usuarios de saunas gay. Se realizaron 10 entrevistas en profundidad y observación entre 2012 y 2016. Las prácticas de sexo seguro son más frecuentes con clientes, mientras que las de riesgo se realizan más con parejas no comerciales. La orientación sexual juega un rol relevante, los homosexuales asumen más prácticas de riesgo en el trabajo sexual que los heterosexuales. Consumo de drogas o la escasez de redes de apoyo se relacionaron con mayor vulnerabilidad social y conductas de riesgo. Contraer el VIH aún genera miedo, mientras que tener otras ITS se percibe como parte de la vida sexual de un hombre. El TSM afianza una masculinidad con múltiples parejas sexuales, breadwinner y por otra parte, cuestiona un modelo heteronormativo. Las intervenciones para la prevención del VIH e ITS en este colectivo, deberían considerar los determinantes sociales como las precarias alternativas laborales y el ofrecer mayor soporte social.

Abstract This ethnography was conducted in Barcelona, a city that provides different gay leisure resources, such as gay saunas. We aimed to analyze from studies on gender and masculinities, how sexuality, perception of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and preventive measures are articulated in gay sauna male sex workers (MSW). Ten in-depth interviews and observation were conducted between 2012 and 2016. Safe sex practices are more frequent with clients, while risk practices are carried out more with non-commercial partners. Sexual orientation plays an important role. Homosexuals assume riskier practices in sex work than heterosexuals. Drug use or lack of support networks were associated with higher social vulnerability and risk behaviors. Contracting HIV still creates fear, while having other STIs is perceived as part of a man's sexual life. The MSW affirms masculinity with concurrent sexual partners, breadwinner, and on the other hand, questions a heteronormative model. Interventions for the prevention of HIV and STIs in this group should consider social determinants such as inferior work alternatives and the provision of more significant social support.

Body mass loss in dry sauna and heart rate response to heat stress / Perda de massa corporal em sauna seca e resposta cardíaca ao estresse por calor / Pérdida de masa corporal en sauna seca y respuesta de la frecuencia cardíaca al estrés por calor

ABSTRACT Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the effects of sauna-induced heat exposure on body mass loss (BML) and its relationships with basic anthropometric and physiological variables. Methods: The sample comprised 230 healthy adult males aged 21.0 ± 1.08 years (age range: 20.0-24.5 years). Body surface area (BSA) was determined and two groups of individuals with high BSA (BSAH; n = 58) and low BSA (BSAL; n = 74) were extracted. The intervention consisted of two 10-min dry sauna sessions separated by a 5-min interlude. Pre-, peri-, and post-sauna measures of nude body mass (BM) and heart rate (HR) were taken. Results: BML differed between BSA groups by 0.28 kg (74.81%). Absolute and relative BML most strongly correlated with BM and BSA (p < 0.001). Among the four considered height-weight indexes, the Quetelet I Index and Body Mass Index showed the strongest associations (p < 0.001) with BML whereas the weakest were with the Rohrer Index (p < 0.01) and Slenderness Index (p < 0.05). Compared with BML, differences in HR were relatively minor (from 9.90% to 18.07%) and a significant association was observed between BML and HR at rest (p < 0.01) and in 10th and 20th min of sauna bathing (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The magnitude of BML in healthy adult males after passive heat exposure was dependent on BM and concomitantly BSA. The physiological cost of dry sauna-induced thermal strain (as assessed by BML and HR) is greater in individuals with high BM and BSA. BM and HR monitoring is also recommended in order to minimize the risk of homeostatic imbalance and cardiovascular events and this cohort should more frequently cool the body and consume a greater volume of fluids during sauna bathing. Evidence Level II; Prospective comparative study.

RESUMO Objetivos: O objetivo do estudo foi determinar os efeitos da exposição ao calor induzidos pela sauna sobre a perda de massa corporal (BML) e sua relação com as variáveis antropométricas e fisiológicas básicas. Métodos: A amostra esteve formada por 230 homens adultos saudáveis de 21.0 ± 1.08 anos (média de idade: 20.0-24.5 anos). Foi determinada a área da superfície corporal (BSA) e separados em dois grupos de indivíduos com alta BSA (BSAH, n = 58) e baixa BSA (BSAL, n = 74). A intervenção consistiu em duas sessões de sauna seca de 10 minutos, separadas por um intervalo de 5 minutos. Foram tomadas as medidas pre-, peri- e posteriores à sauna, da massa corporal (BM) sem roupa e a frequência cardíaca (HR). Resultados: Entre os dois grupos de BSA, a BML diferenciou-se em 0.28 kg (74.81%). A BML absoluta e relativa correlacionou-se com maior força com a BM e a BSA (p < 0.001). Entre os quatro índices de tamanho-peso considerados, o Índice Quetelet I e o Índice de Massa Corporal mostraram as associações mais consistentes (p < 0.001) com a BML, enquanto que as mais fracas foram com o Índice Rohrer (p < 0.01) e o Índice de Magreza (p < 0.05). Comparado com a BML, as diferenças no HR foram relativamente pequenas (de 9.90% a 18.07%) e foi observada uma associação significativa entre a BML e o HR em repouso (p < 0.01) e em banho de sauna aos 10 e 20 minutos (p < 0.001). Conclusões: A magnitude da BML em homens adultos saudáveis após a exposição passiva ao calor dependeu da BM e da BSA. O custo fisiológico da tensão térmica induzida pela sauna seca (avaliada pela BML e o HR) é maior em indivíduos com alta BM e BSA. Também é recomendado o monitoramento da BM e HR para minimizar o risco de desequilíbrio homeostático e episódios cardiovasculares. Assim, esta população deveria refrescar seu corpo com maior frequência e consumir um maior volume de líquidos durante a sessão de sauna. Nível de evidência II; Estudo comparativo prospectivo.

RESUMEN Objetivos: El objetivo del estudio fue determinar los efectos de la exposición al calor inducidos por el sauna sobre la pérdida de masa corporal (BML) y sus relaciones con las variables antropométricas y fisiológicas básicas. Métodos: La muestra estuvo formada por 230 varones adultos saludables de 21.0 ± 1.08 años (rango de edad: 20.0-24.5 años). Se determinó el área de superficie corporal (BSA) y se separaron dos grupos de individuos con alta BSA (BSAH, n = 58) y baja BSA (BSAL, n = 74). La intervención consistió en dos sesiones de sauna seca de 10 minutos separadas por un intervalo de 5 minutos. Se tomaron medidas pre-, peri- y posteriores al sauna, de masa corporal (BM) sin ropa y la frecuencia cardíaca (HR). Resultados: Entre los dos grupos de BSA, la BML difirió en 0.28 kg (74.81%). La BML absoluta y relativa se correlacionó con más fuerza con la BM y la BSA (p < 0.001). Entre los cuatro índices de talla-peso considerados, el Índice Quetelet I y el Índice de Masa Corporal mostraron las asociaciones más fuertes (p < 0.001) con la BML, mientras que las más débiles fueron con el Índice Rohrer (p < 0.01) y el Índice de Esbeltez (p < 0.05). Comparado con la BML, las diferencias en el HR fueron relativamente pequeñas (de 9.90% a 18.07%) y se observó una asociación significativa entre la BML y el HR en reposo (p < 0.01) y en baño de sauna a los 10 y 20 minutos (p < 0.001). Conclusiones: La magnitud de la BML en varones adultos saludables posterior a la exposición pasiva al calor dependió de la BM y de la BSA. El costo fisiológico de la tensión térmica inducida por el sauna seco (evaluado por la BML y el HR) es mayor en individuos con alta BM y BSA. También se recomienda el monitoreo de BM y HR para minimizar el riesgo de desequilibrio homeostático y episodios cardiovasculares. Así, esta población debería refrescar su cuerpo con mayor frecuencia y consumir un mayor volumen de líquidos durante la sesión de sauna. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudio comparativo prospectivo.

My Research on Balneology, Sauna, Exercise and Rehabilitation Medicine / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  My research started in 1973 at Kagoshima University Hospital Kirishima Branch founded at 1937. The hospital was reorganized as the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Kirishima Rehabilitation Center in 1988.   I established a new pharmacological method to measure integrated cardiovascular autonomic nervous functions, and essential hypertension was classified into two types, Type I with low sympathetic, low renin, Na-retention type and Type II with high sympathetic, high rennin, non-Na-retention type.   By bathing at 41°C for 10 min, an increase in HR and CO and decrease in TPRi was shown. Using autonomic blockers, tachycardia was shown to be derived by vagal inhibition and vasodilation by a non-autonomic mechanism. Scarlet coloring of venous blood due to increased pO2 and decreased pCO2 highly suggested improved tissue oxygenation as the basic bathing effects.   Tachycardia during exercise was derived firstly by increased sinus automaticity, and secondly vagal inhibition and sympathetic activation. Athletic bradycardia was induced firstly by decreased sinus automaticity, and secondly by vagal activation and sympathetic suppression.   Hemodynamic studies of Ibusuki sandbath showed a remarkable increase in CO and decrease in TPRi, and an increase in RAP and PAP due to heavy sand. Increased venous pO2 and decreased pCO2 and lactate-pyruvate level indicate highly accelelated tissue oxygenation and clearance of wasted material by increased peripheral circulation.   Although ICG clearance rate was reduced, increased acetoaminophen absorption indicated an increased intestinal blood flow. Increased RPF and unchanged GFR suggested suppressed intra-glomerular pressure from bathing. Urodynamic study after bathing, showed reduced intravesical pressure and increased bladder volume indicating the effects of bathing on pollakiuria in winter due to the relaxation of detrusor muscle.   Against the usual concept that bathing is harmful for CHF, we showed bathing at 40°C for 10 min was a very useful tool as a new vasodilation therapy for CHF. Sauna bathing at 60°C for 15 min was more convenient and Dr. Tei named it Waon therapy. He achieved remarkable improvements in NYHA class symptoms and circulatory parameters in severe CHF, i.e., CO, EF, intra cardiac pressure and BNP. Waon therapy was also shown to be very useful in peripheral arterial disease, post-operative paretic ileus and fibromyalgia.

My Research on Balneology, Sauna, Exercise and Rehabilitation Medicine / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  My research started in 1973 at Kagoshima University Hospital Kirishima Branch founded at 1937. The hospital was reorganized as the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Kirishima Rehabilitation Center in 1988.<BR>  I established a new pharmacological method to measure integrated cardiovascular autonomic nervous functions, and essential hypertension was classified into two types, Type I with low sympathetic, low renin, Na-retention type and Type II with high sympathetic, high rennin, non-Na-retention type.<BR>  By bathing at 41°C for 10 min, an increase in HR and CO and decrease in TPRi was shown. Using autonomic blockers, tachycardia was shown to be derived by vagal inhibition and vasodilation by a non-autonomicmechanism. Scarlet coloring of venous blood due to increased pO₂ and decreased pCO₂ highly suggested improved tissue oxygenation as the basic bathing effects.<BR>  Tachycardia during exercise was derived firstly by increased sinus automaticity, and secondly vagal inhibition and sympathetic activation. Athletic bradycardia was induced firstly by decreased sinus automaticity, and secondly by vagal activation and sympathetic suppression.<BR>  Hemodynamic studies of Ibusuki sandbath showed a remarkable increase in CO and decrease in TPRi, and an increase in RAP and PAP due to heavy sand. Increased venous pO₂ and decreased pCO₂ and lactate-pyruvate level indicate highly accelelated tissue oxygenation and clearance of wasted material by increased peripheral circulation.<BR>  Although ICG clearance rate was reduced, increased acetoaminophen absorption indicated an increased intestinal blood flow. Increased RPF and unchanged GFR suggested suppressed intra-glomerular pressure from bathing. Urodynamic study after bathing, showed reduced intravesical pressure and increased bladder volume indicating the effects of bathing on pollakiuria in winter due to the relaxation of detrusor muscle.<BR>  Against the usual concept that bathing is harmful for CHF, we showed bathing at 40°C for 10 min was a very useful tool as a new vasodilation therapy for CHF. Sauna bathing at 60°C for 15 min was more convenient and Dr. Tei named it Waon therapy. He achieved remarkable improvements in NYHA class symptoms and circulatory parameters in severe CHF, i.e., CO, EF, intra cardiac pressure and BNP. Waon therapy was also shown to be very useful in peripheral arterial disease, post-operative paretic ileus and fibromyalgia.

Effect of electro‑acupuncture, massage, mud, and sauna therapies in patient with rheumatoid arthritis.

A 48‑year‑old married woman diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 2007, came to our hospital in July 2014 with the complaint of severe pain and swelling over multiple joints, especially over small joints, which was associated with stiffness (more in morning), deformities of fingers and toes, with disturbed sleep and poor quality of life (QOL) for the past 7 years. She received a combination of electro acupuncture (14 sessions), massage (18 sessions), mud (18 sessions), and sauna (3 sessions) (EMMS) therapies for 30‑min, 45‑min, 30‑min, and 15‑min per session, respectively for 3 weeks. During and postintervention assessment showed reduction in visual analog scale score for pain, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores. It also showed an increase in the scores of 10‑Meter Walk Test, isometric hand‑grip test, and short form‑36 version‑2 health survey. This result suggest that, the EMMS therapy might be considered as an effective treatments in reducing pain, depression, anxiety, and stress with improvement in physical functions, quality of sleep and QOL in patient with RA. EMMS therapies were tolerated and no side effects were reported by the patient. Though the results are encouraging, further studies are required with larger sample size and advanced inflammatory markers.

A Possible Reno-protective Effect of Systemic Thermal Stimulation in a Mouse Remnant Kidney Model / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

Objective: Sauna bathing is a popular recreational activity and has long since been used to relieve stiff necks and low back pain. Recently, low-temperature sauna has been used to treat congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary artery diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic pain. During 1960-1970, thermal stimulation was applied to the patients with renal failure. We could not find the subsequent reports, and the long-term effects are unclear. The purpose of this experiment was to verify the safety of systemic low-temperature sauna treatment (ST) for the 5/6 remnant kidney mouse and to examine the effect of ST on urinary protein excretion. Materials and Methods: The C57BL/6 mice were divided into the following 4 groups; group 1: sham-operated and non-sauna treatment mice (sham+non-ST group: n = 5), group 2: sham-operated and ST mice (sham+ST group: n = 5), group 3: Nx and non-ST mice (Nx+non-ST group: n = 5), and group 4: Nx and ST mice (Nx+ST group: n = 5). Mice received ST at 41°Cfor 15 min and at 32°Cfor 20 min for 12 weeks using a natural convection dry sauna system. Results: After 12 weeks of ST, no differences were observed in creatinine clearance, body weight, fluid intake, urine volume, serum sodium and potassium levels between ST and non-ST groups. Our results showed a significant increase in eNOS mRNA expression in the Nx+ST group compared to that in the Nx+non-ST group. These results suggest the possibility that mild sauna treatment induces thermal vasodilation effects on glomerulus. Systolic blood pressure and urine protein levels in the Nx groups did not change throughout the intervention. Conclusion: There are no clear adverse events associated with low-temperature sauna. Therefore, this study setting is safe in the CKD model mouse. Renal eNOS mRNA expression was increased by the low-temperature sauna. The present results suggest the possibility that ST might provide a renal protective effect by suppressing glomerular hypertension via stimulation of renal NO production in the CKD model mouse.

A Possible Reno-protective Effect of Systemic Thermal Stimulation in a Mouse Remnant Kidney Model / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

<b>Objective</b>: Sauna bathing is a popular recreational activity and has long since been used to relieve stiff necks and low back pain. Recently, low-temperature sauna has been used to treat congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary artery diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, and chronic pain. During 1960-1970, thermal stimulation was applied to the patients with renal failure. We could not find the subsequent reports, and the long-term effects are unclear. The purpose of this experiment was to verify the safety of systemic low-temperature sauna treatment (ST) for the 5/6 remnant kidney mouse and to examine the effect of ST on urinary protein excretion. <BR><b>Materials and Methods</b>: The C57BL/6 mice were divided into the following 4 groups; group 1: sham-operated and non-sauna treatment mice (sham+non-ST group: n = 5), group 2: sham-operated and ST mice (sham+ST group: n = 5), group 3: Nx and non-ST mice (Nx+non-ST group: n = 5), and group 4: Nx and ST mice (Nx+ST group: n = 5). Mice received ST at 41°Cfor 15 min and at 32°Cfor 20 min for 12 weeks using a natural convection dry sauna system.<BR><b>Results</b>: After 12 weeks of ST, no differences were observed in creatinine clearance, body weight, fluid intake, urine volume, serum sodium and potassium levels between ST and non-ST groups. Our results showed a significant increase in eNOS mRNA expression in the Nx+ST group compared to that in the Nx+non-ST group. These results suggest the possibility that mild sauna treatment induces thermal vasodilation effects on glomerulus. Systolic blood pressure and urine protein levels in the Nx groups did not change throughout the intervention.<BR><b>Conclusion</b>: There are no clear adverse events associated with low-temperature sauna. Therefore, this study setting is safe in the CKD model mouse. Renal eNOS mRNA expression was increased by the low-temperature sauna. The present results suggest the possibility that ST might provide a renal protective effect by suppressing glomerular hypertension via stimulation of renal NO production in the CKD model mouse.

Variation and Characterization of Bacterial Communities Contaminating Two Saunas Operated at 64degrees C and 76degrees C

This study was performed to analyze 6 day-term variations in bacterial communities contaminating the floor of two dry saunas that were operated at 64degrees C (low temp) and 76degrees C (high temp). Bacteria were sampled daily from the saunas for 6 days from Monday to Saturday. Genomic DNA was isolated directly from bacteria-collected cotton swabs. The diversity of the bacterial communities collected from the saunas was analyzed using thermal gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE). The total numbers of DNA bands separated by TGGE for bacteria collected from the low temp and high temp sauna were 20 and 18, respectively, during the 6 days. Seven of 20 bacteria in the low temp sauna and eight of 18 bacteria in the high temp sauna were detected more than three times over the 6 experimental days. Twelve of the 26 bacterial genera contaminating the saunas were cross detected. Bacteria belonging to the genera Moraxella and Acinetobacter were selectively detected in the low temp sauna, whereas those belonging to Aquaspirillum, Chromobacterium, Aquabacterium, Gulbenkiania, Pelomonas, and Aquitalea were selectively detected in the high temp sauna. Three species of bacteria contaminating both the low and high temp saunas were thermophile or thermoduric. The results indicate that the sauna-contaminating bacteria may have been transferred from outside the saunas by user traffic but did not inhabit the saunas.

Effect of Isotonic Exercise during Mist Sauna on Oxygen Uptake in Humans / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of isotonic exercise during a 38°C mist sauna on oxygen uptake in comparison with conditions of the exercise only.   The subjects of this study were 10 young persons (average 20.5 years old). Oxygen uptake and breath rate were measured using an expiratory gas analysis system and the tympanic temperature was measured using a thermistor during a control period 10 minutes before the tasks, for 10 minutes during the tasks, and for 10 minutes after the tasks. Heart rate was measured using an autonomic spygmomanometer during the 10 minutes control period before the tasks, at five and 10 minutes during the tasks, and for 10 minutes after the tasks. Body weight was measured before and after the experiment. The temperature and humidity of the mist sauna were set to 38°C and 96%, and the rest room temperature and humidity were set to 28°C and 52%.   In isotonic exercises with mist sauna, the oxygen uptake for 10 min, tympanic temperature and heart rate were all significantly increased, and the body weight was significantly decreased in comparison with exercise only. The oxygen uptake for 10 min during the exercise in the sauna was greater than the value found for exercise only. These results showed synergistic effects due to exercise and heating during the sauna.   These findings suggest that a condition of isotonic exercise with sauna advance energy metabolism in comparison with exercise only, and that we can use this to protect against metabolic syndrome and maintain health.

Effect of Isotonic Exercise during Mist Sauna on Oxygen Uptake in Humans / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

  The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of isotonic exercise during a 38°C mist sauna on oxygen uptake in comparison with conditions of the exercise only.<BR>  The subjects of this study were 10 young persons (average 20.5 years old). Oxygen uptake and breath rate were measured using an expiratory gas analysis system and the tympanic temperature was measured using a thermistor during a control period 10 minutes before the tasks, for 10 minutes during the tasks, and for 10 minutes after the tasks. Heart rate was measured using an autonomic spygmomanometer during the 10 minutes control period before the tasks, at five and 10 minutes during the tasks, and for 10 minutes after the tasks. Body weight was measured before and after the experiment. The temperature and humidity of the mist sauna were set to 38°C and 96%, and the rest room temperature and humidity were set to 28°C and 52%.<BR>  In isotonic exercises with mist sauna, the oxygen uptake for 10 min, tympanic temperature and heart rate were all significantly increased, and the body weight was significantly decreased in comparison with exercise only. The oxygen uptake for 10 min during the exercise in the sauna was greater than the value found for exercise only. These results showed synergistic effects due to exercise and heating during the sauna.<BR>  These findings suggest that a condition of isotonic exercise with sauna advance energy metabolism in comparison with exercise only, and that we can use this to protect against metabolic syndrome and maintain health.

Characterization of Bacterial Community Contaminating Floor of A Hot and Dry Sauna

The purpose of this study was to examine profile of bacteria contaminated in a dry sauna. Bacteria sampled from the floor of the dry sauna (75~80degrees C) were separated and identified by using a thermal gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE) technique, and were cultivated using a defined medium at 50degrees C. Bacteria grown in the defined medium were identified based on 16S-rDNA sequence homology. The band number of DNA separated by TGGE was 15, indicating the species diversity of bacteria contaminating the dry sauna. Seven species of bacteria were successfully cultured on agar plate medium at 50degrees C, which represented a combination of thermophilic and thermoduric bacteria contaminating the dry sauna. The highest limit temperature for growth of the bacterial isolates was generally 50degrees C when cultivated in a defined medium, but was raised to 60degrees C when cultivated in a complex medium. Consequently, the bacteria grown at 50~60degrees C are thermoduric or thermophilic, but others may not be.

Tavan Els Kidney Sanatorium in Western Mongolia / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

 In this paper, we present the results based on people’s experiences of sand sauna therapy at the Tavan Els Kidney Sanatorium in Mongolia. The sanatorium offers a type of balneotherapy through the application of thermally warmed sand and a combination of a healthy micro-bioclimate, a pure natural environment, and the preparation of fresh and healthy local foods. It’s function is to treat patients with chronic kidney glomerulonephrits through natural heated sand baths and other therapies. Sand sauna therapy involves an individual lying in a heated sand bath 8 to 20 minutes for adults and 7 to 15 minutes for child, and is performed twice a day (morning and afternoon) for 2 or 3 weeks once a year. The sand sauna treatment most likely affects the body by means of the sand’s high temperature and the presence of important biological and chemical elements. Our study was limited to the sand therapy and local conditions at Tavan Els kidney sanatorium. We recommend more collaborative scientific research on the effectiveness of balneotherapy for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Tavan Els Kidney Sanatorium in Western Mongolia / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

 In this paper, we present the results based on people’s experiences of sand sauna therapy at the Tavan Els Kidney Sanatorium in Mongolia. The sanatorium offers a type of balneotherapy through the application of thermally warmed sand and a combination of a healthy micro-bioclimate, a pure natural environment, and the preparation of fresh and healthy local foods. It’s function is to treat patients with chronic kidney glomerulonephrits through natural heated sand baths and other therapies. Sand sauna therapy involves an individual lying in a heated sand bath 8 to 20 minutes for adults and 7 to 15 minutes for child, and is performed twice a day (morning and afternoon) for 2 or 3 weeks once a year. The sand sauna treatment most likely affects the body by means of the sand’s high temperature and the presence of important biological and chemical elements. Our study was limited to the sand therapy and local conditions at Tavan Els kidney sanatorium. We recommend more collaborative scientific research on the effectiveness of balneotherapy for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Effects of a New Hyperthermia Treatment, Nano-mist Sauna, on Our Body Temperature, Energy Production and Immune and Autonomic Nerve System / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

Purpose  In a series of our recent studies, systematic mild hyperthermia treatments, such as sauna, hot spring and a special bath for medical treatment, were found to activate leucocytes and to enhance immunity. Although they are known to be effective for health promotion, it is not easy for general people to regularly take these conventional hyperthermia. It would be advantageous for elderly persons, sick people and pregnant women as well as pressed business persons if it is able to minimize stress which might be induced by the conventional hyperthermia, such as high temperature heat, water pressure and humidity. To pursue a further study of the effect of hyperthermia itself, in this research, we utilized nano-mist sauna (NMS), a new hyperthermia treatment. NMS, a new type sauna, is characterized by the ability to produce ultra small fog-shaped hot water called nano-mist, which hardly condenses dew. And we studied the effect of NMS on body temperature, leukocytes, autonomic nerve function and energy production. Method  We obtained peripheral blood from six healthy male volunteers (age, 46.5±8.5 years) before and after NMS hyperthermia (20min, 40°C, 100%RH) for lactate and blood glucose measurement and flowcytometric analysis. Body temperature (hypoglossal) and pulse rates were also measured. The statistical analysis difference between the values was determined by paired t-test and Kruskal-Wallis test. Result  After NMS hyperthermia body temperature and the level of PO2 rose (36.8→37.2°C), (52→61mmHg) (p<0.05). On the other hand, the level of lactate showed decrease in all subjects. The ratio and the numbers of NK cells decreased (21.8→17.7%, 498→436/μL) (p<0.05) while those of B cells increased (9.5→12.1%, 261→349/μL) (p<0.05). Discussion  Several investigators report that the conventional hyperthermia enhances the primordial immune system (i.e. extrathymic T cells, NK cells, NKT cells and granulocytes) via dominance of sympathetic nerve system function (SNS) . Conversely, in our study, those of the conventional immune system (i.e. T and B cells) was enhanced, suggesting suppression of SNS function. It is reported that the expression level of HLA-DR on the B cells was elevated during hyperthermia (body temperature rose). SNS function (hypothermia) is stimulated by stress and it is suppressed by relaxing (hyperthermia) in the opposite. And it is considered that NMS hyperthermia suppressed SNS and that it was also consistent with our result of lactate decrease. It is possible to consider that NMS hyperthermia may impact on autonomic nerve activating leucocytes. Therefore NMS may be a kind of effective health promotion for valetudinarian (ie an infant, a female) and both a caregiver and a caretaker.

Effects of a New Hyperthermia Treatment, Nano-mist Sauna, on Our Body Temperature, Energy Production and Immune and Autonomic Nerve System / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

<b>Purpose</b><br> In a series of our recent studies, systematic mild hyperthermia treatments, such as sauna, hot spring and a special bath for medical treatment, were found to activate leucocytes and to enhance immunity. Although they are known to be effective for health promotion, it is not easy for general people to regularly take these conventional hyperthermia. It would be advantageous for elderly persons, sick people and pregnant women as well as pressed business persons if it is able to minimize stress which might be induced by the conventional hyperthermia, such as high temperature heat, water pressure and humidity. To pursue a further study of the effect of hyperthermia itself, in this research, we utilized nano-mist sauna (NMS), a new hyperthermia treatment. NMS, a new type sauna, is characterized by the ability to produce ultra small fog-shaped hot water called nano-mist, which hardly condenses dew. And we studied the effect of NMS on body temperature, leukocytes, autonomic nerve function and energy production.<br><b>Method</b><br> We obtained peripheral blood from six healthy male volunteers (age, 46.5±8.5 years) before and after NMS hyperthermia (20min, 40°C, 100%RH) for lactate and blood glucose measurement and flowcytometric analysis. Body temperature (hypoglossal) and pulse rates were also measured. The statistical analysis difference between the values was determined by paired <i>t</i>-test and Kruskal-Wallis test.<br><b>Result</b><br> After NMS hyperthermia body temperature and the level of PO₂ rose (36.8→37.2°C), (52→61mmHg) (p<0.05). On the other hand, the level of lactate showed decrease in all subjects. The ratio and the numbers of NK cells decreased (21.8→17.7%, 498→436/μL) (p<0.05) while those of B cells increased (9.5→12.1%, 261→349/μL) (p<0.05).<br><b>Discussion</b><br> Several investigators report that the conventional hyperthermia enhances the primordial immune system (i.e. extrathymic T cells, NK cells, NKT cells and granulocytes) via dominance of sympathetic nerve system function (SNS) . Conversely, in our study, those of the conventional immune system (i.e. T and B cells) was enhanced, suggesting suppression of SNS function. It is reported that the expression level of HLA-DR on the B cells was elevated during hyperthermia (body temperature rose). SNS function (hypothermia) is stimulated by stress and it is suppressed by relaxing (hyperthermia) in the opposite. And it is considered that NMS hyperthermia suppressed SNS and that it was also consistent with our result of lactate decrease. It is possible to consider that NMS hyperthermia may impact on autonomic nerve activating leucocytes. Therefore NMS may be a kind of effective health promotion for valetudinarian (ie an infant, a female) and both a caregiver and a caretaker.

Rhabdomyolysis Associated With Statin Medication, Exercise and Sauna

Rhabdomyolysis is a syndrome involving the breakdown of skeletal muscle, and this causes myoglobin and other intracellular proteins and electrolytes to leak into the circulatory system. We report here on a case of rhabdomyolysis associated with statin, exercise and sauna exposure. A 63-year-old woman presented to our hospital, and she had been taking simvastatin for over 6 years due to dyslipidemia. She complained of developing myalgia and weakness of the lower extremities over the previous 5 days. She had used a sauna more than 4 hours daily for 20 years, and she had started unaccustomed exercise in the sauna 1 week prior to admission. Her serum creatine kinase concentration was 45,990 IU/L. Conservative treatment was started with the discontinuation of her statin medication, exercise and use of the sauna. Her symptoms and serum creatine kinase level decreased 1 week after admission and she was discharged with minimal residual muscle weakness.

The Effect of Mist Bathing on the Scalp Blood / 日本温泉気候物理医学会雑誌

<b>Purpose</b><br>In recent years, relatively high humidity (100%) and low temperature (40°C) sauna systems called mist saunas have become popular for homes. It is reported that the impact of differing bathing conditions-namely tub bathing and mist sauna bathing-on the circulation of blood in the scalp have been verified in order to clarify the effects of mist sauna on scalp hair: a characteristic of concern to many men.<br><b>Method</b><br>The testing was performed on 8 healthy men in their twenties (average age: 23.6, average weight: 61.8kg, average height: 166cm). Bathing conditions were mist sauna at 40°C for 10 minutes and full body bathing at 40°C for 10 minutes. Blood circulation in the scalp was observed at the top of their heads using a laser Doppler blood flow meter attached to head gear. At the same time, the skin temperature and local perspiration on their foreheads were measured.<br><b>Results and conclusions</b><br>Immediately after beginning bathing, the blood flow rose significantly higher during full body bathing than during the mist sauna. No change was observed as full body bathing continued, but during the mist sauna, the blood flow gradually increased until ultimately the blood flow was much higher during the mist sauna than during full body bathing. Based on this result, it is assumed that the increase of scalp blood flow during full body bathing was caused by hydrostatic pressure, and the increase caused by the mist sauna was the result of the heat effects.

Acute Reduction of Pulse Wave Velocity after Sauna in Adults in a Community

BACKGROUND: Recently, thermal therapy such as sauna and sweating room is popular as a health behavior. In patients with heart failure, sauna treatment improves hemodynamic data and clinical symptoms by restoring endothelial function. The purpose of this study was to investigate that sauna bath could decrease pulse wave velocity reflecting vascular function of people in the community. METHODS: A total of 43 volunteers (11 male, 32 female) older than 40 years old were kept in 60 degrees C dry sauna for 15 to 20 minutes. We measured the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), blood pressure, heart rate, body weight and body temperature before and, 30 and 60 minutes after sauna bath and assessed the differences of the means of these measurements with repeated measures of ANOVA. Then, we peformed multiple regression analysis to find out the factors independently associated with the amount of baPWV change. RESULTS: The BaPWV and systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly 30 and 60 minutes after sauna bath comparing to those before (P<0.001, P=0.003, P=0.011, respectively). Multiple regression analysis showed that baseline baPWV and history of hypercholesterolemia independently influenced on the amount of baPWV change (beta=-0.47, P=0.002; beta=-0.36, P=0.013, respectively). CONCLUSION: We studied the acute reduction of pulse wave velocity after sauna bath in adults over 40 years old. This change was striking in the subjects with faster baseline baPWV. This result suggests that sauna bath can improve vascular function in the high risk group of cardiovascular diseases.