We assessed ( 1 ) endothelial function as flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery , ( 2 ) arterial stiffness and central augmentation index using applanation tonometry , ( 3 ) vascular function as fingertip reactive hyperemia index , ( 4 ) inflammation by measuring plasma CD40 ligand and serum high-sensitivity c-reactive protein levels , ( 5 ) oxidative stress by measuring plasma aminothiols , and ( 6 ) circulating progenitor cells , at baseline and at the end of each 6-week treatment period .