Table 2.

Strength of evidence of intermediate endpoints

Intermediate endpoint	Associated with depression	Associated with CHD outcomes	Improved with exercise	Improved with SSRIs
Heart rate variability	+ + +	+ + +	+	−/?
Baroreflex control	+	++	+	+
Flow mediated dilation	+	+ +	+ +	?
Inflammation	+	+ ++	+	?
Platelet activity	+	+ + +	+	++

−=not related;? = few studies have addressed; + = preliminary evidence; + + = some evidence; + + + = strong evidence.