Quantity of alcohol drinking positively correlates with serum levels of endotoxin and markers of monocyte activation.

It is unknown if LPS (lipopolysaccharides) and markers of immune activation, soluble CD14 (sCD14) and CD163 (sCD163) are associated with the quantity of alcohol consumption. 148 subjects were enrolled (97 excessive drinkers (ED) and 51 controls). Time Line Follow-Back questionnaire was used to quantify the amount of alcohol consumed.

Predictors of medication refill-seeking behavior in the ED.

Objective: Determine predictors of medication refill-seeking behavior in ED patients with chronic illness.

Methods/design: Prospective cross-sectional ED survey conducted for 6 weeks.

Setting: Public hospital ED (>140,000 visits per year).