Contributions of Endothelin-1 and L-arginine to Blunted Cutaneous Microvascular Function in Young, Black Women

Non-Hispanic black (BL) individuals have the greatest prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), relative to other racial/ethnic groups (e.g., non-Hispanic white population; WH) which may be secondary to blunted vascular function. While women typically present with reduced CVD relative to men of the same racial/ethnic group, the prevalence is similar between BL women and men though the mechanisms differ. This study hypothesized that reduced microvascular function in young, BL women is associated with endothelin-1 (ET-1) overactivity or insufficient L-arginine bioavailability. Nine BL and 9 WH women participated (age: 20 ± 2 vs. 22 ± 2 y). Cutaneous microvascular function was assessed during 39°C local heating, while Lactated Ringer's (control), BQ-123 (ET-1 receptor type A antagonist), BQ-788 (ET-1 receptor type B antagonist), or L-arginine was infused via intradermal microdialysis to modify cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC). Subsequent infusion of Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester allowed for quantification of the nitric oxide (NO) contribution to vasodilation, while combined sodium nitroprusside and 43°C heating allowed for normalization to maximal CVC (%CVCmax). BL women had blunted %CVCmax and NO contribution to dilation during the 39°C plateau (P < 0.027 for both). BQ-123 improved thisresponse through augmented NO-mediated dilation (P < 0.048 for both). BQ-788 and L-arginine, did not alter the CVC responses (P > 0.835 for both) or the NO contribution (P > 0.371 for both). Cutaneous microvascular function is reduced in BL women, and ET-1 receptor type A may contribute to this reduced function. Further research is needed to better characterize these mechanisms in young, BL women.

Superwoman, Racial Identity, and Teen Dating Violence Victimization among Young Black Women

Young Black women consistently report the highest rates of teen dating violence (TDV) in the United States. They are also navigating a world in which they are facing historical marginalization and intersectional oppression. The Superwoman stereotypic role, in which Black women showcase strength and resist vulnerability, is often adapted in reaction to this normalized existence. Yet little research has examined how these constructs are related. In addition, research suggests that a positive racial identity may function as a psychological buffer against society’s negative view of Black Americans and reduce involvement in violence. The current study examined the relationship between endorsement of a Superwoman role and TDV victimization among young Black women. A total of 481 Black women, aged 18–19, completed online survey measures assessing their racial identity beliefs, endorsement of racial stereotypes, and TDV experiences. The results of the path models showed that endorsement of a Superwoman role was associated with increased TDV victimization. Results also showed that racial centrality was inversely associated with TDV; the more the young women felt that being Black was a central part of their identity, the less they reported victimization. Findings suggest a need for attention to stereotype development and racial identity in the development of healthy romantic relationships for Black youth.